Exploring the Wildlife Wonders of Mole National Park with Family

Ghana's Wild Embrace: Our Arrival in Mole National Park

After a long journey from Delft, via Amsterdam and Accra, my family and I have finally arrived at Mole National Park! The air here is thick with the scent of the savanna, a welcome change from the Dutch countryside. I'm excited to share our first impressions and adventures in this incredible corner of Ghana.

The journey itself was quite the experience. Little Amina was a real trooper on the flights, her curiosity about the world seemingly growing with every mile we covered. Jan, ever the pragmatic one, made sure we were well-prepared with all our essentials, though I did have a small moment of panic realizing I'd forgotten my portable phone charger. Note to self: always double-check the packing list!

Our arrival at Mole National Park | TortoisePath.com was nothing short of breathtaking. The landscape is vast and open, a sprawling savanna dotted with trees that seem to stretch towards the endless sky. We were immediately greeted by the warm smiles of the local staff, their hospitality a refreshing welcome. Zaina Lodge, our home for the next few days, is simply stunning. Perched on an escarpment, it offers panoramic views of the park, and I can already see elephants grazing in the distance. The architecture, inspired by the ancient Djenne style of the Larabanga Mosque, is simply captivating.


Discover the exceptional wildlife and serene landscapes of Mole National Park, Ghana's largest national park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

The savanna whispers secrets of the wild, and we're here to listen.

After settling into our luxurious tented chalet – Amina was particularly thrilled with the outdoor shower – we headed straight out for our first adventure: a safari tour with Mole National Park Safari Tour Packages - Mole Boy Travel & Safe Guide Tours. I was so eager to spot some elephants, having read so much about Mole being one of the best places in Ghana to see them.


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

As we bumped along the dirt tracks in our safari vehicle, our guide, whose name I believe was Yakubu, shared fascinating insights about the park's history and the local ecosystem. He explained that Mole National Park, established in 1958, is the largest protected area in Ghana, boasting a diverse range of wildlife, including over 90 mammal species and 300 bird species. I was particularly intrigued to learn about the park's conservation efforts and the challenges of balancing tourism with wildlife preservation.

It wasn't long before we had our first incredible sighting: a large herd of elephants making their way to a watering hole. Amina was absolutely mesmerized, her eyes wide with wonder as she watched the gentle giants splashing and playing in the water. It was a truly magical moment, one that I know we'll all cherish forever. Jan managed to capture some fantastic photos, and I made a mental note to invest in a better camera lens before our next safari.

We also spotted several antelope species, including the kob and waterbuck, gracefully grazing in the open grasslands. Yakubu pointed out various bird species, including the Abyssinian roller and the red-throated bee-eater, their vibrant colors adding to the beauty of the landscape. Though lions and leopards are known to inhabit the park, Yakubu told us that sightings are rare.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the savanna, we made our way back to Zaina Lodge. The view from the lodge was even more spectacular as the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery hues. We decided to have dinner at the lodge's restaurant, savoring delicious local cuisine while recounting the day's adventures. I opted for grilled tilapia, a Ghanaian staple, while Jan tried the banku, a fermented corn and cassava dough – a bit too sour for my taste, but Jan seemed to enjoy it. Amina, of course, was happy with her usual: jollof rice.

After dinner, we relaxed at The Safari Lodge bar, sipping on refreshing drinks and listening to the sounds of the African night. The air was filled with the chirping of crickets and the distant calls of nocturnal animals. I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace and contentment, a feeling of being completely immersed in nature's embrace.


Experience the best of Ghana at The Safari Lodge, where comfort meets adventure in the heart of Larabanga.

Before heading to bed, I spent some time stargazing on our private deck. The night sky here is unlike anything I've ever seen, a vast expanse of twinkling stars stretching out to the horizon. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.

As I drift off to sleep, I'm already excited about what tomorrow will bring. Our itinerary includes a visit to the Larabanga Mystic Stone and the Mole Public Campsite. I'm particularly interested in learning more about the local culture and traditions, and I'm hoping to find some unique souvenirs at the Mariama Mineral Shop.

I am also hoping to try out some different restaurants. I saw that Sankofa Restaurant and Mama Cuisine are options for lunch and dinner, and I am keen to try some authentic Ghanaian food.


Discover the essence of Ghanaian cuisine at Sankofa Restaurant, where traditional flavors meet modern elegance in Accra's vibrant culinary scene.


Experience authentic Ghanaian flavors at Mama Cuisine in Accra – where tradition meets taste in every dish.

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. I can already tell that Mole National Park is going to be an unforgettable experience for our family, a chance to connect with nature, learn about a new culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. I'm so grateful for this opportunity to share my love for travel and my Burkinabé roots with my family.

Goodnight from Ghana!

Reflections on Sustainable Travel

Today's experiences have also made me reflect on the importance of sustainable tourism. It's crucial that we, as travelers, are mindful of our impact on the environment and local communities. Supporting local businesses, respecting cultural traditions, and minimizing our carbon footprint are all essential steps towards responsible travel. I'm committed to making our trip as sustainable as possible, and I hope to inspire others to do the same.

Amina's Corner

My little Amina, who is usually glued to her cartoons, was completely captivated by the elephants today. She kept asking questions about them – what they eat, where they sleep, and why their noses are so long. It was heartwarming to see her so engaged and curious about the natural world. I think this trip might just spark a lifelong love for wildlife in her!