Cape Coast and Elmina Slave Castles Shore Excursion

Ghana , Ghana

Cape Coast and Elmina Slave Castles Shore Excursion

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About this experience

Join us to explore the rich history and culture of Ghana on this shore excursion. Visit the Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. See the dungeons where enslaved Africans were incarcerated before they were sent to the New World. Continue to visit to the Elmina Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site constructed by the Portuguese in 1482 as a trading post. The Castle is the oldest and largest European structure in sub-Saharan Africa. Before boarding the ship, enjoy a panoramic tour of the Elmina Township and stop at the Elmina Fishing Harbour for photo opportunity.

Available options

Cape Coast and Elmina Slave Castles Shore Excursion

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Tour Guiding Service

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Drive from Takoradi Port to Cape Coast

Drive past Monkey Hill and adjoining wetlands. Unique virgin forest inhabited by monkeys and birds in the centre of the metropolis and the story of the monkey. Drive through Sekondi European Town. See the old colonial buildings, High Court, Commercial and Residential buildings. Drive past Fort Orange. You guide will give the story of the Fort and the old Railway Station.

Arrive in Cape Coast and go on a conducted tour of the Cape Coast Castle & the West African Historical Museum

Visit the Elmina Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Drive back to the Takoradi Port

What's not included

Tips and Gratituities

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Look out for your tour guide in our company branded shirt at the pier with your name on a signage

About Ghana

Ghana is a vibrant West African country known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling markets of Accra to the serene beaches of Cape Coast, Ghana offers a unique blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. The country is also renowned for its warm hospitality and vibrant festivals, making it a must-visit destination in Africa.

Top Attractions

Cape Coast Castle

A historic castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a significant role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It offers a poignant and educational experience about Ghana's history.

Historical 2-3 hours Moderate ($10-$15)

Kakum National Park

A lush rainforest with diverse wildlife and a canopy walkway offering a unique treetop experience.

Nature Half to full day Moderate ($10-$20)

Mole National Park

Ghana's largest national park, known for its wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes. It offers safari experiences and guided tours.

Nature Full day or overnight Moderate ($20-$50)

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

A memorial dedicated to Ghana's first president and pan-Africanist leader, Kwame Nkrumah. It includes a museum and a beautiful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours Low ($2-$5)

Labadi Beach

A popular beach in Accra known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music, and local food stalls.

Beach Half day Free (activities and food vary in cost)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Jollof Rice

A flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and spices, often served with chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Fufu and Light Soup

Fufu is a dough-like dish made from pounded cassava and plantains, typically served with a light soup made with tomatoes, onions, and peppers.

Main Dish Vegetarian (if no meat is added to the soup)

Waakye

A dish made from rice and beans cooked with millet leaves, served with spaghetti, fried plantains, and various side dishes like shito (fried fish or meat).

Main Dish Vegetarian (if no meat is added)

Banku and Tilapia

Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough, typically served with grilled or fried tilapia and a spicy pepper sauce.

Main Dish Can be made vegetarian (without fish)

Popular Activities

Canopy walk in Kakum National Park Wildlife safaris in Mole National Park Hiking in the mountains Beach visits (e.g., Labadi Beach, Busua Beach) Spa treatments Gardens visits (e.g., Aburi Botanical Gardens) Visiting historical sites (e.g., Cape Coast Castle, Elmina Castle) Attending festivals (e.g., Homowo, Adae)

Best Time to Visit

November to February

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with lower humidity and temperatures. It's ideal for beach visits, wildlife safaris, and cultural festivals.

21-32°C 70-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Akan, Ewe, Ga, Hausa, Dagbani
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

Time Zone

GMT

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Ghana is generally considered safe for travelers, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots. Be cautious and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of your belongings in crowded areas
• Use reputable taxi services or apps for better reliability and safety
• Avoid walking alone late at night, especially in poorly lit or isolated areas

Getting there

By air

Kotoka International Airport • 8 km from Accra city center

By train

Accra Central Station

By bus

Accra Central Bus Terminal, Kumasi Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Trotro are shared minibuses that are the most common form of public transport in Ghana. They are affordable but can be crowded and slow due to frequent stops.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Osu Labone Adabraka Cantonments

Day trips

Cape Coast

140 km from Accra • Half to full day

Cape Coast is a historic town known for its castles and role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. It offers a poignant and educational experience about Ghana's history.

Kakum National Park

150 km from Accra • Half to full day

Kakum National Park is a lush rainforest offering a unique canopy walkway experience and diverse wildlife.

Aburi

50 km from Accra • Half day

Aburi is a picturesque town known for its cool climate, scenic views, and traditional batik fabric production.

Festivals

Homowo Festival • May-July (dates vary by ethnic group) Adae Festival • Varies (typically every 42 days in some communities) Chale Wote Street Art Festival • August (dates vary)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, such as 'Mɛn hyɛ' (Hello) and 'Medaase' (Thank you), to show respect and appreciation for the local culture
Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience, especially when visiting historical sites and national parks
Try local dishes, such as jollof rice, fufu, and waakye, to fully immerse yourself in Ghanaian cuisine
Visit during the shoulder or off-peak seasons (March-April and September, or May-August) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices
Carry small bills and change, as vendors and small businesses may not have change for larger denominations