Exploring the Wildlife Wonders of Mole National Park with Family

A Day of Ancient Echoes and Natural Wonders

Today was a day of delving into the mystical heart of Ghana, a blend of ancient legends and the raw beauty of nature. It was a day where stones whispered stories of the past and the earth teemed with life, a stark contrast to the structured world I often inhabit in Delft. This journey is not just about seeing new places; it’s about feeling the pulse of different cultures and connecting with the world in a way that enriches both my understanding and my soul.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Zaina Lodge. The lodge is nestled perfectly to give you amazing views, and the food was delicious. Fuelled up, we set out to explore the wonders that Mole National Park had to offer. Today, we were visiting the Larabanga Mystic Stone and spending some time at the Mole Public Campsite.


Discover luxury in nature at Zaina Lodge in Mole National Park - a perfect blend of comfort and adventure amidst breathtaking wildlife.

The drive to Larabanga was a scenic appetizer, a prelude to the historical feast that awaited us. The landscape shifted from dense foliage to open savannah, the air thick with the scent of the earth after a brief morning shower. Even Amina, usually restless during long drives, was captivated by the changing scenery, her little eyes wide with wonder as she spotted colourful birds darting across the sky.

The Larabanga Mystic Stone

The Larabanga Mystic Stone was our first stop, a site shrouded in legend and local lore. As we approached the village, I could feel a shift in the atmosphere, a sense of stepping back in time. The village itself is a tapestry of traditional mud houses, their walls adorned with intricate patterns that spoke of a rich cultural heritage.


Experience the mystical allure of the Larabanga Mystic Stone, a captivating cultural landmark in Ghana, rich with local legends and history.

The Mystic Stone itself is unassuming at first glance, a large rock sitting quietly near the road. But as our guide began to narrate its story, the stone came alive. Legend has it that in the 1950s, British road constructors attempted to move the stone to make way for a new road. Each time they moved it, however, it mysteriously returned to its original spot. Eventually, they were forced to divert the road around it, acknowledging the stone's mystical power. Some locals believe that the stone was placed there by the Prophet Muhammad himself.

I found myself strangely moved by the story, a reminder of the power of belief and the enduring connection between people and their environment. Jan, ever the pragmatist, chuckled at the tale, but even he couldn't deny the palpable sense of reverence the locals held for the stone. Amina, of course, was fascinated, peppering our guide with questions about the magic of the stone.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet corners of the world where history and legend intertwine.

We spent some time exploring the village, interacting with the locals and learning about their way of life. I was particularly drawn to the Larabanga Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in Ghana, its whitewashed adobe walls a testament to centuries of faith. Although we couldn't go inside , just standing outside its walls, I felt connected to the generations of worshippers who had sought solace within its embrace.

Before leaving Larabanga, we stopped by the Mariama Mineral Shop. I wanted to find a unique souvenir that captured the essence of our visit. The shop was a treasure trove of local crafts, from intricately carved wooden masks to vibrant textiles. I finally settled on a beautiful piece of jewelry made from locally sourced beads, its colours mirroring the earthy tones of the landscape. It was a perfect reminder of our time in Larabanga, a tangible piece of its magic to take back home.


Explore the vibrant Mariama Mineral Shop in Sawla, a shopping destination offering local crafts, unique souvenirs, and a taste of Ghanaian culture.

Immersing Ourselves in Nature at Mole Public Campsite

Our next stop was the Mole Public Campsite, a chance to immerse ourselves in the raw beauty of Mole National Park. While I am more accustomed to having a roof over my head, I wanted to experience nature more intimately. The campsite is located near the park headquarters and offers basic facilities, including running water.


Experience the beauty of nature and the thrill of wildlife at Mole Public Campsite in Larabanga, Ghana – a haven for adventure seekers.

As we set up camp, we were greeted by the park's residents: warthogs and baboons. Amina was thrilled, though I had to remind her to keep a safe distance. The rangers warned us about the baboons' penchant for raiding trash bins, so we made sure to secure our food properly.

The afternoon was spent exploring the area around the campsite. We took a short walk to a nearby watering hole, hoping to spot some elephants. Although we didn't see any elephants , we did see crocodiles lurking in the water, their eyes just above the surface. We also spotted several species of birds, their calls echoing through the bush.

As the sun began to set, we gathered around a crackling campfire, the flames casting dancing shadows on our faces. We shared stories, laughed, and simply enjoyed each other's company, the sounds of the African night providing a soothing backdrop. It was a far cry from our cozy home in Delft, but in that moment, surrounded by the wilderness, I felt a sense of peace I rarely experience in my daily life.

Culinary Delights Amidst the Wild

For lunch, we ventured to Jamrock Restaurant & Grill. I was eager to try their fusion of Caribbean and Ghanaian cuisine. The vibrant decor and welcoming ambiance immediately put us at ease. We ordered a variety of dishes, from jerk chicken to plantains, each bite bursting with flavour. It was a delightful culinary adventure, a testament to the diverse influences that shape Ghanaian culture.


Discover Jamrock Restaurant & Grill: A vibrant fusion of Caribbean and Ghanaian cuisine in Accra's East Airport.

Dinner was at Chez Afrique, back closer to our lodge. We enjoyed some traditional Ghanaian dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, the perfect way to end a day of exploration.


Discover authentic African flavors at Chez Afrique in Accra – where every meal tells a story!

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience the magic of Larabanga and the beauty of Mole National Park. I am grateful for the chance to connect with the local culture and learn about its rich history. And I am grateful for the time spent with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we will continue our exploration of Ghana, venturing to the Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary and the Ambalara Forest Reserve [If last day of trip, merge in “Trip end”]. I am excited to see what new adventures await us, what new stories the land has to tell. And I am eager to share it all with you, my readers, in the hopes that you too will be inspired to explore the world with an open mind and a curious heart.

The day reminded me of something my grandmother used to say back in Houndé:

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

And I intend to read as many pages as I possibly can!