8 Days • 7 Nights
Golden Coast of Ghana: Ada, Busua Beaches & the Nzulezu Stilt Village
Tour Includes
About the Trip
Trip Highlights
- The Volta estuary beaches of Ada Foah, where the great river meets the sea, are a beautiful highlight. At Ada Foah, east of Accra, the mighty Volta River, at the end of its long journey, meets the Atlantic in a spectacular maze of golden sandbars, lagoons, islands and estuary beaches, one of the loveliest spots on the coast. Here you can swim in both river and sea, kayak or take a boat among the sandbars and mangroves, watch fishermen and birdlife, and relax on beautiful, palm-fringed beaches where the freshwater of the river and the saltwater of the ocean meet at a dramatic sandspit.
- The surf, golden sand and seafood of Busua beach are a beautiful, relaxing highlight. On the palm-lined western coast lies Busua, one of Ghana's most relaxed and welcoming beach towns and its surf capital, a crescent of golden sand lapped by the warm Atlantic. Here you can swim, laze on the beach, learn to surf on the gentle, forgiving breaks with boards and lessons available, and feast on fresh seafood, grilled lobster and tropical fruit at laid-back beach bars. The relaxed rhythm, friendly community and beautiful setting make it a perfect place to unwind, and a short walk brings you to pretty Butre.
- The remarkable stilt village of Nzulezu, built over the water, is an extraordinary, unforgettable highlight. Deep in the wetlands of the far west lies Nzulezu, one of the most extraordinary sights in Ghana, an entire village built on stilts and wooden platforms over the tranquil waters of Lake Tadane. You reach it on a beautiful hour-long canoe journey through reed-lined channels and open water, gliding past birds and water lilies, before arriving at the village, where wooden walkways connect stilted houses, a school, a church and a chief's house, all standing on the water.
- The uncrowded palm-fringed beaches of the far west around Axim are a beautiful, peaceful highlight. Ghana's far western coast, around Axim and the Ankobra River, is one of its most beautiful and least crowded, a glorious stretch of golden sand, swaying coconut palms, lagoons and old forts washed by the warm Atlantic. Here you can relax on near-empty beaches, swim in the warm sea, take a canoe up the palm-lined Ankobra River, and stay at lovely beach lodges set among the coconut groves, savouring the peace and beauty far from any crowds. The old Fort San Antonio at Axim adds a touch of history.
- The warm coastal culture, fishing life and fresh seafood of the Ghanaian coast are a delightful highlight. All along the coast, from Ada in the east to Axim in the west, you encounter the warm, colourful culture of Ghana's coastal communities, the brightly painted fishing boats drawn up on the sand, the fishermen hauling their nets to rhythmic songs, the bustling harbours, and the wonderful fresh seafood, grilled tilapia, lobster, prawns and the day's catch, served at beachside bars with jollof rice and cold drinks. The friendliness of the people and the vibrancy of coastal life enrich every day by the sea.
- Above all, this journey offers the golden beaches, warm seas and coastal wonders of Ghana. Ghana's coast runs for hundreds of golden kilometres, and this journey follows it in search of the best of it. Over eight days you relax on the Volta estuary beaches of Ada, surf and unwind at Busua, journey by canoe to the extraordinary stilt village of Nzulezu, and laze on the uncrowded palm-fringed beaches of the far west, all amid warm coastal culture and delicious seafood, guided by expert local guides and warmed by genuine hospitality. The combination of estuary, surf, stilt village, palm-fringed sands and warm welcome makes Ghana's coast a delight.
Day by Day
A detailed day-by-day plan for this 8-day journey.
Your golden-coast journey through Ghana begins as your flight arrives at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, where you are met and transferred to your hotel in the lively capital. Ghana is one of the friendliest and most welcoming countries in West Africa, and the genuine warmth of the Ghanaian welcome is felt from the moment you arrive. Spend the rest of the day settling in and relaxing after your journey, perhaps taking a first stroll near your hotel or watching the sun set over the Gulf of Guinea. This evening, a welcome dinner introduces you to the delicious flavours of Ghanaian cuisine, from grilled tilapia to jollof rice, and to the sun-filled journey ahead along the golden coast, from the Volta estuary of Ada to the surf of Busua and the stilt village of Nzulezu. As you settle in, the warmth of Ghana works its magic. Rest well, ready to head to the coast tomorrow.
