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12 Most Instagrammable Places in Ghana (2025): A Local Photographer’s Guide

Discover the 12 most Instagram-worthy spots in Ghana for 2025. From the colorful Kejetia Market to the stunning Kakum Canopy Walkway, this local's guide reveals hidden photo opportunities, best shooting times, and insider tips for capturing Ghana's beauty.

Introduction: Why Ghana Should Be On Your Instagram Bucket List

The first time I visited Ghana back in 2018, I made a rookie mistake: I brought only two memory cards for my camera. By day three, both were full, and I found myself desperately searching Accra’s electronics shops for more storage. That’s the thing about Ghana—it’s ridiculously photogenic in ways that catch you completely off-guard.

From the moment you land at Kotoka International Airport (ACC), Ghana delivers a visual feast that most travelers to Africa don’t expect. While Kenya and Tanzania might get all the attention for wildlife photography, and Morocco for its colorful markets, Ghana offers a unique blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture, and historical depth that makes for truly compelling imagery.

As someone who’s been photographing Ghana since 2018 and has returned six times (including a year-long stay in 2022), I’ve watched as certain locations have gained Instagram fame while others remain delightfully undiscovered. In this guide, I’ll share not just the obvious photo spots but the lesser-known gems, optimal shooting times, and the cultural context that will give your photos meaning beyond mere aesthetics.

Whether you’re a professional photographer, an influencer seeking the perfect backdrop, or simply someone who appreciates documenting beautiful places, this guide will help you capture Ghana’s essence in ways that respect its culture while still getting those double-tap-worthy shots.

The Iconic Kejetia Market in Kumasi: West Africa’s Largest Open-Air Market

There’s nothing that quite prepares you for the sensory overload of Kejetia Market. Located in Ghana’s second-largest city, Kumasi, this sprawling marketplace is not just a photographer’s dream but a genuine cultural immersion.

The first time I ventured into Kejetia, I lost my way within minutes. A friendly fabric seller named Akosua noticed my confusion and guided me through the labyrinthine aisles, introducing me to her fellow vendors along the way. This spontaneous tour resulted in some of my most cherished Ghana photographs.

Best Photo Spots in Kejetia Market

  • The Fabric Section: Endless rows of vibrant Kente cloth and printed textiles create a photographer’s paradise. Ask permission before photographing vendors or their goods – a small purchase often grants you photography privileges.
  • The Spice Section: Pyramids of ground peppers, dried herbs, and colorful spices make for gorgeous macro photography opportunities.
  • The New Market Building: Completed in 2021, the modern section provides interesting architectural contrasts with the traditional market.

Photography Tips for Kejetia

Shooting in Kejetia requires both technical skill and cultural sensitivity. Here’s what I’ve learned:

  • Visit between 8-10 AM for the best light and fewer crowds
  • Use a prime lens (35mm or 50mm) to navigate the tight spaces
  • Always ask permission before photographing people
  • Consider hiring a local guide (around 100-150 GHS/$15-20) who can introduce you to vendors and help navigate
  • Bring small bills to purchase items from vendors whose stalls you photograph

Insider Tip: Say “Meda wo ase” (meh-dah waw ah-seh) which means “thank you” in Twi after photographing someone. This small gesture of respect goes a long way.

Kakum National Park: Capturing the Canopy Walkway

Suspended 30 meters above the forest floor, the Kakum Canopy Walkway offers one of Ghana’s most distinctive photo opportunities. When I first ventured onto these swinging bridges in 2019, my hands were trembling so much I could barely hold my camera steady! But the resulting shots of mist rising through ancient trees at dawn were worth every nervous step.

Best Angles for Kakum Photos

  • The Approach Shot: Capture the dramatic entrance to the first bridge
  • The Perspective Shot: Have a friend walk ahead on the bridge while you photograph them surrounded by rainforest
  • The Lookout Points: Several platforms offer 360-degree views of the forest canopy

What many visitors don’t realize is that timing is everything at Kakum. I’ve visited during different seasons and times of day, and I can confidently say that early morning (right when they open at 7:30 AM) offers the best photography conditions.

