Ghana has large system of conservation areas which comprises of National parks, resource reserves, Wildlife sanctuaries, nature reserves and coastal Wildlife. The kakum national park is among the few reserves Ghana can boast of.
The Kakum National Park is undoubtedly the most popular National Park in the country and home of the longest canopy walkway. It is located in the Central Region and was established in 1961 at the initiative of the local people as a reserve but later promulgated to a National Park in 1992. The canopy walkway is one of only three locations in Africa that hallmarks a canopy walk through trees. The walkway passes over 7 bridges and runs over a length of 330 meters (1080ft). It is built with wire ropes, aluminum ladders, wooden planks and shielded by a series of netting for safety reasons.
There are a number of endangered species of fauna in the park. There is the Diana monkey, Yellow backed duiker, Giant Bongo Antelope, and African elephant. It is also the habitat of over 226 confirmed species of birds which include White – breasted guinea fowl and grey parrot. The park is very rich in butterflies as well.
These species of Wildlife are of good viewing with the help of binoculars and telescopes and usually visible within the early hours of the day before it gets hot at noon.
THINGS TO DO AT KAKUM NATIONAL PARK
1.Forest walk ~ One can take a walk through the woods and revere nature. The route allows you to admire the evergreen rainforest as well as many species of Wildlife.
2.Hiking and backpacking ~ Taking a hike through the park is definitely an escapade. Tour guides are available to take you down the trails and explore with you.
3.Canopy walkway ~ I guess it’s quite obvious you can’t leave the park without taking a walk on the Canopy walkway. Conquer your fear of heights and take the 7-bridge course, and trust me it’s worth the experience.
4.Camping ~ The park has tree houses which can accommodate about 25 campers for a night – life in the forest. Treat yourself to an adventurous night and listen to folklore of the forest by a bonfire.