Ghana: Birding for Picathartes and Egyptian Plover

Ghana is situated in Western Africa, which is markedly different from the more popular Eastern and Southern African destinations. Many birds are confined to West Africa, especially a variety of lowland rainforest birds, making Ghana an appealing birding destination. West Africa is often considered a difficult place to travel in, due to poor infrastructure and political instability, but this is where Ghana defies the stereotype. It boasts a stable democracy dating back decades, notorious friendly peoples, and good tourist infrastructure that is constantly improving, making Ghana the easiest West or Central African country to bird in. Among the specialties are two highly treasured, and spectacular bird families, the striking courser-like Egyptian Plover and the bizarre rockfowl or Picathartes. Ghana offers an excellent chance of seeing both of these marquee families on a single trip. The rainforest belt in the south is currently the best place in the world to see the odd, cave-dwelling Yellow-headed Picathartes. Ghana can be divided into two broad major biological zones, the Guinea Savanna of the north, which mirrors to some degree some of the classic African woodland experiences, boasting photogenic savanna birds and some large mammals, like elephants, while the southern half comprises of rainforest, where many specialties will be sought, at sites including Kakum National Park, a famous spot where undoubtedly the best forest canopy walkway in all of Africa is located. Our tour comprehensively covers both of these zones. 

If you thought of West Africa as difficult and challenging to travel in, think again; many have been captivated by the wonders and birding opportunities of this safe, super-friendly African nation. It is utterly mystifying why Ghana is not more popular!