Kakum National Park
Central
Kakum National Park, located in Ghana's Central Region, spans 375 square kilometers of tropical rainforest and is renowned for its unique canopy walkway that stretches 350 meters connecting seven treetops. Established as a forest reserve in 1931 and designated a national park in 1992, Kakum is one of only three African locations featuring a canopy walkway, providing visitors an immersive experience high above the forest floor. The park hosts endangered species like the Diana monkey, giant bongo antelope, yellow-backed duiker, and forest elephants, alongside over 266 bird species, including hornbills and the grey parrot, making it an Important Bird Area. Kakum's biodiversity also includes more than 600 butterfly species, with new species discovered as recently as 1993. The park is community-driven, reflecting local initiative in its establishment and ongoing conservation efforts. Facilities such as a welcome center, restaurant, lodge, and wildlife education center enhance visitor experience. Its proximity to Cape Coast and accessibility by taxi or organized tours make it a popular ecotourism destination that combines natural beauty with cultural heritage.
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Tip: The best time to visit Kakum National Park is during the dry season to enjoy clear views from the canopy walkway. Booking guided tours in advance is recommended, especially to experience expert-led nature walks that include wildlife spotting and cultural insights. Visitors can benefit from group discounts and should check for any seasonal conservation activities or events. Comfortable footwear and insect repellent are advised for the forest trails.
Interesting facts
- •Kakum National Park is one of only three places in Africa with a canopy walkway.
- •The park hosts over 266 bird species, including eight species of global conservation concern.
- •More than 600 butterfly species inhabit the park, with a new species discovered in 1993.
- •It contains the densest population of forest elephants in Ghana as of 2012.
- •The park was established through local community initiative rather than solely by government wildlife authorities.
History
Originally declared a forest reserve in 1931, Kakum was primarily managed for timber extraction, especially mahogany, until 1989.
Following a transfer to the Wildlife Department, a feasibility study and management plan for ecotourism development were initiated in 1990, involving local communities and stakeholders.
The park was officially gazetted as a national park in 1992 after a faunal survey, separating it from the adjacent Assin Attandanso Forest Reserve to balance conservation with community resource needs.
The park's establishment was notably driven by local initiative and supported by Ghana Tourist Board programs and international sponsors.
Place Guide
Canopy Walkway1992
A 350-meter-long series of hanging bridges connecting seven treetop platforms about 30 meters above the forest floor, offering panoramic views and close encounters with forest wildlife.
Wildlife Education Center
Facility offering educational exhibits about the park's flora and fauna, conservation efforts, and local biodiversity.
Forest Trails
Guided walking paths through the tropical rainforest allowing visitors to observe endangered species such as Diana monkeys, giant bongos, and forest elephants.
Contact
Phone: 020 042 0831
