Accra, with its vibrant culture and rich heritage, has indeed become a prominent tourist destination in West Africa and the entire continent.
Every year, a multitude of visitors descends upon the city, especially during the festive season, to immerse themselves in the warmth of Ghanaian hospitality and experience the unique charm that Accra has to offer.
For those seeking to maximize their stay and explore the diverse attractions Accra boasts, careful planning is key.
Whether you’re yearning for delectable cuisine, vibrant nightlife, captivating art, or other enticing experiences, this article aims to guide you through some of the popular tourist sites in Accra.
Join me on this journey as we unveil the gems that make Accra a must-visit destination.
Tourist Sites In Accra
Here are the top 5 tourist sites in Accra:
- Osu Castle
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park And Mausoleum
- Legon Botanical Gardens
- Labadi Beach
- Black Star Square
Osu Castle
Also known as Christianborg Castle or Fort Christianborg, this historic fortress stands proudly in Osu at the heart of Accra.
Originally constructed by the Danes in the 1660s along the Gulf of Guinea coast, Osu Castle has etched its place in history as the former official seat of the government until the relocation to the Jubilee House in 2013.
Acknowledged as a World Heritage Site, Osu Castle preserves the legacy of the nation, housing invaluable presidential papers, artifacts, journals, and clothing belonging to past presidents.
A visit to the castle offers an opportunity to explore the rooms used by previous Ghanaian leaders and appreciate exhibits featuring renowned figures like Azumah Nelson and Efua Sutherland.
Open exclusively on Fridays from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, all tours at Osu Castle are free of charge.
To plan your visit or make inquiries, contact the castle at 0302221633/635 or through the email address [email protected].
Immerse yourself in the historical significance and cultural richness preserved within the walls of Osu Castle.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park And Mausoleum
Another captivating tourist site in Accra is the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum, a tribute to Ghana’s inaugural president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah.
Situated in downtown Accra, directly across from the old Parliament House, which now houses the Commission of Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ), this memorial site holds profound historical and cultural significance.
Within the mausoleum lie the remains of Kwame Nkrumah and his wife, Fathia Nkrumah, adding a solemn touch to the experience.
The accompanying museum is a treasure trove of Nkrumah’s personal belongings, including his books and official photographs, offering visitors a glimpse into the life and legacy of Ghana’s first president.
For those eager to explore this poignant site, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park is open from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Mondays to Fridays and from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm on weekends.
Immerse yourself in the history and contributions of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah as you wander through the park and museum.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park And Mausoleum Entry Rates
- Ghanaian children- GHS 1
- Ghanaian teenagers- GHS 2
- Ghanaian adults- GHS 3
- Non-Ghanaian children- GHS 2
- Non-Ghanaian teenagers- GHS 5
- Non-Ghanaian adults- GHS 10
The contact number is 0208283175
Legon Botanical Gardens
Situated in proximity to the University of Ghana, Legon Botanical Gardens stands out as one of the country’s largest recreational centers.
Positioned at the Agbogba Junction, along the Haatso Atomic Main Road, this expansive oasis offers a diverse range of activities suitable for individuals of all ages.
Whether you’re planning a school excursion, a tranquil picnic, a captivating photoshoot, a serene boat cruise, or an adventurous hike, Legon Botanical Gardens caters to a wide array of interests.
The gardens welcome visitors on weekdays from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm and on weekends from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The entry fee per person is GHS 15, ensuring accessibility for all.
For those seeking a memorable escape into nature, Legon Botanical Gardens provides a welcoming environment with activities designed to engage and captivate visitors of varying preferences.
Explore the lush landscapes and partake in the offerings that make Legon Gardens a haven for recreation and relaxation.
Legon Botanical Gardens Entry Rates
- Playground- GHS 20 for children only
- Canopy walkway- GHS 20 for children and GHS 25 for adults
- High rope course- 2 routes at GHS 40 and 4 routes at GHS 70
- Bird watching- GHS 30
- Biking- GHS 30 with your bike
- Fishing- GHS 30 with your rod
- Model photoshoot- GHS 150
- Wedding photoshoot- GHS 250
- Video shoot- GHS 700 for 4 hours and GHS 1200 for 8 hours
You can contact the gardens on 0262366167 or 0552880908 or via the email address [email protected]
Labadi Beach
Labadi Beach, officially known as La Pleasure Beach, stands out as one of the busiest and most beloved coastal destinations on the Ghanaian coast, drawing both locals and tourists alike.
Nestled in Labadi, a suburb of Accra, this vibrant beach offers a plethora of attractions and activities for its visitors.
Labadi Beach is adorned with numerous restaurants, providing an opportunity to savor local delicacies and cold beverages.
The lively atmosphere is complemented by recreational options such as horse riding, beach volleyball, and the enchanting sounds of live bands and reggae music.
Weekends bring a bustling energy to the beach, creating a lively ambiance, while weekdays offer a more serene experience, allowing visitors to unwind by the waves and relish the sea breeze.
Despite being a public space, a small entrance fee of GHS 15 is required for access, ensuring that Labadi Beach remains accessible to all who seek a delightful seaside escape.
Black Star Square
Independence Square, also known as Black Star Square, stands as a significant public monument near the Accra Sports Stadium and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
This iconic square serves as the venue for the annual Independence celebrations on 6th March, as well as other military and civic parades throughout the year.
With a seating capacity of 3,000 persons, Independence Square is a focal point for national events and gatherings.
The square is adorned with other notable monuments, including the Independence Arch, the Memorial of the Unknown Soldier, and the Black Star Gate, each contributing to the historical and cultural significance of the site.
Open to the public at all times, visitors can explore the monuments and appreciate the architectural and symbolic elements that define Independence Square.
However, it’s advised to exercise caution when taking pictures, as occasionally, a few soldiers may be present in the vicinity.
Immerse yourself in the patriotic atmosphere and historical resonance that Independence Square holds for the people of Ghana.
Conclusion
Thank you for providing additional contact information for the popular landmarks in Accra. For further inquiries or to plan your visit, you can contact:
- Osu Castle: 0302221633/635
- Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum: 0208283175
- Legon Botanical Gardens: 0262366167 or 0552880908
Feel free to reach out to these numbers for additional details or to facilitate your visit to these remarkable sites in Accra.
Enjoy your exploration of the rich history, culture, and natural beauty that these landmarks have to offer.
You can also check out tourist sites in Ghana as a whole and if you are heading to the eastern region, you can also click here to know the best tourist attractions in the eastern region.
