Kakum National Park - Canopy Walkway & Rainforest
Kakum National Park is one of Ghana most popular natural attractions. The 350-metre canopy walkway, suspended 30 metres above the tropical rainforest floor, offers breathtaking views of the canopy and a chance to spot rare birds, butterflies, and forest elephants.
The Canopy Walkway
The canopy walkway consists of seven rope-and-plank bridges connecting tree platforms at a height of 30 metres (100 feet) above the forest floor. The total length is 350 metres. It is the only canopy walkway in West Africa.
- Height: 30 metres (100 feet) above the ground
- Length: 350 metres across seven bridges
- Difficulty: Moderate -- the bridges sway, and you need a head for heights
- Time needed: 1-2 hours for the walkway; 3-4 hours with forest trails
- Best time: Early morning (6-8am) for wildlife and fewer crowds
The walkway is safe and well-maintained. Guides accompany every group. Wear comfortable shoes with grip; avoid flip-flops. Carry water and insect repellent.
Wildlife & Nature
Kakum covers 375 square kilometres of tropical rainforest and is home to:
Animals
- Forest elephants (rare sightings)
- Diana monkeys
- Giant forest hogs
- Bongo antelopes
- Civets and genets
- Over 400 butterfly species
Birds (300+ species)
- African grey parrot
- Yellow-casqued hornbill
- White-breasted guineafowl
- Great blue turaco
- Guinea turaco
Visitor Information
| Location | 30km north of Cape Coast, Central Region |
| Hours | 6:00am - 5:00pm daily |
| Entry Fee | GHS 60 (adults), GHS 30 (students). Canopy walkway included. |
| Guide Fee | Included in entry (mandatory guided tours) |
| Getting There | 30-minute drive from Cape Coast. Taxis available; agree fare before departing. |
| Facilities | Visitor centre, gift shop, basic restaurant, toilets. Camping available with prior arrangement. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The walkway is built to international safety standards and regularly inspected. Trained guides accompany every group. The bridges have rope railings and plank flooring. However, they do sway, so it may not be suitable for those with severe fear of heights.
Forest elephants live in Kakum but sightings are extremely rare due to the dense forest. Your best chance is on a night walk or early morning trek. You are more likely to hear them or see their tracks.
Drive or take a bus to Cape Coast (3-4 hours), then a 30-minute taxi ride north to the park. Many tour operators offer combined Cape Coast Castle and Kakum day trips from Accra.