Ghana is world-famous for its vibrant West African Culture, stunning landscapes and friendly communities. As our partner schools are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, the weekend is the perfect time to go and explore Ghana through our organised adventure activities.
We’re excited to introduce a brand new adventure activity along the coast of Ada Foah – our River Cruise Day! This one-day activity is ideal for groups looking to experience life in traditional fishing villages and immerse themselves in Ghanaian culture.
What the day entails
As you climb aboard the boat and cruise down the river, watch out for all the beautiful flora and fauna of the various islands. Depending on the day, you may be lucky enough to see fishermen hauling in their nets, and diving down for oysters. The local communities here cut mangrove roots to dry and sell for firewood, so you may see this in action and the piles of wood being transported by traditional boat. Your route cuts through a section of the mangrove where you may be lucky enough to spot crabs hiding in the roots if you look close enough.
For your first island stop, there is a choice of two options!
For adult groups (over 18’s only), the first stop will be Rum Island where you will meet the charismatic Jubilee, who owns his own distillery. He will tell you about the distillation process and show you his equipment before letting you sample some of his liquors. Don’t forget to say ‘wagee’ (cheers)!
For groups with those under 18, the first stop will be a beautiful island, lined with palm trees where you will get to try a tropical delight, a fresh coconut! Take some time to relax on the beach and cool your feet with a paddle in the river.
Along the way down the river, you will see a clear divide in wealth between the more rural and traditional communities living in reed/mud huts and the mansions of the rich and famous. Look out for the giant TV screen broadcasting 24/7 on the front of a famous footballers house! You will continue past rows of colourful fishing boats and a fish market on the way to the hotel for lunch, where you will find both typical Ghanaian dishes, and some western favourites for those who may be missing them!
After lunch, you’ll continue your adventure to another island. Get ready to be greeted by the vibrant sounds of a traditional Ghanaian drumming troupe and dancers in traditional dress. Feel the rhythms as you join in the festivities and learn a few traditional dance moves – an experience you won’t want to miss!
As the day comes to an end, we’ll make our way back to the docks, with the stunning sunset painting the sky.
Kate Clark, our Business Operations Manager, who experienced the River Cruise Day during her Trip to Ghana in March, said “This had to be one of the best adventure activities I’ve experienced, and am so pleased we are now able to start sharing this, another side of Ghana, with our groups! Many of the local communities we cruised past were living a traditional Ghanaian life – mud huts for their homes, and subsistence farming and fishing for their livelihoods. It was lovely to see so many of the children playing in the river.”
Plan your group trip to Ghana
Use our trip planner to create your ideal volunteering trip to Ghana and add The River Cruise Day as your adventure activity to get an instant price.