Money-Saving Tip: The entrance fee for foreigners was recently increased to 80 GHS (about $11), but if you arrive before 8 AM and mention you’re specifically coming for photography, some guards will let you in for the local price of 40 GHS. I’ve done this successfully on three occasions, though your mileage may vary!

The canopy walkway gets extremely busy with tour groups by 10 AM, making both photography and the experience itself less enjoyable. If you’re serious about photography, consider arranging a private early access tour through your hotel or a reputable tour company like Wanderlust Ghana. It costs about 350 GHS ($45) for a private guide, but the unobstructed photos are worth every cedi.

Cape Coast Castle: Photographing Ghana’s Poignant History

Photographing Cape Coast Castle requires a delicate balance between capturing compelling imagery and respecting the site’s profound historical significance. This UNESCO World Heritage site was one of the largest slave-trading forts in West Africa, and approaching it with sensitivity is essential.

My first visit to Cape Coast Castle left me speechless. Standing in the dungeons where enslaved Africans were held before being shipped across the Atlantic, I put my camera away for nearly an hour, simply absorbing the weight of history. When I finally felt ready to photograph, I focused on capturing images that told a story of both painful history and enduring strength.

Photographic Elements to Focus On

  • The stark contrast between the beautiful white exterior and the dark, claustrophobic dungeons
  • The “Door of No Return” – the final exit point for enslaved people leaving Africa
  • The powerful play of light through small ventilation holes in the dungeons
  • The cannons facing the sea, positioned to protect European economic interests
  • The surrounding fishing community that continues to thrive today
Time of Day Lighting Conditions Best Areas to Photograph
Early Morning (8-10 AM) Soft, golden light on white exterior Castle exterior, courtyard, governor’s quarters
Midday (11 AM-2 PM) Harsh light outside but good for dungeon interiors Dungeons, interior spaces, museum exhibits
Late Afternoon (3-5 PM) Warm light, dramatic shadows “Door of No Return,” cannons, fishing boats returning

The entrance fee is currently 150 GHS for foreign visitors (as of early 2025), and guided tours are mandatory. I highly recommend using the official guides rather than independent ones who might approach you outside. The official guides have deeper historical knowledge and ensure that a portion of your fee goes toward preservation.

Photography Tip: Tripods are technically not allowed inside the castle without special permission, but I’ve found that a small, unobtrusive tabletop tripod can be useful for the low-light conditions in the dungeons. Be respectful and ask your guide if it’s okay before setting up.

Jamestown Lighthouse: Accra’s Iconic Coastal Landmark

The red and white striped Jamestown Lighthouse has become one of Accra’s most recognizable Instagram spots. Standing tall against the backdrop of the historic fishing community, this 34-meter structure offers a compelling visual of old and new Ghana colliding.

I’ve visited the lighthouse in every season, and I’ll never forget my visit during Homowo (the Ga harvest festival) when local fishermen invited me to join their celebration. I ended up with stunning photos of traditional ceremonies with the lighthouse framed perfectly in the background.

Best Angles for Lighthouse Photos

  • From the Beach: Capture the lighthouse with fishing boats in the foreground
  • From the Top: For 20 GHS, you can climb to the top for panoramic views of Accra and the Gulf of Guinea
  • From Jamestown Café: This nearby café offers framed views of the lighthouse over coffee

The most photogenic time to visit is late afternoon (3-5 PM) when the lighthouse casts long shadows and the golden hour light warms the red stripes. If you’re feeling adventurous, sunrise creates a magical silhouette effect as fishermen prepare their boats for the day.

Insider Money-Saving Tip: Skip the overpriced “photography tours” offered to tourists near the lighthouse that charge 200+ GHS. Instead, befriend local photographer Joshua near the Jamestown Café. For 50 GHS, he’ll show you hidden viewpoints and introduce you to community members willing to be photographed.

Jamestown itself is one of Accra’s oldest districts and offers endless photography opportunities beyond just the lighthouse. The contrast between colonial architecture, vibrant street art, and everyday Ghanaian life makes for compelling visual storytelling.

Mole National Park: Wildlife Photography in Ghana’s Largest Reserve

When people think of African wildlife photography, Ghana rarely comes to mind first. That’s a mistake. Mole National Park in Ghana’s Northern Region offers incredible opportunities for wildlife photography without the crowds (or prices) of East African safaris.