Today you journey east to Ada Foah, where the great Volta River meets the sea. You leave Accra and travel east along the coast to Ada Foah, one of the loveliest spots on the coast, where the mighty Volta River, at the end of its long journey, meets the Atlantic in a spectacular maze of golden sandbars, lagoons, islands and estuary beaches. You settle into your laid-back beach lodge and spend the rest of the day unwinding, perhaps taking a first boat trip or walk among the sandbars where river and sea meet, watching fishermen and birdlife, and relaxing on the beautiful, palm-fringed beach as the sun sets over the water. The beauty and calm of the estuary are captivating. As the day ends, you savour the peace of Ada. This evening, dine on fresh seafood by the water. Rest well, for tomorrow is a full day to enjoy the estuary and beaches of Ada.
Today you enjoy a full, relaxed day at Ada Foah, where the Volta meets the Atlantic. You can spend the morning kayaking or taking a boat among the sandbars, lagoons and mangroves of the beautiful estuary, watching the abundant birdlife, visiting a sandspit island where you can swim in both the freshwater river on one side and the saltwater ocean on the other, a magical experience, and relaxing on the golden beaches. You might visit a local community, see traditional fishing, or simply laze in a hammock with a book and a cool drink, soaking up the laid-back rhythm of estuary life. The beauty and serenity are lovely. As the day ends, you return to your lodge for a beautiful sunset over the water. This evening, savour fresh seafood by the estuary. Rest well, for tomorrow you journey west to the surf town of Busua.
Today you journey west along the coast to the surf town of Busua. You leave Ada and travel west, skirting Accra and continuing along the beautiful coast, through fishing towns, coconut groves and past lagoons, to Busua, one of Ghana's most relaxed and welcoming beach towns and its surf capital, a crescent of golden sand lapped by the warm Atlantic. It is a scenic if long drive, and you arrive to settle into your beachside accommodation. You spend the rest of the day unwinding, swimming in the warm sea, lazing on the sand, and perhaps taking a first surf lesson on the gentle breaks, before feasting on fresh seafood at a laid-back beach bar and watching the sun set over the Atlantic. The relaxed rhythm and beautiful setting are lovely. As the day ends, you savour the peace of Busua. This evening, dine by the sea. Rest well, for tomorrow you enjoy Busua and pretty Butre.
Today you enjoy a full, relaxed day on the beautiful western coast. You might spend the morning swimming, surfing or simply lazing on Busua's golden sand, soaking up the laid-back beach-town atmosphere and the warm welcome of the community, for Busua's gentle breaks are ideal for beginners, with boards and lessons available. Later you can walk or paddle a short way to Butre, one of the loveliest spots on the coast, where a river meets the sea amid palm-fringed hills, colourful fishing boats and a golden beach, and climb to the atmospheric ruins of Fort Batenstein, a seventeenth-century Dutch fort, for beautiful views. You can take a canoe up the mangrove-lined river and enjoy the peace of this beautiful corner. The beach and beauty are lovely. As the day ends, you return to Busua. This evening, savour fresh seafood by the sea. Rest well, for tomorrow you journey to the far west and Nzulezu.
Today you journey to the far west, via the remarkable stilt village of Nzulezu. You travel west along the beautiful coast to Beyin, from where you set out on a beautiful hour-long canoe journey through reed-lined wetland channels and open water, gliding past birds and water lilies, to reach Nzulezu, one of the most extraordinary sights in Ghana, an entire village built on stilts and wooden platforms over the tranquil waters of Lake Tadane. You explore the wooden walkways connecting stilted houses, a school and a church, meet the community who have lived this remarkable way of life for generations, and learn their history and legends. You continue to Axim, on the far western coast. The wonder and beauty are unforgettable. As the day ends, you settle into your beach lodge near Axim among the coconut palms. This evening, savour the peace and fresh seafood. Rest well, for tomorrow you relax on the beautiful western beaches.
