Join Naturalist Journeys on a journey into the heart of West Africa for a Ghana birding and nature safari—this is an unparalleled trip for birding! Indeed, Ghana is actually a must-see destination for any birding and wildlife enthusiast, with thick lush forest home to primates, rare hornbills, and more. Ghana has the most developed infrastructure of any West African country, making it an easy choice for travel. We work with a well-established birding company that supports conservation and they give us an in-depth glimpse into nature and its interface with rural culture. This year we pair guide Paul Mensah of Ashanti tours as our local expert, with Washington Wachira, our favorite guide from East Africa as your tour host … what a team!

Ghana has seven national parks and along the coast, five Ramsar wetland sites. We can expect to see a variety of iconic African mammals and birds alongside a fantastic array of exciting West African Upper Guinea endemic birds. We begin in coastal wetlands and lagoons, then move inland through coastal savannah into the rich Upper Guinea Rainforests. Continuing northwards, we pass through broad-leaved Guinea Woodland and open savannah at Mole National Park. We visit the White Volga River to try for Egyptian Plover, a much sought after species. Peg Abbott, our founder and global traveler, added over 100 species to her life list last year in Ghana—imagine what you can do!

Ghana’s biodiversity is notable and presents a contrast to more southern parts of the continent often visited on various safari routes. March is a prime time to go, for both birds and seeing mammals in the northern section at Mole National Park. This year we changed the order a bit to end at Mole as the grand finale, and from here we fly back to Accra (cost included), saving a very long drive.

Tour Highlights

  • Enjoy time in tropical Africa; see birds of the African rainforest, coastal wetlands, savannah, and Mole National Park
  • Find unique species of the Guiana-Congo biome, forest-dwelling birds of West and Central Africa
  • Visit thorn scrub habitat in the Shai Hills, then in the nearby Atewa Range, and later in Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary, walk forest trails to reach the endangered habitat of Highland Upper Guinea Rainforest
  • At Kakum National Park, walk the span of one of only three canopy walkways in Africa; watch for raptors and forest species at eye-level
  • Stay three nights at a comfortable forest lodge at Ankasa Reserve for incredible and rare forest birds
  • Visit a Yellow-headed Picathartes nesting site and the local community that supports and is supported by tourism (this species occurs only in the rainforest of tropical west and central Africa)
  • At Mole National Park, spend three nights at exquisite Zaina Lodge, known for incredible views
  • Take safari drives to see birds and mammals at Ghana’s finest and largest protected area, Mole National Park, including African Elephant, Kob, Bushbuck, Waterbuck, Hartebeest, and Roan Antelope
  • Have a chance to view and photograph the Egyptian Plover feeding along the White Volta River, a species recently placed in a family of its own.

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Fri., Feb. 28      Welcome to Accra!

Our tour officially starts this evening as we gather for dinner and a chance to get to know our guides and travel companions. You may wish to arrive early to rest up from travel and if so, we can assist with those reservations.
Accommodations in Accra (D)

Sat., Mar. 1     Accra City Tour | Birding at Shai Hills Reserve

Today is an easy day, allowing us to acclimate to West Africa after our travels. Our local guide and driver meet us for a morning city tour of Accra, visiting the National Museum, Black Star Gate, Independence Square and the Aburi Botanical Gardens and Craft Village. We see some of the birds of the city as we go. After lunch, it is about an hour’s drive to our hotel close to the Shai Hills Reserve on the outskirts of Greater Accra.  

After checking in to our simple but comfortable hotel that puts us close to this exceptional birding and wildlife area, we make our first visit to the Shai Hills, a drier habitat of open thorn-scrub woodland mixed with grassland where we find species we don’t see at other locations in our journey. After dinner, our guide briefs us on the following days’ activities and answers any questions.
Accommodations at Alexis Hotel or similar, Tema (B,L,D)

Sun., Mar. 2       Birding Shai Hills Reserve

We depart early and head for the open mix of thorn-scrub forest and grassland of the Shai Hills Reserve where we start the day listening to calls of Stone Partridge, and both Red-eyed and Vinaceous Doves. We should find Senegal Coucal, Western Plantain-eater, African Gray Hornbill, Striped Kingfisher, and Vieillot’s Barbet. With luck we may find Blue-bellied Roller, White-Helmetshrike, and Brown-throated Wattle-eye. 

We drive through the park, and make a few short walks to get out into the habitat. Along a long line of cliffs we look for Mocking Cliff-Chat and should find baboons, and in the open grassland, Ugandan Kob, and other wildlife. In a lush grove of trees at our turn-around point, look for African Green-Pigeon, Violet Turaco, and Senegal Parrot.

We take a mid-day break for lunch in route to the hotel, and stop to take a rest or perhaps a refreshing dip in the pool. We then head back out in the late afternoon, staying out to look for nightbirds at dusk before dinner and our checklist tally. 
Accommodations at Alexis Hotel or similar, Tema (B,L,D)

Possible Bird Highlights: Northern Crombec, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Snowy-crowned Robin-Chat, African Pygmy Kingfisher, Cardinal Woodpecker, Vieillot’s and Double-toothed Barbets, Mocking Cliff-Chat, Rock Martin, Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike, Violet Turaco, Senegal Parrot, Senegal Batis, Blue-bellied Roller, Swallow-tailed Bee-eater, Oriole Warbler, Blackcap and Brown Babblers, Copper and Splendid Sunbirds, White Helmetshrike, Croaking and Siffling Cisticolas, African Thrush, Red-necked and Lizard Buzzards, Lanner Falcon, Green Woodhoopoe, Stone Partridge, Black-winged Stilt, Senegal Thick-knee, Common Ringed and Grey Plovers, Spur-Winged Lapwing, Black-tailed Godwit, Whimbrel, Common Greenshank, Spotted Redshank, Wood and Common Sandpipers, Collared Pratincole, Marsh and Curlew Sandpipers, Ruddy Turnstone, Little Stint, Long-tailed Cormorant, Squacco Heron, Gray, Purple, Striated, and Black Herons, Little, Cattle and Intermediate Egrets. 

Mon., Mar. 3        Shai Hills | Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary | Atewa Range

We leave early to head to Atewa, passing through lower farmland bush surrounding Atewa where we stop with hopes to see Black-necked, Maxwell’s Black, Compact, and Grosbeak Weavers, Whistling Cisticola, Black-crowned and perhaps Marsh Tchagra. If we are lucky, we also find Baumann’s Greenbul and Bat Hawk. 

We then head on to Upper Guinea Rainforest habitat where so many of Ghana’s sought-after special species are found. Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary is a wonderful area of this habitat type, and it protects almost 500 species of butterfly, as well as a trove of birds. This morning we hope to see both Tit- and Green Hylias, Black-throated Coucal, both Grey and Red-fronted Parrots, the much sought-after Yellow-footed Honeyguide, and Red-billed Dwarf and Africa’s rarest, Black Dwarf Hornbill, amongst other species. 

The walk into the sanctuary is delightful with tall trees arching over the road and an intense mix of species singing along the way. At the caretaker’s home there is a clearing and if it’s sunny, butterflies abound. We have a picnic lunch here and then continue our exploring. Tambourine Dove call from lush perches, and with luck we hear the call and see Long-tailed Hawk. Little Bee-eaters sally out for insects showing off their gem-like colors. Melancholy and Buff-spotted Woodpeckers may be working across the dense tropical forest canopy and while searching for them we might see Velvet-mantled Drongo, Sharpe’s Apalis, and Red-billed Helmetshrike. 

After a full and rewarding day walking and exploring here, we check into our nearby hotel to freshen up, reflect, and enjoy an evening meal.
Accommodations at Nelsban Palace Hotel, New Tafo (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Tit- and Green Hylias, Magpie Mannikin, Narina Trogon, Red-billed Dwarf and Black Dwarf Hornbills, African Grey and Brown-necked Parrots, Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Black-throated Coucal, Golden-backed Weaver, African Piculet, Red-chested Owlet, Dusky Tit, Blue-headed Crested-Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Barbet, Gray-headed and Red-tailed Bristlebills, Yellow-footed Honeyguide, Black-necked, Maxwell’s Black, Compact, and Grosbeak Weavers, Whistling Cisticola, Black-crowned and Marsh Tchagras, African Emerald, Klaas’s, Levaillant’s, and Yellow-throated Cuckoos, Black-headed Paradise-Flycatcher, Western Bluebill, Tessmann’s Flycatcher, Baumann’s Greenbul, and Bat Hawk

Tues.,  Mar. 4       Atewa Range | Hike in Endangered Rainforest

Atewa Reserve holds critically endangered highland upper Guinea Rainforest and as it protects so many quality and rare species that we dedicate a full day to birding here. We take a packed lunch with us to maximize birding time. The walk here is a hike, a steady uphill grade but on a good trail that was once a road. There is forest cover all the way, with a mix of species. Hopefully we find Blue-moustached Bee-eater as the prize of our day! 

