Located on the coast of West Africa, Ghana’s wildlife and wild assets support a growing eco-tourism industry, complemented by its strong cultural and historical attractions. The wildlife parks and other protected areas are like walking into an interesting world of nature in Ghana. The diverse wildlife in Ghana, Africa offers breathtaking experiences and much more. As you explore the Akwaaba app, you’ll quickly discover why this West African nation is becoming a popular tourist destination.

The wildlife in Ghana, Africa is incredibly diverse and rich, with over 700 species of animals found within its national parks and reserves. The region supports some of the most spectacular animals in Africa, from lush rainforests to vast savannas.

Ghana’s Remarkable Wildlife Diversity

With savannahs, forests, wetlands, and coastal areas, Ghana offers a diverse ecosystem suitable for countless species of fauna. Geographically, the country is close to the equator, and it has a wide range of altitudes and climate zones that contribute to its biodiversity.

Ghana is home to a number of animals that are found across sub-Saharan Africa, as well as several species that are endemic or near-endemic, meaning they are found nowhere else in the world. Both tourists and scientists are captivated by the unique variety of wild animals in Ghana.

The Importance of Conservation Efforts

Ghana’s ecosystems and wildlife face multiple threats, similar to many other biodiverse areas around the world. There are several factors contributing to the decline of species populations, including habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching, and climate change.

Creating protected areas and wildlife reserves is essential for the long-term survival of Ghana’s remarkable animal biodiversity. Ghana can preserve these valuable habitats by developing sustainable tourism practices and working with local communities to promote conservation.

Forest Havens and Coastal Wonders

Ghana’s forests are home to a variety of wildlife. An aerial view of the rainforest ecosystem can be seen from the canopy walkway of Kakum National Park. You can spot hundreds of bird species here, including the yellow-casqued hornbill and African grey parrot.

The marine life in Ghana’s southern coastal regions adds dimension to its wildlife. Nesting sea turtles and dolphins occasionally live along the shores. Visitors can use the Akwaaba app to time their visits perfectly to witness these seasonal natural phenomena.

Best Times for Wildlife Viewing

When visiting Ghana, you must choose the right time for optimal wildlife viewing. Best conditions tend to be found during the dry season, between November and April. It is easier to spot Ghana’s animals during these months since they gather around water sources. The Akwaaba app provides real-time information on wildlife sightings and optimal viewing conditions at different locations.

National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

Mole National Park

Mole National Park in Northern Ghana is a great place to go hiking, where you can see hippos, buffalo, elephants, lions, and leopards among other animals. Visiting Ghana’s zoos, such as Accra Zoo and Kumasi Zoo, is an option, but you may prefer to see the animals in their natural habitat.

Bui National Park

This national park is bisected by the Black Volta River, which is home to a large herd of hippos. Antelopes, leopards, and monkeys are also very likely to be seen.

Boin Tano Forest Reserve

The Bisao and Tano rivers create swampy areas at this reserve where yellow-backed duikers and ursine colobus primates can be seen in their natural habitat. Additionally, the bush-covered areas of this reserve are a great spot to see Ghana’s endangered birds, such as the yellow-bearded greenbuls and white-breasted guinea fowls.

Nini Suhien National Park and Ankasa Resources Reserve

This area in southern Ghana managed as one unit, is a great place to see endangered Diana monkeys and African elephants in Ghana. 260 bird species are known to have visited this park and reserve, so take a look in the bush.

Kakum National Park

You can spot Diana monkeys, yellow-backed duikers, red river hogs, and African elephants along the 1,150-foot-high Kakum Canopy Walkway. A variety of endangered birds live here, including African grey parrots and hornbills.

Birds in Ghana

• Tawny Eagle

The tawny eagle is Ghana’s national animal. The bird represents strength and protection. On the country’s crest, two tawny eagles gaze vigilantly over the nation, as if monitoring its well-being.

This national emblem is a skilled hunter, although it does not mind eating carrion or stealing for food. When compared with other eagles in the tropics, it has a rather varied diet, hunting 200 species, including pigeons, flamingos, and genets. Savannahs, dry steppes, and deserts are preferred habitats for the tawny eagle.

• Picathartes

The picathartes (or white-necked rockfowl) live only in Upper Guinea forests and are mostly found in Ghana. They build their mud nests in caves or overhangs along a hilltop within rainforests, much like crows and roadrunners do.

• Violet turaco

This gorgeous frugivore tends to travel in pairs or small groups. It is best found in drier places, including the Achimota Forest in Accra, the Shai Hills Resource Reserve, and the Shai Hills Resource Reserve.

• White-crested hornbill

The white-crested hornbill has a bright white quiff, which contrasts with its long, graduated black tail. In its forest habitat, the species is known to follow monkeys foraging.

Reptiles and Amphibians in Ghana

• Snakes

There are a number of venomous and nonvenomous snake species found in Ghana’s diverse ecosystems. African rock pythons, forest cobras, and gaboon vipers are some notable species.

Many people fear snakes, but they are essential for maintaining the food chain in their respective ecosystems by controlling rodents and other small mammals.

• Colorful Frogs and Toads

Ghana is home to a wide variety of amphibians, including frogs and toads. There are a variety of colors and sizes to choose from, with the striking banded rubber frog as well as the tiny and vibrant African reed frog.

In Ghana’s ecosystems, frogs and toads serve as an essential food source for birds and other animals as well as controlling insect populations.

• Turtles, Tortoises, and Crocodiles

Crocodiles, turtles, and tortoises are other noteworthy reptiles found in Ghana. Both freshwater and coastal turtle species thrive in the country, while tortoises roam the savannas and forests. Rivers and waterways in Ghana are home to crocodiles, including the dreaded Nile crocodile.

Planning Your Wildlife Adventure

The Akwaaba app makes exploring Ghana’s wildlife convenient and accessible. It allows you to:

• Explore wildlife in Ghana, Africa with guided tours
• Keep track of recent sightings of animals
• Maps and information about parks
• Connect with local wildlife experts
• Support conservation efforts

Final Thoughts:

Would you like to see all these amazing animals in Ghana for yourself? Ghana continues to be committed to wildlife conservation. There is an increase in the number of protected areas, as well as better management of existing protected areas.

The Akwaaba app enables more people to appreciate these conservation efforts and support them. Join us on an impactful adventure in the heart of Equatoria, Ghana—the land of palm-lined beaches, magnificent lakes, and tropical forests. You’ll live and work in communities full of cultural heritage and brimming with possibilities and learn the true meaning of hospitality, solidarity, and generosity. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What kind of animals live in Ghana?

The largest mammals of Africa include lions, leopards, hyenas, antelopes, elephants, buffalo, wild hogs, chimpanzees, and monkeys of many kinds. A variety of snakes can be found there, including pythons, cobras, horned and puff adders, and green mambas. The rivers and lagoons are home to crocodiles, manatees, and otters.

What is Ghana’s national animal?

The national animal of Ghana is the Tawny Eagle. Tawny Eagles typically live in open areas, such as savannas, grasslands, and deserts.

Does Ghana have black mambas?

Throughout sub-Saharan Africa, it is an extremely venomous snake. Their colours range from grey to dark brown. Black mambas are 100% fatal.

What is the most popular animal in Ghana?

Mole National Park, Ghana’s largest national park, is home to elephants, the country’s flagship species. Observe these majestic animals gathering around waterholes, traversing the savannah, and cooling off in mud puddles.

Are there monkeys in Ghana?

Ghana is home to several community-based conservation projects, including two monkey sanctuaries. Both of these villages have always protected their forests and monkeys (often because the monkeys are sacred). Therefore, the monkeys are very tame.