Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Central Ashanti Forest Belt, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
7.090353, -1.806285
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season) for wildlife and national parks. Best birding November to April.

Getting to Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aéroport de Gaoua (XGA), 395 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 470 km away.

Weather & Climate in Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 28.5°C (up to 35.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 24.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 9.5mm. Average humidity: 52.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 27.1°C (rainfall: 9.5mm)
  • February: 28.5°C (rainfall: 27.7mm)
  • March: 26.8°C (rainfall: 186.6mm)
  • April: 26.6°C (rainfall: 162.2mm)
  • May: 26.3°C (rainfall: 162.1mm)
  • June: 24.8°C (rainfall: 198.9mm)
  • July: 24.2°C (rainfall: 174.6mm)
  • August: 24.2°C (rainfall: 183.2mm)
  • September: 24.3°C (rainfall: 210.0mm)
  • October: 24.5°C (rainfall: 221.9mm)
  • November: 25.7°C (rainfall: 72.0mm)
  • December: 26.5°C (rainfall: 26.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

The best months to visit Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 27.13°C, rainfall 9.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 52.9%
  • February: Great, temperature 28.53°C, rainfall 27.7mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 56.5%
  • March: Good, temperature 26.81°C, rainfall 186.6mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 78.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 26.58°C, rainfall 162.2mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 80.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 26.26°C, rainfall 162.1mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 81.8%
  • June: Good, temperature 24.76°C, rainfall 198.9mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 84.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.23°C, rainfall 174.6mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 83.4%
  • August: Good, temperature 24.24°C, rainfall 183.2mm, sunshine 7.4 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • September: Good, temperature 24.27°C, rainfall 210mm, sunshine 7 hrs, humidity 85.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 24.5°C, rainfall 221.9mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 87%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.68°C, rainfall 72mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 79.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.5°C, rainfall 26.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 61.6%

Wildlife in Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

Home to 19 recorded species including 9 iconic birds, 5 birds of prey, 3 waterbirds, 2 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 25.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 76%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 26°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve

1 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central Ashanti Forest Belt

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve FAQs

When is the ideal time to visit Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve for wildlife viewing, and what can I expect regarding crowds?

The dry season, typically from November to March, offers the best conditions for wildlife spotting as animals congregate around water sources. You'll find a remarkably peaceful experience here, as Asufu Shelterbelt West is known for its exceptionally low crowding, rated 1/5, ensuring an intimate encounter with nature.

What unique wildlife and natural features can I expect to encounter at Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve, given its IUCN Category III status?

As an IUCN Category III protected area, Asufu Shelterbelt West is recognized for its significant natural features, often including unique geological formations or specific ecosystems. While not a 'Big Five' destination, visitors can anticipate diverse birdlife, various primate species, and smaller antelopes, alongside the distinctive flora of Ghana's forest reserves.

What specific health and safety precautions should I take when planning a trip to Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve, particularly regarding malaria?

Due to the high malaria risk in the region, it is crucial to consult your doctor about antimalarial prophylaxis well before your trip. Additionally, pack long-sleeved clothing, use insect repellent with DEET, and sleep under mosquito nets to minimize exposure.

What are the typical costs associated with visiting Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve, and is it easily accessible for independent travelers?

While specific entry fees can vary, expect moderate costs for park entry and any guided tours, which are highly recommended for optimal experience. Asufu Shelterbelt West is less developed for mass tourism, so arranging transport and accommodation in advance, possibly through a local tour operator, is advisable.

How does the visitor experience at Asufu Shelterbelt West Forest Reserve differ from more crowded safari parks, and what makes it a unique destination in Ghana?

Asufu Shelterbelt West offers a truly secluded and immersive experience, standing out with its 1/5 crowding level, meaning you'll often have trails and viewing spots to yourself. Its IUCN Category III designation highlights its unique natural features, providing a more focused exploration of Ghana's specific biodiversity and landscapes rather than a typical 'big game' safari.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet West Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.