Ghana may be a late comer in the league of Africa’s most sought after tourist destination, but it is no less alluring than, say, Kenya, South Africa or Zimbabwe. The eastern region of Ghana is a rich blend of dramatic landscapes, historic relics and traditional cultures. The region is dominated by Lake Volta, one of the world's largest man-made lakes, and the Akosombo Dam, source of much of Ghana's hydroelectric power. Both are worth a visit. A highly recommended visit is the original Presbyterian school buildings in Akropong, and the house of Tetteh Quarshie in Mampong. Both these towns have many interesting historic buildings and districts. The Volta Region is an area of extraordinary scenic beauty, with rolling hills, valleys, rocky outcrops overlooking Lake Volta. From the coastal plain, fringed by sun-kissed beaches and mangrove swamps, through moist deciduous rain forests in the central belt, where Mt. Afadjato at 885m is the highest point in Ghana, to the arid savannah of northern Ghana, you can experience almost every tropical climate in West Africa. New hotels are providing facilities for waters ports and deep sea fishing. Tuna, tarpon and barracuda may be caught. And if you hadn’t heard of the castles and forts of Ghana, then savour the opportunity to be awe struck by a legacy of the historic past . These resplendent relics were built by the Portuguese, Dutch, French, Britons, Brandenburg-Prussians, Danes and Swedes. For several centuries, their warehouses teemed with gold and ivory export products as well as African slaves destined for auction in the Europe and America! The World Heritage Convention of UNESCO has designated Ghana"s castles and forts as World Heritage Monuments.
Full name: Republic of Ghana
Population: 21.8 million (UN, 2005)
Capital: Accra
Area: 238,533 sq km (92,098 sq miles)
Major languages: English, African languages including Akan, Ewe
Major religions: Christianity, indigenous beliefs, Islam
Life expectancy: 56 years (men), 57 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: Cedi
Main exports: Gold, cocoa, timber, tuna, bauxite, aluminium, manganese ore, diamonds
GNI per capita: US $450 (World Bank, 2006)
Internet domain: .gh
International dialling code: +233
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