Exploring the Wildlife Wonders of Mole National Park with Family

Farewell, Ghana!

As our adventure in Ghana draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family. From the vibrant wildlife of Mole National Park to the poignant history of Pikworo Slave Camp, this journey has been a tapestry of emotions, learning, and connection. It’s hard to believe our 11 days here are already over.

Our final day began, as many others did, with a delightful breakfast at Zaina Lodge. The fresh fruit, coupled with the serene morning views, set a peaceful tone for a day filled with reflection and remembrance. We savored every bite, knowing it was our last taste of the bush for a while. After breakfast, we packed our bags, checked out, and set off for our final planned activities in Ghana.

Our first stop was another safari tour in Mole National Park with Mole Boy Travel & Safe Guide Tours. Having already experienced the park's wonders, I was worried that it may be repetitive for Amina. But the guides ensured that we saw a different part of the park. And even saw some different animals. This time, we were incredibly fortunate to witness a large herd of elephants, including several adorable babies, frolicking in a watering hole. It was a magical moment, and Amina was absolutely captivated. Jan and I exchanged knowing glances, grateful for the shared memories we were creating. I managed to capture some amazing photos, which I know we’ll cherish for years to come. It was a perfect farewell to the stunning wildlife of Mole National Park.


Discover the wildlife wonders of Mole National Park, Ghana's largest national park, where adventure meets tranquility in breathtaking natural landscapes.

Visiting historical sites allows us to reflect on the past and recommit to a future where such injustices never happen again.

After the exhilarating safari, we embarked on a journey to Pikworo Slave Camp, a site that stands in stark contrast to the beauty of Mole. Located near Paga, this camp served as a transit point where enslaved people were held before being marched to the Salaga slave market. The air was heavy with the weight of history as we walked through the grounds. Our guide recounted the stories of those who suffered here, their resilience in the face of unimaginable cruelty.


Explore the Pikworo Slave Camp in Paga, Ghana, a memorial park dedicated to the history and legacy of the transatlantic slave trade.

We saw the rock where slaves were punished and the crude bowls carved into stone where they were fed. It was a somber and deeply moving experience. Amina held my hand tightly, her innocent eyes wide with questions I struggled to answer. It was important for her to understand this part of history, as difficult as it was. Jan and I tried to explain the importance of remembering the past, so we can learn from it and prevent such atrocities from happening again. It was a heavy conversation to have with a six-year-old, but I believe it's crucial to instill in her a sense of empathy and justice.

Visiting Pikworo was a stark reminder of the horrors of the slave trade and the resilience of the human spirit. It was a profoundly emotional experience, one that left us all deeply moved. As a Burkinabé woman living in the Netherlands, I felt a particular connection to this history. It reinforced the importance of remembering the past and honoring the lives of those who suffered. It was a sobering experience, but one that I believe is essential for understanding the complexities of our world. It was a moment of reflection, connecting us to the broader narrative of African history and the diaspora.

For lunch, we stopped at The Neem Grill, a local spot known for its delicious Ghanaian cuisine. We enjoyed a hearty meal of jollof rice, grilled chicken, and fresh vegetables. It was comforting to savor the flavors of Ghana one last time, knowing we would soon be back in Delft. The vibrant spices and aromas were a reminder of the rich culinary heritage we had experienced throughout our trip.


Experience authentic Ghanaian cuisine blended with international flavors at The Neem Grill in Accra - A culinary journey awaits!

In the late afternoon, seeking a change of pace and a bit of levity, we decided to visit Fun City Pub in Wa. It was a chance to unwind and reflect on our journey in a more relaxed setting. The pub was lively, filled with locals and tourists alike. We enjoyed some local beers and listened to music, sharing stories and laughter. Amina even got up to dance, her infectious energy filling the room. It was a perfect way to end our day, celebrating the connections we had made and the memories we had created. I even managed to connect with some locals, discussing the renewable energy projects I consult on in Europe, and sharing my insights on how similar initiatives could benefit the communities in northern Ghana.


Discover the lively atmosphere at Fun City Pub in Wa, where refreshing drinks and a vibrant social scene await you.

For our final dinner, we chose Simret Ethiopian Restaurant, a surprising but delightful culinary experience in Ghana. It was a chance to try something different and celebrate the diverse flavors of Africa. We shared a large platter of injera with various stews and vegetables, enjoying the communal aspect of the meal. It was a fitting end to our culinary journey, showcasing the continent's rich and varied gastronomic landscape.


Experience authentic Ethiopian cuisine at Simret Restaurant in Accra – where every meal tells a story.

As the sun set on our last day in Ghana, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we had shared. This trip had been more than just a vacation; it was a journey of discovery, connection, and reflection. From the wildlife of Mole National Park to the history of Pikworo Slave Camp, we had immersed ourselves in the beauty and complexity of Ghana.

Looking ahead, I am excited about the possibilities that await. Back in Delft, I will continue my work as a renewable energy consultant, driven by a renewed sense of purpose. I am eager to apply the lessons I have learned in Ghana to my work, seeking ways to promote sustainable development and empower local communities. But before returning to work, I am looking forward to spending time with my family, sharing stories and photos from our adventure. I want to keep the memories of Ghana alive, reminding us of the importance of connection, empathy, and cultural understanding.

As we prepare to leave Ghana, I am already dreaming of our next adventure. The world is vast and full of wonders, and I am eager to explore it with my family. Perhaps we will return to Africa, or maybe we will venture to a new continent. Wherever we go, I know that we will carry the lessons of Ghana with us, shaping our perspectives and guiding our actions.

Thank you, Ghana, for the memories, the lessons, and the connections. Until we meet again!

While this marks the end of our planned itinerary, the memories and lessons learned will undoubtedly stay with us for a lifetime. We will carry the spirit of Ghana in our hearts, inspiring us to continue exploring, learning, and connecting with the world around us. I am deeply grateful for this experience and excited to see what future adventures await.

Unfortunately, this marks the end of our adventure. There is no itinerary for tomorrow as we will be making our way back home.