At the start of the trail we find a small pond where both Malachite and African Pygmy Kingfishers can be found. In this open section, find Black-winged Oriole, Marsh Tchagra, Red-faced Cisticola, Chestnut-breasted Nigrita, and Orange-cheeked Waxbill. Entering the forest there are numerous sunbirds (10 species on our last trip), both Crested and Red-headed Malimbes, Maxwell’s Black Weaver, Western Nicator, and Forest Penduline Tit. Sadly, this precious Atewa Range Forest Reserve is under severe threat as the Ghanaian government, under pressure, is considering allowing it to be mined for bauxite. Several NGOs that include our host company are petitioning the government to establish Atewa as a National Park to protect this lush habitat for future generations. 

Atewa protects some rare species of birds and we hope to get good views of such as Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Red-fronted Antpecker, Nimba Flycatcher, Crowned Eagle, Brown-chested Alethe, Forest Scrub-Robin, and Lowland Akalat amongst other species. The geology of the range is of interest and the scenery is stunning.  

Once satisfied with our hike and the species found, we head down the mountain and return to our guesthouse for the evening meal and a chance to tally up our sightings. 
Accommodations at Nelsban Palace Hotel, New Tafo (B,L,D) 

Possible Birding Highlights: Red-cheeked Wattle-eye, Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Blue-moustached Bee-eater, West African (Bioko) Batis, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, African Hobby, Long-tailed Hawk, Congo Serpent-Eagle, Red-rumped, Yellow-rumped and Speckled Tinkerbirds, Little Green, Buff-throated, Blue-throated Brown, Olive-bellied and Collared Sunbirds, African Goshawk, Red-tailed and Green-tailed Bristlebills, Red-headed and Crested Malimbes, Orange-breasted Forest Robin, Little, Gray, White-throated, Icterine, Red-tailed, Western Bearded- and the Upper Guinea endemic Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Many-colored Bushshrike, Western Nicator, Brown Illadopsis and Bronze-naped Pigeon, Red-fronted Antpecker, Nimba Flycatcher, Crowned Eagle, Brown-chested Alethe, Forest Scrub-Robin, and Lowland Akalat

Wed., Mar. 5     Atewa | Rainforest Hotel

This morning we return to the farm fields surrounding the Atewa Range and perhaps extend into lower reaches of the forest. This is a good area to look for Blue-headed Coucal, Red-chested Cuckoo, Woodland Kingfisher, Lowland Sooty Boubou, Bar-breasted Firefinch, and other species. We have the full morning and with so many species to see here we are sure to find some new ones. 

We return to the hotel to pack up, stop at a local restaurant for lunch and start driving towards Cape Coast, taking the turnoff to Kakum National Park before reaching there. This area is close to the office of our host company, Ashanti African Tours, and if there is time, we stop in to say hello. Our hotel is about 15 minutes from the park. Our guide lives close by and after checking in, we should have time for a walk up to the hillside where he has built a home to enjoy birding on his home patch. Last year we saw over 50 species on this short leisurely walk! After settling in, we have dinner and fill in our species list. Tomorrow is a big day! 
Accommodations at Rainforest Hotel near Kakum National Park (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Little, White-throated, Rosy, and Black Bee-eaters, Blue-throated Roller, Piping Hornbill, Red-rumped Tinkerbird, White-spotted Flufftail, Cassin’s Spinetail, Sabine’s Spinetail, Dideric Cuckoo, Melancholy and Buff-spotted Woodpeckers, Vieillot’s Black and Black-necked Weavers, Kemps and Gray Longbills, Western Nicator, Western Bluebill, Olive-bellied, Superb, and Johanna’s Sunbirds, Copper-tailed, Longtailed Glossy, and Violet-backed Starlings, Northern Yellow White-eye, Bronze Mannikin, Orange-cheeked Waxbill, Yellow-billed Barbet, and Ayre’s Hawk-Eagle. 

Thurs., Mar. 6      Kakum National Park & Canopy Walkways

Encompassing 145 square miles of tropical forest, Kakum National Park is unique in no small part because it was established at the initiative of the local people, rather than by the State Department of Wildlife, who are responsible for wildlife preservation in Ghana. It hosts some lush forests, and it is one of only three locations in Africa with a canopy walkway. Hosting one of the densest populations of forest elephants in Ghana, it is also rich in birds and butterflies. 

After an early breakfast, we head for the national park, which is a quick 15 minute drive from our lodge. Aiming to arrive at first light, we spend the most critical bird viewing hours 40 meters above the forest floor on the world-famous 1,150-foot-long canopy walkway. This walkway in the sky has sections strung between seven platforms large enough to hold our full group (and scopes!) and on the platforms, we comfortably scour the treetops for birds. For many this is one of the highlights of the trip, to be up in such pristine forest at eye-level with a spectacular array of birds such as Black Bee-eater, Yellow-billed Turaco, Blue Malkoha, and Superb Sunbird.  

Kakum National Park protects secondary upper Guinea semi-deciduous tropical rainforest. It is a wonderful feeling to be eye to eye with the local birds including the large hornbills—as many as four of the large showy species including Brown-cheeked, West African Pied, Black-casqued and Yellow-casqued. Blue Cuckooshrike, Yellow-billed Barbet, Cassin’s Honeyguide, and Golden Greenbul, can be seen at close range. Watch the skies for Congo Serpent-Eagle, Palm-nut Vulture, African Harrier-Hawk, Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, and other raptors.

We return mid-day to our lodge to refresh and enjoy lunch. During the heat of mid-afternoon, options include birding around the lodge and grounds, resting in air-conditioned rooms or around the pool and bar, or going on a cultural excursion to Cape Coast Castle an important historic site from the days of slave trading.  

For those that wish, we revisit the canopy walkway in the evening to look for more of the key species including Brown-cheeked, both Black-casqued and Yellow-casqued Hornbills, Great Blue Turaco, and Fraser’s Eagle-Owl among other specialties. We return for dinner and the checklist.
Accommodations at Rainforest Hotel near Kakum National Park (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Violet-backed Hyliota, Chestnut-capped Flycatcher, Sharpe’s Apalis, Brown-cheeked Hornbill, Long-tailed Glossy Starling, Bioko Batis, Blue Cuckooshrike, Little Green Woodpecker, White-crested Hornbill, Blue-throated Brown, Green, Collared, Johanna’s and Buff-throated Sunbirds, Red-headed and Crested Malimbes, Rosy Bee-eater, White-breasted and Gray-headed Nigrita, Red-fronted and Grey Parrots, Yellowbill, Western Black-headed and Black-winged Orioles, Rufous-crowned Eremomela, Splendid, Long-tailed Glossy, and Chestnut-winged Starlings, Preuss’s and Yellow-mantled Weavers, Green Hylia, Golden, Slender-billed, Little, and Grey Greenbuls, African Green-Pigeon, Yellow-billed Turaco, African Emerald Cuckoo, Blue-throated Roller, Yellow-throated, Red-rumped and Speckled Tinkerbirds, Hairy-breasted and Naked-faced Barbets, Ussher’s and Little Flycatchers, Cassin’s Honeyguide, African Pied Hornbill, Congo Serpent-Eagle, African Harrier-Hawk, Palm-nut Vulture, Cassin’s Hawk-Eagle, European Honey and Red-necked Buzzards, Long-tailed Hawk, Black Dwarf Hornbill, Yellow-footed Honeyguide and Black-collared Lovebird, Brown-cheeked, Black- and Yellow-casqued Hornbills, Great Blue Turaco, Brown Nightjar and Fraser’s Eagle-Owl.

Fri., Mar. 7         Rainforest Hotel | Winneba Lagoon | Ankasa Reserve

This morning we bird the grounds and local area, have breakfast, and then check out of our lodge to set off westwards on what is mostly a travel day with some birding breaks. By day’s end we reach amazing primary rainforest at Ankasa Reserve, for many a major highlight of our time in Ghana. Those that wish can pack in a way to travel light, storing some of your gear at Rainforest Hotel as we will return in a few days. 

Our main stop along the way is at Winneba Lagoon, where we have a great chance with scopes to scan a wide estuary home to numerous herons, terns, and shorebirds. Look for Common Ringed Plover, African Jacana, Whimbrel, Greenshank, Curlew Sandpiper, West African Crested Tern, Pied Kingfisher, and Western Reef Heron. At the village near our stop watch locals drying fish and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.

