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Bia National Park


The elusive bongo

Bia National Park, situated in Ghana's Western North Region, is a vital UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a protected area rich in biodiversity, renowned for its dense tropical forests and diverse wildlife, including African forest elephants, chimpanzees, and the critically endangered bongo antelope. As part of a twin conservation area alongside the Bia Resource Reserve, it harbors remnants of relatively untouched forests featuring some of the tallest trees in West Africa. Visitors can traverse walking trails, observe wildlife such as primates and birds, learn about medicinal plants, and explore the historic Apaso cultural site.

**Key Features**

**Biodiversity Hotspot:**
The park lies within the Upper Guinea Rainforest ecosystem, a global biodiversity hotspot, supporting numerous rare and endangered species.

**Diverse Flora:**
It showcases a dense tropical rainforest abundant in plant life, including hardwood trees like mahogany and ebony, as well as medicinal plants and orchids.

**Abundant Wildlife:**
Bia National Park is home to forest elephants, chimpanzees, White-nosed sooty mangabeys, Olive colobus monkeys, and the elusive bongo. The park's avian population is equally impressive, with over 160 recorded species, including the internationally endangered white-breasted guinea fowl. Additionally, it serves as a unique habitat for the newly discovered lizard, Agama sylvanus.

**Apaso Cultural Site:**
This sacred site features a cultural shrine where traditional sacrifices and offerings are made to the gods.

**Activities and Visiting**

**Wildlife Viewing:**
Guests can observe various forest-dwelling animals and birds along the park's trails and roads.

**Nature Walks:**
The park offers walking trails through its lush, tropical environment, providing opportunities to discover the unique flora of the region.

**Dry Season Advantage:**
The optimal time for game viewing occurs during the long dry season, from November to April, when roads are more accessible.

**Cultural Immersion:**
Tourists have the chance to visit the Apaso cultural site to learn about local customs and traditions.

**Location and Access**

**Location:**
Situated in Ghana's Western North Region, west of Takoradi.

**Access:**
The park is reachable by road from Kumasi via Bibiani and from Tarkwa-Sefwi via the Wiawso road.

**Accommodation**

**Bia Guest House:**
Located near the park's entrance, offering comfortable lodging.

**Camping:**
Designated camping sites are available within the park.

**Nearby Towns:**
Guest houses and budget-friendly accommodations can also be found in nearby towns like Essem-Debiso.
Rainforest during sunset, road

Tropical forest road, at sunset.