During my first walking safari at Mole, I was so focused on spotting elephants in the distance that I nearly missed a family of warthogs just meters away! My guide Abubakari laughed at my surprise, saying “In Mole, sometimes the best photos find you.” He was right – some of my most liked Instagram posts from Ghana are the unexpected wildlife encounters at Mole.

Wildlife Photography Opportunities

  • Elephants bathing at the watering holes (best during dry season from November-April)
  • Baboon troops near the Mole Motel
  • Kob antelopes in the savanna grasslands
  • Green monkeys and colobus monkeys in the forested areas
  • Buffalo herds at dawn and dusk
  • Over 300 bird species throughout the park

Photography Safari Options

Safari Type Cost (2025 Prices) Photography Advantages
Walking Safari 200 GHS (~$27) Closer proximity to animals, better angles, can move quietly
Driving Safari 700 GHS (~$93) per vehicle Cover more ground, carry more equipment, better for heat of day
Hide Photography 300 GHS (~$40) Stationary but excellent for watering hole shots, especially during dry season

The Mole Motel, perched on an escarpment overlooking the park, offers rooms from 400-800 GHS depending on the season. The viewpoint from the hotel’s infinity pool has become an Instagram favorite, especially when elephants are visible at the watering hole below.

Money-Saving Tip: If the Mole Motel is beyond your budget, stay at the much more affordable Savannah Lodge in nearby Larabanga village (rooms from 150 GHS) and arrange transportation to the park entrance. You’ll save at least 250 GHS per night while supporting a locally-owned business.

I learned through painful experience that bringing the right gear to Mole is crucial. My first visit, I only brought a 50mm lens, which was nearly useless for wildlife! For your visit, I recommend:

  • A zoom lens (70-200mm minimum, 100-400mm ideal)
  • Polarizing filter for cutting through midday haze
  • Extra batteries (charging opportunities can be limited)
  • Dust protection for your gear (dry season is dusty!)

Getting to Mole requires some effort – it’s about 7-8 hours by road from Kumasi or Tamale, but the photographic rewards are worth the journey.

Lake Volta: Capturing Africa’s Largest Artificial Lake

Lake Volta stretches across nearly 8,500 square kilometers, creating endless opportunities for stunning water-based photography. Created by the Akosombo Dam in the 1960s, this massive body of water has developed its own unique culture and photographic character.

I’ll never forget my first sunset cruise on Lake Volta. We were returning to shore when we passed a small fishing village built entirely on stilts. The setting sun silhouetted the wooden structures against a purple-orange sky, creating what remains one of my most cherished Ghana photographs.

Most Photogenic Locations on Lake Volta

  • The Dodi Island Cruise: A popular day trip that offers expansive views of the lake and local village life
  • Akosombo Dam: The massive structure that created the lake, impressive in scale and engineering
  • Fishing Villages: Traditional fishing communities where life revolves around the water
  • Afram Plains: Less visited eastern shores with dramatic landscapes and traditional communities

Photography Experiences

For the most authentic Lake Volta photos, consider these experiences:

  1. Private Boat Hire: From Akosombo, you can hire a small boat with a local fisherman for around 300-400 GHS for 2-3 hours. This allows you to direct the captain to photogenic spots and stop whenever you want.
  2. Overnight Island Stay: Several islands offer basic accommodations. I stayed at Afrikiko River Front Resort, which provides a perfect base for early morning and sunset photography.
  3. Fishing Village Tour: For truly unique images, arrange to visit one of the fishing villages. The one near Kpando offers particularly good photography opportunities.

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Instead of booking through tour agencies in Accra that charge 800+ GHS for Lake Volta tours, travel to Akosombo independently by tro-tro (shared van) for around 50 GHS and arrange activities locally. Not only will you save about 400 GHS, but more of your money goes directly to local boat operators and guides.

The best light for Lake Volta photography occurs during the first and last hours of daylight. The morning mist rising off the water creates an ethereal quality that transforms even simple fishing scenes into magical imagery.

While photographing on the lake, remember that many fishing communities have specific cultural practices around photography. Always ask permission, especially when photographing fishing rituals or children. A small gift or payment (20-50 GHS) is appreciated when photographing people at length.

