Accra, Ghana’s bustling capital, is a vibrant hub of activity—but even city lovers need a break now and then. Fortunately, Ghana offers a wide range of weekend getaway destinations just a few hours from Accra, ideal for rest, nature, culture, and adventure.
From beach resorts to mountain hikes, colonial forts to waterfall retreats, here are the best short trips from Accra perfect for a rejuvenating weekend escape.
1. Aburi – Cool Climate and Botanical Beauty
Distance: ~45 minutes to 1 hour from Accra
Best For: Nature walks, gardens, artisanal shopping
Aburi offers a refreshing escape from Accra’s heat, thanks to its location in the Akwapim Hills.
Highlights:
- Aburi Botanical Gardens – Over 150 years old, with towering trees, colonial relics, and picnic spots.
- Wood carving shops – Pick up handcrafted masks, furniture, and art.
- Bike tours and hiking trails – Explore the hills with local guides.
Where to Stay:
- Hillburi Resort
- Peduase Valley Resort
Tip: Visit early to enjoy the gardens before they get busy.
2. Ada Foah – Where the Volta River Meets the Sea
Distance: ~2–2.5 hours east of Accra
Best For: Water sports, romantic retreats, nature exploration
Located at the estuary of the Volta River and Atlantic Ocean, Ada Foah is a serene destination ideal for couples and water lovers.
Activities:
- Jet skiing, canoeing, or kayaking
- Visit Treasure Island or Azizanya via boat
- Birdwatching and beach walks along the estuary
Where to Stay:
- Aqua Safari Resort
- Peace Holiday Resort
Tip: Bring cash—mobile money is common, but card acceptance is limited in some areas.
3. Cape Coast & Elmina – History Meets the Ocean
Distance: ~2.5 to 3 hours west of Accra
Best For: Heritage tours, coastal scenery, education
Explore Ghana’s powerful past in this culturally rich destination, where you can visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites and relax by the beach.
Must-See:
- Cape Coast Castle – Guided tours through slave dungeons and colonial history.
- Elmina Castle – The oldest European building in West Africa.
- Posuban Shrines & Fishing Harbors – Colorful symbols of Fante tradition.
Where to Stay:
- Coconut Grove Beach Resort
- Ridge Royal Hotel
- One Africa Guesthouse (for a Pan-African perspective)
Tip: Combine with Kakum National Park if you’re staying for a long weekend.
4. Kokrobite – Accra’s Bohemian Beach Escape
Distance: ~45 minutes to 1 hour west of Accra
Best For: Surfing, live music, backpacker vibe
A favorite among artists, travelers, and surfers, Kokrobite offers a mix of beach relaxation and cultural energy.
What to Do:
- Take surf lessons at Mr. Brights Surf School
- Enjoy live reggae music and beach bonfires at Big Milly’s Backyard
- Shop for handmade jewelry and batik at roadside stalls
Tip: Avoid peak weekends if you want a quieter experience.
5. Shai Hills Resource Reserve – Safari on the Edge of the City
Distance: ~1 hour northeast of Accra
Best For: Wildlife viewing, hiking, short safaris
Shai Hills is the closest wildlife reserve to Accra, offering a taste of Ghana’s natural biodiversity in a compact, accessible park.
Spot Wildlife Like:
- Baboons, antelope, bushbuck, and ostriches
- Ancient caves and hiking trails with scenic views
Activities:
- Rock climbing (mild)
- Cave tours (ancestral hideouts)
- Guided game drives or walking safaris
Entrance Fee: Approx. GHS 50–100 for non-Ghanaians
Tip: Go early to spot more animals and beat the heat.
6. Akosombo – The Gateway to the Volta Lake
Distance: ~2–2.5 hours northeast of Accra
Best For: Lakefront views, boat cruises, peaceful stays
Akosombo is famous for the Akosombo Dam, which created Lake Volta, one of the largest man-made lakes in the world.
Highlights:
- Boat cruises on Lake Volta
- Visit to the Akosombo Dam (check ahead for tours)
- Village tours and eco-lodge stays
Where to Stay:
- The Royal Senchi Hotel
- Volta Hotel
- The Float Wellness & Leisure
Tip: Ideal for honeymooners or anyone seeking a tranquil, scenic retreat.
7. Wli Waterfalls & Mount Afadjato – Eastern Adventures
Distance: ~3.5–4 hours (longer trip, great for 3-day weekends)
Best For: Hiking, waterfalls, nature
Located in the Volta Region near the Togo border, Wli is home to Ghana’s highest waterfall, surrounded by lush tropical forest.
Must-Do:
- Hike to Lower and Upper Falls
- Climb Mount Afadjato (Ghana’s highest peak)
- Visit the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
Where to Stay:
- Waterfall Lodge
- Big Foot Safari Lodge
Tip: Bring hiking shoes and insect repellent. A guided tour is highly recommended.
8. Nsawam and Akuapem Ridge – Hilltop Peace
Distance: ~1.5–2 hours
Best For: Panoramic views, colonial towns, cooler climate
Less touristy but incredibly scenic, the Akuapem Ridge is dotted with small towns like Akropong, Mampong, and Abiriw. It’s a place for cultural immersion and restful nature walks.
Explore:
- Basel Mission architecture
- Cocoa and pineapple farms
- Akwasidae-style festivals in the hills
Where to Stay:
- Lansdown Hotel
- Safari Valley Resort (premium eco-luxury)
Tip: Check festival calendars if you want to time your visit with cultural events.
9. Winneba – Cultural Coastal Town
Distance: ~1.5–2 hours west of Accra
Best For: Local life, beach walks, unique festivals
Winneba may not have flashy resorts, but it boasts strong Fante traditions, a peaceful coastline, and one of Ghana’s most unique festivals.
What to Experience:
- Aboakyer Festival (May): A deer-hunting ritual with deep ancestral ties
- Friendly fishing communities and palm-lined beaches
- Easy-going pace and authentic vibes
Where to Stay:
- Windy Bay Guest House
- Royal Dede Beach Resort
Quick Overview Table: Top Weekend Getaways from Accra
| Destination | Travel Time | Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aburi | ~1 hour | Gardens, art, crafts | Nature + culture |
| Ada Foah | ~2 hours | River + beach, water sports | Romance, watersports |
| Cape Coast & Elmina | ~3 hours | Castles, heritage, beaches | History, reflection |
| Kokrobite | ~1 hour | Surfing, reggae, backpacker vibe | Beach culture |
| Shai Hills | ~1 hour | Wildlife, hiking, caves | Nature & families |
| Akosombo | ~2.5 hours | Lake cruises, wellness, scenic views | Couples, rest |
| Wli Falls/Afadjato | ~4 hours | Hiking, waterfalls, monkeys | Adventure + nature |
| Akuapem Ridge | ~2 hours | Colonial towns, farming, mountain air | Rural peace |
| Winneba | ~2 hours | Beach + cultural festivals | Local experiences |
Travel Tips for a Smooth Weekend Escape
- Leave early on Saturdays to avoid traffic out of Accra.
- Pack snacks and cash—some towns have limited banking or card payment options.
- Check road conditions, especially during the rainy season.
- Book accommodations ahead during public holidays or festival weekends.
- Respect local customs, particularly in traditional towns.
Conclusion
Ghana’s geography makes it wonderfully easy to escape city life for a weekend and still experience diversity—be it rainforest hikes, river adventures, or historical exploration. Whether you want to recharge by a quiet lake, surf in a coastal town, or explore centuries-old traditions, there’s a weekend destination near Accra for every traveler.
Just pack your bag, hop in a trotro, bus, or private car—and discover the rich experiences just a few hours away from the capital.
