The Volta Region: waterfalls, mountains and Lake Volta

Why visit

If the coast is about history and Kumasi is about culture, the Volta Region is about landscape. Cool hills, misty forests, waterfalls and small villages make it ideal for travellers who want to walk, breathe and slow down. Many attractions are run by local communities, so your visit supports them directly.

Akosombo and Lake Volta

About two hours from Accra, Akosombo is where the Volta River was dammed in the 1960s to create Lake Volta, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. Stay at the hilltop Volta Hotel or the riverside Royal Senchi, take a boat out on the river and see the elegant Adomi Bridge at Atimpoku, which now has a guided bridge climb. Try the local speciality, fried or grilled tilapia from the lake, sold with banku at roadside stalls.

Wli Waterfalls

Near Hohoe, Wli is Ghana's highest waterfall. An easy walk of about forty minutes through forest leads to the lower falls and a plunge pool, with huge colonies of fruit bats in the cliffs. Fitter hikers can take a steep guided trail to the upper falls. Go in the morning, wear shoes with grip and expect to get wet.

Mount Afadja and Tagbo Falls

From Liati Wote, a guided hike climbs Mount Afadja, also called Afadjato, one of Ghana's highest peaks, with views over Lake Volta and across to Togo. The path is short but very steep. From the same village, an easier walk leads to the beautiful Tagbo Falls.

Tafi Atome and the Avatime hills

At Tafi Atome, Mona monkeys live in a sacred forest protected by the village, and guides lead walks where the monkeys come down to feed. The Avatime hills around Amedzofe are cool and green, with a waterfall, a cross on Mount Gemi and great views. Homestays and simple guesthouses make it easy to linger.

Kente and festivals

The Ewe weave their own style of kente. Visit the weavers at Tafi Abuipe or Kpetoe, where the Agotime Kente Festival is held. In the south, near the coast, Anloga hosts the Hogbetsotso festival in November, and Keta has the remains of a Danish fort on a long sandbar between lagoon and sea.

When to go

The drier months from about October to March are best for hiking and clear views, though the harmattan haze can hide distant hills in December and January. In the rains, roughly April to June and again around September, waterfalls are at their most dramatic, but trails get muddy.

Where to stay

Akosombo has resort hotels. In the hills, Hohoe, Wli and Amedzofe offer simple guesthouses and lodges. Ho, the regional capital, has mid-range hotels and is a practical base.

Getting there and around

Buses and shared minibuses run from Accra to Ho and Hohoe. Roads in the hills can be rough, and public transport between villages is slow, so many visitors hire a driver for a few days. Allow plenty of time.

Tips for a smooth visit

Carry cash in small notes, as many community sites and guesthouses do not take cards and ATMs are found mainly in Ho, Hohoe and Akosombo. Pay visitor fees at the official desk and ask for a receipt. Bring a light rain jacket, insect repellent and shoes with grip for muddy forest trails, and greet people warmly in villages before asking questions or taking photos.