Black History, Accra

Visit Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum & Memorial Park in downtown Accra, a tribute to Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, located at the site where he declared independence in 1957. After exploring the mausoleum and its peaceful design, enjoy a local lunch before heading to Osu Castle. This 17th-century fortress, once a hub for the slave trade, offers a sobering glimpse into Ghana’s history. Explore the dungeons and the "Door of No Return" before moving on to the Independence Arch, built in 1961 by Nkrumah to celebrate Ghana’s independence and honour the fallen soldiers. End your day with a delicious dinner of authentic Ghanaian cuisine at a local restaurant, reflecting on the historical significance of the sites you’ve visited.

First stop.... Aburi Botanical Gardens! located in the serene Akuapem Hills, just an hour’s drive north of Accra. This lush, peaceful escape offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area and is one of only five botanical gardens in Ghana. With its cool climate and beautiful landscape, it’s the perfect place to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquillity of the Eastern Region.

Immerse yourself in Ghanaian hospitality with a fun and interactive cooking class. Learn to prepare traditional Ghanaian dishes alongside a local chef, gaining insight into the rich flavours and techniques behind the country’s cuisine. After cooking and tasting a variety of meals, drinks, and desserts, you’ll leave with a recipe book to try your hand at Ghanaian cooking back home.

Today, will consist of a coach journey to Cape Coast, where you’ll visit the historic Cape Coast Castle, one of around 40 “slave castles” along the Ghanaian coast. Established by the Portuguese in 1555 and later used in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the castle offers a powerful and sobering insight into this dark chapter of history.

In the afternoon, continue your exploration with a visit to Elmina Castle, originally built by the Portuguese in 1482 as Castelo de São Jorge da Mina. This is the oldest European structure south of the Sahara and one of the most significant sites on the Atlantic slave trade route. The Dutch seized the castle in 1637, and it continued to play a major role in the slave trade until 1814. Both castles provide deep historical context and are pivotal sites for understanding the legacy of slavery.

Take a visit to the Ussher Fort Museum, located within the historic Ussher Fort in Accra. The museum, opened in 2007, offers an in-depth look at the history of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in Ghana. Through wall paintings and artefacts, the museum highlights the impact of the slave trade and the lives of those affected, making it a powerful and educational experience.

Enjoy some free time in Accra for last-minute sightseeing or souvenir shopping before your private transfer takes you to the airport for your evening flight back to the UK.