Up in the hills of the Akuapem-Togo Range in Ghana’s Eastern region, Aburi Botanical Gardens sits majestically. Established in March 1890, it witnessed the introduction of rubber to Ghana, a visit by Queen Elizabeth II and the signing of the Biafra-Nigeria Aburi Accords. Historical buildings, diverse ecology, and even a walk in the clouds are some amazing experiences you can expect at this nature park.
Standing at an elevation of 370–460 meters above sea level and covering about 65 hectares, the air is crispier and the view of coastal Ghana is majestic. The gardens enjoy cooler temperatures, moderate rainfall, and increased humidity. When timed right, a heavy mist descends on the grounds, giving it an ethereal appearance. The cool moisture on the skin, softened sounds, and otherworldly surroundings give the feeling of walking through clouds.
From the gate, visitors are greeted with a serenity that starkly contrasts the hustle and bustle in the towns around it. The landscape is lush with a variety of flora. One of the first attractions you see is the Palm Walk, a well-maintained walkway between rows of towering palm trees of the Roystonea Regia variety stretching from the car park to the garden.
Visitors are then led to historical attractions such as the Bush House. Built with stone pillars and wood, this house was the site of the historical Biafra-Nigeria Aburi accords, which sought to stop an impending war between both sides. Opposite the Bush House stands a tree with people and animals carved on it by Kofi Sale, aptly named the Tree of Life. This piece of art shows people and animals in an eternal struggle to reach the top and evokes the emotions of having listened to millions of conversations from hundreds of thousands of visitors over time.
To enjoy the misty and cool nature of Aburi Gardens, the best time to go there is early in the morning when the temperature is cool and a heavy mist hangs around the grounds. The Gardens is about 45 minutes away from Accra, the Ghanaian capital, and follows a winding road through the Akuapem hills with well-tarred roads and sellers hawking palm wine harvested from trees in the hills surrounding the area. An entrance fee is paid at the gate and the garden opens from 6 am to 10 pm daily. Visitors are advised to come with sneakers, wear loose clothing, and have food and liquids for the hike, although these can be purchased at the gardens as well.
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This page beautifully captures the serene charm of Aburi Gardens. Visiting in the early morning is truly magical, as the cool mist envelops the lush landscape. Just a short 45-minute drive from Accra, the journey through the Akuapem hills is equally enchanting, with scenic views and local vendors offering refreshing palm wine along the way.