Ankasa is Ghana’s only wet evergreen rainforest, which is in near pristine condition. An exceptional forest in a remote location, Ankasa protects many rare and sought-after bird and mammal species. At the junction to the park and lodge we meet 4-wheel drive vehicles from the lodge, saying goodbye to our bus driver for a few days. It can be a rough ride on the final dirt road section of our trip to reach this birding paradise. But it is well worth it, for the next three nights we feel pampered, staying at the stunning lodge our host company built so tourists could experience this amazing forest without having to camp out. Enjoy a memorable, small and intimate lodge right at the edge of the reserve, just across a bridge that affords some fine birdwatching right on the property. 

The smiles of the staff and cold drinks are most welcome as we arrive this afternoon. We take time to settle in, check for birds along the lovely stream that flows through the property, and enjoy drinks and dinner. Dining here is most gracious, with a chef preparing a menu board daily, choices are difficult to make! Much of the food is locally sourced and cooked to perfection. On one of the evenings of our stay, perhaps tonight, we may head into the reserve for evening birding where we hope to see Fraser’s and Akun Eagle-Owls, and the legendary Nkulengu Rail, first photographed in the wild in 2011. Local rangers help us to find them, and if successful we make a dash!
Accommodations at Ankasa Reserve Lodge, Ankasa Reserve (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Pale Flycatcher, Black-and-white Mannikin, Brown-crowned Tchagra, Lowland Sooty Boubou, Puvel’s Illadopsis, Olive-green Camaroptera, Red-faced and Whistling Cisticolas, Lesser Striped Swallow, Fanti Saw-wing, Chestnut Wattle-eye, Naked-faced and Hairy-breasted Barbets, Fraser’s and Little Green Sunbirds, Bue Malkoha, Red-cheeked Wattle-eye, Swamp Greenbul, Northern Fiscal, Spotted Greenbul, Finsch’s Flycatcher-Thrush, Yellow-whiskered and Red-tailed Greenbuls, White-crested Hornbill, African Harrier-Hawk, Long-tailed Hawk, Red-billed Helmetshrike, Rufous-sided Broadbill, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, Olive Long-tailed Cuckoo, Congo Serpent-Eagle, Red-billed Dwarf and Black Dwarf Hornbills, Fraser’s and Akun Eagle-Owls, and Nkulengu Rail

Sat., Mar. 8 & Sun., Mar. 9      Birding Ankasa Reserve

Ankasa Reserve’s incredible forest protects so many rare and sought-after species that we dedicate three nights here. At over 500 square kilometers of continuous wet evergreen rainforest, Ankasa is biologically the most diverse rainforest in Ghana and one of the most diverse in West Africa. Protecting over 800 vascular plant species, almost 650 species of butterfly, in addition to Forest Elephant, Bongo, Diana Monkey, Chimpanzee, and several species of pangolin (secretive, not likely to be seen) alongside the most wanted West African bird species, Ankasa is a must-see destination.

After breakfast we set off venturing deeper into this lush forest with our main goal being the Upper Guinea endemics including Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Rufous-winged Illadopsis, and Green-tailed Bristlebill in addition to other key forest species. Our vehicles follow us as we walk a bit, then drive, then walk again, giving us the option to rest or get a cool drink. 

Our guide knows where the specialty species are found inside Ankasa and we have the best opportunity to see them. Driving in Land Rover 4x4s enables us to navigate the difficult forest roads, ensures that we get to these sites at the best time of day, and permits us to bird remote trails around the pools where kingfishers and even African Pitta are occasionally found. As we approach the watering holes located deeper inside the forest, we hope to see Western Crested Guineafowl on the road, while key birds include Hartlaub’s Duck, Dwarf Bittern, African Finfoot, and four species of kingfishers. Forest raptors are always welcome, and we hope to see Long-tailed Hawk and Congo Serpent-Eagle. There are some rare species here and if we are lucky, we may see White-breasted Guineafowl, White-crested Bittern, African Pitta, Gray-throated Rail, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Forest Scrub-Robin, Red-chested Owlet, and Akun Eagle-Owl.

We typically take a mid-day break for lunch at the lodge, and we spend each evening enjoying good food and discussing the days birding over refreshments.
Accommodations at Ankasa Reserve Lodge, Ankasa Reserve (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Yellow-bearded Greenbul, Rufous-winged Illadopsis and Green-tailed Bristlebill in addition to Ansorge’s, Icterine, Red-tailed and Western Bearded- Greenbuls, Pale-breasted and Blackcap Illadopsis, Forest Scrub-Robin, White-tailed Ant-Thrush, White-tailed Alethe, Shining Drongo, Cassin’s Flycatcher, Yellow-spotted Barbet, White-throated Bee-eater, Chestnut-breasted Nigrita, Blue-headed Wood Dove, Western Bronze-naped Pigeon, Yellow-billed and Great Blue Turacos, Black-capped Apalis, Grey-headed Bristlebill, Tiny Sunbird and Red-fronted Antpecker, African Pitta, Western Crested Guineafowl, Hartlaub’s Duck, Dwarf Bittern, African Finfoot, Shining-blue, White-bellied, Blue-breasted and Dwarf Kingfishers, Long-tailed Hawk and Congo Serpent-Eagle, Crown Eagle, Square-tailed and Fanti Saw-wings, Black- and Yellow-casqued Hornbills, Black Dwarf and Piping Hornbills, White-breasted Guineafowl, White-crested Bittern, Gray-throated Rail, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Forest Scrub-Robin, Blue-moustached Bee-eater, Red-chested Owlet, Akun Eagle Owl 

Mon., Mar. 10      Ankasa Reserve & Brenu Savannah | Rainforest Hotel

During a final morning’s birding at this wonderful location, we take time to savor and enjoy the exceptional biodiversity of this tropical habitat. Then, we head back for brunch and to freshen up before our departure from this remote and wildlife-rich location.

Our vehicle loaded, we retrace our route back to Rainforest Lodge near Kakum National Park, again stopping to bird along the way to break up this travel day. During our journey we search for several species not seen in other parts of Ghana. These include Reichenbach’s and Mouse-Brown Sunbirds, White-browed Forest-Flycatcher, Orange Weaver, African Pygmy-Goose, Carmelite Sunbird, and Little Grebe to mention a few.

A visit to Brenu Akyinim and the coastal savannah plains gives us some new open-country species to enjoy. We arrive late afternoon, and this time Rainforest Lodge feels quite familiar and gives us a nice respite to reorganize ahead of the next section of our journey.
Accommodations at Rainforest Hotel near Kakum National Park (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Reichenbach’s and Brown Sunbirds, White-browed Forest-Flycatcher, Orange Weaver, African Pygmy Goose, Carmelite Sunbird, Little Grebe, Marsh Tchagra, Compact Weaver, Double-spurred Spurfowl, Oriole Warbler, Red-headed Quelea, Black-rumped Waxbill, Yellow-winged Pytilia, Wilsons Indigobird, Wattled Lapwing.

Tues.,  Mar. 11       Abrafo Forest & Yellow-headed Picathartes Nesting Site

Today is a special day, with opportunities to experience and support a unique cultural and conservation project as well as to do some superb birding. We check out of our hotel after an early breakfast and set off for Abrafo Forest, looking for species aligned with this habitat.

After breakfast, we set off, heading northwards with a local lunch en route before arriving at a remote village close to a small Upper Guinea Rainforest in the Ashanti Region of Ghana. To align the locals with this ecologically significant place, our host company donated the building of a small ecolodge, and all proceeds of our stay here go to support the local community. The small and simple birding lodge provides employment for farmers adjacent to habitat important to a special bird, the Yellow-headed Picathartes, also known as White-necked Rockfowl. Because of the lodge and visits by birders, locals are now invested in assuring healthy habitat and protection for this most unusual species. Along with a restaurant and school this tourism project now offers more than 300 children access to education.

Travel with Naturalist Journeys to Ghana means you are also helping a local organization to protect the Yellow-headed Picathartes forest and all the wonderful wildlife that also call it home, as the project is funded from visits like ours. The project has created employment in the communities and also sponsors 24 community forest committee members from the surrounding villages to patrol and stop illegal hunting and logging activities in the forest reserve. The long-term goal is to get the reserve status, currently slated for timber concessions, converted to land protected as a sustainable eco-tourism project. We visit a colony either this afternoon or tomorrow morning, based on the advice of our guides and local trackers.  

