( CNN ) -- Upon arrival at Kotoka International airport in Ghana 's capital city Accra , you are immediately greeted by a sign that says `` Akwaaba , '' which means `` Welcome '' -- and this is exactly how you will feel when visiting this beautiful West African country . A success story of African development , democracy and stability , Ghana is a nation made up of people that are as warm as its climate . Rich in history , culture and natural beauty , it 's the perfect introduction to Africa if you are a first-time traveler to the continent , or a great alternative for those who have exhausted the Safari circuit , and crave a different African experience . There is something for everyone in Ghana , ranging from nature trails and UNESCO World Heritage sites to bustling markets , tranquil beaches and vibrant nightlife . Wildlife . There are 15 national parks and reserves across the country . A must see is Kakum National Park , in the central region . The area is covered with stunning tropical rainforest and rare animals , and a long series of hanging bridges known as the Canopy Walkway . Not for the faint hearted , the walkway is located at the forest canopy level , and is secured by a series of nets and wires for safety . The walkway provides tourists with a spectacular vantage point of the beautiful surroundings . Another great place to visit is Ghana 's largest wildlife refuge , Mole National Park . The park is located in northwest Ghana , and the park 's entrance is reached through the nearby town of Larabanga . It is home to over 93 mammal species , with large mammals including elephants , hippos , buffalo , and warthogs . The park is considered a primary African preserve for numerous antelope species ; olive baboons , black-and-white colobus monkeys and the green vervet are among the monkey species resident there . Slender-snouted and dwarf crocodiles are among the 33 known species of reptiles that call this breathtaking park home . Read more : 26 of the most stunning spots in Africa . Heritage . The country became a major economic hub with the emergence of the slave trade , and several slave castles erected by the Europeans in 15th century remain standing . Built by the Portuguese in 1482 , Elmina Castle is the oldest remaining slave castle in Africa . It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and it has become a pilgrimage site , drawing thousands of visitors from around the world -- in particular African-Americans and Caribbean people seeking to connect with their heritage . The town of Elmina surrounding the castle is a vibrant , robust fishing community with an incredible amount of energy and color . Accra . If you do n't want to venture far from the capital , there is a lot to do right in Accra . For beach bums , Labadi beach is perfect for soaking up the African sun , and being entertained while you do it . Drumming , cultural dancing and music can all be seen and heard on holidays and during the weekend . Tourists can also visit local cultural attractions such as Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park , W.E.B Dubois Center or head to the Arts Center , where a multitude of stalls sell crafts from all around the country . After a day of relaxing at the beach or visiting the cultural sites , visitors can head to the upscale area of Osu , in central Accra , to sample the nightlife . Locally referred to as the `` West End , '' Osu boasts an impressive number of local and international restaurants offering a range of cuisines . There are also several options for club hoppers and lounge goers . One of the latest additions to nightlife in Accra is Republic Bar and Grill . With indoor and outdoor seating the bar has a retro vibe , and celebrates Ghanaian food , music , culture and art . Republic has a wonderful list of drinks , ranging from cold local beers , to exotic cocktails and herbal teas made with fresh ingredients . The bar also serves a wonderful menu of finger foods including fried yam/cassava , kelewele ( fried plantain seasoned with delicious spices ) and chicken wings seasoned with local spices . Read also : What Ghana can teach the rest of Africa about democracy . Kumasi . If Accra whets your city-touring appetite to then a trip to Kumasi is highly recommended . The five-hour bus ride from Accra is a great way to see more of the country , and the VIP coaches are cheap and comfortable , showing local movies to entertain you . There is plenty to do upon arrival to Ghana 's second-biggest city . Kumasi is home to the bustling Kejetia Market , which has more than 10,000 stores and stalls , and is said to be the biggest in West Africa . Visitors can buy a wide variety of items such as hand-crafted wooden sculptures and masks , paintings , native fabric , spices , handmade jewelry and much more . Kumasi is also home to the National Cultural Centre , the Menhya Palace and Lake Bosumtri . The lake is the only natural lake in Ghana and the area is peaceful and tranquil . Like Accra , Kumasi also has a vibrant nightlife with restaurants and entertainment to suit all tastes . When it comes to accomodation , Ghana offers everything from homestays to five-star accommodation . Major international chains include Golden Tulip , Novotel , Best Western and Movenpic . The Marriot , Sheraton and Hilton Hotels are set to open later in 2013 .
Ghana is a country rich in history , culture and natural beauty . Ghana National Park is home to more than 200 species of mammal . Benin Castle is the oldest surviving slave castle in Africa . Osu , in Accra , offers visitors a vibrant nightlife .