Today you relax on the beautiful, uncrowded beaches of the far west. Around Axim and the Ankobra River lies one of Ghana's loveliest and least crowded stretches of coast, a glorious sweep of golden sand, swaying coconut palms, lagoons and old forts washed by the warm Atlantic. You can spend the day relaxing on the near-empty beach, swimming in the warm sea, taking a canoe up the palm-lined Ankobra River, and perhaps visiting the old Fort San Antonio at Axim for a touch of history, or simply savouring the peace and beauty of your beach lodge among the coconut groves, far from any crowds. The beauty and serenity are captivating. As the day ends, you enjoy a final, beautiful sunset over the western sea. This evening, savour a farewell dinner of fresh seafood by the shore, reflecting on the golden beaches and coastal wonders you have enjoyed. Rest well ahead of your departure tomorrow.
After a final, relaxed morning on the beautiful western coast, perhaps a last swim or beach walk among the palms, you are transferred back along the coast to Accra and Kotoka International Airport for your onward international departure (allowing time for the scenic drive). You leave having followed Ghana's golden coast in search of its finest beaches and coastal wonders, the Volta estuary beaches of Ada where river meets sea, the surf and golden sand of Busua and pretty Butre, the extraordinary stilt village of Nzulezu reached by canoe, and the uncrowded, palm-fringed beaches of the far west around Axim, all amid warm coastal culture and delicious seafood. The images stay vivid long after you land, the sandbars where the Volta meets the Atlantic, the surfers at Busua, the stilted houses of Nzulezu over the still lake, and the empty golden beaches of the west. Ghana's coast offers golden sand, warm seas and rare wonders, and you depart already dreaming of a return.
Where You Will Travel
What's inside the package?
Inclusions
- 7 nights accommodation
- Daily breakfast, a welcome dinner
- Airport and land transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
- Touring and sightseeing as per itinerary with expert local guides
- Entrance fees to castles, parks and sites as per itinerary
- private touring with an expert local guide and vehicle, a Volta estuary boat trip at Ada, transfers along the coast, a canoe journey to the Nzulezu stilt village, beach time at Busua and Axim, and all entrance fees
Exclusions
- International airfare
- Visa or tourist card fees where applicable
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Surfing lessons and board hire at Busua
- Optional experiences and tips for guides, drivers and boatmen
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary or inclusions
- Drinks unless specifically stated
- Optional excursions and experiences
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Anything not specifically mentioned under Package Inclusions
Know when to go.
- Visa & entry: Most nationalities need a visa for Ghana, arranged in advance through a Ghanaian embassy or the eVisa system, with visa-on-arrival available to some travellers by prior approval; a passport valid for at least six months is required. Requirements change from time to time, so we confirm the exact, current process for your nationality and help you prepare the paperwork before you travel
- Currency: The currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS); cards are accepted in larger hotels, restaurants and shops in Accra and Kumasi, but carry cash for markets, crafts, small towns, tips, park fees and rural areas, where cash is essential. ATMs are found in cities and larger towns, and it is wise to keep small notes handy
- Best time to visit: The dry season, roughly November to March, is the most comfortable time to travel, with warm, sunny days and the dusty Harmattan wind blowing from the Sahara; the wet season (April to October) brings lush green landscapes, fuller waterfalls and warm rains, mostly in short heavy bursts. We help you time your trip around the season and any festivals you wish to see
- Language & etiquette: English is the official language and is widely spoken, alongside Akan (Twi), Ewe, Ga and many others; Ghanaians are famously warm, friendly and hospitable. Greetings matter, so take a moment to say hello; dress modestly at sacred sites, palaces and in the north; and always ask before photographing people, chiefs or ceremonies. A little Twi, such as a friendly greeting, is warmly received
- Getting around: Touring is by private air-conditioned vehicle with your own driver-guide, the most comfortable and flexible way to see the country; some drives are long but scenic, linking Accra, the Cape Coast, Kumasi, the north and the Volta Region. Domestic flights between Accra, Kumasi and Tamale can shorten the longest journeys, and we build in comfortable stops along the way
- Health & safety: Ghana is one of the friendliest and most stable countries in West Africa, and travel here is rewarding and welcoming; a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry, and antimalarial precautions are strongly recommended, so consult a travel clinic well before departure. Drink bottled or filtered water, use insect repellent, and we monitor conditions and follow official guidance at all times
- Culture & festivals: Ghana's culture is vibrant and deeply rooted, from Ashanti kente weaving, drumming and dancing to colourful chiefs' durbars and lively festivals such as Homowo, Aboakyer and the Ashanti Akwasidae; markets buzz with energy and music is everywhere. We can time your journey to coincide with a festival where possible, and always advise on respectful ways to take part and enjoy the celebrations
- Power & practicalities: Power is 230V with British-style type G three-pin plugs (type D also appears), so bring a UK-style adapter; power cuts happen occasionally, and better hotels have generators. Tipping is appreciated for good service, mobile coverage is good in towns, and the pace of life is relaxed and friendly, so patience, a smile and an open mind make every day a pleasure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the journey to Nzulezu like, and is it worth it?
