Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Castle from Accra In One Day
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Engage one of the darkest period of human history as revealed within the walls and dark dungeons of the largest slave castles in the world. Take the 2 hours 30 minutes scenic ride from Accra along the palm front beach of the Atlantic Ocean with commentary from our tour guide showing you the history, culture and the significance of the towns and villages en route. Visit the two UNESCO World Heritage Castles at Elmina and Cape Coast to unravel the sordid stories of the infamous Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade behind those two castles. Discover what the former first family of USA, the Obamas discovered at the Cape Coast Castle.
Available options
Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Castle from Accra In One Day
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Local guide
Professional guide
Driver/guide
Fuel surcharge
Transport by private vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
06:00HRS - Depart Accra for a two and a half hour drive to the Central Region.
2
Stop 2
09:00 HRS - Take a tour of the Elmina township to visit historic sites culminating at the famous Ft. St. Georges Castle which was built by the Portuguese from 1482. Standing for over 530years, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the oldest European building in sub-Sahara Africa. It is also one of the largest slave forts in the world as it became a cell holding up several enslaved Africans who were shipped across the Atlantic Ocean to the New World.
3
11:30 HRS - Continue with a visit to the Cape Coast Castle. This used to be a Swedish lodge prior to its seizure by the English and expansion from 1665. Take the tour of the Smithsonian mounted museum and the rest of dungeon which exited at "the door of no return". Two slave bones exhumed from Jamaica and the USA were returned through this door and interned an hour away at Assin Manso. This changed the name from the "the door of no return" to "the door of return". Discover the plaque mounted and commissioned by the 44th President of the USA Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama on their visit to Ghana in 2009.
13:30HRS - Lunch (at clients’ expense)
14:45HRS - Return to Accra to end the
What's not included
Food and drinks
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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2★
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1★
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Important information
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Dress code is smart casual
About Ghana
Ghana is a vibrant West African country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling markets of Accra to the serene beaches of Cape Coast, Ghana offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The country is also renowned for its warm hospitality and vibrant festivals, making it a must-visit destination in Africa.
Top Attractions
Cape Coast Castle
A historic castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a significant role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It offers a poignant and educational experience about Ghana's history.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate ($10-$15)
Kakum National Park
A lush rainforest with diverse wildlife and a canopy walkway offering a unique treetop experience.
Nature
Half to full day
Moderate ($10-$20)
Mole National Park
Ghana's largest national park, known for its wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. It offers safari experiences and guided tours.
Nature
Full day or overnight
Moderate ($20-$50)
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
A memorial dedicated to Ghana's first president and pan-Africanist leader, Kwame Nkrumah. It includes a museum and a beautiful garden.
Historical
1-2 hours
Low ($2-$5)
Labadi Beach
A popular beach in Accra known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and local food stalls.
Beach
Half day
Free (activities and food vary in cost)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Jollof Rice
A flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, often served with chicken, fish, or vegetables.
Main Dish
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Fufu and Light Soup
Fufu is a dough-like dish made from pounded cassava and plantains, typically served with a light soup made with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
Main Dish
Vegetarian (if no meat is added to the soup)
Waakye
A dish made from rice and beans cooked with millet leaves, served with spaghetti, fried plantains, and various side dishes like shito (fried fish or meat).
Main Dish
Vegetarian (if no meat is added)
Banku and Tilapia
Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough, typically served with grilled or fried tilapia and a spicy pepper sauce.
Main Dish
Can be made vegetarian (without fish)
Popular Activities
Canopy walk in Kakum National Park
Wildlife safaris in Mole National Park
Hiking in the mountains
Beach visits (e.g., Labadi Beach, Busua Beach)
Spa treatments
Gardens visits (e.g., Aburi Botanical Gardens)
Visiting historical sites (e.g., Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle)
Attending festivals (e.g., Homowo, Adae)
Best Time to Visit
November to February
This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures. It's ideal for beach visits, wildlife safaris, and cultural festivals.
21-32°C
70-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Akan, Ewe, Ga, Hausa, Dagbani
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)
Time Zone
GMT
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Ghana is generally considered safe for travelers, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
- • Use reputable taxi services or apps for better reliability and safety
- • Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Kotoka International Airport • 8 km from Accra city center
By train
Accra Central Station
By bus
Accra Central Bus Terminal, Kumasi Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Trotro are shared minibuses that are the most common form of public transport in Ghana. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Osu
Labone
Adabraka
Cantonments
Day trips
Cape Coast
140 km from Accra • Half to full day
Cape Coast is a historic town known for its castles and role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It offers a poignant and educational experience about Ghana's history.
Kakum National Park
150 km from Accra • Half to full day
Kakum National Park is a lush rainforest offering a unique canopy walkway experience and diverse wildlife.
Aburi
50 km from Accra • Half day
Aburi is a picturesque town known for its cool climate, scenic views, and traditional batik fabric production.
Festivals
Homowo Festival • May-July (dates vary by ethnic group)
Adae Festival • Varies (typically every 42 days in some communities)
Chale Wote Street Art Festival • August (dates vary)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as 'Mɛn hyɛ' (Hello) and 'Medaase' (Thank you), to show respect and appreciation for the local culture
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience, especially when visiting historical sites and national parks
- Try local dishes, such as jollof rice, fufu, and waakye, to fully immerse yourself in Ghanaian cuisine
- Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (March-April and September, or May-August) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices
- Carry small bills and change, as vendors and small businesses may not have change for larger denominations
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
