Atewa Range Forest Reserve

The Atewa range carries one of only two upland evergreen forests in Ghana, a plateau of some 230 square kilometres above Kibi that holds species found almost nowhere else in the country: hundreds of butterflies, rare birds including the Nimba flycatcher, frogs described from the range itself, and plants restricted to the wet uplands. Three rivers rise here, the Densu, Ayensu and Birim, which supply water to Accra and a large part of the south. The forest has been the subject of a long campaign over bauxite mining proposals, and access is through community and conservation organisations at Kibi who arrange guided walks up to the plateau. Trails are rough and the walking is hard.

What you actually see

• Upland forest - the wet evergreen plateau vegetation.
• Butterflies and birds - the exceptional species list of the range.
• River sources - the headwaters of the Densu, Ayensu and Birim.
• The plateau walk - the climb from Kibi up onto the range.

When to go

November to March in the dry season for the most walkable trails, though the forest is wet year round. Early morning is best for birds. Butterflies are most numerous in the wetter months.

Honest expectations

Trails are rough, steep and slippery, and the walk to the plateau takes several hours. A guide arranged in advance is essential; there is no visitor centre. Wildlife is heard more than seen. Leeches and biting insects are present.

Nearby

Kibi is the access town; Koforidua lies east.