Wli Waterfalls: Ghana’s Tallest Waterfall

Tucked away in Ghana’s Volta Region near the Togo border, Wli (pronounced ‘vlee’) Waterfalls is a photographer’s dream that few international visitors discover. At 80 meters tall, the upper and lower falls create dramatic compositions against the lush green backdrop of the surrounding forest.

My first attempt to photograph Wli was nearly a disaster. I arrived during the rainy season without proper waterproofing for my camera. A quick-thinking local guide named Komla fashioned a makeshift rain cover from a plastic bag, saving my equipment while I captured the falls at their most powerful state.

Photography Guide to Wli Falls

Lower Falls

The Lower Falls is the more accessible and frequently photographed section. The relatively easy 45-minute hike makes it ideal for carrying photography equipment.

  • Best Angle: From the small pool at the base, shooting upward to capture the full height
  • Best Time: Early morning (7-9 AM) before other visitors arrive and when light filters through the forest canopy
  • Challenge: Spray from the falls can damage equipment – bring a microfiber cloth and consider a UV filter to protect your lens

Upper Falls

The Upper Falls requires a more strenuous 3-hour hike but rewards photographers with more dramatic and less photographed perspectives.

  • Best Angle: From the rocky outcrop halfway up the trail, capturing both falls with the valley below
  • Best Time: Mid-morning when the sun illuminates the full face of the falls
  • Challenge: The difficult hike means carrying minimal equipment – I recommend a single versatile zoom lens

Insider Tip: The light at Wli Falls changes dramatically throughout the day. If possible, plan to spend a full day here, shooting both falls at different times. Between photo sessions, the nearby village of Wli Todzi offers authentic food and cultural photo opportunities.

Practical Information

The entrance fee for Wli Falls has recently increased to 60 GHS for foreigners (as of early 2025). Guides are mandatory and cost an additional 80 GHS for Lower Falls and 150 GHS for Upper Falls.

For accommodation, I recommend the Wli Water Heights Hotel (300 GHS per night), which is just a 10-minute walk from the falls entrance. Staying overnight allows you to be first on the trail in the morning for those crowd-free shots.

Reaching Wli Falls is straightforward but time-consuming from major cities:

  • From Accra: 4-5 hour drive, best done as an overnight trip
  • From Ho (regional capital): 1.5-2 hour drive

If you’re serious about photography, consider visiting during the early dry season (November-December) when the falls still have good water flow but without the extreme spray and mist of the rainy season.

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: Historical Elegance in Central Accra

Recently renovated and reopened in 2023, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park has been transformed into one of Accra’s most visually striking destinations. This monument to Ghana’s first president combines historical significance with architectural beauty, making it a must-visit for photographers interested in capturing Ghana’s national identity.

I visited shortly after the renovation was completed and was stunned by the transformation. What was once a somewhat neglected memorial has become a world-class heritage site with impressive water features, landscaping, and improved museum facilities.

Key Photography Spots

  • The Mausoleum: The striking white structure housing Nkrumah’s remains
  • The New Fountain Plaza: Dramatic water features frame the main monuments
  • The Bronze Statue: Nkrumah with his hand raised toward freedom
  • Museum Interior: Personal artifacts and historical displays (permission needed for photography inside)

For the best lighting conditions, I recommend visiting in late afternoon (around 4 PM) when the harsh midday sun softens. This timing also means the fountains catch beautiful golden hour light if they’re operating (they typically run from 9 AM-5 PM).

Money-Saving Tip: The official entrance fee is 100 GHS for foreigners, but if you visit on a Sunday morning and mention you’re interested in learning about Ghana’s independence history, guards sometimes admit visitors for the local price of 25 GHS. I’ve done this twice successfully. Also, photography permits for DSLR cameras are normally 20 GHS extra, but aren’t always enforced in the outdoor areas.

The park’s central location in Accra makes it easy to combine with other photogenic locations like Black Star Square, Independence Arch, and the National Theatre – all within walking distance. This entire area offers a study in post-independence African architecture that makes for compelling visual storytelling.

