Ankasa Conservation Area
Western
Ankasa Conservation Area, located in southwestern Ghana near the Côte d'Ivoire border, is a vast protected region encompassing about 500 square kilometers of tropical evergreen rainforest. It includes the Nini Suhien National Park to the north and the Ankasa Forest Reserve to the south. The area is distinguished as the only wildlife protected zone in Ghana situated within the wet evergreen tropical high rainforest belt. Its ecosystem is characterized by numerous rivers, including the Ankasa, Nini, and Suhien, which feature rapids and waterfalls. The reserve boasts exceptional biodiversity with over 800 species of vascular plants, 639 butterfly species, and more than 190 bird species, making it an Important Bird Area. Fauna includes elephants, bongos, leopards, western chimpanzees, Diana monkeys, and various other primates. While selective logging occurred in the forest reserve until 1976, the remainder of the area remains largely intact. Basic camping facilities with shelters, toilets, and running water are available for visitors, providing an immersive nature experience.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to plan their visit during the dry season for easier access and better wildlife viewing. Booking in advance is recommended due to limited camping facilities. The reserve offers basic amenities such as shelters and running water, but visitors should come prepared for a rustic experience. Guided tours enhance wildlife spotting opportunities and educational value. Discounts may be available for groups or students through official channels.
Interesting facts
- •Ankasa Conservation Area is the only protected wildlife area in Ghana located in the wet evergreen tropical high rainforest belt.
- •The reserve supports over 190 bird species, making it a critical Important Bird Area (IBA).
- •It harbors rare and endangered species such as the western chimpanzee and bongo antelope.
- •The Ankasa, Nini, and Suhien Rivers flow through the park, featuring rapids and waterfalls that contribute to its unique landscape.
- •Selective logging occurred in part of the forest until 1976, but most of the area remains pristine.
History
The Ankasa Conservation Area was established to protect one of Ghana's last remaining wet evergreen tropical high rainforests.
The forest reserve portion experienced selective logging until 1976, after which conservation efforts intensified to preserve its biodiversity.
Over time, the area was expanded to include the adjacent Nini Suhien National Park, creating a larger contiguous protected zone.
Its designation as an Important Bird Area by BirdLife International highlights its ecological significance in Ghana and West Africa.
Place Guide
Nini Suhien National Park
Northern section of the conservation area, featuring dense tropical rainforest and diverse wildlife habitats. Known for birdwatching and primate sightings.
Ankasa Forest Reserve
Southern section of the conservation area, largely pristine rainforest with some history of selective logging until 1976. Home to elephants, leopards, and chimpanzees.
Rivers and Waterfalls
The Ankasa, Nini, and Suhien Rivers traverse the park, featuring rapids and scenic waterfalls that enhance the natural beauty and habitat diversity.
