The Enchanting Wli Nature Reserve

• HelloNawo
  [NAH-woh]
• GoodbyeAfei
  [ah-FAY]
• YesEe
  [EE]
• NoDa
  [dah]
• Please/You're welcomeEyi
  [AY-yee]
• Thank youMedaase
  [meh-DAH-seh]
• Excuse me/SorryAfehyia pa
  [ah-fay-YEE-ah pah]
• How are you?Wo ho te sen?
  [woh hoh teh sen]
• Fine. And you?Adzo. Na wo?
  [ah-JOH. nah woh?]
• Do you speak English?Wo gye di Espana kasa?
  [woh jeh dee ehs-PAH-nah kah-sah?]
• I don't understandMenya
  [mehn-yah]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe hu menu no, mesr3
  [meh hoo MEN-oo noh, meh-sreh]
• I don't eat meatMenhu ntoro
  [mehn-hoo enn-TOH-roh]
• Cheers!Afei
  [ah-FAY]
• I would like to pay, pleaseMe hu sika, mesr3
  [meh hoo see-kah, meh-sreh]

• Help!Mia me
  [mee-ah meh]
• Go away!Kai wai!
  [kye why]
• Call the Police!Kyer3 nipo
  [kyeh-reh nee-poh]
• Call a doctor!Kyer3 docta
  [kyeh-reh dohk-tah]
• I'm lostMeni hewo
  [mehn-ee heh-woh]
• I'm illMeni bi
  [mehn-ee bee]

• I'd like to buy...Me hu...
  [meh hoo...]
• I'm just lookingMenhu asaase
  [mehn-hoo ah-sah-ah-seh]
• How much is it?Ayi bia
  [ah-YEE byah]
• That's too expensiveEyi y3 too
  [AY-yee yeh too]
• Can you lower the price?Wonni sika y3
  [wuhn-nee see-kah yeh]

• What time is it?Eyi bia
  [AY-yee byah]
• It's one o'clockBia koro
  [byah koh-roh]
• Half past (10)Adeden
  [ah-deh-dehn]
• MorningAnigye
  [ah-nee-jeh]
• AfternoonAniw
  [ah-nee-woo]
• EveningAnadwo
  [ah-nah-dwoh]
• YesterdayNkuro
  [en-koo-roh]
• TodayNkuto
  [en-koo-toh]
• TomorrowNkuru
  [en-koo-roo]
• 1Koro
  [koh-roh]
• 2Mmienu
  [mee-eh-noo]
• 3Mmiɛnsa
  [mee-ehn-sah]
• 4Ɛnan
  [eh-nahn]
• 5Enum
  [eh-noom]
• 6Nsia
  [en-syah]
• 7Nson
  [en-sohn]
• 8Nwɔtwe
  [en-woh-tweh]
• 9Kronkron
  [kron-kron]
• 10Du
  [doo]

• Where's a/the...?Ɛhe nso...?
  [eh-heh en-soh...?]
• What's the address?Ɔhɔyɛ adiso?
  [oh-hoh-yeh ah-dee-soh?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Wo bɛkyerɛ me (kɔ mapa)?
  [woh beh-CHYEH-reh meh (koh mah-pah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Ɛnyɛ (trotro) reba?
  [ehn-yeh (troh-troh) reh-bah?]
• A ticket (to ....)Tikiti (kɔ ....)
  [tee-kee-tee (koh ....)]

The area around Wli Nature Reserve has been inhabited by the Ewe people for centuries. The Ewe are believed to have migrated from the region that is now Benin and Togo, bringing with them rich cultural traditions and a deep connection to the land. Evidence of ancient Ewe settlements can be found in the form of old ruins and artifacts scattered throughout the reserve.

During the late 19th century, the area around Wli Nature Reserve fell under German colonial rule as part of the larger Togoland territory. The Germans were interested in exploring and exploiting the natural resources of the region. They constructed roads and basic infrastructure, some remnants of which can still be seen today. The influence of German architecture and planning can be found in nearby villages and towns.

Following Ghana's independence from British rule in 1957, the newly formed government recognized the ecological and cultural importance of the Wli area. Efforts were made to protect the region, culminating in the establishment of Wli Nature Reserve in the 1970s. The reserve was created to conserve the unique biodiversity and provide a sanctuary for local wildlife, as well as to preserve the cultural heritage of the Ewe people.

In recent decades, Wli Nature Reserve has become a popular destination for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. The local communities have played a significant role in the development of sustainable tourism practices. Various community-based projects have been initiated to ensure that tourism benefits the local population, including the establishment of guided tours, craft markets, and cultural performances that showcase Ewe traditions.

Wli Nature Reserve is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including several endemic and endangered species. Conservation efforts have been ongoing to protect the unique ecosystems within the reserve. Collaborative projects between local authorities, international organizations, and conservationists have been implemented to monitor wildlife populations, restore habitats, and promote environmental education among locals and visitors alike.

Wli Nature Reserve is located in the Volta Region of Ghana, near the town of Hohoe. The nearest major city is Accra, the capital of Ghana. From Accra, you can travel to Hohoe by bus or private vehicle, a journey that typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. There are also domestic flights from Accra to Ho, followed by a short drive to Hohoe. Once in Hohoe, local taxis or minibuses (tro-tros) can take you to the entrance of the Wli Nature Reserve.

Within Wli Nature Reserve, transportation options are limited due to the natural terrain. Most of the reserve is best explored on foot. Local guides are available and recommended for navigating the trails. For getting around the surrounding area, taxis and minibuses (tro-tros) are the primary modes of transport. Renting a car is also an option, though it is less common and roads can be challenging.

The official currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and restaurants, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Hohoe, but it is wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading into the reserve. Be prepared to pay for local services, such as guides and entrance fees, in cash.

Wli Nature Reserve is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While the reserve itself is safe, be cautious in the surrounding areas, especially in Hohoe, where petty theft can occur. Always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 191 for police assistance or 193 for medical emergencies. The nearest medical facilities are in Hohoe, where there is a hospital and several clinics. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in Hohoe where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local villages. Lightweight, breathable clothing is best for the tropical climate. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. If visiting a religious site, dress conservatively and remove your shoes when required. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hello' or 'Akwaaba' (Welcome). A handshake is also common. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Wli Nature Reserve like a local, consider hiring a local guide who can share insights about the flora and fauna, as well as cultural stories. Visit the nearby Wli Waterfalls, one of the highest waterfalls in West Africa, and take a dip in the natural pool at its base. Engage with the local communities and partake in traditional dances or crafts. Don't miss the opportunity to try local dishes such as 'banku' and 'tilapia'.