Cape Coast

Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cape Coast founded in the 15th century by the Portuguese initially grew around the historic Cape Coast Castle. At a distance of 165 kilometers to the west of Accra, Cape Coast is the site where most of the slaves were first held before their onward journey through the Middle Passage. Subsequently colonized by the Dutch, Danish, Swedish and the British, Cape Coast skyline boasts of some wonderful architectural examples of European architecture, which are now attracting tourist attention.

Apart from these historic structures, the Kakum National Park spread over 350 square kilometers, is a major Cape Coast tourist attraction where visitors can enjoy safaris, fishing, sailing, canoeing and trekking. The beautiful Cape Coast beach is also a favorite tourist hang-out where you can see locals fishing using traditional boats. Regular bus services are available from Accra, which normally take about three hours driving, for tourists wanting to explore this historic slave town of Cape Coast.