There are 12 active Yellow-headed Picathartes nesting sites in this forest, and we visit one of the largest colonies, home to approximately 30 nests, in a typical year 16 of these active. As we set off on the walk through this beautiful forest you can see why it is one of the must-see species in the world—the whole experience adds to this mythical bird’s reputation. The walk takes between 45 minutes to 1 hour depending on fitness levels. As we approach the nesting site, we need to be incredibly quiet as we take our seats on bamboo benches. The overhanging rock face and small cave with mud nests sets the atmosphere as we wait for the birds to come back from foraging for snails, frogs, and insects during the day. It is exciting to watch these legendary prehistoric looking birds hop and jump on the rocks while preening themselves just meters from our eyes (no scope needed).

Once we have enjoyed good views, we leave the birds in peace as we set off back through the forest to our accommodations and a wonderful celebratory meal. Staying in this remote local community is a definite highlight of our time together, meeting the locals and relaxing in this perfect setting. Having the facilities to stay here not only benefits the protection of this forest but also allows us to enjoy the other wonderful birds and wildlife that call it home. As always, there is the option to go for night birding before we settle down for the evening.
Accommodations at Picathartes Guesthouse, Bonkro (B,L,D)

Wed., Mar. 12      Bonkro Forest & Kwabena Sam Forest

Enjoy a more relaxed breakfast this morning, as we are so close to the forest. There are several trails we can enjoy; your guide determines which one we take based on the bird species we have already seen and species we still would like to see. This is the site of the extremely rare and difficult to see Ghana Cuckooshrike. And we keep eyes out for elusive Long-tailed and Tree Pangolins.

We return to camp for a well-deserved afternoon rest or choose to visit the school or head into the village to meet some of the locals. The local tour company’s relationship with these communities is excellent and we have the opportunity to join one of the families to see their cocoa farm or learn the process of gari (a granular flour made from cassava tubers) that is made here. The restaurant is always open, and we enjoy lunch before heading back out into the forest for afternoon and evening birding.

The nearby Kwabena Sam Forest is an excellent forest location to visit before we head on tomorrow for new terrain. Depending on which nocturnal species we still need we can also stay after dark looking for owls and nightjars.

Spend a final night in this remote community as we enjoy a wonderful evening meal, update the checklist, and relax at the restaurant.
Accommodations at Picathartes Guesthouse, Bonkro (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: White-crested and Black Dwarf Hornbill, Gray-headed and Red-tailed Bristlebill, Rufous-sided Broadbill, Fire-bellied Woodpecker, Yellow-throated and Thick-billed Cuckoo, Forest Scimitarbill, Blue Cuckooshrike, Sharpe’s Apalis, Black-and-white Shrike-flycatcher, Gray-throated Tit-Flycatcher, Long-tailed Hawk, Congo Serpent-Eagle, Ghana Cuckooshrike, White-browed Forest-Flycatcher, Yellow-browed and Olive-green Camaropteras, Western Nicator, Puvel’s Illadopsis, Tit-hylia, Yellow-billed and Hairy-breasted Barbets, Green Crombec, Kemp’s Longbill, Black-capped Apalis, Blue-headed Crested-Flycatcher, West African Wattle-eye, Red-cheeked Wattle-eye, Black-throated Coucal, and Bronze-naped Pigeon

Thurs., Mar. 13      Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary | Noda

There is optional early morning birding at the nearby forest if some wish to do a bit more birding before we leave to our next site. After breakfast, we pack up and head back into the Upper Guinea Rainforest habitat where so many of Ghana’s sought-after special species are found. We were in this type of habitat earlier in the trip at Atewa, and now have the chance to explore its riches again. 

Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary protects almost 500 species of butterfly, as well as a trove of birds. This morning we hope to see Tit- and Green Hylias, Black-throated Coucal, both Grey and Red-fronted Parrots, the much sought-after Yellow-footed Honeyguide, and Red-billed Dwarf and Africa’s rarest, Black Dwarf Hornbill, amongst other species.

Walking the entrance road is like visiting a fairyland, with tall trees arching over the road. We stop at several small clearings to listen, look, and scan. The plant life is fascinating and if it’s sunny, butterflies abound. We have the full morning to walk this road and wander on one or more of the trails and we enjoy a picnic lunch on site. We can spend as much of the afternoon as we wish here, for our accommodations at a guest house tonight in Noda are just ten minutes from the sanctuary. 
Accommodations at a Guest House in Noda (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Tit- and Green Hylias, Magpie Mannikin, Narina Trogon, Red-billed Dwarf and Black Dwarf Hornbills, African Grey and Brown-necked Parrots, Purple-throated Cuckooshrike, Black-throated Coucal, Golden-backed Weaver, African Piculet, Red-chested Owlet, Dusky Tit, Blue-headed Crested-Flycatcher, Yellow-billed Barbet, Gray-headed and Red-tailed Bristlebills, Yellow-footed Honeyguide, Black-necked, Maxwell’s Black, Compact, and Grosbeak Weavers, Whistling Cisticola, Black-crowned and Marsh Tchagras, African Emerald, Klaas’s, Levaillant’s, and Yellow-throated Cuckoos, Black-headed Paradise-Flycatcher, Western Bluebill, Tessmann’s Flycatcher, Baumann’s Greenbul, and Bat Hawk

Fri.,  Mar. 14     Noda to Mole National Park

After an early breakfast we set off northwards towards Mole National Park. Today is mainly a travel day but we can expect to see different species of birds as we head northwards and the habitat changes to the drier broad-leaved Guinea woodland and savannah. Your guides keep an eye open for the many raptors we hope to see during our regular leg stretch stops, including Beaudouin’s Snake- and Long-crested Eagles, Grasshopper Buzzard, Yellow-billed Kite, and Shikra. 

We take a detour along the way to search for a most elegant species, the Egyptian Plover. This most sought-after species has reliably (in recent years) been found along the White Volta River. Due to the importance of this species, which has recently been placed in a family of its own, we dedicate time to try to find it, contacting a local villager keen to help us out. With luck, we can enjoy watching and photographing this species in flight and walking along the sandy banks of the river. During our time here, we look for any other species coming and going before resuming our drive north. 

Returning to the main road, we continue our journey to Mole, which is Ghana’s largest national park, protecting an area of 1870 square miles of habitat, with almost 100 species of mammal and 330+ species of birds. This has a decidedly African feel to it and provides our best chance to see some of the large mammals. Warthogs often graze on the grounds as we enter the park, along with Green Vervet and Patas Monkeys. This park is our grand finale stop, very different from the other locations we’ve been, and here a wonderful lodge awaits. 

Zaina Lodge ranks high in creature comforts, a bit of luxury in the wilderness. It is situated on a 820 foot-high escarpment overlooking the park, offering breathtaking views. It is an amazing feeling to be sitting around the infinity pool on the hotel terrace watching Bushbuck or possibly African Elephants bathing in the two nearby watering holes inhabited by crocodiles below. 
Accommodations at Zaina Lodge, Mole National Park (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Beaudouin’s Snake- and Long-crested Eagles, Grasshopper Buzzard, Yellow-billed Kite, Shikra, Standard-winged Nightjar, Grayish Eagle-Owl, and Northern White-faced Owl. Along the Volta River, Egyptian Plover. 

Sat., Mar. 15 & Sun., Mar. 16      Mole National Park

Mole National Park is a nature lover’s paradise, and we are in for a real treat over the next two days as we immerse ourselves into the exceptional West African birds and mammals found here. We set off after breakfast walking and driving deeper into this national park, with our expert guides directing us to all locations for species we hope to see.

Mammals are in abundance here in Mole and we hope to see Ugandan Kob, Bushbuck, Waterbuck, Hartebeest, and the beautiful Roan Antelope in addition to getting within close range to Africa’s largest land mammal, the African Elephant. Green Vervet and Patas Monkeys greet us in the bush as we enjoy our morning walks.

During the heat of the midday sun, enjoy a siesta or relax around the pool after lunch. Set off for afternoon birding around 3:00 PM and stay after dark for nocturnal species. Raptors are common here in Mole and we hope to see Martial, Booted, Long-crested, Tawny, African Fish-, and Wahlberg’s Eagles, and Brown and Short-toed Snake-Eagles to mention a few. Key species of birds not easily seen in other parts of the world include Forbes’s Plover, possible Pel’s Fishing-Owl, African Spotted Creeper, and Rufous-rumped Lark.

