Auro River Forest Reserve

Auro River Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Auro River Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Eastern Forest & Atewa Highlands, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
6.302701, -1.102203
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 Auro River Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Cana (DBBC), 360 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 385 km away.

Weather & Climate in Auro River Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Auro River Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 29.3°C (up to 36.5°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 25.2°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 20.4mm. Average humidity: 64.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 28.3°C (rainfall: 20.4mm)
  • February: 29.3°C (rainfall: 35.3mm)
  • March: 27.9°C (rainfall: 135.6mm)
  • April: 27.8°C (rainfall: 149.4mm)
  • May: 27.3°C (rainfall: 170.4mm)
  • June: 25.7°C (rainfall: 218.2mm)
  • July: 25.2°C (rainfall: 164.1mm)
  • August: 25.3°C (rainfall: 132.7mm)
  • September: 25.3°C (rainfall: 223.8mm)
  • October: 25.5°C (rainfall: 182.2mm)
  • November: 26.5°C (rainfall: 75.0mm)
  • December: 27.6°C (rainfall: 22.2mm)

Best Time to Visit Auro River Forest Reserve

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 28.34°C, rainfall 20.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 64.9%
  • February: Great, temperature 29.34°C, rainfall 35.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 66%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.95°C, rainfall 135.6mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 78%
  • April: Good, temperature 27.83°C, rainfall 149.4mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 79.4%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.32°C, rainfall 170.4mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.67°C, rainfall 218.2mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 84.8%
  • July: Good, temperature 25.22°C, rainfall 164.1mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • August: Good, temperature 25.27°C, rainfall 132.7mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 80.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 25.28°C, rainfall 223.8mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 84.4%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.51°C, rainfall 182.2mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 86.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.48°C, rainfall 75mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 82%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.58°C, rainfall 22.2mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 71.2%

Wildlife in Auro River Forest Reserve

Home to 67 recorded species including 40 iconic birds, 15 birds of prey, 7 tropical birds, 5 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Auro River Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 26.8°C, typical conditions, humidity 78%.

  • 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

Similar Parks in Eastern Forest & Atewa Highlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Auro River Forest Reserve FAQs

What kind of visitor experience can I expect at Auro River Forest Reserve, given its remarkably low crowding level?

Auro River Forest Reserve offers an exceptionally intimate and tranquil safari experience. With very few visitors, you'll often have sightings to yourself, allowing for undisturbed wildlife observation and a profound connection with nature, far from the bustling crowds of more popular parks.

Beyond general wildlife, what specific natural features or unique species are highlights of Auro River Forest Reserve, reflecting its riverine forest environment?

As a riverine forest reserve, Auro River is particularly known for its diverse primate populations, including various monkey species, and a rich array of forest birds. Visitors can also expect to see unique flora along the Auro River banks and potentially spot crocodiles or other aquatic life in the river itself.

What specific health and safety precautions are recommended for travelers visiting Auro River Forest Reserve?

Due to the tropical environment, it's crucial to consult your doctor about anti-malarial prophylaxis well before your trip. Additionally, pack insect repellent with DEET, wear long sleeves and pants, and stay hydrated. Always follow your guide's instructions for safety within the reserve.

What is the best time of year to visit Auro River Forest Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing and travel conditions?

The dry season, typically from November to March, is generally considered the best time to visit. During these months, wildlife congregates around water sources, making sightings more predictable, and the roads within the reserve are more easily navigable.

How accessible is Auro River Forest Reserve, and what are the typical costs associated with a visit?

Access to Auro River Forest Reserve usually requires a 4x4 vehicle, especially during the wet season, and it's advisable to arrange transport from a nearby town. While specific entrance fees vary, typical costs include park entry, guided tours (often mandatory for safety and optimal viewing), and accommodation if staying nearby.

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.