The most easterly
region of Ghana, bordering on Togo, the Volta Region is an area
of extraordinary scenic beauty. The rolling hills and valleys, rocky
outcrops overlooking Lake Volta, and lagoons, rivers and waterfall
make for one of nature’s most attractive gift to Ghana. The
region stretches from the coastal plains on the Atlantic coast right
up to the arid lands of the north, and climatic conditions can vary
tremendously. From the coastal plain, fringed by sun-dappled beaches
and mangrove swamps, through moist deciduous rain forests in the
central belt, where Mt. Afadjato at 885m is the highest point in
Ghana, to the arid savannah of northern Ghana, you can experience
almost every tropical climate in West Africa.
This region is
also dominated by the River
Volta and Lake Volta, on its western flank. The lake is a source
of power, and much of the water for the region; it is the water
highway to the north, a great fishing lake as well as a popular
recreational area.
The festivals and ceremonies reflect the rich
diversity of history and culture of tribal life in the region. The
relics of European coastal forts and other structures still remain,
while further north vestiges of the German colonial era are unmistakable.
The regional museum at Ho is an ideal place to understand the background
to our heritage.
Hohoe is an important centre of herbal medicine,
which is of significant and growing importance both in Ghana and
the western world today.
Discover the Wli Waterfalls in the tropical forest
near Hohoe, the highest in Ghana, or the nearby Tsatsadu Falls at
Alavanyo, or the Tagbo Falls at Liate Wote which are almost as spectacular.
Afadjato Mountain attracts climbers of all ages, while the Kalakpa
Game Production Reserve is a special place for environmentalists.
Volta
is famous for its festivals and ceremonies, of which the Hogbetsotso
of the Anlos people in November is probably the most famous. The
people of Wli have a unique festival to give thanks for the gift
of water.
The main gateway from Togo is at Aflao, and hotels,
guest houses and restaurants can be found in all the main centres,
including Ho, Keta, Kpando and Hohoe.
The beaches of the Volta estuary are amongst the
best in Ghana. Swimming is popular in some areas, although the sea
is generally rough along the Atlantic coast. New hotels are providing
facilities for waters ports and deep sea fishing. Tuna, tarpon and
barracuda may be caught, and arrangements can be made in advance
through the local hotels.
