Aburi
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Aburi

Aburi

Akuapem Ridge town above Accra, known for botanical gardens, cooler air, and woodcarving workshops

Aburi sits in the Akuapem Ridge hills about 35 km north of Accra, and the main reason to come here is the Aburi Botanical Gardens. Established by the British in 1890, the gardens cover 65 hectares of tropical plants, towering palms, and shaded walkways. It is a cool, green escape from the heat and noise of Accra, and makes an easy half-day trip from the capital.

The town itself is quiet and pleasant, with a small market and wide views over the Accra plains. The road up from Accra winds through the hills and passes through several small towns known for furniture-making and woodcarving — worth a browse if you have time.

Guide

Getting There

Aburi is about 35 kilometres north of Accra, a journey that takes between 45 minutes and two hours depending on Accra traffic. Shared taxis and tro-tros from Accra's Madina lorry station run regularly to Aburi — look for vehicles marked "Aburi" or "Akuapem." The road climbs steeply through the ridge, offering good views as you approach the town.

Private taxis from central Accra will negotiate a return fare that includes waiting time while you visit the gardens; agree on this in advance. Driving yourself gives you the flexibility to stop at the woodcarving stalls along the ridge road, which is the main advantage of having your own transport.

Guide

Things to Do

Aburi's appeal is almost entirely natural and horticultural. The Botanical Gardens are the reason most people make the trip from Accra, but the surrounding Akuapem Ridge has its own rewards: cool air, wide views over the plains, and a string of craft villages along the approach road. The town is best visited as a half-day or full-day trip, ideally on a weekday when the gardens are quiet.