Akwaba is an expression you will hear several times a day as you travel around Ghana, one that will ring in your ears at night and bring a smile to your weeks after you leave. It means

"welcome" and this is exactly how you feel when you visit this beautiful part of West African State.

Thanks to its wonderful diversity of natural attractions and its vibrant culture identity, Ghana can offer visitor a microcosmic taste of Africa. Known for its hospitality and friendly people, Ghana is an obvious port of call for experience explorers and travelers; an alternative for those who have exhausted the Safari circuit and crave a different a different African experience; and a perfect introduction to the continent for first-time visitor.

RICH HISTORY AND HERITAGE

SLAVE CASTLES TOP LIST OF UNIQUE SITES

Ghana successfully preserved it wealth of significant site and ancient structures, making it a perfect destination for history and heritage enthusiasts. For many tourists the history of Ghana begins with the slave trade and European interaction; but there was a long and opulent history before that.

Ghana's extraordinary history includes the legend of Asante King held prisoner in Elmina Castle at the start of his brutal exile from Ghana. It is to understand why not only present-day Ghanaians but across the western hemisphere have interest in preserving these unique buildings.

The Larabanga Mosque at the Northern Region is one of the oldest in West Africa, dating back the 15*h century. This rare structure of mud is renovated each year due to its vulnerable walls to heavy rain. The Saharan-style Islamic mosques at the North of Ghana, add to the country's abundance of significant structures.

Another historical hotspot is the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and memorial park in Accra. Dedicated to the 20* century Ghanaian leader, who famously oversaw the nation's progress to independence from British colonial rule in 1957, the memorial park is a favorite with local people. The Mausoleum is a testament not only to the depth of Ghana's heritage but also to the progress that the country has made since independence.

The savanna of the coastal plains of the dense tropical forest of the north, Ghana in home to a spectacular range of wildlife in a land of mountains, forest and fabulous waterfalls.

The country is home to dozens of vulnerable and endangered species including primates such as chimpanzees and monkeys; big cats including lion and leopard; bush elephant; and many water birds.

Elephants

The best place to see elephants is the Mole National Park in north-west Ghana, the country's largest, oldest and best game park. The elephants near Mole Lodge are accustomed to humans, allowing rare close encounters on foot.

The best time to visit is mid-December to mid-April when the animals go to no water sources.

Monkeys

The Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary contains both Mona and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Both are revered by the community and the sanctuary has a special monkey cemetery. Tafi Atome in the Volta Region is a protected area for mona and patas monkeys.

The two best places to see baboons are Mole National Park and Shai Hills Resource Revenue. Visitors should be careful; baboons are master thieves and will quickly take unattended items; even from a vehicle.

There are other animals like hippos, crocodiles, birds, antelopes, buffaloes, warthogs etc.

VISITOR TIP

PASSPORT: A valid passport is recommended.

VISAS: Required of most non-residents. ECOWAS nationals are exempted. For more details consult the Ghana mission or consular office near you or the Ghana immigration service.

HEALTH: Yellow fever vaccination required by all. Infants under one year are exempted.

CURRNCY: the unit of currency in Ghana is the cedi (pronounced 'CD'). There are 100 pesewas in a cedi.

CLOTHING: Loose, cool clothing is recommended all year round. Even in coolest times, a long-sleeve shirt or light sweater is generally sufficient. Dress is conservative in Ghana and long trousers are generally worn. Shorts are acceptable only if they are at least knee-length. Reveling clothing or items with suggestive slogans are considered inappropriate. Rain wear is useful from April to September.

BUSINESS HOURS: general business hours are from 8:00am-12:00pm and from 1:00pm-5:00pm.

Banks: 8:30am-3:30pm from Monday to Friday.

MEDICAL AID: Modern private and public hospitals and clinics are available in all cities and big towns. Health insurance is advised.

MINERAL WATER: bottled mineral is recommended.

RESTAURANTS: There is a wide section of international restaurants, particularly in Accra and Kumasi. Visitors can also purchase delicious spicy Ghanaian dishes at local restaurants (Chop bars).

TRANSPORTATION: Global view Consults licensed car rental server chauffeur driven and self-drive cars as well as air-conditioned coaches at reasonable rates. Taxis, recognized by their yellow sides, operate from cities to city centers to suburbs and can be hired for longer trips or shared with other passengers at cheaper rates.

TOURS: Global view consults are one of Ghana Tourism Authority's licensed tour operators and has the best offer in terms of tourism, accommodations and transportation well as security.

SHOPPING: There are ample opportunities to shop for souvenirs at craft shops, art galleries, open markets, malls, jewelry shops and craft villages.

SAFTEY AND SECURITY: Ghana is considered a peaceful and safe country, but visitors are advised to be wary of strangers and to avoid secluded and quiet places. Personal effects and important document must be kept secured.