Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary

The Owabi reservoir was built in the 1920s to supply Kumasi with water, and the forest protecting its catchment became a wildlife sanctuary of around thirteen square kilometres, later designated a Ramsar wetland. It is the nearest patch of protected forest to Ghana's second city and the easiest birding site in the region, with a list of over one hundred and fifty species including herons, kingfishers, hornbills and forest species, along with mona monkeys, bushbuck and, in the water, crocodiles. Trails run through the forest and along the reservoir edge, with a small visitor centre at the entrance. It is a half day from Kumasi and quiet on weekdays.

What you actually see

• The reservoir - the 1920s water body at the centre of the sanctuary.
• Waterbirds - herons, kingfishers and waders along the shore.
• Forest trails - the walking routes through the catchment woodland.
• Mona monkeys - the troops in the forest sections.

When to go

November to March in the dry season for easier trails and concentrated wildlife. Early morning is best for birds. The rains make trails muddy and the reservoir edge difficult.

Honest expectations

Management and facilities have been under-resourced and the visitor centre is minimal. Trails are poorly marked and a guide helps. Encroachment and pollution have affected parts of the catchment. Wildlife beyond birds is limited.

Nearby

Kumasi lies southeast; Bobiri forest is east of the city.