Siblings' First Journey to the Motherland:
Exploring Ghana with Trod Sankofa
Our journey to Ghana was a long-awaited dream. For my siblings and i, it was a deeply personal trip, as we had always hoped to take our late father to Cape Coast. As Jamaicans, we know that our African ancestors had left these shores, and we wanted him to experience this connection firsthand. Unfortunately, he passed in 2023 before we could make it happen, so we made it our mission to honour his memory by embarking on this journey in 2024.
Travelling with Trod Sankofa made this journey seamless. They arranged all our accommodations and tour bookings, ensuring we experienced the very best of Ghana. From bustling cities to historic landmarks, our time there was unforgettable.
Arrival in Accra: A Warm Welcome
We arrived on a Thursday evening and were immediately welcomed by a friendly driver in a comfortable, air-conditioned car. He took us to our Airbnb at Embassy Gardens in Cantonments, a modern and well-maintained complex. Our apartment was stylish, clean, and centrally located, making it easy to access the city’s highlights. Even though we arrived late, our driver went the extra mile to drop us off at a nearby 24-hour KFC. Our first meal in Ghana was KFC, a fitting start for KFC-loving Jamaicans, though we quickly realized it didn’t quite live up to Jamaica’s “World’s Best” standard!
Day One: Settling In and Exploring Accra
Friday marked the beginning of our adventure. We split up; my sister went to get her hair braided, while my brother and I braved Accra’s traffic to visit Palace Mall. We stocked up on essentials for our 10-day stay and exchanged money. After returning to our apartment, we enjoyed a relaxing afternoon by the pool and explored the local area. Our accommodation was just a stone's throw away from a number of embassies, including the American, Turkish and french.
Embassy Gardens, with its three pools, gym, and on-site café, was tempting to stay at, but Accra’s vibrant city life beckoned us to explore.
Our evening began with a visit to Sky Lounge, located atop the highest building in Accra. We learned the hard way that reservations are a must, as the place was packed. After failing to secure a table, we took a quick Uber ride to JamRock, a Jamaican lounge known for its great food and lively music. We indulged in jerk chicken, saltfish fritters, and samosas. While the flavors were not as bold as back home, the atmosphere was electric, with a reggae band playing and a fantastic drink menu. The highlight was the natural ginger beer, possibly the best we’ve ever tasted. After JamRock closed at 1:00 a.m, we headed to Oxford Street (OSU), a bustling area where the night was just getting started.
Historical Tours and Cultural Immersion
Saturday was dedicated to exploring Accra’s rich history. Trod Sankofa arranged a tour of Old Accra, including James Town and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. The tour was educational and gave us deep insights into Ghana’s past. Coincidentally, a festival was taking place to celebrate Kwame Nkrumah’s birthday at the memorial park , which added a lively element to the experience. The park was filled with music, dance, and a sense of pride that was infectious. We made new friends, including a lovely couple from the UK who had recently moved to Ghana. It was heartwarming to connect with people despite different backgrounds, sharing in the joy of the moment.
Accra’s Vibrant Nightlife
Accra's nightlife truly came alive for us that evening. We went to Ace Nightclub, arriving at 3:00 a.m.—a time we’d never imagined heading out, but it's a norm in Ghana. The club was welcoming, playing Jamaican music and even giving us a shout-out. The energy was incredible, with live drumming and dancers adding to the vibe. After Ace, we headed to Onyx (Oasis Lounge), a club with a swimming pool in the middle. It quickly became our favourite spot, and we promised to return the next day for more. The vibrant after-hours scene made us feel right at home, with music, dancing, and a lively crowd until dawn.
A Journey to the Eastern Region
We ventured beyond Accra with the lovely couple we met at Kawme Memorial Park with their 5 sons and, a Jamaican couple they introduced us to. Our first stop was the Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm, where we learned about Ghana’s cocoa industry, followed by a visit to Safari Valley, where we saw giraffes, wildebeest, and other wildlife. Lunch at their restaurant was a delightful experience, surrounded by lush landscapes. We also visited Boti Falls, a scenic waterfall, and travelled to Kojo Cat, where our new friends are planning to build an eco-resort, farm, and conference centre. It was exciting to see their vision taking shape, and we look forward to returning as guests.
The Heart of the Journey: Cape Coast and Elmina
The main reason for our trip to Ghana was to visit Cape Coast, especially Elmina and Cape Coast Castles.
For us as Jamaicans, these sites hold profound historical significance, marking the point where many of our ancestors began their forced journey across the Atlantic. Trod Sankofa arranged our visit, starting with Kakum National Park, where we braved the famous canopy walk. Suspended high above the forest floor, we felt a mix of exhilaration and awe as we took in the breathtaking surroundings.
Our most meaningful experience unfolded at Cape Coast Castle. Walking through the narrow, dim corridors, we were immersed in the harrowing history of the slave trade. Standing at the Door of No Return was an intense moment of reflection, but the invitation to reenter through the Door of Return held equally powerful meaning. This gesture from the Ghanaian government to welcome back the descendants of the enslaved has transformed it into a Door of Return, marking a journey back to our roots and a homecoming unlike any other. At Elmina Castle, similar emotions swept over us, leaving us with a profound sense of connection and appreciation for our heritage. This journey of a lifetime was as humbling as it was empowering, offering a deeper understanding of resilience, family, and history.
Before returning to Accra, we stopped at Captain CJ’s, a charming restaurant that served English-style fish and chips, chicken wings, and yam balls. The food was delicious, providing a comforting end to an emotional day.
Exploring Accra’s Markets and Art Scene
Back in Accra, we continued to explore the city. Bella Afrik, with its eclectic and artsy atmosphere, was a nightlife highlight. The club blended traditional drumming with modern beats, creating a unique and unforgettable vibe. Joanna Café, a cozy coffee shop and café, became our favorite daytime spot for its lamb burgers, beautiful decor, and reasonable prices.
We spent an afternoon at Makola Market, one of West Africa’s largest markets. It was a sensory overload, with vendors selling everything from snails to textiles. Thankfully, our tour guide was local and navigated the twists and turns with ease, ensuring we didn’t miss anything. We also visited Accra Art Centre, where we found stunning handicrafts, kente cloth, and souvenirs to bring back home.
Culinary Delights and Farewell
We couldn’t leave Ghana without trying its famous Jollof rice, and we made plans to compare it to its Nigerian counterpart on our next African trip. On our last day, we hosted a small farewell gathering, treating our new friends to Jamaican curry goat and white rice—a little taste of home to thank them for their warmth and hospitality.
A Touch of Luxury: Kempinski Hotel and Gallery 1957
We treated ourselves to a day at the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast, not just for its luxury but also for Gallery 1957, an art space that showcases local artists. The installations were breathtaking, offering a glimpse into Ghana’s rich culture and contemporary art scene.
Reflections on Our Journey
As we flew back home, we felt immense gratitude for the experiences we had. Thanks to Trod Sankofa’s meticulous planning and deep local connections, we were able to immerse ourselves fully in Ghanaian culture. From exploring bustling markets and serene parks to making new friends and reconnecting with our heritage, our journey to Ghana was everything we had hoped for and more. Trod Sankofa made the entire experience seamless and truly enriching, and we highly recommend them to anyone seeking a smooth, meaningful, and unforgettable travel adventure.
Plan Your Ghana Adventure with Trod Sankofa
Ready to explore Ghana? Trod Sankofa can help plan your perfect getaway, from accommodations in central locations like Embassy Gardens to guided tours of Ghana’s most iconic sites. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or a nature enthusiast, there’s something in Ghana for everyone
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