Family Adventure in Kakum National Park, Ghana

A Walk Above the World

Today was nothing short of magical. Imagine walking among the treetops, surrounded by the vibrant sounds and sights of a rainforest teeming with life. It's an experience that humbles you, connecting you to nature in a way that's both exhilarating and profoundly peaceful. Today, my family and I had the chance to do just that, and it's a day we'll cherish forever.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mabel's Table. It was a charming spot , and the traditional Ghanaian dishes fueled us up perfectly for our adventure. Nadia was particularly excited, her little eyes wide with anticipation as we discussed the canopy walk ahead. Liam, ever the pragmatist, checked our gear one last time, ensuring we had everything we needed for a safe and enjoyable hike.


Experience authentic Ghanaian cuisine at Mabel's Table in Elmina – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.

As we entered Kakum National Park, the air was thick with humidity and the scent of rich earth. Towering trees formed a natural cathedral above us, their branches intertwined, creating a mesmerizing tapestry of green. We made our way to the famed canopy walkway, a series of suspension bridges stretching over 350 meters through the rainforest. The walk to the canopy walkway was a bit steep , but thankfully, it only took us about 20 minutes to get there.


Discover the natural beauty and tranquility of Parc National des Passerelles in Odumase Abrafo, a perfect retreat for nature lovers and adventurers.

The canopy walkway consists of seven suspension bridges, reaching heights of up to 40 meters. As we stepped onto the first bridge, a sense of awe washed over us. The forest floor seemed miles away, and the view was simply breathtaking. Nadia clung tightly to my hand, a mix of fear and excitement on her face. Liam, ever the supportive husband, pointed out different species of birds and plants, turning our walk into an impromptu lesson in biodiversity. I was so glad I remembered to pack our binoculars; it really enhanced the experience!

The bridges swayed gently with each step, adding an element of thrill to the experience. I must admit, even I felt a little nervous at first, but the safety nets and sturdy construction quickly put my mind at ease. The higher we climbed, the more spectacular the view became. We could see for miles in every direction, the undulating landscape stretching out before us like an endless green sea.

The canopy walk is more than just a walk; it's an immersion into a world where nature reigns supreme, and you're just a humble observer.

We paused on one of the platforms to catch our breath and take in the scenery. The sounds of the rainforest enveloped us – the chirping of insects, the rustling of leaves, and the distant calls of exotic birds. It was a symphony of nature, a reminder of the incredible diversity of life on our planet. I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this opportunity to connect with nature in such a profound way. Kakum National Park is truly an emblem of ecological stewardship.

After the canopy walk, we decided to explore some of the hiking trails. We embarked on a moderate hike along the Kakum River, guided by a local ranger who shared his extensive knowledge of the park's flora and fauna. He showed us medicinal plants used for centuries by local communities and explained the intricate relationships between different species within the ecosystem.


Discover the natural beauty of Kakum River in Asebu, a hiker's paradise with lush landscapes and diverse wildlife.

I was particularly fascinated by the Kyenkyen tree, which the ranger explained is the only tree in the forest where parrots perch because it’s the tallest and too smooth to climb. Nadia, of course, was most interested in spotting monkeys, though we only caught fleeting glimpses of them high in the trees.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we made our way to Lemon Beach Restaurant for a well-deserved lunch. Situated near Elmina, the restaurant offered stunning ocean views and a refreshing sea breeze. The food was delicious, and the relaxed atmosphere was exactly what we needed after a day of hiking and exploring. Nadia built sandcastles while Liam and I enjoyed some local seafood. It was the perfect way to unwind and reflect on our incredible day.


Discover exquisite dining at Lemon Beach Restaurant in Elmina - where local flavors meet oceanfront views.

In the late afternoon, as the sun began its descent, we decided to experience the local nightlife at Rasta Bar. The bar had a lively atmosphere , with music and friendly faces all around. It was a great way to unwind and immerse ourselves in the local culture. While the bar was fun, Nadia was exhausted from the day's adventures. So, we made it a short visit.


Experience the vibrant nightlife of Cape Coast at Rasta Bar, where refreshing drinks and local flavors meet a lively atmosphere.

For dinner, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar. The restaurant is known for its authentic Ghanaian dishes and vibrant atmosphere. We indulged in some jollof rice and grilled chicken, savoring the rich flavors and spices of the local cuisine. The service was excellent, and the staff made us feel right at home.


Discover exceptional seafood and cocktails at The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Accra—where taste meets vibrant atmosphere.

As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I couldn't help but reflect on the incredible day we had experienced. Kakum National Park had exceeded all our expectations. It was more than just a tourist attraction; it was a place of natural beauty, cultural significance, and ecological importance. I was proud to support sustainable tourism efforts by visiting the park.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, two historical sites that bear witness to the dark history of the slave trade. It will be a somber but important experience, one that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on us. I want Nadia to understand the full history of this region, and the importance of learning from the past. We might also check out Richmonds Art Shop , to support local artists.

As I write this, nestled in our tent, the sounds of the forest lulling us to sleep, I feel a deep sense of gratitude. Today was a reminder of the importance of connecting with nature, of learning about different cultures, and of cherishing the moments we have with our loved ones. Kakum National Park, you have captured our hearts. I'm also glad that we didn't forget insect repellent, as I heard that the mosquitoes can be quite persistent.

I am, however, kicking myself for forgetting the portable solar charger and extra camera batteries. Hopefully, we can find a place to buy some tomorrow. I'd hate to miss out on capturing more of these precious moments.

Goodnight from Ghana!

P.S. I’m also grateful for Kakum National Park's commitment to sustainable ecotourism. It’s comforting to know that our visit contributes to the conservation efforts and supports the local communities who depend on eco-friendly tourism. I’m excited to see more places adopting such responsible practices!