A honeymoon in Ghana can start three hours after the reception ends, at the mouth of the Volta River.
Many Ghanaian couples dream of Dubai, Zanzibar or Europe for their honeymoon. But after the expense of a traditional wedding, church ceremony and reception, a trip inside Ghana can be more relaxing and much cheaper. Here are six places couples often choose.
Ada Foah
At Ada, in the Greater Accra Region, the Volta River meets the sea. Resorts and lodges sit on the estuary and on sandbanks reached by boat, offering quiet beaches, boat rides and water sports. It is about two to three hours from Accra, depending on traffic, which makes it easy to reach the day after the wedding.
Akosombo and the Volta Lake
Akosombo, home of the dam that created Lake Volta, one of the largest artificial lakes in the world, offers resorts by the river, boat cruises on the lake and views of the hills. It is a popular choice for couples who want calm scenery and good hotels without a long journey.
Cape Coast and Elmina
The Central Region combines beaches with history. Couples can stay at beach resorts, visit Cape Coast and Elmina castles, and take the canopy walkway at Kakum National Park. It is a honeymoon with things to do, for couples who want more than a sun lounger.
The western beaches
Further west, beaches around Busua, Butre and Axim in the Western Region are quieter and known for surfing, palm-lined sand and small resorts. The drive is longer, so it suits couples with a few extra days.
Aburi and the Akwapim hills
An hour or so from Accra, Aburi offers cooler air, the Aburi Botanical Gardens and hillside lodges with views. It is ideal for a short, quiet getaway, especially for couples who need to return to work quickly.
Wli and the Volta Region hills
For adventurous couples, the Volta Region offers Wli Falls, among the highest waterfalls in West Africa, Mount Afadja and the monkey sanctuary at Tafi Atome. Lodges in the area are simpler, but the scenery is spectacular.
Planning tips
Book early. Resorts fill up around public holidays and December.
Ask about honeymoon packages. Many hotels offer decorations, special dinners or spa treatments for newlyweds.
Plan the journey. After a long wedding day, a shorter drive is often better. Save the far destinations for a later trip.
Rest first. Don’t fill every day. The point of a honeymoon is time together after months of planning.
Couples who fly abroad often spend the first day in an airport. Couples who drive to Ada can spend it on a boat.
