Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

Bobiri is a dedicated forest reserve and butterfly sanctuary, renowned for its incredible diversity of butterfly species, making it a paradise for...

Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary at a Glance

Location
Central Ashanti Forest Belt, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
6.692132, -1.308376
Crowds
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 Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Cana (DBBC), 374 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 410 km away.

Weather & Climate in Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

The warmest temperatures in Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary occur in February, averaging 29.3°C (up to 36.6°C). The coolest conditions are in September at 25.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 14.0mm. Average humidity: 57.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C (rainfall: 14.0mm)
  • February: 29.3°C (rainfall: 20.9mm)
  • March: 27.8°C (rainfall: 121.2mm)
  • April: 27.6°C (rainfall: 158.5mm)
  • May: 27.1°C (rainfall: 147.9mm)
  • June: 25.5°C (rainfall: 184.5mm)
  • July: 25.0°C (rainfall: 162.9mm)
  • August: 25.0°C (rainfall: 158.3mm)
  • September: 25.0°C (rainfall: 220.6mm)
  • October: 25.3°C (rainfall: 156.1mm)
  • November: 26.6°C (rainfall: 72.7mm)
  • December: 27.4°C (rainfall: 24.7mm)

Best Time to Visit Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

The best months to visit Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 28.12°C, rainfall 14mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 57.9%
  • February: Great, temperature 29.33°C, rainfall 20.9mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 60.3%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.75°C, rainfall 121.2mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 76.9%
  • April: Good, temperature 27.56°C, rainfall 158.5mm, sunshine 9.1 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.13°C, rainfall 147.9mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 80.2%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.53°C, rainfall 184.5mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 83.8%
  • July: Good, temperature 25.04°C, rainfall 162.9mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 81.9%
  • August: Good, temperature 25.01°C, rainfall 158.3mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 80.4%
  • September: Good, temperature 24.98°C, rainfall 220.6mm, sunshine 7.2 hrs, humidity 84.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.29°C, rainfall 156.1mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 86.1%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.58°C, rainfall 72.7mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 78.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.44°C, rainfall 24.7mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 65.1%

Wildlife in Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

Home to 78 recorded species including 42 iconic birds, 16 birds of prey, 10 waterbirds, 10 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

Based on average temperature of 26.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 76%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 27°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 Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

8 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Central Ashanti Forest Belt

Visitor Tips - Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary

We love Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary for its truly immersive experience into Ghana's vibrant insect life; the sheer number and diversity of butterflies fluttering around you is simply captivating. Visiting during the dry season, from November to March, is when the forest truly comes alive, offering sensational photographic opportunities and a peaceful escape into nature's delicate artistry.

Gate Times

We find Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary typically opens its gates from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. We always recommend confirming these times locally upon arrival, as they can occasionally vary. Entry permits are required and can be purchased at the gate; we suggest carrying some local currency, Ghanaian Cedis, for this.

Tipping

We believe in recognizing excellent service. For your local guide at Bobiri, we recommend a tip of around 30-50 GHS per person per day, or the equivalent of 5-10 USD, depending on the length and quality of your experience. It is always appreciated and a customary way to show your gratitude for their knowledge and dedication.

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary FAQs

When is the best time of year to visit Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary for optimal butterfly viewing?

The peak season for butterfly diversity and activity at Bobiri is generally during Ghana's rainy seasons, particularly from April to June and again from September to November. During these months, the lush vegetation supports a greater abundance of species, making sightings more frequent and vibrant.

Beyond just "many," what specific types of butterflies or notable species can I hope to encounter at Bobiri?

Bobiri is home to an impressive array of species, including various Swallowtails, Charaxes, Nymphalids, and Skippers, some of which are endemic to West Africa. Keep an eye out for the striking Blue Diadem or the large African Giant Swallowtail, which are among the sanctuary's most sought-after sightings for enthusiasts.

What are the typical accommodation options available for visitors staying near Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary?

While Bobiri itself has a guesthouse within the reserve, offering basic but convenient lodging, visitors can also find more varied options in nearby towns like Koforidua or Kumasi. These range from budget-friendly guesthouses to mid-range hotels, providing more amenities and dining choices.

What are the key safety considerations for visitors to Bobiri, particularly concerning health and local conditions in Ghana?

Visitors should be aware that Bobiri is in a high malaria risk area, so taking antimalarial medication and using insect repellent is crucial. While generally safe, it's advisable to travel with a local guide, stay on marked trails during forest walks, and ensure you have appropriate travel insurance.

What are the typical entry fees and other associated costs for visiting Bobiri Forest and Butterfly Sanctuary, and what do they cover?

Entry fees for Bobiri are generally quite affordable, usually a small charge for park access and a separate fee if you opt for a guided forest walk or butterfly tour. These fees contribute to the sanctuary's conservation efforts and often include the expertise of a local guide who can help spot specific species, offering a more intimate experience given the sanctuary's peaceful atmosphere.

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.