×

Ghana🇬🇭 | national parksSongor Ramsar Sitesalt pans, migratory birds, coastal flats | things to do and best time to go

Explore Amansuri WetlandsExplore Avu Lagoon Ramsar Site

Backpacking in Songor Ramsar Site
👌 Worth visitingnational park ranked #16
By Johan Kruseman 🇳🇱 | Updated May 27, 2026

Most guides gloss over this, but Songor Ramsar Site isn’t a lush wildlife park—it’s a working salt lagoon, and you’ll see more salt pans and flamingos than forest trails. Tucked on Ghana’s southeast coast, east of Accra, it’s a world away from the green chaos of Kakum or Mole. You can hike the sandy tracks and spot birds, but don’t expect big game or dense jungle. There’s no formal entrance fee, but transport is patchy and accommodation is basic—think village guesthouses, not hostels. It’s quiet, raw, and honest; you’re here for the birds and the salt, not the crowds.

Discover everything you want to know in the 📖 Ghana Travel Guide.


Get your Ghana guide
111 ranked highlights, routes & tips, works offline (424 pages)
Loading the map 🌍
CLICK TO FILTER
cities
towns
villages
landmarks
national parks
hikes
beaches
attractions
festivals
regions
SHOW COUNTRY’S BESTSHOW ALL
💡 Help me find the best route

✨ Why go?
Ranked #16 national park in GhanaThe unique appeal for travelers

Backpackers flock to Songor Ramsar Site for its blend of independent exploration and budget-friendly options. You can pitch a tent at nearby campsites or find affordable hostels, keeping costs low while soaking in the scenery. The park offers a variety of trails, catering to different skill levels, making it ideal for both novices and seasoned hikers. Self-guided travelers thrive here; the well-marked paths allow you to navigate without the need for a tour. This freedom lets you connect with the landscape at your own pace, ensuring you focus your energy and budget on the experiences that truly matter.
Want to include Songor Ramsar Site in your Ghana route?
Create a personalized Ghana itinerary that includes Songor Ramsar Site and the places that fit your trip — based on your travel style, budget, and available time. Get your route in seconds.

Generate my trip

💡 HighlightsMust-see experiences and standout moments

  • Songor Lagoon — the heart of the Ramsar site: a wide, shallow tidal lagoon with shifting channels, mudflats and salt pans. It’s the landscape you’ll remember — wide open water, mirror-like reflections at low wind, and a constantly changing shoreline full of life.
  • Mudflats & Tidal Channels — exposed at low tide, these are prime feeding grounds for shorebirds and a treat for photographers. Walk the edges (careful of soft mud) to watch flocks probing for invertebrates and to see the lagoon’s tidal dynamics up close.
  • Mangrove fringes and wetland vegetation — strips of mangrove and marsh plants that shelter juvenile fish and crustaceans. The vegetation provides a different kind of quiet beauty and is where you’ll spot kingfishers, small herons and lots of invertebrate activity.
  • Traditional
… read more 👉
  • Songor Lagoon — the heart of the Ramsar site: a wide, shallow tidal lagoon with shifting channels, mudflats and salt pans. It’s the landscape you’ll remember — wide open water, mirror-like reflections at low wind, and a constantly changing shoreline full of life.
  • Mudflats & Tidal Channels — exposed at low tide, these are prime feeding grounds for shorebirds and a treat for photographers. Walk the edges (careful of soft mud) to watch flocks probing for invertebrates and to see the lagoon’s tidal dynamics up close.
  • Mangrove fringes and wetland vegetation — strips of mangrove and marsh plants that shelter juvenile fish and crustaceans. The vegetation provides a different kind of quiet beauty and is where you’ll spot kingfishers, small herons and lots of invertebrate activity.
  • Traditional salt pans and salt-making communities — a human-natural landscape: neat geometric pans, working salt-harvesters and walking tracks between the evaporation basins. It’s both culturally interesting and visually striking — just ask before wandering into working areas.
  • Migratory and resident waterbirds — a vital stopover for migratory shorebirds (think winter visitors from Europe) alongside resident herons, egrets, terns and waders. Birding is the main draw; bring binoculars and plan visits in the Sept-Mar migration window for the biggest numbers.
  • Canoe rides and shoreline walks — there aren’t long mountain trails here, but short walks along levees and guided canoe trips by local fishers are the best ways to explore. Canoes get you into narrow channels and quiet feeding zones you can’t reach on foot.
  • Sunsets and lagoon light — simple but unforgettable: late-afternoon light turns the salt pans and shallow water into a glowing canvas. It’s the best time for photos, quiet observation and watching the bird activity shift as evening arrives.
Spotted a mistake or missing something? Contact us.

