Elmina - Discovering Ghana

Travelling to Elmina

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Elmina, a pretty good destination in Ghana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Elmina and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Elmina, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ghana, here's everything to know about Elmina for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Elmina

Elmina is a coastal town located in the Central Region of Ghana, West Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing harbors, historic landmarks, and traditional crafts. Elmina is famous for the Elmina Castle, one of the oldest European buildings in Africa, which was erected by the Portuguese in the fifteenth century for use as a trading post. The town is also known for its vibrant fishing industry, and visitors can watch local fishermen heading out to sea with their brightly-painted boats in the early morning hours. Elmina is a popular tourist destination for its rich history, natural scenery, and cultural heritage.

What to visit in Elmina

Sure, here are some of the top tourist attractions to visit in Elmina, Ghana along with some information about each: 1. Elmina Castle - Elmina Castle is one of the most significant and tragic historical sites in West Africa. It was built by the Portuguese in the 1400s and later taken over by the Dutch, and was used primarily as a slave trading post during the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can walk through the castle and learn about the history of the slave trade and its impact on the region.
2. Fort St. Jago - This fort is perched atop a hill overlooking Elmina bay, and was originally built by the Portuguese in the 1600s to protect their trade interests in the region. Later, it was taken over by the Dutch and used as a prison. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its history.
3. Elmina Market - The bustling Elmina market is a great place to experience local life and culture. Visitors can browse through the many stalls selling a wide variety of goods, from fresh produce to textiles and handicrafts.
4. Kakum National Park - Just a short drive from Elmina, Kakum National Park is a beautiful nature reserve with dense rainforest and a network of canopy walkways. Visitors can take guided tours of the park and see a wide variety of flora and fauna, including monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
5. Coconut Grove Beach Resort - This beautiful resort is located right on the beach and is a great place to relax and unwind. Visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports, as well as a variety of dining options.
6. Cape Coast Castle - While not technically located in Elmina, Cape Coast Castle is another significant historical site not far from Elmina. It was also used as a slave trading post during the transatlantic slave trade and is now a museum and UNESCO World Heritage site. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and learn about its history.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ghana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Elmina.

When to go on holiday to Elmina

The best time to visit Elmina, Ghana is during the dry season which runs from November to March. The weather is sunny and warm with low humidity levels, making it a perfect time to explore the attractions and enjoy outdoor activities. However, if you prefer a quieter and cheaper option, the shoulder seasons of April/May or September/October can also be a good choice. It's best to avoid the rainy season, which occurs from June to August as it can be characterized by heavy rains and high humidity levels.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Elmina

Elmina is a historic town located in central Ghana. To get to Elmina, you can: 1. By Air: The nearest airport is the Kotoka International Airport in Accra. From there, you can either take a taxi to Elmina or catch a bus.
2. By Bus: Buses to Elmina are readily available from Accra’s bus terminals. STC and VIP are popular bus companies that offer daily services from Accra to Elmina.
3. By Car: If driving from Accra, take the Accra-Kumasi road and turn towards Cape Coast. Elmina is about 12km from Cape Coast.
4. By Taxi: If you prefer to hire a taxi, negotiate the fare with the driver before starting your journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Elmina, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Elmina

Here are some typical foods of Elmina, Ghana, along with a short description of each: 1. Fufu: A starchy dough-like dish made from cassava, plantain, or yam. Usually served with soup or stew.
2. Banku: A dish made from fermented corn and cassava dough, boiled into a smooth, elastic, and slightly sour ball.
3. Kenkey: A sourdough dumpling made from cornmeal, similar to a tamale.
4. Jollof rice: A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices.
5. Red-red: A dish made with black-eyed peas and fried plantains, typically served with rice or bread.
6. Waakye: A dish made with rice and beans, often seasoned with spices and served with a tomato salsa and fried plantains.
7. Kelewele: A popular street food made with ripe plantains which have been cut into small pieces and fried with spices such as ginger, cumin, and chili.
8. Egusi soup: A soup made with ground melon seeds, vegetables, and meat or fish.
9. Tilapia: A freshwater fish commonly served whole or filleted, often grilled with spices or stewed in a tomato-based sauce.
10. Peanut soup: A soup made with ground peanuts, vegetables, and meat or fish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ghana here.

Is Elmina an expensive destination for tourists?

Elmina, Ghana can be considered a moderately expensive destination for tourists. The cost of travel and accommodation can vary depending on the time of year, your travel style and preferences, and the activities you want to do. In general, Elmina offers a range of accommodations catering to different budgets, from budget hostels to luxury resorts. However, during peak season and special events, prices might be higher.
Also, food and drink prices may vary according to the type of restaurant you choose. Generally, street food and markets are cheaper than restaurants.
Overall, Elmina is an incredible destination to experience Ghana's culture and history, and with some planning and budgeting, it can be an affordable and unforgettable trip.

Where to find accomodation in Elmina

In Elmina, Ghana it is best to find accommodations in the central or coastal area. Some popular areas for accommodations include Elmina Beach Resort, Coconut Grove Bridge House, and Elmina Bay Resort. These areas are close to historical landmarks, the fishing village, and stunning beaches. It is also convenient to find local transportation to explore other nearby attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Elmina here:
Booking.com

Is Elmina a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Elmina is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any destination, it's important to take necessary precautions to ensure your safety and security. For example, it's recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to keep your personal belongings secured. It's always a good idea to research and stay informed about the current safety situation in any destination you plan to visit. Additionally, you may want to consult with your embassy or consulate for further safety advice and travel warnings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ghana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Elmina.

What type of travelers will enjoy Elmina the most?

Elmina in Ghana is a destination that appeals to a wide range of travelers. It is a great place for couples who are interested in history and culture. The town is full of ancient castles, historic landmarks, and cultural sites that are perfect for exploring together.
Families with children will enjoy the beautiful beaches, the interactive and educational tours of the castles, and the friendly local people. There are also opportunities for water sports, hiking and other outdoor activities that will keep everybody engaged.
Young people looking for fun will love the nightlife in Elmina and the surrounding areas. Local bars and clubs offer music, drinks, and dancing, and there are many festivals and outdoor events throughout the year that bring people together.
Overall, Elmina is a destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history and culture, outdoor activities, beach fun, or nightlife, you will find it all in this beautiful Ghanaian town.

How to get around Elmina

The most common modes of transportation to move around Elmina are taxis, tro-tros (shared vans), and motorbikes (locally called "okada"). Walking is also an option if you prefer to explore the city on foot. However, it's important to note that roads in Elmina can be narrow, and traffic can be heavy at times. So, if you are planning to use motorbikes or cars, you should make sure that you have a competent driver or ride with a reliable company.

What to see around Elmina

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Elmina: 1. Kakum National Park: This lush rainforest is home to a variety of wildlife and a canopy walkway that offers breathtaking views of the forest.
2. Cape Coast Castle: A historical fortress located in Cape Coast, Ghana. It was used as a slave trade center during the 17th and 18th centuries.
3. Anomabo Beach Resort: A popular resort with a golden sandy beach for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
4. Fort St. Jago: A historic fort located high on a hilltop in Elmina, with panoramic views of the surrounding area.
5. Abrafo Forest Reserve: A beautiful forest with hiking trails and numerous bird species.
6. Ada Foah: A coastal town known for its scenic beaches, water sports, and boating.
7. Mfantseman Municipal Museum: A small museum in Saltpond that showcases the history and culture of the Fante people.
8. Nzulezo Village: A traditional stilt village located on the Amansuri Wetlands, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve.
For every travel information about Ghana you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.