Digya National Park

Digya National Park is a large protected area in the Volta Basin region of Ghana. It lies on a peninsula between Lake Volta and the Sene and Obosom rivers. The park is known for its wildlife, forests and access to the Lake Volta area.

Digya National Park is Ghana's second-largest national park, covering about 3,473 km². It is also one of the country's oldest protected areas. The area was first established as a protected area in 1900 and was given national park status in 1971.

The park is managed by Ghana's Wildlife Division. Its location on a peninsula makes it particularly distinctive, with Lake Volta forming much of its eastern and southern surroundings.

Wildlife recorded in the park includes elephants, buffalo, leopard, waterbuck, bushbuck and several species of antelope. Primates are also found in the park. Surveys have recorded more than 30 mammal species and the park supports a large variety of birds.

Access to Digya National Park can be difficult, particularly during the rainy season.

The park can be approached from Atebubu through Kwame Dansoa and Donkorkrom. Roads inside and around the park are not comparable to normal urban roads, so visitors should make arrangements with people familiar with the area before travelling into the park.

A four-wheel-drive vehicle may be useful for reaching more remote parts of the park.

Entrance fees and permit requirements for Digya National Park should be confirmed with the Wildlife Division before visiting, as current fees are not reliably published online.

Most movement within the park is by road or on foot with the assistance of people familiar with the area.

Because Digya is a large protected area and some roads can be difficult, visitors should not travel deep into the park without appropriate local guidance.

• Wildlife Digya is home to a variety of Ghanaian wildlife. Elephants, buffalo, antelopes, waterbuck, bushbuck and other mammals occur in the park. Several species of primates can also be found. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and visitors should follow the instructions of park staff and guides.

• Lake Volta forms an important part of the landscape around Digya National Park. The park occupies a peninsula extending into the lake, creating scenic views of the water and surrounding vegetation.

• Birdlife Digya supports a wide variety of birds. The Forestry Commission's ecotourism information records at least 236 bird species in the park.

• Rocky landscapes Rocky areas, vegetation and water views provide opportunities for photography and nature observation.

• Wildlife watching is one of the main reasons to visit Digya National Park. Visitors should arrange activities through appropriate local guides or park authorities.

• Birdwatching The diversity of bird species makes the park suitable for birdwatching. Bring binoculars if available.

• Nature photography The combination of forest, rocky areas, wildlife and Lake Volta provides opportunities for nature photography.

• Explore the Lake Volta landscape Visitors can enjoy views of Lake Volta and the surrounding protected landscape.

There are limited tourist facilities inside the park. Bring essential supplies with you before entering the area.

Food options inside the park are limited. Visitors should carry sufficient food and drinking water or make arrangements with their accommodation or local guides before travelling into the park.

Carry enough drinking water, particularly when travelling into remote parts of the park.

Accommodation options inside or immediately around the park are limited. Visitors should arrange accommodation before travelling and confirm current availability with local authorities or tourism operators.

Camping has been associated with tourism activities in Digya National Park, but current camping facilities and their availability should be confirmed with the park authorities before travelling.

Visitors planning to camp should make arrangements in advance and bring essential camping supplies.

Digya National Park is a large and relatively remote protected area. There are limited visitor facilities away from the main access areas.

Travellers planning to spend time in remote parts of the park should arrange access and local guidance in advance. Carry sufficient food, drinking water, suitable clothing and other necessary supplies, and do not travel into remote areas alone.

• Digya is a large wilderness area. Follow the instructions of Wildlife Division staff and local guides.

• Do not approach wild animals, feed wildlife or leave designated areas without guidance.

• Carry sufficient water, suitable footwear, sun protection and basic supplies.

• Road conditions can change, especially during the rainy season.

Digya National Park is a protected area. As such, do not remove plants, rocks or other natural materials. Take all rubbish with you and avoid disturbing wildlife. Follow all instructions and regulations issued by the Wildlife Division.

Mobile-phone coverage can be limited in remote parts of the park.

Do not depend entirely on a mobile phone for navigation or emergencies.

• Atebubu — an important approach town for the park.

• Lake Volta — one of Ghana's major geographical features.

• Kintampo — a larger town in the wider Bono East area.

• Kumasi — a major city and transport centre in central Ghana.