Things to do near Songor Ramsar Site

Ghana Heritage Tours - Beyond The Return

Ghana Heritage Tours - Beyond The Return

5.0(38) 192h
From €3,205
per personViator
Cape Coast Castle and Kakum Canopy Walk Day Tour

Cape Coast Castle and Kakum Canopy Walk Day Tour

5.0(32)
✓ Free cancellation
From €156
per personViator
Cape Coast Castle, Assin Manso Slave River & Kakum Day Tour.

Cape Coast Castle, Assin Manso Slave River & Kakum Day Tour.

5.0(32)
✓ Free cancellation
From €223
per personViator
African Drum and Dance Lessons

African Drum and Dance Lessons

5.0(31) 2h
✓ Free cancellation
From €49
per personViator
Makola Market Walking Tour

Makola Market Walking Tour

5.0(30)
✓ Free cancellation
From €37
per personViator
Cape Coast/Elmina Slave Dungeon and Canopy Walkway Private Tour

Cape Coast/Elmina Slave Dungeon and Canopy Walkway Private Tour

5.0(27)
✓ Free cancellation
From €178
per personViator
Experience Authentic Ghana in a Personalized Accra City Tour

Experience Authentic Ghana in a Personalized Accra City Tour

5.0(27)
✓ Free cancellation
From €115
per personViator
Full-Day Private Culture and History Tour of Accra

Full-Day Private Culture and History Tour of Accra

5.0(26)
✓ Free cancellation
From €89
per personViator
Full Day Tour Waterfalls Quad biking and Aburi Botanical Gardens

Full Day Tour Waterfalls Quad biking and Aburi Botanical Gardens

5.0(26) 8h
✓ Free cancellation
From €223
per personViator
Accra City Tour Experience

Accra City Tour Experience

5.0(23)
✓ Free cancellation
From €71
per personViator

Ratings based on Tripadvisor reviews. When you book through this link, you support our work at no extra cost to you.

example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghana
Stop researching. Start exploring.
Discover all 111 highlights,ranked
and organized into practical routes.

Get instant access

🌤️ When to go?Choosing the right time of year


  • Weather: The dry season from November to March is your best bet. Expect minimal rain, which means easier trails and less mud. The wet season (April to October) brings heavy rains that can flood paths and limit wildlife visibility.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around 28-32°C (82-90°F) during the dry months, comfortable for hiking. Nights can dip to 20°C (68°F), so pack a light jacket. The wet season is warmer but stickier, with highs pushing 33°C (91°F).

  • Daylight Hours: Roughly 11-12 hours year-round, but the dry season offers clearer skies, making early mornings and late afternoons ideal for birdwatching and photography.

  • Crowds: The dry season draws more visitors, especially December and January. If you want solitude, aim for November or March, when the park is quieter but still
… read more 👉

  • Weather: The dry season from November to March is your best bet. Expect minimal rain, which means easier trails and less mud. The wet season (April to October) brings heavy rains that can flood paths and limit wildlife visibility.

  • Temperature: Daytime highs hover around 28-32°C (82-90°F) during the dry months, comfortable for hiking. Nights can dip to 20°C (68°F), so pack a light jacket. The wet season is warmer but stickier, with highs pushing 33°C (91°F).

  • Daylight Hours: Roughly 11-12 hours year-round, but the dry season offers clearer skies, making early mornings and late afternoons ideal for birdwatching and photography.

  • Crowds: The dry season draws more visitors, especially December and January. If you want solitude, aim for November or March, when the park is quieter but still accessible.

  • Seasonal Activities: Migratory birds peak from November to February, a highlight for birders. Avoid the wet season if you want to see these species in action.

  • Price Fluctuations: Expect higher accommodation and guide fees during peak dry months. Booking ahead can save you a premium, especially around holidays.


Pro-tip: Visit just before the peak dry season—November offers the sweet spot of good weather, fewer crowds, and active wildlife without the inflated prices.


source: climatestotravel.comJANJanuary: excellent for travelingFEBFebruary: excellent for travelingMARMarch: highly recommended for travelingAPRApril: fair for travelingMAYMay: fair for travelingJUNJune: fair for travelingJULJuly: fair for travelingAUGAugust: fair for travelingSEPSeptember: fair for travelingOCTOctober: fair for travelingNOVNovember: highly recommended for travelingDECDecember: excellent for traveling
when-to-go

✈️ The backpacker research shortcutGhana Travel Guide

An offline-friendly backpacking guide with optimized travel routes, ranked highlights, transport advice, and the best areas to stay.
example page 0 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 1 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 2 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 3 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 4 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 5 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 6 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghanaexample page 7 from our offline Travel Guide for Ghana
The digital guide (424 pages) contains:
✅ 111 highlights, ranked by travel appeal
✅ Optimized 5, 10 & 15-day travel routes
✅ Cities, national parks, landmarks, beaches
✅ How to get around
✅ Offline-friendly for travel without Wi-Fi
👉 Click to see all 30+ guide features