Our evenings are spent at our hotel enjoying the atmosphere of being so close to nature. This is a beautiful lodge to indulge a bit in as our journey comes to an end. One evening, after our evening meal, we set off for an evening of birding around the Mole Airstrip where we hope to see displaying Standard-winged Nightjar. The airstrip is also productive for owls and we look for Grayish Eagle-Owl and Northern White-faced Owl.
Accommodations at the beautiful Zaina Lodge, Mole National Park (B,L,D)

Possible Birding Highlights: Red-cheeked Cordonbleu, Scarlet-chested, Beautiful, Pygmy and Western Violet-backed Sunbirds, Lavender and Orange-cheeked Waxbills, Familiar Chat, White-fronted Black-Chat, Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-Weaver, Red-headed Quelea, Red-billed, Bar-breasted and Black-bellied Firefinch, Fine-spotted, African Gray, Golden-tailed and Brown-backed Woodpeckers, Violet-backed, Long-tailed Glossy, Bronze-tailed, Lesser Blue-eared and Greater Blue-eared Starlings, Abyssinian Ground-, African Gray, and Northern Red-billed Hornbills, Stone Partridge, Double-spurred and Ahanta Spurfowl, White-throated Francolin, Senegal Eremomela, Exclamatory Paradise-,Togo Paradise-, and Pin-Tailed Whydahs, Sahel Bush Sparrow, Little, Heuglins Masked-, Village, and Red-headed Weavers, Melodious and Willow Warblers, Brubru, Thick-billed, African, Black, and Great Spotted Cuckoos, Fork-tailed and Square-tailed Drongos, Northern Puffback, White-shouldered Black-Tit

  • Pool Views at Zaina Lodge

  • Diana Monkey, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Diana Monkey

  • Hammerkop, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Hammerkop

  • Dinner Views at Zaina Lodge

  • Elephant roaming Zaina Lodge

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Zaina Lodge Tented Chalet

  • Long-tailed Pangolin, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Long-tailed Pangolin courtesy of Ashanti African Tours

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Ghana Canopy Walk

  • Shining Blue Kingfisher, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Shining Blue Kingfisher by Willie de Vries

  • Mole National Park, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Mole National Park

  • Palm-nut Vulture, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Palm-nut Vulture

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Pool Area at Zaina Lodge

  • Roan Antelope, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Roan Antelope

  • Piping Hornbill, Ghana Nature Tour, West Africa, African Safari, Ghana Birds, Birdwatching, Guided Nature Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism

    Piping Hornbill

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Tented Chalet at Zaina Lodge

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Zaina Lodge View

  • Long-tailed Pangolin, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Long-tailed Pangolin courtesy of Ashanti African Tours

  • Nkulengu Rail, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Nkulengu Rail (Photo credit Lucas Lombardo)

  • Blue-moustached Bee-eater, Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Blue-moustached Bee-eater by Lucas Lombardo

  • Birding Ghana, Bird watching Ghana, Africa, African Birds, Naturalist Journeys, Wildlife Tour, Wildlife Photography, Ecotourism, Specialty Birds, Endemic Birds, Birding Hotspot, Safari

    Pool Views at Zaina Lodge

Cost of the Journey

Cost of this 18-Day / 17-Night Ghana birding tour is per person, based on occupancy: $6590 DBL / $7685 SGL. This cost includes accommodations for 17 nights, internal flight from Mole National Park to Accra, all meals as specified in the itinerary, professional guide services, transportation during the tour, other park and program entrance fees and miscellaneous program expenses. Tour cost do not include: transportation from your home city to Accra, optional activities such as the early arrival cultural tour, or items of a personal nature such as laundry, telephone charges, gratuities for guides, lodges and drivers, or beverages from the bar.

Travel Details

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Kokota International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana

Arrival Details: Plan flights to arrive February 28, 2025, at your leisure, ideally in time to get rested up. Our official start is dinner this evening at 6:30 PM. If you wish to arrive early, we can help with hotel reservations.

Departure Details: Plan flights to depart March 17, 2025, after 7:30 PM. We fly back from Mole National Park this day and will arrive at the airport around 4:00 PM. If you wish to stay over and fly out the next day, we can help with hotel reservations.

Entry Requirements: See "Essential Information" section under the "Know Before You Go” tab.

 

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

Ghana

  • Paul Mensah—Ghana Expert

    Paul Mensah is an excellent birding and wildlife tour leader and has led many tours for international companies and private groups. Paul has an amazing ability to spot species in the most difficult habitat and he is also excellent at bird identification and knows all birds by song/call. An extremely popular leader with our clients, his professional attitude, logistical excellence and personable and social character are complemented by his calm leading style, enthusiasm and love of his work. His desire to always offer his best to clients ensures all his tours are highly productive and enjoyable. Paul lives near Kakum National Park and is always in the field researching species and new locations to find them. He is also one of our cultural tour guides as he loves sharing his exceptional knowledge of Ghana’s culture and history.

    Other trips with Paul Mensah—Ghana Expert

  • Washington Wachira — East Africa Expert

    Washington has been leading Wildlife and Birding Tours in Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda and Rwanda for many years. He has a taste for everything in nature, from the small to the big and everything in between. His education background is in Environmental Science (BSc.), Animal Ecology (MSc.) and Animal Ecology (PhD.). He has continued to enrich his knowledge through many trainings, including the Certificate course in Fundamentals of Ornithology and Certificate course on the Biology of Amphibians and Reptiles. He is a member of the Kenya Professional Safari Guides Association (KPSGA). He was awarded the African Sustainable Tourism Fellowship Award in 2016. He co-authored the Guidebook to the Birds of Dakatcha Woodland IBA. He wrote the first Checklists to the Birds of Eburu Forest; and the Birds of Kenyatta University. He founded the Kenyatta University Birding Club in 2014. Over the years, he has worked and interned with many organisations; including the Ornithology Section of the National Museums of Kenya and Giraffe Center. He previously served as the Manager for the Kenya Bird Map Project. He is a member of the Bird Committee of Nature Kenya, and chairs the National Bird of Kenya Sub-committee. He is the Chairperson of the East African Rarities Committee. He is a National Geographic Explorer, on his work with African Crowned Eagles. He is a passionate film maker, and released his first documentary, “Urban Crowns”, in 2017. He is also an experienced nature photographer and has won many awards, including First Position in the Underwater Category of the 2016 East African Wild Life Photo Competition. He is a featured photographer in the ON THE ROAD INITIATIVE by NIKON. He is also a member of the African Primatological Consortium for Conservation. He is a former Chairperson of the Kenya Herpetofauna Working Group. He is also a TED Speaker, and gave a TED Talk titled “For the love of birds” in 2017. Washington has also discovered a lizard species new to Science (year 2021), which was named after his second name (Agama wachirai).

    Other trips with Washington Wachira — East Africa Expert

Map for Ghana: West Africa's Brilliant Biodiversity

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have Read more

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of Your Tour

  • Make sure your U.S. passport is valid for at least six months AFTER your scheduled return to the U.S. Your passport should have the required number of blank pages per stamp. If you are from another country, please contact the Tanzania embassy website for guidelines.
  • Obtain your VISA for Ghana. For information about obtaining a visa, which is required, visit the Embassy of Ghana website.
  • Please check current CDC recommendations for travel to Ghana and consult with your doctor about general travel vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel. Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required upon arrival in Ghana for anyone over nine months of age. Locate and bring your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, or if you have not been vaccinated, or do not have proof, obtain that vaccination. Obtain an anti-malarial prescription to prevent Malaria. See the “General Health and Inoculations” section below for details.
  • Make your international flight reservations to Accra’s Kotoka International Airport (ACC). Please wait to make reservations until you have received notice from Naturalist Journeys that the tour is confirmed, then send a copy of your itinerary to the Naturalist Journeys office clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com.

Arrival into Kotoka International Airport (ACC), Accra

Plan to arrive in Accra at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in time for a welcome dinner. Most flights from the USA originate one or two days earlier. If you would like to arrive early, please inform the Naturalist Journeys office - we can help you book additional nights at our hotel (additional cost). And please ask to be connected with our travel agent if you would like help booking your flights; we’ll pay her ticketing fee.

NOTE ON TANZANIA SOUTH TOUR: If you plan to pair this tour with Naturalist Journeys’ Tanzania South tour, plan to overnight in Dar es Salaam on October 5 and fly to Accra on October 6.

Our in-country operator for Ghana is Ashanti African Tours, a highly respected nature and birding company in the region. Their representatives will meet all incoming flights to Kotoka International Airport. If you plan to arrive before the tour start date, your flight will be met as well.

If you know you will be delayed, it will be helpful if you can contact Ashanti by email, text, WhatsApp or cell phone, or your USA guide Peg Abbott. Note that Peg will also be in transit, so the most efficient contact will be Ashanti. Airport greeters can track flights for changes so do not worry if you don’t have time to send a message. Once our office has flight details for the full group, we will send a list so you can see if any other group members are on your flight.