It is one of the most memorable experiences in Ghana. From Beyin you travel by canoe for about an hour through beautiful reed-lined wetland channels and open lake, gliding past birds and water lilies, before reaching Nzulezu, an entire village built on stilts over the water, where wooden walkways link stilted houses, a school and a church. Meeting the community and seeing this remarkable, centuries-old way of life is extraordinary and well worth the journey. The canoe trip is gentle and safe with experienced local boatmen, and the wetland scenery is beautiful in its own right.
Are Ghana's beaches good for swimming, and is the sea safe?
Many of Ghana's beaches are beautiful for swimming, especially the sheltered bays such as Busua and the calm estuary and lagoon waters at Ada, which are lovely and generally safe. That said, the open Atlantic coast can have strong currents and undertows in places, so we choose beaches known to be safer for swimming, and your guide and lodge staff advise on where and when it is safe. Always heed local advice, swim where recommended, and take care with children. The warm water and golden sand make Ghana's coast a real pleasure.
What meals are included?
Daily breakfast is included, along with any meals named in the itinerary (typically dinners at remote lodges such as Mole, and some half-board or full-board stays). Ghanaian food is delicious and hearty, from jollof rice, waakye and grilled tilapia to groundnut and light soups with fufu or banku, and fresh tropical fruit. We usually leave other meals free so you can explore local restaurants and chop bars, and we recommend the best places at every stage of your journey.
Are the tours private or in a group?
Your journey is private by default, with your own expert local driver-guide and comfortable air-conditioned vehicle, giving you flexibility, depth and a pace tailored entirely to you; small-group options can be arranged if you prefer. Ghana's knowledgeable, friendly guides bring the castles, palaces, markets, parks and rich living culture vividly to life, greatly enriching every visit, and a good guide is invaluable for the history of the coast and the north.
Do I need a visa for Ghana?
Most nationalities need a visa, arranged in advance through a Ghanaian embassy or the eVisa system, with visa-on-arrival available to some travellers by prior approval. We confirm the exact, current requirements for your nationality, advise on the best option and help you prepare the paperwork, so entry is smooth. A passport valid for at least six months and a yellow fever vaccination certificate are required for entry.
Is Ghana safe to visit?
Ghana is one of the friendliest, most stable and most welcoming countries in West Africa, with a long tradition of peace, democracy and genuine hospitality, and travel here is smooth and rewarding. We use trusted local guides and drivers, choose good accommodation, monitor conditions and follow official guidance at all times. Normal common-sense precautions apply, as anywhere, and the warmth of the Ghanaian welcome is one of the great joys of any visit.
When is the best time to visit?
The dry season, roughly November to March, is the most comfortable time, with warm, sunny days, ideal for the coast, castles, Kumasi, the north and the Volta Region, though the Harmattan can bring dusty haze. The wet season (April to October) brings lush green landscapes and fuller waterfalls, with rain usually in short, heavy bursts. We advise on the best timing for your interests, the regions you wish to see and any festivals.
Can the itinerary be customised?
Absolutely. We can adjust the balance of Accra, the Cape Coast castles, Kakum, Kumasi and the Ashanti heartland, the Mole safari and the north, the Volta Region and the beaches, add or remove nights, include a festival, and tailor the pace, comfort and focus entirely to you. Every itinerary is a flexible starting point, crafted around your interests, for your ideal journey through the warm and vibrant land of Ghana.
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