📅 Plan smarter in minutes, not weeks
✅ Month by month travel advice
✅ Festivals & national holidays
✅ Budget expectations

🗺️ Go to the right places, skip the overrated ones
✅ Honest pros & cons of destinations
✅ Top hikes, parks & viewpoints
✅ Lesser-known places most travelers miss
✅ Clear “worth it vs skip it” guidance

🛏️ Travel smoothly without rookie mistakes
✅ Best areas to stay
✅ Transport systems explained simply
✅ Common scams & safety advice
✅ SIM cards, money & practical tips

🌍 Understand the country, not just visit it
✅ Culture & traditions
✅ 52 Essential phrases & customs
✅ Festivals worth planning around
✅ Traveler-friendly historical context
✅ Insights that make places more meaningful

📱 Built for real travel conditions
✅ Fully downloadable PDF
✅ Works completely offline
✅ Optimized for phone use
✅ Useful in remote areas & buses
✅ Everything in one place
Save weeks of stressful planning
Get instant access to your full guide. 30‑day money-back guarantee.


By proceeding you agree to our terms.
Sent to your inbox immediately after payment • 100% Secure Checkout
Best Backpacking Travel Advisor 2025 tourism awardBest Backpacking
Travel Advisor
2025
What others say about Take Your Backpack Guides:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Fantastic, amazing amount of information!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My goodness this is amazing, it's what I've been looking for hats off too you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I think this is absolutely BRILLIANT
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Very complete and informative. It's still missing places, but I gotta to commend you
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is truly amazing, thank you, can't wait to explore it with my kids!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Awesome resource, thank you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is amazing! Can't wait to explore the ones I haven't seen
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I love this! Well done, great idea.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks for taking the time to make this gem!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This might be the best website I've ever seen.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Congratulations, and thank you so much for your work; it's incredibly valuable.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
In all seriousness I think you did a great job pointing out the important spots
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
10/10 very good
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
As someone who's only just starting to visit regularly this is awesome, thank you.
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thank you very much! I'm going to visit my dad, it's going to be very useful!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is really cool! We'll be travelling for the first time and this definitely come in handy.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
You are now our minister of culture, congratulations 👨‍💼
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Just wanted to tell you that this is a pearl! Going to follow your recommendations.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is so cool. I'll definitely be using the resource for my travels soon.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is very impressive! Good work.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is an amazing and informative site. Very well done!

🛏️ Where to stay?Where staying makes the most sense

For backpackers visiting the Songor Ramsar Site, options are limited but solid. There aren’t accommodations directly inside the park, but nearby towns like Ada Foah offer a few budget-friendly guesthouses. Look for places like the Ada Beach Resort or local lodges that provide basic amenities and a chance to connect with the community.

Expect to pay a bit more during peak seasons, so book in advance if you can. Be mindful of transportation costs to the park; local taxis can add up. Prioritize your energy and budget for guided tours or boat rides in the park, where the real magic happens.
Best hostels in Ghana


Best quality hotels in Ghana

👛 Costs (as of 13 October 2025)How expensive it really is

Visiting the Songor Ramsar Site in Ghana can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid any surprises.

Entry fees typically range from $5 to $10 per person. This fee grants you access to the park and its unique ecosystems. If you’re planning to take a guided tour, expect to pay an additional $20 to $50, depending on the length and depth of the tour. Guides are invaluable for spotting wildlife and understanding the local flora and fauna.

Transportation can add up quickly. If you’re traveling from Accra, a shared taxi might cost around $15 to $25. Private taxis will be more expensive, often starting at $50. Factor in the cost of getting to and from the park, as well as any local transport you might need once you arrive.

Food options near the … read more 👉
Visiting the Songor Ramsar Site in Ghana can be a rewarding experience, but it’s essential to be aware of the costs involved to avoid any surprises.

Entry fees typically range from $5 to $10 per person. This fee grants you access to the park and its unique ecosystems. If you’re planning to take a guided tour, expect to pay an additional $20 to $50, depending on the length and depth of the tour. Guides are invaluable for spotting wildlife and understanding the local flora and fauna.

Transportation can add up quickly. If you’re traveling from Accra, a shared taxi might cost around $15 to $25. Private taxis will be more expensive, often starting at $50. Factor in the cost of getting to and from the park, as well as any local transport you might need once you arrive.

Food options near the park are limited, but you can find local eateries. Budget around $5 to $15 for a meal, depending on whether you’re opting for street food or a sit-down restaurant.