When you arrive in Accra, you will first pass through immigration. You will be given immigration forms to fill out on the plane or on arrival. Be sure to have your VISA and passport available. You will then collect your baggage at the baggage carousel indicated for your flight, and pass through customs where baggage is X-rayed. Masks are recommended in the Airport Terminal.

Once OUTSIDE of immigration and customs, look for the Ashanti African Tours representative who will be holding a sign with Naturalist Journeys Group or your name on it. If you do not see someone, wait a few minutes as traffic can cause delays around the airport, then contact Ashanti. They are VERY RELIABLE and barring some unforeseen situation, they will be there! If your cell does not work in Tanzania, ask airport personnel for assistance.

There should be an ATM at the airport to change money if you wish to do so (see MONEY section below).

Please check the Travel Details tab of this tour for additional information and updates.

Departure from Kotoka International Airport (ACC), Accra

Please plan your departing flight from Accra after 9 PM on the last day of the tour. If you need an additional night’s hotel room because your flight departs the next day, the Naturalist Journeys office can assist with that booking. Transfers to the airport will be provided for all flights.

Please check the Travel Details tab of this tour for additional information and updates.

Passports, Visas & Documents

Guidelines and regulations can change and compliance is the traveler's responsibility. It is always advisable to double-check the country’s documentation requirements 60-90 days ahead of traveling. Information for U.S. citizens can be found at: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Ghana.html. If you are from another country, please contact the Ghana embassy website for guidelines.

Passport: You must have a passport that is in good condition and is valid for at least six months AFTER your scheduled return to the U.S. Please check the expiration date! You should have at least one blank page per stamp. The blank pages need to say “Visas” at the top. Pages marked “Amendments and Endorsements” will not be accepted. 

Visa: An Ordinary/Tourist Visa is required for U.S. travelers to Ghana, and must be completed online at www.ghanaembassydc.org. Please check online for current regulations and to fully understand when to apply, as visas have a specific validity period. All visas and fees are subject to change. Following are details you may need for the application:

Ghana - in-country partner is:

  • Ashanti African Tours, Cape Coast, Ghana
  • +233 (0) 24528 9736

The first night hotel is:

  • Erata Hotel
  • Ouagadougou Ave, Accra, Ghana
  • Tel: (+233) 544-336761 | Email: info@eratahotel.com

Online Procedure:

  • Visit the website, www.ghanaembassydc.org , click on APPLICATIONS, and click on Visa Application to complete the form.
  • After completing the visa application, download and print the application.
  • Mail the passport with the printed copy of the visa application, one (1) current passport size photographs and all the required supporting documents to the Embassy.
    Your package should be mailed to either one of the following addresses (regular or expedited service)
    • Embassy of Ghana
    • Consular Section (Expedited)
    • 3512 International Dr. NW
    • Washington, DC 20008

    • Embassy of Ghana
    • Consular Section (Regular)
    • 3512 International Dr. NW
    • Washington, DC 20008

NOTE: Visas will not be issued in passports which will expire in less than six (6) months.

Passport and Visa application fees are non-refundable whether your application is approved or not.

Return Mail Postage

  • All applicants must pay for the return postage service online. 
  • Payment for return postage is made online using debit or credit card. click to.
  • Applicants’ details must be used even if payment is being made by a third party.
  • Self-addressed prepaid return envelopes or prepaid FedEx return envelopes are not accepted.
  • Applicants are strongly advised to secure a visa before purchasing a ticket
  • All incomplete/missing documents will be returned to applicants at their own expense.
  • Print online payment receipt and add to your application before mailing
  • You may also use an expedited service, handy if you need your passport back quickly. When mailing your passport to the expediter be sure to send it certified or in some trackable manner such as FedEx.

We recommend leaving a color photocopy of the photo page of your passport at home, and carrying another copy of this with you on tour in your luggage. These copies can greatly expedite getting a new passport if necessary – though we hope everyone will keep their passport close at all times.

General Health & Inoculations Information – Be Prepared!

Health requirements for entry to any country can change. It is always advisable to double-check the country’s health requirements and recommendations 60-90 days ahead of traveling. A helpful website for planning is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website or by phone (800) CDC-INFO or (800) 232-4636.

Vaccinations: Going to Africa requires a higher level of medical caution. Bring copies of your up-to-date vaccination records with you. The CDC recommends that all travelers be up to date with routine vaccinations and basic travel vaccines (such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid, etc.) Please check current CDC recommendations for travel to your tour destinaton and consult with your doctor about vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel at least 4-6 weeks before departing on your trip (in case there are any that require followup inoculations or time to become effective). 

Yellow fever: Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry into Ghana for all travelers ≥9 months old. You must present your certificate of vaccination upon entry.

Malaria: You will need medication to prevent malaria in Ghana. Prevention is essential no matter what level of risk. While consulting with your doctor about travel vaccinations, be sure to ask about which anti-malarial medication is best for you (see choosing a drug to prevent malaria). You will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. 

Prescriptions: It is a good idea to pack any meds you take regularly in your carry-on luggage.  Bring an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses. Bring an adequate supply of any prescription medications you use, a copy of the prescription and a list of generic names of your medicines as “back-up” in case it is necessary to purchase drugs while abroad. You’ll want to keep medications in their original, labeled containers. 

Allergies: To be prepared for environmental triggers to allergies or breathing difficulties, please bring your allergy and/or asthma medication(s).  If you have severe allergies talk to your doctor about carrying an EPI-PEN and notify your guides. It is also recommended to carry with you an up-to-date record of known allergies, chronic medical problems and Medic Alerts so that, if necessary, emergency treatment can be carried out without endangering your health.

Common Ailments: We recommend that you bring a travel-sized first aid kit and a supply of standard over-the-counter medications for prevention or treatment of common ailments (such as diarrhea, constipation, stomach upset, cough, congestion, head or body aches, motion sickness, insect bites and sunburn); as well as ointments, moisturizer, sunscreen, oral rehydration salts, band-aids, moleskin for blisters, cotton swabs, nail clippers, and tweezers, etc.

Weather & Climate

In Ghana, the climate is tropical, with a dry season in winter and a rainy season in summer due to the African monsoon. Temperatures will be warm to hot and very humid with typical day time temperatures fluctuating between low-70’ to low-90’s°F. It will be drier and hotter in the north, and more humid in the south, particularly around Accra. The temperature can drop at night, especially in the north, but not usually below 88°F. Rain is likely during the trip.

Annoyances & Hazards

Mosquitoes, ticks and sand flies pose a medical concern, with African tick-bite fever, chikungunya, dengue and Leismaniasis present. A supply of insect repellent containing at least 20% DEET is essential. There can also be poisonous snakes and other insects, though encountering them is rare. Do listen carefully to any advice given by your local guide. And remember, the sun is strong so dress accordingly and bring protection from sunburn.

Food & Drinks

A wide variety of food will be available, with choices to accommodate most dietary requirements. You will find good variety, often buffet-style at the larger lodges and family-style at our tented camps.

In general, the recommendation in Ghana is to drink only boiled, filtered, chemically disinfected, or bottled water and eat only peeled or cooked fruits and vegetables. The CDC does NOT consider tap water in Ghana safe to drink. However, after decades of serving tourists, all the lodges now purify their kitchen water, so you can have ice and filtered water with meals. And there should be several locations where you can enjoy carefully prepared salad greens. For your safari tents and rooms there should be bottled water, and we carry bottled water in the vans. We follow our guide’s advice if we need clarification at any location (or be more cautious if you wish, but not less so). For everyone, a round of antibiotics such as Cipro (or whatever your doctor recommends) is good to have with you should you have stomach ailment or distress. When trying any fresh foods, eat sparingly and see how it goes. If you start to have problems, medicate right away rather than wait for the issues to clear up – catching these problems early is key.

We urge you to use only bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. We will also bring purification filters you can use to refill bottles when possible, to cut down on use of plastics. Water bottles with filters are great for travel - a Water-to-Go water purification filter bottle will remove 99.9% of contaminates, bacteria, and viruses and is sold on Amazon for about $40. Another option is a Steri Pen that uses UV to purify in seconds. Your guide will bring one and can share, but you may feel most confident by having your own.

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

Our larger lodges have a pool so pack a bathing suit if you enjoy a swim. Casual clothing is acceptable at all lodges, including at meals. A covered shoe with some tread should suffice for shorter walks and around the lodges. Sandals are fine for the vehicles. If you tend to get sunburned, sandals that can accommodate light socks are a smart choice. The lodges will do your laundry at a nominal charge.

