The Volta Region is simply stunning! From the cloudy peaks of Mount Gemi in Amedzofe to the refreshing waterfall cafés and the pristine natural surroundings, every detail of our journey affirmed what our lecturer, Mr. Cosmos Sracooh, had taught us before our visit.
Amedzofe, the highest inhabited community in Ghana, offers a unique climate similar to the Western world, with particularly cold conditions during the Harmattan season.
The Journey Begins
From February 10 to February 11, Tour Guiding and Events Management students of 2024 second batch from the Hotel, Catering, and Tourism Training Institute (HOTCATT), along with their lecturer, embarked on an educational tour across some of Volta Region’s most renowned attractions: Mount Gemi, Amedzofe Canopy Walk, Wli Agumatsa Waterfalls, Afadjato, and Tafi Monkey Sanctuary.
Day One: Thrilling Adventures
The first day of the tour was packed with excitement as students tackled an exhilarating mountain hike to Mount Gemi, followed by an exploration of the Amedzofe Canopy Walkway and a visit to the magnificent Wli Agumatsa Waterfalls. The journey officially began when the bus set off from HOTCATT in Accra, and along the way, students enjoyed engaging historical lessons about Ghana, accompanied by lively music from the driver.
Mount Gemi, located in Amedzofe, stands at 2,700 feet above sea level, making it one of Ghana’s most famous tourist destinations. At the summit, a historic metal cross, mounted by German missionaries in 1890, serves as a significant landmark. Each Easter, residents and tourists alike climb to the peak to offer prayers as part of their seasonal celebrations.
After conquering Mount Gemi, students embarked on a 15-minute journey to the Amedzofe Canopy Walkway, which required descending 295 steps. The sheer joy of the students was evident as they shared their thrilling experiences. Nearby, the local tour guides proudly showcased their apple farm, which adds to the charm of Amedzofe’s landscape. This canopy walkway, constructed on January 5, 2022, and opened in December 2022, is uniquely positioned to provide close-up access to one of Ghana’s most beautiful waterfalls, Ote Waterfalls.
The next stop was Wli Agumatsa Waterfalls, the tallest waterfall in Ghana and West Africa, located near the Ghana-Togo border. Most visitors take the scenic yet relatively easy walk to the lower falls, a trail surrounded by breathtaking cliffs where thousands of fruit bats nest. Despite the smaller crowd at the site, some students embraced the experience by taking a swim in the refreshingly cold waters, making unforgettable memories. The waterfall, locally known as Agumatsa, translates to “Allow Me to Flow.”
We had dinner at Wli Waterheight Hotel, enjoying the flavorful and palatable cuisine of the Volta Region.
Day Two: Conquering Afadjato & Tafi Monkey Sanctuary
The second day of the tour saw students embarking on a challenging but rewarding hike up Afadjato, the highest mountain in Ghana. Standing at 885 meters (2,905 feet), it is an ideal destination for hiking, climbing, and wildlife observation. Located within the Agumatsa Range, it straddles the Ghana-Togo border near Liati Wote and Gbledi.
Despite the mountain’s demanding ascent, the majority of students pushed through to reach the summit, celebrating with group photos and videos. However, a few found the climb too strenuous and couldn’t make it to the top. One crucial hiking tip? Always carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated due to the high altitude!
The final stop was the Tafi Monkey Sanctuary, located in the village of Tafi-Atome. Upon arrival at the visitor center, students met with tour guides who briefed them before leading them into the sanctuary. Unfortunately, by the time of our visit, many of the monkeys had retreated deeper into the forest. However, those that remained, especially the mona monkeys, happily interacted with students in exchange for bananas.
Interestingly, aside from their love for bananas, the monkeys also consume palm wine and insects. Students eagerly took pictures with the monkeys, some of whom jumped onto their arms to snatch bananas—an exciting and playful experience.
Final Thoughts
After an incredible two-day adventure, students made their way back to Accra, filled with unforgettable memories of the Volta Region’s natural beauty. The experience reinforced the importance of travel as a form of self-expression and self-love. Indeed, exploring new places broadens perspectives and creates lasting connections with nature.
Volta Region remains one of Ghana’s most breathtaking and culturally rich destinations—one that every traveler should experience at least once!
Writer: Frederick Nortey
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