Ghana’s Natural Treasures: A Guide to Exploring Shai Hills and Owabi Sanctuary

Ghana is home to a remarkable collection of protected natural areas, each offering a unique window into the country’s rich biodiversity and history. Among these, the Shai Hills Resource Reserve near Accra and the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary near Kumasi stand out as premier destinations for nature lovers, adventurers, and birdwatchers alike. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know for exploring Shai Hills and Owabi Sanctuary in Ghana, drawing on visitor experiences and ecological research to help you plan your perfect trip.

Shai Hills Resource Reserve: A Rugged Adventure Near Accra

Located just a short drive from the capital city, Shai Hills Resource Reserve offers a dramatic landscape of rocky outcrops, open savannah, and forested areas. It’s a popular spot for day trips and, more recently, unique overnight stays.

Key Activities and Day Trip Highlights

A visit to Shai Hills is an active experience, with a variety of activities to suit different fitness levels:

• Wildlife Viewing: The reserve is home to several animal species, including antelopes, baboons, and zebras. However, it’s important to note that the zebras are not native to Ghana and were introduced, a point of discussion regarding ethical tourism.
• Hiking and Rock Scrambling: Numerous trails wind through the reserve, leading to ancestral caves used by the Shai people. Hikes range from easy walks to more challenging climbs up the hills for panoramic views.
• Historical Context: Nearby, the Dodowa Forest holds historical significance as the site of the 1826 Kantamanso War, which marked a turning point in Asante influence on the Gold Coast.
• Tsenku Falls: A 45-minute hike can lead you to the seasonal Tsenku Falls, a beautiful cascade that is most impressive between June and November.

The Shai Hills “Glamping” Experience: An Honest Review

For those seeking an overnight adventure, Shai Hills offers a “glamping” (glamorous camping) experience in luxury tents. Based on visitor accounts, here’s what to expect:

• The Tents: The tents are surprisingly spacious and well-appointed, featuring a comfortable bed, a sitting area, a private bathroom with a tub, a microwave, and a fridge. The exterior includes a balcony for enjoying the natural surroundings.
• Booking and Cost: Booking is typically done via WhatsApp or email, with a 50% deposit required. The cost is approximately 750 GHS per night, which includes breakfast and a guided tour.
• Location & Access: The tents are located about a 40-minute drive from the main reception over very rough terrain. Visitors are advised to use a 4×4 vehicle or inquire about shuttle services, as smaller cars may struggle.
• Food & Electricity: Guests can order meals from nearby restaurants through the reserve or bring their own food. Electricity is generator-powered and typically runs from 6 PM to 8 AM, so bringing portable chargers is recommended.
• The Reality: While the setting is beautiful, visitors have reported challenges, including slow booking communication, issues with the generator, and encounters with wildlife (including rats getting into trash). It’s an experience for the adventurous who can adjust their expectations of “luxury.”

Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary: Kumasi’s Serene Birding Haven

As Ghana’s only inland Ramsar site (a wetland of international importance), the Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary offers a lush, tranquil escape centered around the Owabi Dam. For those on a Ghanaian nature tour, it provides a different, yet equally compelling, experience.

A Rich History and Vital Ecosystem

Established in 1962 to protect the Owabi Dam built in 1928, the sanctuary has evolved from farmland into a thriving secondary forest. It remains a critical water source for the city of Kumasi and serves as a vital habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna.

Top Attractions at Owabi

1. Exceptional Birdwatching: Owabi is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. A 2019 study identified 81 bird species across its habitats. The forest reserve area is the most diverse, hosting 46 species, including many forest specialists. The sanctuary is a hotspot for both resident and migratory birds, with over 160 species recorded in total.
2. The Bamboo Cathedral: A stunning natural archway formed by towering bamboo trees, this spot is perfect for picnics, relaxation, and photography.
3. The Owabi Dam and Lake: Visitors can take a canoe ride on the serene lake, offering a unique perspective of the dam and opportunities to spot waterbirds like herons and cormorants.
4. Wildlife Spotting: While more elusive than at Shai Hills, Owabi is home to Mona monkeys, bushbucks, pangolins, and various reptiles.
5. Scenic Hiking Trails: Well-marked trails named after forestry contributors guide you through towering silk cotton trees and other magnificent local flora.
6. Educational Focus: The sanctuary staff are dedicated to conservation education, ensuring visitors understand the importance of preserving the natural environment.

Shai Hills vs. Owabi Sanctuary: Which to Visit?

Choosing between these two reserves depends on your location and interests. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:

The Bigger Picture: Supporting Wildlife Conservation in Ghana

Both Shai Hills and Owabi are managed by the Wildlife Division of the Forestry Commission, whose primary goal is the protection of habitat and wildlife. However, these protected areas face challenges. Research shows that agricultural expansion and logging in the areas surrounding reserves like Ankasa and Bia are leading to forest fragmentation. This isolates wildlife populations and underscores the importance of well-managed sanctuaries. By visiting these parks responsibly, tourists contribute to the vital funding and awareness needed for wildlife conservation efforts in Ghana, helping to ensure these natural treasures are preserved for future generations.