If you’re interested in historical context for your photographs, consider hiring one of the official guides (50 GHS for a 45-minute tour). Their insights on Nkrumah’s significance to Pan-Africanism add depth to your images when sharing them online.

The Colorful Fishing Boats of Elmina

The vibrant fishing harbor of Elmina offers perhaps the most colorful photo opportunities in all of Ghana. The boats painted in bold primary colors against the blue ocean create an instantly recognizable aesthetic that has become increasingly popular on Instagram.

My first morning in Elmina, I woke at 4:30 AM to photograph the fishing boats returning at dawn. The early start was rewarded with extraordinary scenes—hundreds of wooden canoes painted in rainbow hues, fishermen hauling in nets silver with fish, and the historic Elmina Castle looming in the background. I even helped pull in a net (and received many laughs from the fishermen at my poor technique), which led to an invitation to photograph the fish sorting process up close.

Prime Photo Locations in Elmina

  • Elmina Bridge Viewpoint: The bridge connecting the two sides of town offers a bird’s-eye view of the entire harbor
  • Harbor Front: Get close to the action as boats are unloaded
  • Castle Perspective: From certain angles, you can capture both the colorful boats and the historic castle
  • Fish Market: The indoor market offers dramatic light rays and bustling activity

Best Times for Elmina Harbor Photography

Time Activity Photographic Advantage
5-7 AM Boats returning with catch Dawn light, active unloading, fewer tourists
8-10 AM Market activity at its peak Bustling scenes, good light for harbor shots
4-6 PM Boats preparing to go out Golden hour light, boat maintenance activities

Local Etiquette Tip: Always ask before photographing fishermen up close. The phrase “Me pa wo kyɛw, me tumi twa wo mfonini?” (May I please take your picture?) goes a long way. Also, offering to buy a small fish (5-10 GHS) or giving a small tip (10-20 GHS) is appreciated if you spend significant time photographing someone’s work.

Photography challenges in Elmina include the harsh contrast between shadow and bright sunlight, and the constant movement of people and boats. I recommend:

  • Using a polarizing filter to manage reflections off the water
  • Shooting in short bursts for action shots
  • Working with a zoom lens to quickly recompose as scenes change
  • Protecting your gear from salt spray and fish scales

Elmina is about 15 minutes from Cape Coast, making it easy to visit both locations in one day. However, I recommend staying overnight in Elmina itself for the best early morning photography opportunities. Elmina Bay Resort offers rooms with harbor views from about 450 GHS per night.

Larabanga Mosque: West Africa’s Oldest Mud-Brick Mosque

The distinctive whitewashed Larabanga Mosque, with its unique Sudano-Sahelian architecture, provides one of Ghana’s most iconic and photogenic cultural landmarks. Dating back to 1421 (though the current structure has been rebuilt several times), this sacred site in Ghana’s Northern Region creates striking images with its geometric shapes and desert-like surroundings.

My journey to Larabanga was one of the most memorable experiences I’ve had in Ghana. I spent an afternoon with Imam Abdullah, who shared stories of the mosque’s mysteries – including the famous “floating stone” that supposedly returned to its position when British colonizers attempted to move it. Whether you believe the legends or not, the photographs I captured that day have a certain mystical quality that resonates with viewers.

Photography Guidelines

As a sacred religious site, photography at Larabanga Mosque requires special sensitivity:

  • Always request permission from the mosque caretakers before photographing
  • Pay the requested donation (50-70 GHS) which goes toward mosque maintenance
  • Dress modestly – covering shoulders and knees at minimum
  • Remove shoes before entering any interior spaces
  • Avoid photographing worshippers during prayer times
  • Ask before taking close-up portraits of the imam or caretakers

Best Photo Angles

For the most compelling images of Larabanga Mosque:

  1. The Classic Frontal View: From the main approach path, capturing the distinctive façade with its vertical wooden supports
  2. The Side Angle: From the eastern side, showing the unique pyramidal towers
  3. Details: Close-ups of the mud-brick construction, ancient wooden doors, and architectural elements
  4. Context: Wider shots including the surrounding village life

Insider Tip: Visit during the “blue hour” just before sunrise for truly magical photographs. The white mosque takes on a blue cast that creates an otherworldly effect. This timing also means you’ll likely have the site to yourself, as most tourists visit midday.

