Formed from the merger of the British colony of the Gold Coast and the Togoland trust territory, Ghana in 1957 became the first sub-Saharan country in colonial Africa to gain its independence. Ghana endured a long series of coups before Lt. Jerry RAWLINGS took power in 1981 and banned political parties. After approving a new constitution and restoring multiparty politics in 1992, RAWLINGS won presidential elections in 1992 and 1996, but was constitutionally prevented from running for a third term in 2000. John KUFUOR succeeded him and was reelected in 2004. John Atta MILLS took over as head of state in early 2009.

Accra -- Capital

The National Museum

The Ghana Academy of Arts and Sciences

The National Archives of Ghana

Ghana's Central Library

Christianborg Castle

Built in the 17th century by the Danes

WEB DuBois Memorial

Independence Square

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial

Labadi Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Accra for tourists. Located between two of Accra's most expensive hotels-- La Palm and La Badi Beach--this short stretch of the Atlantic Coast features several makeshift cafe-restaurants, lots of souvenir vendors, and if you are lucky (i.e. on good weather weekends) an amazing cast of characters who will entertain you with drumming, dancing, pony rides, and acrobatic performances. Some people actually go for a swim, but there's plenty to do on-shore. Don't miss it. (Warning: this is a prime-time venue, one highly "not recommended" after dark.) The beach is 'offically' accessible only from an entrance at La By-pass (Labadi Road) for a fee of 5 cedis. If you are a guest at La Palm or Labadi Beach Hotel you can access the beach for free through the back gate. (N.B.: it is reported that non-hotel guests can enjoy the facilities - pool, fitness, sauna - for 10 cedis a day at La Badi Beach--a good deal if it is true.)

Jamestown

Accra's oldest neighborhood still an active fishing harbor, Jamestown is the oldest part of Accra, and is similar in many ways to Zanzibar's 'Stonetown' though it has not yet been restored, and so it is not typically highlighted on tourist itineraries. That's a shame because it is one of the most memorable sights in the city. Jamestown is a short distance west from Independence Square; from the busy street the only real sights are the lighthouse, a prison building housed inside an old colonial fort, and the old Customs House. From the lighthouse there is a road which takes you to the otherwise hidden delight: one of the largest working fishing harbors in Ghana. Go early in the morning and see dozens of small boats bring in the day's catch. It's best to find a friendly local guide so you don't miss the hidden alleys, old stone houses, and fantastic cliff-top harbor vistas.

Cape Coast -- Capital of the Central Region

Cape Coast Castle

Cape Coast Castle is one of several UNESCO World Heritage slave forts along the southern coast of Ghana.

Nzulezo Stilt Village

Nzulezo Stilt Village in the middle of a lake is at least 2 hours away. Must See!

Brenu Beach Resort

Brenu Akyinim (Take a tro-tro from GOIL/Pedu Junction along the Accra-Takoradi road towards Takoradi. Get off at Ayensudo junction, then hire a taxi from the main road to Brenu Beach.). A well-tended private beach, better for swimming than the beaches in Cape Coast, only a 15-20 minute Tro-Tro ride away. There is a restaurant/bar on premises and camping/rooms are available. 50 Pesewa entry fee for the day.

Kumasi -- Regional capital and centre of the Ashanti Kingdom

Kings residence

Kings residence is a most worthwhile activity

Tamale -- Capital of the Northern Region

Bongo (Moon Landscape)

Mole National Park

Mole National Park can be a day trip from here. Elephants, Warthogs, several types of Monkey.