Lastly, consider any additional costs for activities like birdwatching or canoeing, which can vary widely. Always confirm prices ahead of time to avoid unexpected charges. Being aware of these costs will help you allocate your budget wisely, ensuring you can fully enjoy the experience without financial stress.


source: ghana.travel
⚠️ Prices can change and everyone travels differently, so take this as a rough guide. Hope it helps you plan your adventure!

🥾 TrailsBest hikes in Songor Ramsar Site national park

The Songor Ramsar Site is a hidden gem in Ghana, perfect for those looking to explore a unique blend of wetlands and coastal scenery. The hike offers a mix of flat terrain and some slightly rugged patches, making it accessible for most hikers, though a bit of stamina will help. As you wander, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife—birdwatchers will be in heaven with the numerous species flitting about, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some monkeys or even a crocodile sunbathing along the shore.

While there aren’t extensive designated trails like in some national parks, you can follow … read more 👉
The Songor Ramsar Site is a hidden gem in Ghana, perfect for those looking to explore a unique blend of wetlands and coastal scenery. The hike offers a mix of flat terrain and some slightly rugged patches, making it accessible for most hikers, though a bit of stamina will help. As you wander, keep your eyes peeled for the diverse wildlife—birdwatchers will be in heaven with the numerous species flitting about, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some monkeys or even a crocodile sunbathing along the shore.

While there aren’t extensive designated trails like in some national parks, you can follow the Songor Wetland Trail for a solid experience. Here’s a quick breakdown:
  • Length: 5 km
  • Estimated Duration: 2-3 hours
  • Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
  • Key Features: Scenic wetland views, birdwatching opportunities, and unique plant life
  • Terrain: Mostly flat with some uneven patches

Getting to the park can be done via public transport, but be prepared for a bit of an adventure. Buses from Accra to nearby towns are relatively frequent, but you might need to hop on a trotro or a shared taxi for the last stretch. Crowds are generally manageable, especially if you visit during the week. Just keep in mind that there might be an entrance fee, so it’s a good idea to carry some cash for that. Overall, it’s a chill spot for a day hike, with plenty of nature to soak in without the usual tourist bustle.
⚠️ Hiking info can sometimes be outdated or inaccurate. Before you hit the trail, check the latest conditions with locals. If you do spot anything that's off, I'd love to hear from you, so I can update it for fellow travelers.

🛡️ SafetySafety Tips and Common Scams in Songor Ramsar Site

The Songor Ramsar Site is generally straightforward for hikers, but a few realities can enhance your experience. Weather can shift quickly; pack a lightweight rain jacket and check forecasts. The terrain is mostly flat, but some areas may have muddy patches after rain, so sturdy footwear is essential. Wildlife is present, including birds and occasional monkeys; keep a respectful distance and avoid feeding them. Timing your hike during cooler parts of the day helps with comfort. Stay hydrated and carry snacks to maintain energy. With these tips, you’ll navigate the park smoothly and enjoy its unique beauty.
Check Country Safety

Other Ghanaian national parks near Songor Ramsar Site

Explore more nearby:


💡 Not sure where to go next?
Create a personalized itinerary for Ghana including Songor Ramsar Site and the places that fit your trip.

Generate my itinerary

👉 Discover all national parks

Or checkout all Ghana has to offer (think cities, towns, villages, national parks, hikes, beaches, festivals)
Explore Ghana
Country photo of Ghana
© Google Images

We 💚 feedbackIs it worth it?

Songor Ramsar Site is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species flitting through the mangroves. But be prepared: the heat can be relentless, and the trails aren’t always well-marked. Bring plenty of water and a good map to keep your adventure smooth and enjoyable.

✈️ When did I visit Ghana?
Ghana I visited in December 2024, starting in Accra following the coast, then up north to Mole National park to finish in the Volta Region.

✍️ Help improve this page!
The information on this page is based on my own backpacking experience in Ghana, supplemented with up-to-date research and feedback from other travelers. Travel details can change, so if you notice anything outdated or incomplete, feel free to let me know.



🙋‍♂️ Give feedback

👋 Meet the founderWho’s Behind Take Your Backpack?

Johan, backpacker and founder of TakeYourBackpackHi, I’m Johan (Netherlands 🇳🇱), the creator of TakeYourBackpack. Over the past decade, I’ve backpacked through 80+ countries across six continents, gaining extensive experience with independent travel, long-term trips, and overland routes.

This site is built on a combination of firsthand travel experience and carefully curated insights from other backpackers. Many guides are based on places I’ve personally visited, while others bring together tips, observations, and practical advice shared by trusted travelers I’ve met along the way.

The goal is to provide realistic, experience-driven guidance — not generic itineraries — so you can explore destinations with better context, clearer expectations, and more confidence.

Read the full story
Get full Ghana guide •
Instant download • 111 highlights • Full Offline guide