Cape Coast is a coastal city in Ghana, located on the Gulf of Guinea. It is the capital of the Central Region of Ghana and the capital of the Cape Coast Metropolitan District. Cape Coast is a major tourist destination in Ghana, as it is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, stunning scenery, and a rich cultural history. Here are the top 20 places to visit while in Cape Coast.
1. Cape Coast Castle: The Cape Coast Castle is a fortification that was built by the Swedes in 1653 and later taken over by the British. It was used as a trading post and a prison, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, the courtyards, and the chapel.
2. Kakum National Park: Kakum National Park is located in the Central Region of Ghana and is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and more. The park is a great place to go for a hike or a nature walk, and there are also canopy walkways that offer stunning views of the surrounding forest.
3. Elmina Castle: Elmina Castle is the oldest European building in Ghana and was built by the Portuguese in 1482. It was used as a trading post and a prison, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the castle’s dungeons, the courtyards, and the chapel.
4. University of Cape Coast: The University of Cape Coast is a public university located in the Central Region of Ghana. It has a variety of faculties, including Sciences, Social Sciences, Education, and Law. The university also has an extensive library and a botanical garden.
5. Beaches: Cape Coast is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Ghana. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Elmina Beach, Anomabo Beach, and Axim Beach.
6. Fort William: Fort William is a fort that was built by the British in 1787. It was used to protect the nearby trading post from attack. Visitors can explore the fort’s walls, the courtyard, and the chapel.
7. St. George’s Cathedral: St. George’s Cathedral is a cathedral located in Cape Coast. It was built in 1877 and is the oldest Anglican Church in Ghana. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s interior, the courtyard, and the chapel.
8. Cape Coast Oguaa Fetu Afahye Festival: The Oguaa Fetu Afahye Festival is an annual festival held in Cape Coast that celebrates the history and culture of the area. It includes traditional dances, music, and food.
9. Assin Manso Slave River: The Assin Manso Slave River is a river located near Cape Coast that was used to transport slaves to the Cape Coast Castle. Visitors can take a boat ride down the river and explore the surrounding area.
10. Cape Coast Museum: The Cape Coast Museum is a museum located in Cape Coast. It showcases the history of the area, including the slave trade, European colonization, and the culture of the people of Cape Coast.
11. Cape Coast Central Market: The Cape Coast Central Market is a vibrant market located in the heart of the city. Visitors can explore the market and buy traditional crafts, food, and other items.
12. Assin Manso Slave Cemetery: The Assin Manso Slave Cemetery is located near the Assin Manso Slave River and is the final resting place of many of the slaves who were transported to the Cape Coast Castle. Visitors can explore the cemetery and pay their respects.
13. Kakum National Park Canopy Walkway: The Kakum National Park Canopy Walkway is a series of bridges and platforms that are suspended between the trees in the rainforest. Visitors can explore the canopy walkway and get a unique view of the surrounding forest.
14. Anomabo Beach: Anomabo Beach is located in the Central Region of Ghana and is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
15. Elmina Beach: Elmina Beach is located near the Elmina Castle and is one of the most popular beaches in the area. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
16. Axim Beach: Axim Beach is located in the Central Region of Ghana and is one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and other beach activities.
17. University of Education Winneba: The University of Education Winneba is a public university located in the Central Region of Ghana. It has a variety of faculties, including Sciences, Social Sciences, Education, and Law.
18. Nzulezu Stilt Village: The Nzulezu Stilt Village is a traditional village located in the Central Region of Ghana. It is built on stilts over a lake and is home to the Nzema people. Visitors can explore the village and learn about the culture of the Nzema people.
19. Cape Coast Stadium: The Cape Coast Stadium is a football stadium located in Cape Coast. It is home to the local football team and is a popular venue for concerts and other events.