The Historic Cape Coast and Elmina Tour (The Land of History).

Accra , Ghana

The Historic Cape Coast and Elmina Tour (The Land of History).

Active

(17 reviews)

12h - 15h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This tour offers our guests the opportunity to look back into the nation's collective past to understand the legacies of the Ghanaian culture and enjoy the beauty of the tropical forest and the hospitality of our people. Participants will develop new ways of looking at African history to understand the complexities that shape our societies and global history. We will share experiences, discover new places, and talk about ourselves and our past as we ride through the busy streets of Elmina and Cape Coast. We will also discuss the issues of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and its political and socio-economic impact on the country. Embarking on this trip triggers the individual to ask him or herself questions about the history of humanity. our responsibility to the betterment of our world to love one another.

Your tour guide will be Quame, a volunteer of the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board at Elmina Castle since 2015, who guides more than 100 people per week.

Available options

The Historic Cape Coast and Elmina Tour (The Land of History).

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

A knowledgeable and caring tour guide

Hotel pick-up and drop-off within Accra

All entry fees to attractions

Air-conditioned vehicle

Fuel charge

bottled water

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Elmina castle is the largest and the oldest slave dungeon in the whole of sub Saharan Africa in connection to the Trans Atlantic Slave trade. Built in the 1400s by the Portuguese, taken over by the Dutch in 1637 and later the British, it stands to be the cradle of Catholicism and trade in slaves on the Gold Coast today Ghana. It was recently featured in FX's Snowfall movies with its late co-creator John Singleton.

About a 35 to 40 minutes tour of the over 700 years-old Elmina township is an experience. As a living museum, The town has a lot to offer than what meets the eye. The walk through the town offers an in-depth information on the economic, political, historical and cultural aspects of Elmina. On the tour, we will discover the old Elmina township which was bombarded by the British, the most spectacular fishing market in the coastal areas of Ghana, the 17th and 19th century Dutch merchant houses, the Dutch cemetery with its imposing grave markings which tell the story of great Dutch and African merchants, the traditional military post. The history of the town is a collage of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence. The Lagoon, which divides the town of Elmina into two parts, is believed to be the heart of the town today.

At the time enslaved Africans were a valuable commodity in the Americas and elsewhere, and slaves were the main trade in Cape Coast. Due to this, many changes were made to Cape Coast Castle. One of the alterations was the addition of large underground dungeons that could hold as many as a thousand slaves awaiting export. It has played a major role in the transshipment of Africas to the diaspora. Built by the British in the 1600s, it’s now stands to be famous than the Elmina castle due to the visit of Barack Obama, a formal US president.

Originally set aside as a forest reserve in 1931, it was gazettes as a national park in 1992. The diversity it’s flora is such that the number of plant species comfortably exceeds 200 per hectare in some areas.
Now be ready to conquer your fear on the much-publicized canopy which consists of a 350-long, 40m - high wood and rope walkway suspended between 7 trees and broken up by several viewing platforms. Guests who take much fun of hiking through the beautiful forest will get served.

What's not included

Alcoholic Beverages

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

About Accra

Accra, the vibrant capital of Ghana, is a bustling city where modernity meets tradition. Known for its lively markets, historic sites, and beautiful coastline, Accra offers a unique blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty. The city is a gateway to Ghana's rich history and diverse landscapes, making it an appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

This mausoleum honors Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana's first president and a key figure in the country's independence movement. The site includes a museum, a statue, and a beautiful garden.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate (GHS 10-$15)

Labadi Beach

One of the most popular beaches in Accra, Labadi Beach offers a lively atmosphere with music, food stalls, and water sports. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Beach Half day to full day Budget (GHS 5-$10 for entrance and activities)

Makola Market

One of the largest markets in West Africa, Makola Market is a bustling hub of activity where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts and fabrics.

Market 1-3 hours Free to enter, prices vary for goods

Must-Try Local Dishes

Jollof Rice

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

Main dish Contains gluten (if served with bread), can be made vegetarian or vegan

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 Gluten-free, contains fish

Waakye

A savory rice and beans dish cooked with sorghum leaves and spices, often served with fried plantains, spaghetti, and a variety of side dishes.

Main dish Vegetarian, contains gluten (if served with bread or spaghetti)

Popular Activities

Canopy walk in Kakum National Park Hiking in Aburi Water sports at Labadi Beach Beach relaxation at Labadi Beach Spa and wellness treatments Gardens and nature walks in Aburi Historical tours of Cape Coast Castle Visiting local markets and crafts

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the dry season, offering sunny weather and lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's the peak tourist season with higher prices and more visitors.

25°C to 32°C 77°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Akan, Ewe, Ga, Twim
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)

Time Zone

GMT+0

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Accra is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Be cautious with valuables
• Use reputable taxi services

Getting there

By air

Kotoka International Airport • 10 km from city center

By bus

Kwame Nkrumah Circle, Tema Station

Getting around

Public transport

Trotros are shared minibuses that are the most common form of public transport in Accra. They are affordable but can be crowded and uncomfortable.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, Yango

Rentals

Car

Neighborhoods

Osu East Legon Jamestown

Day trips

Cape Coast

120 km from Accra • Full day

Cape Coast is a historic town known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade. It's home to the Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and offers beautiful beaches and cultural experiences.

Kakum National Park

20 km from Accra • Full day

Kakum National Park is a tropical rainforest offering a unique canopy walkway, wildlife viewing, and guided nature walks. It's a great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Aburi

40 km from Accra • Half day to full day

Aburi is a picturesque hill station known for its cool climate, beautiful scenery, and traditional crafts. It's a popular destination for day trips from Accra, offering a peaceful retreat from the city.

Festivals

Chale Wote Street Art Festival • August Homowo Festival • August Aboakyer Festival • May

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in local languages, such as Akan or Ga, to enhance your interactions with locals
Bargain for better prices in markets and with taxi drivers, but do so politely and with a smile
Carry small denominations of cash for small purchases and markets, as change may be limited
Wear comfortable and modest clothing, especially when visiting religious sites and conservative areas
Be cautious with valuables, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation