Cape Coast, Ghana

Summary
Experience life and volunteering in one of the most historical, seaside cities in Ghana.

Programs

   • Teaching
   • Orphanages
   • Healthcare
   • HIV/AIDS
   • Football Coaching
   • Basketball League Organizer
   • Radio Journalism

Location
Cape Coast is located 165 kilometers west of Accra on the Gulf of Guinea. The drive from Accra to Cape Coast is about two hours, depending on traffic leaving Accra. Cape Coast is the capital of the Central Region and was the center of British Administration until 1877 when the capital was moved to Accra. Most of the oldest and best schools in Ghana are in Cape Coast.

Sightseeing & Activities
Most tourists in Ghana visit the Cape Coast Castle, a former slave castle and one of the country's best-organized historical museums. The castle was originally controlled by the Portuguese, Swedes, Danes, and Dutch, before the British took over. With each occupation, the castle was enlarged both in terms of slave exporting capacity and military defense. The museum is informative in a variety of ways regarding tribal culture and slavery. Although a daunting subject, it is well worth the visit regarding learning the history of slave culture in this region.

Kakum National Park was established in 1932 and officially opened to the public in 1994. The 357km national park is comprised of mostly undisturbed virgin rainforest. Excellent walking tours (and a canopy walkway) through the forest provide the opportunity to see much of Ghana’s indigenous plant life, as well as rare butterflies and birds.