The Central Region is a world of unique locations and incredible adventures. There are so many reasons to visit Central Region, with Cape Coast as the capital, that the only challenge is narrowing down your options. Without a question, Ghana’s Central Region is the country’s most historically significant attraction, attracting 80 percent of visitors. This location isn’t dubbed the “heartbeat of Ghana tourism” for no reason. There are many tourist sites in Central region you should consider visiting while exploring the region.
In this region of the world, there is no shortage of interesting things to do or see. Tourists will be able to view more of Ghana’s cultures, which are normally shrouded in secrecy in other parts of the country. The Central Region offers both delightful experiences and a thorough view of Ghana’s past, as indicated by castles and forts.
In this article, Mrpocu.com will list top tourist sites in Central region of Ghana. Ranging from historical site to reserved forests. What are you waiting for? Scroll down and start planning your trip.
Tourist Sites In Central Region
Cape Coast Castle
The Portuguese chose Cape Coast as the first location for a local settlement, and a trade lodge was established there in 1555. The Swedes, headed by Krusenstjerna, built the permanent edifice that is today known as Cape Coast Castle. The Swedish Africa Company built a timber fort there around 1653. It was formerly a hub for timber and gold trade, and later became a stop on the Trans-Atlantic slave trade.
Slaves will walk over 40 miles to Cape Coast Castle, still chained and shackled, after resting for days or weeks in Assin Manso river park. This will be their last sight of their homeland. This will be their final sight before departing from their homeland.
Elmina Castle
Elmina Castle, also known as Castelo de Mina, was erected by the Portuguese in 1482 as Castelo do Sao de Mina (St George of Mina Castle). The castle is a popular tourist attraction in Cape Coast, Central Region.
Elmina and Elmina Castle are the oldest European buildings below the Sahara, according to history. They were the first commercial post erected on the Gulf of Guinea.
In the 1990s, the Ghanaian government significantly repaired the castle. The castle is still being renovated. Tourism and fishing are the mainstays of Elmina’s economy nowadays. Elmina Castle is now a Ghanaian national museum, and the structure was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979.
Assin Manso Slave River
Although the place may make you cry, it is a must-see for anyone interested in learning more about Africa Americans’ slave history. Assin Manso is 40 kilometers from Cape Coast to Kumasi on the Cape Coast-Kumasi highway. It is one of Ghana’s most important historical sites. During the famed trans-Atlantic slave trade, Assin Manso Slave River Park was one of the largest slave markets for gathering individuals to sell into slavery.
It is worthwhile to visit the destination since you will be following in the footsteps of many African Americans’ forefathers.
Slave merchants halted by the river, and slaves were allowed to rest there after a long voyage. They are adequately fed and rest for several days or weeks near the river. As a result, they can appear robust and strong to their potential customers.
Komenda Cave
Komenda Cave is west of Komenda town, near the seashore line. The Cave stands out among a variety of natural erosional features carved into the sandstone by the sea.
The beach is easily accessible thanks to stairs leading from the Komenda College premises to the shore. The Cave consists of a somewhat small tunnel that is open on both ends and has a floor size of about 200 square meters. The corridor is restricted by rock debris, and the low ceiling restricts how much floor space may be used. At the beach level, the Cave’s mouth opens to the west and leads northeast, parallel to the shore.
Local and foreign tourists should visit the cave with dedicated tour guides to gain a better understanding of the cave’s history.
Kakum National Park
It is one of only three spots in Africa with a 350-meter (1,150-foot) canopy walkway that connects seven tree tops and gives access to the jungle. This park has been constructed and spans 375 square kilometers (145 sq mi). It was formed in 1931 as a reserve forest before being converted to a tourism area in 1992. The park is one of the best tourist sites in Central region
The canopy walkway is the major attraction, but there are also additional side attractions such as a children’s park, wildlife viewing, and a treehouse that you may enjoy with your kids.
Posuban Shrines
The bright hues, which have mythological significance, distinguish these temples. They belonged to the Asafo firm and were located close to Elmina Castle. These once-military individuals have transformed into peaceful individuals known for their ceremonial self-service mentality. One of the Asafos is represented by each of the Asafos Shrines.
Fort St. Jago
The fort, which was originally built as a chapel and used as a base of assault for the Dutch against Elmina Castle, was built roughly 300 meters away. It also acted as a form of prison for European convicts during the time.
International Stingless Bee Center
The International Stingless Bee Centre (ISBC) is a stingless bee refuge as well as an educational and ecotourism destination. Many people are unfamiliar with stingless bees, particularly African species, and have never tasted their honey, pollen, or propolis, all of which are wonderful activities given at the ISBC.
Fort William
Fort William is a fort in Anomabu, Ghana’s Central Region, that was previously known as Fort Anomabo until being renamed Fort William in the nineteenth century by its then-commander, Brodie Cruickshank, who added one floor to the main edifice during King William IV’s reign. After thwarting a French attempt to build a fort at the same location, the British erected it in 1753. Two previous forts had been built on the same location, one by the Dutch in 1640 and another by the English in 1674 (Fort Charles). In 1730, Fort Charles was abandoned and destroyed.
Fete Beach
Fate Beach is the most instagrammable beach in the Central Region and a must-see for travellers seeking luxury in the region. It’s only an hour’s journey from Accra’s west side. Fete is a little seaside village perched on a hillside overlooking a sandy beach. Senya Beraku, a fishing community, lies adjacent to Fete Beach.