Please, pack light, with the goal of bringing one soft-sided duffel bag and one carry-on bag. And please do not pack any essential medications, or your vital optics, in your checked luggage!

Spending Money

U.S. dollars are accepted in larger cities and your hotels and lodges should take them; however, we do recommend obtaining local currency for most purchases and tips as those working in the tourism service industry are required to accept only cedi as payment. You will need cash in villages if you would like to buy handicrafts.

Credit cards are not as commonly accepted in rural areas. and credit card fraud is an ongoing risk in Ghana, so it is advised to use your cards primarily at ATMs from major banks in big cities or airports. Even if you do not intend on using a credit card during your trip, we still recommend you bring one or two as backup. If possible, have more than one card available, in more than one brand (Visa and less frequently Mastercard are accepted, American Express much less often) as not every shop will accept every card. Please advise your bank or credit card company that you will be traveling to Tanzania to avoid questions, card freezes, or charges.

The Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) is the basic unit of currency in Tanzania. One cedi is divided into one hundred pesewas (Gp). If you choose to get local currency, it is easiest through an ATM. For the current exchange rate, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com or your bank. When using an ATM to withdraw cash, keep in mind there are often transaction fees for withdrawals. Check the fee schedule with your bank before departure, and be sure you know your PIN number. Hotels and lodges may also change money. Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted and can be difficult to exchange. We do not advise you that you bring them.

Many people ask how much money to plan to bring for spending money. Part of that depends on how much you want to shop. Typical items people purchase include local souvenirs and T-shirts, carvings, beads, textiles, artwork, drinks before or with dinner, maps, and natural history books.

Gratuities

Tipping throughout the tour is at your discretion. Some guidelines follow. At larger (mostly city) hotels, tip maids and bar service as you would at home. At eco-lodges, there is typically a staff tip box in a public area; the going rate per person is $6-$10 a day, which is shared among staff for maid service, and general staff service at the lodges. Gratuities for group meals are already included. Your Naturalist Journeys host will take care of smaller tips such field trip services by boat drivers, night drive outings, single activities. Your additional tip is encouraged for birding tour guides and drivers who are with you for several days or the full trip; $10-$15 per day per guest is standard for guide service, and half that for a driver. If you have more than one local guide at a location, they will share the daily amount. We encourage tipping for the local teams hosting you; anything extra for your Naturalist Journeys host is at your discretion.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

Your guide is well connected and can help if any urgent communication need arises. However, it is highly recommended that you travel with a cell phone, if only as a precaution for the unfortunate occurrence of a medical emergency during an outing and needing swift accessibility to critical personal or medical contacts. 

You can make international calls from most of our lodges, except the very remote tented camps. Our guides also carry a cell phone and, if necessary, for a short call, will help you if you cannot call from the lodge. The country code for the USA is “1.”

Note that throughout Africa, reliable mobile service is mostly available in the larger cities or towns. If you plan on using your cell phone on this trip, please check with your wireless provider to see if your phone and service will work in your destination country. Options include activating international roaming, purchasing a local SIM card at the airport (newer phones may not accept SIM cards), or simply turning off cellular service and relying on Wi-Fi to make calls and access the internet. Consider downloading smart phone apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Viber to send text messages, and make voice calls, or video calls via Wi-Fi. Renting an international phone may also be an option.

Your hotels and most local restaurants provide Wi-Fi at least in their common areas. Although it is generally a reliable service, it can be affected by adverse weather conditions in more remote locations and is not available in more remote safari camps. If you plan to bring a laptop or tablet, get a good dustcover to protect it at all times.

If you plan NOT to use your cell phone, we highly recommend that you turn off your cellular data. This will ensure that you do not incur international roaming charges. Another technique is to put your phone in airplane mode when not connected to WIFI, you can still use it for photos and the battery will last longer too.

Please refrain from taking or making cell phone calls in vehicles when traveling with other passengers, unless it is an emergency.

Electricity

Electricity in Ghana is 230 Volts and the frequency is 50 Hz. If you travel to Tanzania with a device that does not accept 230 Volts at 50 Hertz, you will need a voltage converter. Most modern appliances now convert for you but check that your cord is labeled to do so.

Outlets in Ghana generally accept 2 types of plugs:

  • Three round pins arranged in a triangle, Type D
  • Two parallel flat pins with ground pin, Type G

If your appliance plug has a different shape, you may need a plug adapter. More information can be found at www.power-plugs-sockets.com Note: If you want to charge your laptop for the plane trip home, and have a layover in Europe or South Africa, you will need a European plug adapter as well.

At our remote lodges, a generator supplies electricity, and it may only run during limited hours. You might want to bring 2 batteries for items like cameras, so you can use one while the other is charging. Throughout the night, a continuous electricity supply is not always guaranteed.

Time

Ghana is on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), and Daylight Savings Time is not observed. A great website for someone to check before calling you is www.timeanddate.com.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone at our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey!

Pace & Protocols +

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of Read more

Pace of the Tour & What to Expect

You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of hotels (our eContact List) a few weeks before your departure. This will serve as an outline for each day and alert you to any recent changes made in the schedule or to our hotels, if needed.

Our journeys are set up to follow the rhythm of nature. Our focus is on birding and nature; we offer full, well-planned field days and often get up early for that magical time around dawn. We generally follow the published itinerary, but we stay flexible to the weather, wildlife opportunities and the interests of the group. Your guide will keep you apprised of the next day’s schedule at each evening meal, noting what to bring and what to prepare for. Questions and/or concerns are welcome.

The pace of our Naturalist Journeys tours is moderate; to fully participate you should be able to get in and out of vehicles several times a day, and walk 1-3 miles over uneven terrain. It is important to participate with a flexible attitude as adjustments may be made in our schedule to make the most of our time in the field or for other purposes at your guide's discretion. We are not a “listing” bird company that drills down on target species, but at times we do wait for those special species unique to the places we visit. During the day, we take time to stop for photos and for educational opportunities to learn about conservation projects, landscapes, and geology. We appreciate other taxa as well as birds, with mammals often the biggest draw but plants and butterflies are also very popular. Our clients often lend their own expertise to the mix.

We like to make meals a fun and memorable part of the experience, too. Breakfasts are often at hotels, and we carry snacks, fruit, and water in the vans each day. Lunches are a mix of picnics in the field (weather dependent) and a chance to dine with locals at small cafes and restaurants. For dinner, we pride ourselves in our homework to keep up with the best choices for dining, choosing restaurants with atmosphere that specialize in local foods. On occasion we keep dinner simple to go back out in the field for sunset wildlife viewing or night walks. In some remote locations, our choices are limited. If you are tired, room service for dinner may be an option you can choose.

Naturalist Journeys International Trips: Guide Role

Naturalist Journeys supports ecotourism and the development of excellent local guides. Once we know our international partners and guides well, we can send out small groups working directly with these trusted partners, adding a Naturalist Journeys guide to assist the local expert when we have a group of 6-7 or more. This helps us keep your costs down while retaining tour quality. The local guide is your main guide. You can expect your Naturalist Journeys guide to be well-researched and often they are experienced in the destination, but their role is not to be primary, it is to help to organize logistics, help you find birds, mammals, and interesting other species in the field, keep reports, help facilitate group interactions, and to keep the trip within Naturalist Journeys' style. Local guides live in the countries we travel to, know the destinations intimately, and are often the strongest force for conservation in their countries. They open many doors for us to have a rich experience.

Smoking

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Please respect all designated smoking areas at hotels and restaurants.

Transportation

As a courtesy to each other, we ask that all travelers please rotate seating. On international trips we may all be in one small bus, on some trips we are in vans, particularly the roomy Sprinter Vans when available. Some areas require us to be in smaller 4-wheel drive or safari vehicles. Rotation allows you to sit with different drivers and alternate front and back seating.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and will share photos with the group. And after your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos. Please note that this is our policy and if you prefer to be excluded, we need to know ahead of your tour.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representatives’ permission to record on photography film and/or video, pictures of my participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Travel Insurance

You are traveling in remote areas. Naturalist Journeys strongly recommends you have full medical and evacuation insurance from a company such as Allianz, for all international travel. If you do not have medical coverage or evacuation coverage on your existing travel insurance policy or for some reason elected not to take that out, we advise getting an evacuation plan with Global RescueWorld Nomads, Medjet, Allianz (they can do evacuation only) or a similar company. These plans are typically $300-$400 for a year for multiple destinations. This coverage may be a part of a larger Travel Insurance policy but can also be purchased on its own.

