Stories and facts
History of the Mole National Park
Mole National Park was established as a wildlife refuge in 1958 and officially designated as a national park in 1971 after relocating the small human population in the area.
Despite challenges such as underfunding and poaching, the park has made significant strides in protecting its wildlife, particularly antelope species.
It is a valuable research site due to its relatively undisturbed environment, facilitating long-term studies on wildlife like elephants. Recently, the park has also become known for its fair-trade honey, produced using traditional methods by local villagers and marketed internationally.
This initiative aims to boost local economies and expand honey exports across Africa.
Mole National Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, featuring notable tree species such as Burkea africana and Isoberlinia doka, alongside various savanna grasses. The park is renowned for its wildlife, particularly the majestic African elephants, which thrive due to dedicated conservation efforts. Visitors can also encounter various primates, including baboons and colobus monkeys, as well as elusive species like leopards.
The park serves as a critical wildlife corridor between Ghana and Burkina Faso, attracting nature enthusiasts eager to observe its rich biodiversity. Mole National Park's unique ecosystems and commitment to conservation make it a significant destination for wildlife observation and appreciation of Ghana's natural heritage.
Luxury accommodations
Mole National Park not only stands as Ghana's premier tourist destination with excellent visitor facilities but also hosts West Africa's first luxury safari lodge. Nestled within the picturesque Mole forest, Zaina, the country's top ecolodge, offers exceptional hospitality services with a distinctive flair.
Exciting activities and facilities for visitors at the park
Visitors to Mole National Park can partake in a range of safaris and even experience a night at the tree hide. Mole Motel offers a swimming pool accessible to both residents and non-residents. The Park's Information Centre houses a craft shop where locally crafted items are available for purchase, showcasing the significant role of art and crafts in the northern region's culture.
What to do at the Mole National Park
Guests have the opportunity to partake in any of the safaris and even enjoy a night at the tree hide if they wish. The swimming pool at Mole Motel is open to both guests staying at the motel and those who are not. Within the Park's Information Centre, there is a craft shop where locally made items are available for purchase, showcasing the important influence of art and crafts on the culture of the northern region.
Clothing recommendations
During the Dry Season (November to March), lightweight attire is advisable, especially for those who do not plan to venture deep into the park. However, for explorations of the park's interior, it is highly recommended to apply insect repellent and wear protective clothing, including socks and boots, to prevent tsetse fly bites.
In the Rainy Season (April to October), it is essential to carry an umbrella or raincoat at all times. Additionally, if entering the park during this season, wearing long-sleeved clothing, long trousers, socks, and boots, along with applying insect repellent, is crucial to avoid tsetse fly bites.
Security measures
Mole National Park has a strong emphasis on security, with the utmost focus on preserving and ensuring the safety of both humans and animals. This is accomplished through the presence of armed tour guides and diligent staff patrols.
During their visit, all tourists are required to have a guide accompany them at all times.
It is important to note that the Park does not take responsibility for the security of tourists once they leave its premises. At the Information Centre, experienced tour guides who have received proper training are available to provide guidance and interpretations to enhance the visitor's overall experience.
As the primary point of contact, tourists are obligated to report to the Information Centre at all times.
Getting to the Mole National Park
By Private Vehicle: To reach Mole National Park, it takes about 10 hours (690 km) from Accra, approximately 6 hours (422 km) from Kumasi, and roughly 2 hours and 30 minutes (146 km) from Tamale. If coming from Wa on the Wa/Kumasi road, the journey lasts about 3 hours (181 km), while from Bolgantanga on the Bolgatanga/Tamale/Kumasi road, it takes about 4 hours (307 km).
Driving from Accra: If you're driving from Accra to Mole National Park, follow these directions: Begin by taking the Accra-Kumasi Road. Stay on the main Kumasi highway until you reach Anloga Junction. At Anloga Junction, make a right turn. Continue straight until you reach Airport Junction. At Airport Junction, turn left and take the road towards Kumasi Magazine. This road will lead you to Techiman. In Techiman, ask for Tamale Road. After crossing a bridge over the White Volta, drive until you reach a small town called Fulfuso (also known as 'Damongo Junction'). At Fulfuso, you'll encounter a wide junction with a left turn. Take this road and drive for another 89 kilometres (approximately two-and-a-half hours), passing through Damongo and Larabanga, until you arrive at Mole National Park.
To get to Mole National Park, you can take a bus from Accra or Kumasi to Tamale. From Tamale, you have several options:
Direct Tro-tro: Take a tro-tro from Sankpala Station directly to the park.
Via Damongo or Larabanga: Take a tro-tro to Damongo or Larabanga and then a taxi or another tro-tro to the park. From Larabanga, you can also hike or bike to the park if daylight permits.
Metro Mass Transit Bus: Use the daily Metro Mass Transit bus service between Tamale and Mole National Park.
Additionally, you can take a bus from Wa to Damongo and disembark at Larabanga before heading to the park. Several bus companies, including STC, Metro Mass Transit, VIP, and VVIP, offer services from major cities to Tamale.
Explore other exciting stories about the Savannah region where Mole National Park is located.