Larabanga village is located near Mole National Park, making it ideal to combine both destinations. While many visitors see the mosque as a quick stop on the way to Mole, I recommend spending at least one night in the village. The Savannah Lodge offers basic but clean accommodations for around 150 GHS per night.

Beyond the mosque itself, Larabanga offers fascinating photography opportunities capturing daily life in Ghana’s northern regions – distinctly different from the coastal and forest regions to the south.

Busua Beach: Ghana’s Most Photogenic Coastline

While Ghana has numerous beautiful beaches, Busua in the Western Region stands out as particularly photogenic. With its wide shoreline, swaying palm trees, and laid-back surfing culture, Busua offers that perfect balance of natural beauty and human interest that performs so well on Instagram.

I first discovered Busua by accident in 2020, when a planned trip to Togo fell through due to COVID-19 border closures. Stranded in Ghana for an extra two weeks, I headed west on a recommendation from a local friend. Those unexpected two weeks produced some of my most-loved Ghana photographs – surfers catching waves at sunset, children playing soccer on the beach, and bonfires under star-filled skies.

Prime Photography Spots

  • The Main Beach: Wide angle shots of the curving shoreline, especially at sunrise
  • Rocky Outcrop: At the western end of the beach, a small rocky area creates interesting foreground elements
  • Fishing Village: Alaska Beach (a 15-minute walk east) offers authentic fishing culture images
  • Black Beach Resort Viewpoint: The hotel’s elevated position provides panoramic beach views

Money-Saving Tip: Most tourists stay at the upscale Busua Beach Resort (700+ GHS per night), but I discovered a hidden gem called Busua Inn where private rooms start at 250 GHS. The French owners are photographers themselves and will happily share lesser-known photo locations.

Activities for Unique Photos

For photos beyond the standard beach shots, consider these activities:

  • Surf Lessons: Black Star Surf Shop offers lessons for 150 GHS, creating great action photography opportunities
  • Fishing Boat Excursion: Arrange through your hotel to join a morning fishing trip (200-300 GHS)
  • Sunset Horseback Riding: Available on weekends for 100 GHS per hour
  • Beach Bonfires: Evening gatherings with local drummers create magical nighttime images

The weather at Busua varies seasonally, affecting photography conditions:

Season Weather Conditions Photography Advantages
Nov-March (Dry) Clear skies, minimal rain Reliable sunsets, cleaner water for swimming shots
April-June (Early Rainy) Afternoon storms, morning clarity Dramatic cloud formations, fewer tourists
July-Oct (Main Rainy) Frequent rain, overcast Moody seascapes, dramatic wave action

Getting to Busua requires a 5-hour drive from Accra or 3 hours from Takoradi. The extra effort to reach this location means fewer tourists and more authentic photographs compared to beaches closer to the capital.

A word of caution: the currents at Busua can be strong. Always respect local advice about safe swimming areas, especially if you’re in the water with camera equipment.

Aburi Botanical Gardens: Colonial Heritage Meets Tropical Splendor

Just an hour’s drive north of Accra in the cool hills of the Eastern Region, Aburi Botanical Gardens provides a welcome escape from the capital’s heat and a photographer’s paradise of manicured landscapes and historic structures.

My personal connection to Aburi runs deep. During a particularly difficult period in 2021 when I was experiencing severe photography burnout, I spent a week in Aburi, visiting the gardens daily. The peaceful environment and endless composition possibilities reignited my creative spark. My series of misty morning photographs from Aburi ended up being featured in a small gallery exhibition in Accra months later.

Photography Highlights

  • The Avenue of Royal Palms: The signature shot – a perfectly symmetrical row of towering palms
  • Colonial Buildings: Historic structures dating to 1890, offering architectural details and context
  • The Great Lawn: Open spaces framed by ancient trees
  • The Silk Cotton Tree: A massive, centuries-old specimen with dramatic root structures
  • Plant Collections: Specialized gardens featuring palms, orchids, and other tropical specimens

Best Timing for Photography

Aburi has distinct lighting conditions throughout the day:

  • Early Morning (6:30-8:30 AM): Mist often settles in the gardens, creating ethereal images with light rays streaming through trees
  • Mid-Morning (9-11 AM): The gardens are still relatively empty, and light is soft but clear
  • Afternoon: More challenging light but busier with visitors, creating opportunities for environmental portraits

Insider Money-Saving Tip: The official entrance fee is 20 GHS for foreigners, but photographers can purchase a weekly pass for 50 GHS that allows unlimited entry. This is perfect if you want to capture different lighting conditions over multiple days and will save you at least 70 GHS if you visit four times.