Questions?

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at clientservices@naturalistjourneys.com or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey.

 

Packing List +

Please Pack Light! Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid Read more

Please Pack Light!

Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use soft luggage.  Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on a luggage tag on the handle.  And please pack in one checked suitcase that does not exceed 45 pounds – if it can be less, wonderful!  Be sure to place your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your carry-on bag. You will want a day pack for field trips – this also makes an ideal carry-on. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

In Ghana, the climate is tropical. Temperatures will be warm to hot and very humid with typical day time temperatures fluctuating between low-70’ to low-90’s°F. It will be drier and hotter in the north, and more humid in the south, particularly around Accra.  The temperature can drop at night, especially in the north, but not usually below 88F. Rain is likely during the trip. Check your favorite weather website, such as www.climatestotravel.com, close to departure for the most accurate predictions.

Dress is comfortable and informal throughout the trip. Dressing in layers is the best way to be comfortable. Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants make ideal field clothing as they are more protective from sun and vegetation. But if you like to wear them, by all means bring shorts.  Also, choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy and things that are comfortable and easy. Dust is very common, so a bandana or loose-fitting scarf can be useful to cover your mouth or to drape over your camera as you travel. On safari we SIT a lot, so bring comfortable pants – we suggest loose-fitting LIGHTWEIGHT pants or sweatpants, especially on those hot days.

Note on clothing colors and insect repellent: We recommend muted colors of tan, brown, khaki, grey or green while on safari, as they are spotted less easily than white or bright colors. I

It is possible to purchase field clothing permeated with insect repellent such as the Craghoppers Insect Shield Clothing collection. Another approach is to purchase Permethrin spray (online or from REI) to treat your field clothing and socks before your departure.

Clothing & Gear

  • Lightweight long pants, 2 pair
  • Lightweight long-sleeved shirts – 2 or 3
  • Safari shorts / skirts or sundress (optional)
  • T-shirts or equivalent (remember you may buy some there!)
  • Personal underclothing (consider items that dry quickly if you plan to do laundry)
  • Sleepwear
  • Socks – lightweight and easy to wash and dry
  • Comfortable walking/hiking shoes with thorn-proof tread (such as tennis shoes) or lightweight hiking boots.
  • Comfortable sandals or light shoes for evenings, travel days (optional)
  • Lightweight raincoat or poncho
  • Lightweight windbreaker and lightweight jacket; fleece fabric is ideal
  • Comfortable clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field clothes or a skirt, sundress, etc.)
  • Bathing suit (some of the lodges have pools)
  • Hat with broad brim – a safari style hat with a tie-down is great for vehicle time
  • Bandana (optional
  • Field vest (optional), a great source is Big Pockets
  • Belt, if needed, for pants

Equipment & Miscellaneous

  • E-ticket verification
  • Passport, visa (if required), travel insurance info, money & credit cards.
  • A secure pouch to carry the items above on your person at all times (such as a secure, under-clothing document pouch)
  • As a backup: copies of all the above (phone and/or paper) packed in a separate location than on your person, plus a set given to your emergency contact at home as a backup. For passport, copy of the  ID and entry stamp pages.
  • Small daypack to carry field gear while hiking
  • Cell phone and charger
  • Binoculars
  • Camera and charger/extra batteries, memory cards/film, lens cleaning supplies and instruction manual (optional)
  • Spotting scope and tripod (optional – guide will have them)
  • Tablet/laptop for personal use and/or transferring photos, USB stick, USB cord and charger (optional). If bringing a laptop or tablet, bring a good dustcover to protect it at all times.
  • Adapters for three prong electronic equipment
  • Rechargeable power bank (optional)
  • Walking stick (optional but recommended if you regularly use one or if you plan to hike)
  • Umbrella – compact and not brightly colored (optional)
  • Flashlight or headlamp with fresh batteries (important – cabins/tents may be a distance from where we eat)
  • Alarm clock, or plan to use your phone
  • Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
  • Sunglasses with neck strap (really important with long days of bright sun)
  • Insect repellent (containing DEET)
  • Antibacterial hand-cleaning soap in small bottle; individually wrapped moist towelettes also come in handy.
  • Toiletry articles
  • Earplugs (optional)
  • Portable, rechargeable hand-held fan (optional)
  • Water bottle – one with built-in filter is ideal (can easily be bought in the airport and refilled daily)
  • Pocket knife (make sure this is in your CHECKED luggage) (optional)
  • Small sewing kit
  • Journal and pen or tablet/laptop (optional). If you bring a laptop, have a good way to carry it, and to keep it safe from the dust.
  • Laundry soap if you plan to do hand washing
  • Steri-Pen or other UV water treatment device to help cut down on the use of plastic bottles (optional)

 

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing - your mind will be at ease!

Medical & First Aid Items

  • Health Insurance information and vaccination records
  • Anti-malarial drugs
  • Emergency prescriptions. We recommend you ask your doctor about carrying a prescription for stomach and respiratory illness, just in case. Cipro is often recommended and works quickly – it can mean saving several days of functioning on your vacation.
  • Personal medication
  • Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on bus, van, drives, etc.
  • Personal first aid kit and medications for general ailments, cuts, and scrapes
  • Copy of eyeglass prescription, medical prescriptions, and any medical alerts
  • Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts
  • Band-aids, moleskin to protect against blisters
  • Antibacterial soap in small container for quick handwashing
  • Anti-itch cream or talc for feet (optional)

 

Suggested Reading List +

  There are many titles of interest for Ghana and West Africa in general; the following Read more

 

There are many titles of interest for Ghana and West Africa in general; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

Top Picks

Merlin Birding App and Ghana Bird Pack. The Cornell Lab. (Once you download the Merlin App to your phone, open the app, choose the “Bird Packs” option and download the pack for Ghana.)

Birds of Ghana

Birds of Western Africa

The Kingdon Pocket Guide to African Mammals

General Wildlife

Island Africa, The Evolution of Africa’s Rare Animals and Plants

Field Guides

The Birds of Ghana: An Atlas and Handbook

The Kingdon Guide to African Mammals

National Audubon Society Field Guide to African Wildlife

Primates of West Africa: A Field Guide and Natural History

Small Mammals of West Africa

Large Mammals of West Africa

Antelope of Africa

West African Butterflies and Moths

History & Culture

Ghana – Culture Smart! The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

The Ghana Reader: History, Culture, Politics

The History of Ghana

The Royal Kingdoms of Ghana, Mali, and Songhay: Life in Medieval Africa

Memoirs & Literature

My First Coup D’etat: And Other True Stories from the Lost Decades of Africa

Cloth Girl

Wife of the Gods: A Novel

Your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

 

Useful Links +

Learn more about your destination at these external websites, carefully researched for you. Read more

General

Ghana – Encyclopedic Overview

Fast Facts - Ghana

Accra

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

Overview of Birding in Ghana

Checklist to the birds of Ghana

African Bird Club

Nkulengu Rail

White-Necked Rockfowl (aka Yellow Headed Picathartes)

Egyptian Plover

Mammals of Ghana

Mammal Watching

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

Conservation of Yellow-headed Picathartes in Bonkro

Shai Hills Reserve

Kakum National Park

Ankasa Reserve

Mole National Park

Bobiri Butterfly Sanctuary

Atewa Range Forest Reserve

Geology & Geography

Geology of Ghana

Geography of Ghana

Environmental Impact of Illegal Gold Mining

History & Culture

Brief History of Ghana

Languages of Ghana

Ghana Culture and Food

Helpful Travel Websites

Kotoka International Airport (ACC)

U.S. Department of State International Travel Information - Ghana

National Passport Information Center

Homeland Security Real ID Act

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

Center for Disease Control (CDC) - Ghana

Canada Travel Advice and Advisories – Ghana

Travel Health Pro (UK) – Ghana

Foreign Exchange Rates

ATM Locator

Electricity and Plugs - Ghana

Date, Time, and Holidays - Ghana


Photo credits: Thumbnails: African Pygmy Kingfisher (NJ Stock), Swallow-tailed Bee-eater (NJ Stock), Squacco Heron (NJ Stock), Green Wood Hoopoe (NJ Stock), Saddle-billed Stork (NJ Stock), Abyssinian Roller (NJ Stock), Abyssinian Ground-Hornbill (NJ Stock), Black Bee-eaters (NJ Stock) Banners: Ghana Crocodile (NJ Stock), Naked-faced Barbet (NJ Stock), Violet Turaco (NJ Stock), Elephant (NJ Stock), Egyptian Plover (NJ Stock), White-necked Rockfowl (NJ Stock)

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