Exploring the Wildlife Wonders of Mole National Park with Family

Echoes of the Past in Accra

Today, our journey through Ghana took us to its vibrant capital, Accra, a city brimming with history and culture. It was a day of reflection, remembrance, and immersion into the heart of Ghana's story. Leaving the tranquil Zaina Lodge after a delightful breakfast, we prepared ourselves for a day filled with historical significance and cultural exploration.

Our first destination was the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum, a place dedicated to the memory of Ghana's first president and a key figure in African independence. As we approached the park, the serene environment immediately struck me. The well-maintained grounds and the iconic mausoleum created a sense of peace and reverence.


Explore the rich history and heritage of Ghana at the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum, a serene tribute to the nation's first president.

The park is beautifully landscaped, with lush gardens and water features surrounding the mausoleum. Amina was particularly fascinated by the statues of the drummers, which added a unique cultural touch to the ambiance. Jan and I took turns explaining to her the significance of Kwame Nkrumah's vision for Ghana and Africa, trying to instill in her a sense of pride and understanding of her heritage. Inside the mausoleum, the final resting place of Nkrumah and his wife Fathia evoked a deep sense of respect and admiration. The museum on-site offered a rich collection of artifacts, photographs, and personal belongings that told the story of Nkrumah's life, leadership, and impact.

History is not the past but a map of the past, drawn from a particular point of view, to be useful to the modern traveller.

Leaving the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, we headed towards Jamestown to visit Fort James. This fort, built by the Royal African Company of England in 1673, stands as a stark reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. As we walked through its imposing walls, the weight of history was palpable. Fort James, along with other castles and forts in Ghana, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, a testament to its importance during the European colonial period. The fort was named after James, the Duke of York, who later became King James II. It served as a trading post for gold and slaves, joining the Dutch Fort Crêvecœur and the Danish Fort Christiansborg along the coast.


Explore the rich history and stunning coastal views at Fort James, a must-visit fortress in Accra, Ghana.

Walking through the grounds, we saw remnants of the colonial era, including prison cells that were later used during British colonial rule to detain Ghanaian political activists. From the colonial era up to 2008, the fort served as a prison. Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, was even imprisoned here from 1950 to 1951. The experience was profoundly moving, prompting deep reflection on the resilience and strength of the African people.

After a morning filled with historical exploration, we were ready for lunch. We made our way to Azmera Restaurant, known for its authentic Ghanaian cuisine. The restaurant had a warm, homely ambiance that accentuated Ghanaian culture. We started with some local snacks offered at the entrance, which was a delightful touch. The buffet offered a wide variety of traditional dishes, and we decided to try a bit of everything. I particularly enjoyed the tilapia and kelewele, while Jan savored the jollof rice and grilled chicken. Amina, ever adventurous, tried a bit of fufu with palm soup and declared it delicious. The restaurant also offered local drinks like bisap and palm wine, adding to the authentic experience.


Experience the vibrant flavors of West Africa at Azmera Restaurant – where authentic Ghanaian cuisine meets warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, we decided to indulge in some local fashion and visited Alelamato Fashion & Footwear. The store offered a diverse collection of clothing and footwear that reflected both local craftsmanship and contemporary fashion trends. I was particularly drawn to the traditional Ghanaian garments, with their vibrant colors and unique designs. Amina found a beautiful dress adorned with traditional Burkinabé beads, which I knew she would cherish. Jan, always practical, picked up a pair of comfortable sandals perfect for our continued adventures in Ghana. The store prides itself on supporting local artisans and showcasing the artistry of the region through its collections. It was more than just shopping; it was an immersive experience into the local culture through fashion.


Explore the vibrant styles of Ghana at Alelamato Fashion & Footwear, a unique shopping destination in Damongo showcasing local craftsmanship.

As the day drew to a close, we headed to La Chaumiere for dinner. This charming French restaurant, known for its elegant ambiance and French-inspired dishes, provided a perfect setting for a relaxing evening. The restaurant has been in business for over 20 years, a testament to its quality and hospitality. We started with the classic onion soup au gratin, followed by seafood dishes like the Algerian Shrimps & Squid in tomato sauce and the Sole Fish in garlic butter sauce. The extensive wine list offered a great selection, and we chose a bottle of French wine to complement our meal.


Experience authentic French cuisine at La Chaumiere in Accra - where every meal feels like a journey to France.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our final day in Mole National Park, we plan to embark on a safari tour to hopefully catch some more wildlife sightings before heading out [If AttractionName matches 'Mole National Park Safari Tour Packages - Mole Boy Travel & Safe Guide Tours' in ITINERARY OF TOMORROW:]. We also intend to visit the Pikworo Slave Camp, a site of significant historical importance, to further deepen our understanding of the region's past [If AttractionName matches 'Pikworo Slave Camp' in ITINERARY OF TOMORROW:].

Today was a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures and histories. From the solemn grounds of the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park to the poignant walls of Fort James, Accra offered us a profound educational experience. As we prepare to leave Mole National Park tomorrow, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to have explored this beautiful country with my family, creating memories that we will cherish for a lifetime.