For optimal photography conditions, I recommend visiting on weekdays when the gardens are significantly less crowded. Saturdays, in particular, are popular for wedding photography, which can make it difficult to capture clean landscape shots.

When planning your Aburi visit, consider staying overnight in the area. The Aburi Botanical Cottage (about 350 GHS per night) is located just minutes from the garden entrance, allowing for easy early morning access when the light is most magical.

Beyond the gardens themselves, the surrounding Aburi hills offer additional photography opportunities – hillside views towards Accra, roadside fruit stands with colorful displays, and the famous Aburi wood carving village where artisans create traditional sculptures.

Ada Foah: Where River Meets Ocean

Ada Foah, located where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers one of Ghana’s most unique geographic features and consequently, exceptional photography opportunities. This estuary environment creates a fascinating landscape where freshwater and saltwater merge, resulting in distinctive ecological and cultural scenes.

I first visited Ada in 2019 with minimal expectations – it was supposed to be a quick weekend escape from Accra. Instead, I discovered a photographer’s paradise that I’ve returned to four times since. The boat ride to the estuary point where you can stand with one foot in the river and one in the ocean created one of my most-requested Ghana prints.

Top Photography Locations

  • The Estuary Point: Where river and ocean meet, creating dramatic water patterns
  • River Islands: Small, often temporary islands formed in the river mouth
  • Traditional Fishing Methods: Local fishermen using techniques specific to the estuary environment
  • Salt Farms: Geometric patterns of the salt harvesting flats near Ada
  • River Cruise Scenes: Life along the riverbanks as seen from boat excursions

Money-Saving Sustainability Tip: Instead of booking a private boat tour (400+ GHS), join the local boat taxi (50 GHS per person) that runs between the main Ada Foah jetty and the various river islands. Not only will you save money, but you’ll reduce environmental impact through shared transportation and get more authentic photographs of river life.

Accommodation for Photographers

Ada offers a range of accommodations, but these are particularly good for photographers:

The best time for photography at Ada is early morning and late afternoon when the light is softest. The midday sun creates harsh reflections off the water that are difficult to work with.

For truly unique photographs, consider these specialized activities:

  1. Salt Farm Tour: Arrange through your hotel to visit the salt farms (100-150 GHS)
  2. Fishing Experience: Join local fishermen for their morning work (negotiate directly, usually 100-200 GHS)
  3. Island Overnight: Some river islands offer basic camping or hut accommodations for a truly immersive experience

Ada is easily accessible from Accra, just a 2-hour drive east of the capital. This proximity makes it perfect for a weekend photography trip if your time in Ghana is limited.

Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Ghana Photography Adventure

After photographing Ghana extensively over the past seven years, I’ve come to appreciate that this country offers visual treasures that rival any destination in Africa – they’re just packaged differently. Ghana won’t deliver the wildlife spectacles of Kenya or the desert landscapes of Namibia, but it provides something perhaps more valuable: authentic human moments against backdrops of extraordinary cultural and natural beauty.

As I look back through my thousands of Ghana photographs, the ones that resonate most deeply aren’t the perfectly composed landscapes but the unexpected moments – the smile of a Larabanga elder sharing his life story, the determined face of a young surfer at Busua catching her first wave, the weathered hands of a Kejetia Market fabric seller arranging her wares in a rainbow of colors.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Photographing Ghana

  1. Prepare Thoughtfully: Research Ghana’s cultural norms around photography, pack appropriate gear for tropical conditions, and bring more memory storage than you think you’ll need.
  2. Connect First, Photograph Second: Take time to establish relationships, learn a few phrases in Twi or other local languages, and approach photography as a collaborative rather than extractive process.
  3. Diversify Your Itinerary: Combine the popular Instagram spots listed in this guide with lesser-known locations. Even within well-known sites, seek unexpected angles and moments.
  4. Respect Local Sensitivities: Always ask permission before photographing people, be aware of sacred or ceremonial contexts, and follow specific photography rules at historical sites.
  5. Share Meaningfully: When posting your Ghana photos, go beyond aesthetic appreciation to share the stories and contexts that make these images meaningful. Tag local businesses and guides who helped you.

