Things To Do
in Aburi
Aburi, Ghana sits on the Akuapem Hills about 25 miles northeast of Accra, known for its cooler climate and lush green landscapes. The town centers on botanical gardens, forest reserves, and craft markets that reflect a blend of Akan and Akuapem cultures. The surrounding slopes offer scenic viewpoints over the Volta Basin and the city, especially at sunrise and sunset.
Visitors come for nature, cool air, and easy access to day trips from Accra.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your journey with a visit to the Aburi Botanical Gardens, where you can immerse yourself in lush greenery and exotic plants. Walk along the winding paths and admire the diverse species of flowers and trees that flourish in this tranquil environment. Don't forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views from the high hills of the gardens.
After lunch at a local eatery, continue your exploration of the gardens or visit the nearby craft market to view and purchase handmade souvenirs. Engage with the local artisans and learn about their craft, which often includes intricate wood carvings and colorful textiles. Take some time to relax and soak in the beauty of nature before heading to your next destination.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful dinner at a restaurant overlooking the mountains. Try some traditional Ghanaian dishes, making sure to taste local favorites like jollof rice or banku. End your day under the stars, perhaps with a stroll through the quiet village streets.
Begin your day with a tour of the historic Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, where the cocoa beans that fuel Ghana's economy are grown. Learn about the cocoa production process and the significance of cocoa in Ghana's culture. Enjoy fresh cocoa juice straight from the farm and experience the lush landscape that aids in producing premium quality cocoa.
After you’ve explored the farm, engage in a chocolate-making workshop to get hands-on experience crafting your own confectionery. Discover the steps taken from bean to bar while indulging in the sweet creations you produce. Feel free to enjoy a picnic lunch among the vibrant plantation as you take in the serene surroundings.
Return to Aburi and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant where you can sample various dishes, complemented by refreshing palm wine. Share stories with fellow travelers and locals about your day at the cocoa farm. Conclude the evening at a cozy bar or café, participating in traditional music or dance performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse or budget hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🚗Local transport (short ride) | $1-4 |
| 🥗Groceries for a day | $6-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Cool climate and scenic hills near Accra
- Rich cultural experiences and craft markets
- Easy day trips from the capital
- Good photography and nature opportunities
- Limited nightlife and dining options in town itself
- Some areas have uneven roads
- Seasonal rainfall can affect hiking trails
- Smaller-scale services compared to Accra
- "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?
- "Medase." - Thank you.
- "Mepakyɛw, ɔboa me." - Please, could you help me?
- "Aane" - Yes
- "Dabi" - No
- "Ɛhe na ɛwɔ?" - Where is it?
Places to Visit in Aburi
Visit one of these nice places.
Lush formal gardens with colonial architecture, winding paths, and canopy shade ideal for portraits and nature shots.
Elevated vantage points over the lake and tree-covered hills, perfect for landscapes at golden hour.
Rolling hills and misty mornings provide dramatic hillside panoramas and village scenes.
Food in Aburi
Aburi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved rice and beans dish often served with meat, gari, and shito; widely found at local stalls and markets.
Must-Try!
Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and pepper sauce; common at roadside joints.
Starchy dumplings with a light meat or vegetable soup; found at chop bars and restaurants.
Spiced fried plantains, often sold by street vendors in the evenings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A local market with fresh produce, plantains, fish, and snacks; try fried plantains and beans.
Craft stalls often have ready-to-eat snacks and light bites near the shopping area.
Roasted corn, kebabs, kelewele, and fried snacks along the main roads.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet everyone you pass; a warm handshake or nod is typical, especially with elders.
Address elders with politeness and wait to be invited to sit or speak in conversation.
Don’t point feet at people or sacred places; remove shoes when entering homes or places of worship if invited.
Light, modest clothing is appropriate in towns and markets.
Safety
Tipping in Aburi
Ensure a smooth experience
In hotels and sit-down restaurants, a 5-10% tip is common if service is not included; small tips for taxi drivers and porters are appreciated.
Cash in Ghanaian cedi is widely accepted; mobile money (MTN Mobile Money, AirtelTigo) is common for small purchases; card payments are less common in markets and small eateries.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Clear skies and cooler evenings; great for outdoor photography and hill walks, with generally low humidity.
Frequent showers and lush greenery; trails can be slippery; best to carry a light rain jacket and waterproof bag.
Dry, dusty air with cooler mornings; visibility is good, with a unique dry-season atmosphere.
Aburi at Night
Hiking in Aburi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Ridgetop trails offering forest scenery, village life, and sweeping views toward the Volta Basin.
Shaded loops through cultivated and natural forest near the gardens.
Hilly routes around the Peduase area with viewpoints over the lake.
Airports
How to reach Aburi by plane.
Ghana’s main international gateway in Accra; about a 30–60 minute drive to Aburi depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Core population in the Akuapem Hills with distinct linguistic and cultural traditions.
A mix of local Ghanaians and travelers from across the country and abroad in hillside lodges and markets.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region and country; follow local leagues or watch street games.
Running and track events are common; opportunities to participate or watch at schools and clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aburi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ghanaian dishes can be made vegetarian by swapping meat broths with vegetables; request vegetarian options at chop bars or choose fruit, rice, beans, and vegetable stews.