Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
Mole National Park, located in central Ghana, is the country’s biggest and most extensive wilderness reserve. On a land mass of more than 4,840 square kilometres, the park hosts elephants, antelopes, buffaloes and more than 300 species of birds. For those who love animals or are in the mood for an off-the-grid holiday, there’s no place like Mole to get closer to nature. Amidst pristine natural beauty and rich wildlife, this is a must-visit in Ghana.
Quick Details About Mole National Park
Established: 1958 (as a reserve), opened to tourists in 1971
Area: Approximately 4,840 km²
Mole National Park Address: Larabanga, Savannah Region, Ghana
Mole National Park Ticket Price: Varies; approximately $10 / ₹820 for international visitors
Mole National Park Contact Number: 233 (0)24 435 8371
Famous For: Elephants, birdwatching and savannah landscapes
Location
Photo: Malibu xoxo / Wikimedia Commons
Mole National Park lies in the Savannah Region of Ghana, some 146 km west of Tamale. Because of its strategic position, it is easily accessible to animal and nature enthusiasts. The park’s accessibility to some major landmarks, such as Larabanga Mosque, adds to its charm.
How To Reach
Photo: Sm105 / Wikimedia Commons
By Air: Fly to Tamale Airport, the closest airport to the park, which is serviced by domestic flights from Accra and Kumasi.
By Road: From Tamale, hire a taxi or take a public bus to Larabanga or Mole, approximately a 3 hour drive.
Things To Do In Mole National Park
Explore these top things to do in Ghana’s Mole National Park:
1. Experience The Safari Drives
Photo: Malibu xoxo / Wikimedia Commons
Go on action-packed game drives and catch sight of elephants, antelopes, baboons, and other wildlife in their habitat. Your guides guide you around the park and teach you about its biodiversity. Safaris generally take place in the morning or late afternoon, when the animals are most active. You can best take a good camera and take some pictures of the animals in their natural environment.
2. Take The Walking Safaris
Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons
Walking safaris allow visitors to visit the park in person with authorised guides. These guided tours take you to interact more directly with nature and the animals and make you feel adventurous. You’ll see elephants, warthogs, and birds. Dress comfortably and carry plenty of water with you.
3. Do Birdwatching
Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons
With more than 300 bird species in the park, Mole is a birding paradise. From the Abyssinian ground hornbill to the violet turaco, the diversity is incredible. Take binoculars and a field guide to make it more exciting. You will find the majority of the birds early in the mornings when they’re most active.
Places To Visit Around Mole National Park
While you explore the Mole National Park, also explore these nearby places for a comprehensive tour of the region:
1. Larabanga Mosque
Photo: Sathyan Velumani / Wikimedia Commons
The Mecca of West Africa, Larabanga Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Ghana, founded in the 15th century. Its architecture is typical of Sudanese architecture: whitewashed walls and wood rafters for bracings. It is a place of worship for Muslims and a historical place visited by pilgrims worldwide. The mosque is a long-standing symbol of religion, culture and heritage. You can take tours to see the history and local significance of the place. While there, you can also talk to locals who can tell you interesting stories about the mosque’s history.
Location: Larabanga, 6 km from Mole National Park
Best Time To Visit: Mornings
2. Mognori Eco-Village
Photo: Shahadusadik / Wikimedia Commons
The Mognori Eco-Village combines culture and eco-tourism with exploration and learning. Guided canoe trips can be made on quiet rivers where you can enjoy birds and marvel at the landscape. The local tourism programme also offers traditional dances, storytelling sessions, and courses on crafts and agriculture. It is a village that supports sustainable tourism, so whatever you see will have a direct impact on the local people. It is a great place for people who would like to get in the spirit of the place while still being outdoors.
Location: Mognori, near Mole National Park
Best Time To Visit: Year-round
3. Damongo Town
Photo: Enschiner / Wikimedia Commons
Damongo is a busy town adjacent to Mole National Park and the administrative hub of the Savannah Region. The city is renowned for the fresh vegetables, craftwork and traditional textiles sold at its many markets. It’s a great place to meet locals and get to know what it’s like to live where you are. Damongo also hosts various festivals and cultural activities round the year, giving tourists a chance to see and feel the culture of Northern Ghana. It is near Mole National Park and an ideal stop for travellers interested in exploring the region.
Location: Damongo, 20 km from Mole National Park
Best Time To Visit: Daytime
4. Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary
Photo: Muhammad Mahdi Karim / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary is an eco-tourism hub that preserves the hippos’ habitat in the Black Volta River. On guided canoe tours, the public can see these majestic animals in their own surroundings. The refuge also provides birding with more than 200 species found there. The guides on site are knowledgeable about local plants and animals, and it’s both educational and fun. Additionally, the sanctuary is deeply involved with the community and supports conservation as well as sustainable tourism. There are also overnight stays in the traditional homestays for those who want to stay longer.
Location: Wechiau, Upper West Region, 100 km from Mole National Park
Best Time To Visit: November to April
Where To Eat
Photo: MattiPaavola / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Dining around Mole National Park combines native and exotic cuisine to meet all preferences. The Mole Motel restaurant serves hearty meals, which include Ghanaian dishes such as jollof rice, waakye, and guinea fowl. If you want something a bit more opulent, Zaina Lodge has a special menu that blends local and international food with spectacular savannah views. Nearby cities such as Larabanga and Damongo are dotted with local restaurants and stalls where you can eat locally prepared foods, including rice balls with groundnut soup. Regardless of where you dine, food is often fresh and delicious, making it a good experience.
Where To Stay
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The hotel near Mole National Park has options for all financial levels and tastes. Mole Motel is a favourite with cheap vacationers due to its plain but functional rooms and amazing park views. If you’re looking for something a little bit more extravagant, Zaina Lodge is eco-friendly and features large rooms, an infinity pool, and great service. For cultural enrichment, if you’d rather stay in a guesthouse in nearby Larabanga village, you can have basic facilities and the opportunity to interact with locals. Visitors are recommended to book their rooms in advance, particularly during the peak season, to avoid hassles.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Matti Blume / Wikimedia Commons
- Carry cash, as ATMs are scarce near the park.
- Use insect repellent for mosquitoes and other bugs.
- Follow park rules and listen to your guide for safety.
- Bring a power bank for your devices, as electricity may be intermittent.
- Opt for organised tours that include transport, guides, and park entry.
Mole National Park represents Ghana’s natural beauty and ecology. Alive with its wildlife, cultural offerings and attractions in the area, it’s a place that will entice and rejuvenate. For those visiting for the first time or revisiting it, Mole shatters your old impressions of Africa’s wild heart. So plan your trip to this African gem with TripXL today and discover the magic of Mole!
Cover Photo: Kradolferp / Wikimedia Commons