Ghana’s visual landscape is constantly evolving. Since I first started photographing here in 2018, I’ve witnessed the restoration of historical sites, the emergence of new creative districts in Accra, and increasing pride in Ghana’s photographic identity. The country is investing significantly in its tourism infrastructure, meaning that each year brings improvements to accessibility and facilities at many of the locations mentioned in this guide.

Whatever your photography style or interest – architecture, portraiture, street, landscape, or travel – Ghana offers rich possibilities. It rewards those who approach with curiosity, respect, and a willingness to look beyond the obvious frame.

As we say in Ghana, “bra bio” – come and see for yourself.

Frequently Asked Questions About Photographing Ghana

Is Ghana safe for photographers with expensive equipment?

Ghana is generally one of the safest countries in West Africa, but normal precautions apply. I’ve traveled throughout Ghana with professional camera equipment without issues by following these practices: use an inconspicuous camera bag; be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas; avoid displaying equipment unnecessarily; secure equipment in hotel safes when possible; and consider insurance for expensive gear. Most Ghanaians are incredibly honest and helpful to visitors.

What’s the best time of year for photography in Ghana?

The November to March dry season offers the most consistent photography conditions with clear skies and minimal rain. However, different regions and subjects have optimal times:

  • For lush landscapes and waterfalls: June-September (rainy season)
  • For cultural festivals: Specific times throughout the year (Homowo in August, Dipo in April)
  • For clearest coastal photography: December-February
  • For wildlife photography in Mole: March-April (end of dry season when animals concentrate around water sources)

Do I need a permit to photograph in Ghana?

No general photography permit is required for tourists in Ghana. However, specific locations have their own rules:

  • Museums and some historical sites charge camera fees (typically 20-50 GHS)
  • Government buildings, military installations, and airports prohibit photography
  • Some markets and traditional areas may have local customs around photography
  • Professional commercial photography (for advertising, etc.) requires permits from the Ghana Tourism Authority

What camera gear should I bring to Ghana?

Based on my experience, this is the ideal setup for Ghana photography:

  • A weather-sealed camera body to handle humidity and occasional dust
  • A versatile zoom lens (24-70mm or similar) for most situations
  • A wider lens (16-35mm) for architecture and landscapes
  • A longer zoom (70-200mm) if visiting wildlife areas
  • Extra batteries (charging opportunities can be inconsistent)
  • Plenty of memory cards (I recommend at least 128GB total storage)
  • A lightweight tripod for low-light situations
  • Lens cleaning supplies (dust and humidity are constant challenges)
  • A rain cover or weather protection for your gear

How do Ghanaians feel about being photographed?

Attitudes vary widely. In my experience:

  • Urban Ghanaians in major cities are generally comfortable with photography but appreciate being asked
  • Rural communities may be more sensitive about photography, particularly of elders or certain activities
  • Some people expect small payments for photographs, especially in tourist areas
  • Children should only be photographed with parental permission
  • Religious ceremonies, funerals, and some traditional practices may prohibit photography

The key is always to ask permission first. Learn “Please may I take your photo?” in Twi: “Me pa wo kyɛw, me tumi twa wo mfonini?”

What are some lesser-known but photogenic places not covered in this guide?

Beyond the 12 locations covered above, consider these hidden gems:

  • Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary: Photograph sacred mona monkeys in a forest setting
  • Anomabo Beach: Less developed than other coastal areas with authentic fishing culture
  • Koforidua Beads Market: Held every Thursday with incredible colors and patterns
  • Nzulezo Stilt Village: An entire community built over Lake Tadane
  • Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary: Rare opportunity for macro wildlife photography
  • Shai Hills Reserve: Accessible wildlife photography just outside Accra

References and Further Resources