7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Accra

As a digital nomad living in Accra, you have the unique opportunity to blend work and travel, exploring the rich culture and stunning landscapes that West Africa has to offer. While the bustling city life of Accra provides a vibrant backdrop for your daily grind, the weekends are a chance to escape and discover new adventures. From popular tourist spots to hidden gems, here are seven fun weekend getaways that are perfect for those looking to step away from their laptops and into the heart of Ghana.

Kakum National Park

Kakum National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This tropical rainforest in the Central Region of Ghana is home to over 40 mammal species, 300 bird species, and a variety of butterflies. The highlight of the park is the Canopy Walkway, suspended 30 meters above the ground, providing a unique perspective of the forest. Visitors can also engage in bird watching, hiking, and wildlife spotting. For those interested in the cultural aspect, the park offers insight into the medicinal uses of the forest plants by local communities.

How to Get There: The best way to reach Kakum National Park from Accra is by road, which takes about 3 to 4 hours by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the early morning walks when the forest is most active, and the wildlife is easier to spot.

Where to Stay: The Rainforest Lodge offers comfortable accommodations and is known for its serene environment. Alternatively, the Hans Cottage Botel has unique rooms and an on-site crocodile pond.

Where to Eat: The Kakum National Park has an on-site restaurant that serves local dishes. For a more diverse menu, check out the Hans Cottage Botel's restaurant, which offers both local and international cuisine.

Ada Foah

Ada Foah is a popular weekend getaway spot known for its beautiful beaches and the estuary of the Volta River. It's a great place for water sports, such as sailing, fishing, and boat cruises. The estuary is also a sanctuary for marine turtles, and if you're lucky, you might witness these creatures during nesting season. The laid-back atmosphere of Ada Foah makes it perfect for relaxation and beach activities.

How to Get There: Ada Foah is about a 2-hour drive from Accra. Public transport options are also available, including tro-tros (shared minibuses) and buses.

Travel Tip: Visit the local markets in Ada for unique handcrafted souvenirs and fresh seafood.

Where to Stay: The Aqua Safari Resort offers luxury accommodations with river views and a variety of water activities. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Maranatha Beach Camp.

Where to Eat: The Aqua Safari Resort has excellent dining options with views of the Volta River. Alternatively, try the local eateries for fresh fish and local dishes.

Aburi Botanical Gardens

The Aburi Botanical Gardens provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Accra. Located in the cooler climate of the Akwapim-Togo Range, the gardens are perfect for picnics, leisurely walks, and plant enthusiasts. The gardens are also a historical site, with many of the trees planted over a century ago. The serene environment and the rich flora make Aburi a refreshing change of scenery.

How to Get There: Aburi is just an hour's drive from Accra, making it an easy day trip by car or public transport.

Travel Tip: Be sure to visit the Palm House and the Heliconia Garden for some of the most exotic plants in the collection.

Where to Stay: The Hillburi Resort offers stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere, while the Peduase Valley Resort is known for its luxury amenities and beautiful gardens.

Where to Eat: The Hillburi Resort's restaurant provides a range of local and international dishes with panoramic views of the surrounding hills.

Shai Hills Resource Reserve

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, Shai Hills Resource Reserve is a hidden gem just an hour's drive from Accra. This wildlife reserve offers a unique blend of history and nature, with ancient caves and rock formations that were once home to the Shai people. Visitors can enjoy game viewing, bird watching, and hiking. The reserve is home to baboons, antelopes, and several bird species.

How to Get There: Shai Hills is easily accessible by road, with a journey time of approximately one hour from Accra.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to explore the Obonu Tem and Se Yo caves, which hold historical significance for the Shai culture.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations within the reserve, but nearby hotels in Dodowa or Tema offer comfortable stays.

Where to Eat: Local eateries in the nearby towns offer traditional Ghanaian dishes that are worth trying.

Ankasa Conservation Area

Ankasa Conservation Area is an unusual destination for those willing to venture further from Accra. This protected area in the Western Region is one of the last vestiges of the rainforest that once covered Ghana. It's a biodiversity hotspot with a wide array of flora and fauna, including rare primates and bird species. The conservation area offers guided walks, where visitors can learn about the ecosystem and the conservation efforts in place.

How to Get There: Ankasa is best reached by a 5 to 6-hour drive from Accra, ideally with a 4x4 vehicle due to the rough terrain.

Travel Tip: Be sure to arrange a guided tour to fully appreciate the rich biodiversity and to help navigate the dense forest trails.

Where to Stay: Accommodations are limited near Ankasa, but the Frenchman's Farm Guesthouse offers a rustic and authentic experience.

Where to Eat: Dining options are scarce in the remote area, so it's advisable to bring your own food supplies or arrange meals with your accommodation.

Boti Falls

Boti Falls is a lesser-known destination that offers a refreshing escape into nature. Located in the Eastern Region, the twin waterfalls are a beautiful sight, especially during the rainy season. Visitors can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls or hike to the top for a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape. The nearby Umbrella Rock and the Three-Headed Palm Tree are also interesting natural attractions to explore.

How to Get There: The journey to Boti Falls from Accra takes about 2 to 3 hours by car or bus.

Travel Tip: Visit during the week to avoid the crowds and have a more serene experience at the falls.

Where to Stay: Local guesthouses offer basic accommodations, or you can opt to stay in Koforidua, which has a wider range of hotels.

Where to Eat: Small local restaurants near the falls serve traditional Ghanaian dishes, providing an authentic culinary experience.

Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary

Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary is an unusual and exciting destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This community-based sanctuary in the Volta Region is dedicated to the protection of the endangered Mona monkeys. Visitors can take guided tours to see the monkeys in their natural habitat and learn about the local efforts to preserve the species and the forest. The sanctuary also offers cultural experiences, including drumming and dancing with the local community.

How to Get There: Tafi Atome is about a 3-hour drive from Accra. Public transport options are available, but a private car is recommended for convenience.

Travel Tip: Participate in the cultural activities offered by the sanctuary for a unique and immersive experience.

Where to Stay: The Tafi Atome Guesthouse provides simple accommodations and supports the community's conservation efforts.

Where to Eat: The guesthouse offers local meals, or you can explore nearby villages for additional dining options.

Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or a cultural experience, these weekend getaways from Accra offer something for every type of digital nomad. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the wonders that lie just a short journey from the city.