Nestled along Ghana’s eastern border with Togo, the Volta Region is a spectacular fusion of natural wonders and rich cultural heritage. Often called “Ghana’s microcosm,” this enchanting destination offers diaspora travelers an authentic experience that combines breathtaking landscapes with deep-rooted traditions.
From the tallest waterfall in West Africa to Ghana’s highest mountain, the Volta Region delivers adventure and cultural immersion in equal measure.
Must-Visit Natural Attractions
Wli Waterfalls (Agumatsa Falls)
Standing at approximately 80 meters (260 feet), Wli Waterfalls holds the distinction of being West Africa’s tallest waterfall. Located within the Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary near Hohoe, this natural wonder features two cascades: the easily accessible Lower Falls and the more challenging Upper Falls.
Best Time to Visit: The rainy season (April to October) showcases the falls at full force with dramatic water flow and occasional rainbows in the mist. The dry season (November to March) offers easier hiking conditions with pleasant weather, though reduced water flow.
Mount Afadjato (Afadja)
At 885 meters (2,904 feet) above sea level, Mount Afadjato claims the title of Ghana’s highest free-standing mountain. Located near Liati Wote village, this sacred peak offers one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in West Africa.
The summit rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views stretching across Lake Volta, neighbouring Togo, and the verdant valleys below. On clear days, the sight is truly spectacular, though visibility may be reduced during the Harmattan season (November to March).
Cultural Significance: The mountain’s name derives from the Ewe words meaning “at war with the bush,” reflecting the historical challenges faced by ancestors who first settled in the area. Local communities consider the mountain sacred, and guides share fascinating stories about its spiritual importance.
Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary
Established in 1993 as a pioneering community-based ecotourism project, Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to interact with sacred Mona monkeys and Patas monkeys in their natural forest habitat.
The Sacred Connection: For over 200 years, the monkeys have been protected by the Tafi Atome community, who believe they are messengers from the gods. This spiritual reverence has created a remarkable conservation success story where the monkey population has flourished alongside sustainable tourism development.
Visitor Experience: Guided nature walks through the reserved forest lead you to habituated monkeys that freely approach visitors. You can hand-feed them bananas while observing their playful behavior and social interactions. The sanctuary is home to numerous butterfly species, birds, and other forest wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon offer the best chances for
Cultural Festivals: Windows into Ewe Heritage
The Volta Region’s calendar brims with colorful festivals that celebrate agricultural harvests, historical migrations, and ancestral connections. These events provide diaspora travelers with profound insights into Ghanaian culture and traditions.
Hogbetsotso Festival (November)
Celebrated on the first Saturday of November at Anloga, this week-long festival commemorates the Anlo-Ewe people’s dramatic exodus from Notsie (in present-day Togo) under the tyrannical ruler Agorkoli. According to legend, the people escaped by walking backwards while drumming and dancing to war songs, confusing pursuers about their direction. The grand durbar features traditional chiefs in full regalia, powerful drumming ensembles, and community dances that bring history to life.
Te Za Yam Festival (September)
Held in Ho, this harvest celebration honors the yam crop’s importance to local agriculture and culture. The festival includes traditional performances, durbars with chiefs and community members, and opportunities to taste authentic Ewe cuisine featuring freshly harvested yams.
Agbamevorza Kente Festival (August/September)
The Agotime people, who claim to have introduced kente weaving to Ghana, celebrate their textile heritage with colorful parades and displays. The festival features kente-weaving competitions, the crowning of “Miss Agbamevor” (Miss Kente), and exhibitions of various kente patterns and designs.
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (November to March):
- Advantages: Pleasant hiking weather, easier trail conditions, major festivals
- Disadvantages: Reduced waterfall flow, Harmattan haze affecting mountain views
Rainy Season (April to October):
- Advantages: Waterfalls at peak flow, lush green landscapes, fewer crowds
- Disadvantages: Muddy trails, occasional heavy rainfall disrupting activities
What to Pack
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or athletic shoes with good treads
- Clothing: Light, breathable fabrics; long pants for Upper Falls hike; swimsuit and quick-dry towel
- Protection: Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, rain jacket
- Essentials: Reusable water bottle, waterproof bag for electronics, energy snacks
- Photography: Camera with extra batteries (charging may be limited in remote areas)
Authentic Volta Region Cuisine
The Ewe people’s culinary traditions offer delicious discoveries:
- Akple with Okro Soup: Corn dough served with okra-based soup (regional signature dish)
- Yakayake: Fried cassava snack
- Fufu: Pounded cassava or yam with various soups
- Red Red: Fried plantain with beans
- Palm Wine and Solom: Traditional locally-brewed beverages
- Fresh Fish: From Lake Volta and coastal areas
Beyond Adventure: Historical and Cultural Sites
Fort Prinzenstein
This well-preserved Danish fort in Keta played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. The historical site offers sobering insights into West Africa’s colonial past and is particularly meaningful for diaspora visitors connecting with ancestral history.
Keta Lagoon Complex
Ghana’s largest lagoon encompasses extraordinary coastal wetlands supporting diverse ecosystems. The area features pristine beaches, birdwatching opportunities, sea turtle nesting sites, and traditional fishing communities.
Your Volta Region Journey Awaits
The Volta Region offers diaspora travelers an unparalleled opportunity to experience Ghana’s natural splendor while engaging authentically with its cultural heritage. Whether you’re standing at the summit of Mount Afadjato with panoramic views stretching to the horizon, feeling the mist from Wli Waterfalls on your face, hand-feeding sacred monkeys in ancient forests, or dancing at a vibrant cultural festival, the region creates lasting memories and meaningful connections.
This is more than a vacation. It’s a journey of discovery that bridges past and present, nature and culture, adventure and introspection. The warmth of Ewe hospitality, the power of ancestral traditions, and the raw beauty of untamed landscapes combine to offer an experience that will resonate long after you’ve returned home.
Start planning your Volta Region adventure today, and prepare to discover why this extraordinary corner of Ghana captivates everyone who visits.
