By Ayomipo Akorede
My dear Naija people, sometimes the hustle and bustle of Lagos traffic or the daily gbas gbos of Abuja life will humble you so much, you’ll start dreaming of escaping to somewhere that doesn’t involve arguing with okada men or praying NEPA brings light. That’s your cue to consider Ghana—our sweet jollof rivals (we’ll pretend their rice is close) but when it comes to peaceful vibes, smooth roads, and “chill with sense,” Ghana might just have us beat.
So, if you’re tired of shouting “who dey breet?” in 40-degree heat or dodging your landlord at the end of the month, it might be time to pack small bag and “japa” for a quick vacation. Ghana is close, affordable, and full of beautiful places that will make you say, “Na so life suppose be!” Whether you're traveling with family, planning baecation, or just trying to chill without spending all your salary, this guide go show you road—literally.
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Kakum National Park |
1. Family-Friendly Destinations
If you're thinking of a weekend getaway with everyone in the family: parents, aunties and uncles and curious children, then Kakum National Park in Central Region might be your go to.This park no be your regular “bush”. Kakum is where you walk on canopy bridges hanging in the sky like you’re on American Ninja Warrior, except you’re in Ghana and sweating fine-fine. It’s safe for kids, exciting for adults, and Instagram-worthy for the Gen Z crew. For an extensive visit, you can crash at Hans Cottage Botel. Oh yes, the one with live crocodiles chilling like area boys in Mushin or Elmina Bay Resort. But somewhere in-between, you'll cross a bridge that is high oh.
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Shai Hills Reserve |
Next is Shai Hills Reserve in Greater Accra. Imagine Lekki Conservation Centre but with baboons wey no dey form. Shai Hills is a perfect day trip for families. The kids can shout “monkey!” without someone thinking it’s an insult. You're guaranteed of easy hikes, cave tours and small safari vibes within your budget with pocket abi wallet-friendly rates
Another family destination is Legon Botanical Gardens in Accra. This one is for fun and bonding. Canoe rides, zip lines, and obstacle courses that will humble even the most energetic child. So, if you're a parent who wants to tire their children out so they sleep early, you’re welcome here. Lol.
2. Romantic Destinations
For lovers and soft life seekers who have always been saying “God when?” this is when. Lou Moon Resort in Axim is the kind of resort where you and bae will be so relaxed, you’ll forget to post on the gram... Instagram actually. Private beach, fancy food, and that soft soft lighting for evening cuddles for the pepper dem gang. Oh my gush. Lol. Trust me, you won't experience anything short of a honeymoon-level, love-don-land kind of thing. For all the "I love being single" people, If you go alone, e go pain you gaan.
Safari Valley Resort in Eastern Region and Aburi Gardens & Hilltop Resorts have one thing in common--- nature. Everything is eco-friendly, but still luxury-level. From horse rides to spa treatments, you’ll feel like Meghan and Harry before they moved out of the palace. You don’t need flight to feel high. Just climb to Aburi and feel the breeze blow your wahala away. They are both perfect for a weekend baecation or getaway for couples who like luxurious enjoyment with conscience.
3. Budget-Friendly Destinations
Is there anything in life that has no class? Even the air we breathe gan sef get class. You doubt? Try go visit the "slumest" slum. But the goodnews is that in this life, you can always jaye on your level.
For smart spenders and broke ballers who run on strict like strict budgets always, you might want to consider Busua Beach in Western Region. Busua is that beach wey fine and humble. You go fit surf, eat fresh fish, and sleep well without entering overdraft. Locals are cool, vibes are easy, and nobody is pricing your head like Lagos Uber drivers. If you're sleeping over, try Dadson’s Lodge or Busua Inn. They have "understanding" rates. You can cut down a lot more on spending if you go with friends. You can split bills and enjoy like ballers.
Cape Coast Town is another option. History dey here in full package. From Cape Coast Castle to Kakum National Park, you’ll be learning and chilling at once. Great food, great people, and no one will drag you on Twitter for “not knowing your roots." Spending is cheap and suya money can feed you here.
Apart from the artificial Lake Bosomtwe in Ashanti Region, Nzulezo Stilt Village might be perfect for those who just want to say “I went somewhere different”. Nzulezo is a whole community built on water. You’ll enter canoe, paddle like a village person, and reach a village where houses no dey touch ground. It's like Venice, but African and nobody go charge you $500 for gondola ride. Wìth this lasan, your WhatsApp DP go bang, Instagram sef go shake.
Before you go my brethren, November to March might be best for these trips because rainy season fit surprise you like bad exam result, you know. Also, their "move-around" is trotro. It is their own Lagos danfo. Cheap but be ready. For comfort, you can rent a car or find a Ghanaian plug. Get enough Ghana Cedis or arrange for mobile money if possible—POS no too plenty like Naija. Finally, stay sharp, stay smart. Ghanaians are peaceful, but no leave Lagos street sense for house completely oh. Anyway, sha rep us well and enjoy your stay in Ghana!
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