Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

Esukawkaw Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Esukawkaw Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Eastern Forest & Atewa Highlands, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
6.375755, -0.795903
IUCN Category
III
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 Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Cana (DBBC), 325 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 352 km away.

Weather & Climate in Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Esukawkaw Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 28.5°C (up to 36.1°C). The coolest conditions are in September at 24.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 15.0mm. Average humidity: 66.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 27.5°C (rainfall: 15.0mm)
  • February: 28.5°C (rainfall: 37.0mm)
  • March: 27.4°C (rainfall: 109.5mm)
  • April: 27.3°C (rainfall: 146.0mm)
  • May: 26.8°C (rainfall: 146.3mm)
  • June: 25.2°C (rainfall: 243.3mm)
  • July: 24.7°C (rainfall: 181.9mm)
  • August: 24.7°C (rainfall: 162.3mm)
  • September: 24.7°C (rainfall: 279.1mm)
  • October: 25.0°C (rainfall: 181.0mm)
  • November: 26.3°C (rainfall: 49.6mm)
  • December: 27.1°C (rainfall: 23.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 27.51°C, rainfall 15mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 66.6%
  • February: Great, temperature 28.54°C, rainfall 37mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 67.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.43°C, rainfall 109.5mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 27.27°C, rainfall 146mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 81.3%
  • May: Good, temperature 26.75°C, rainfall 146.3mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 83.3%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.16°C, rainfall 243.3mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 86.9%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.73°C, rainfall 181.9mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 84.3%
  • August: Good, temperature 24.71°C, rainfall 162.3mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 82.6%
  • September: Good, temperature 24.68°C, rainfall 279.1mm, sunshine 7.4 hrs, humidity 87.1%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.03°C, rainfall 181mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 88.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.33°C, rainfall 49.6mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.09°C, rainfall 23.3mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 71.2%

Wildlife in Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

Home to 71 recorded species including 41 iconic birds, 17 birds of prey, 10 waterbirds, 3 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 26.3°C, typical conditions, humidity 80%.

  • 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 Esukawkaw Forest Reserve

7 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Eastern Forest & Atewa Highlands

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Esukawkaw Forest Reserve FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Esukawkaw Forest Reserve for the best wildlife viewing and trail conditions?

The dry season, typically from November to March, offers the best conditions for visiting Esukawkaw. During this period, rainfall is minimal, making forest trails more accessible and improving visibility for spotting primates and birds.

What specific types of wildlife are commonly sighted in Esukawkaw Forest Reserve, distinguishing it from savanna-based safaris?

Esukawkaw is renowned for its diverse primate population, including various monkey species and possibly pangolins or civets. Birdwatchers will also find a rich array of forest birds, making it a unique experience focused on arboreal and ground-dwelling forest creatures.

Besides the high malaria risk, what other essential safety precautions should I consider for a visit to Esukawkaw Forest Reserve?

It is highly recommended to explore the reserve with an experienced local guide to navigate safely and enhance wildlife spotting. Always stay on marked trails, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes, and use strong insect repellent to protect against other biting insects.

Given its low crowding level, what kind of immersive experience can I expect at Esukawkaw Forest Reserve?

Esukawkaw offers a tranquil and intimate nature experience, ideal for those seeking peaceful forest walks and birdwatching away from large crowds. You can expect a more personal connection with nature, guided hikes, and a focus on the subtle wonders of the Ghanaian rainforest.

What are the typical entry fees and recommended transportation options for reaching Esukawkaw Forest Reserve?

While specific entry fees can vary, expect a modest conservation fee upon arrival, often paid directly to the local management. Transportation usually involves hiring a private vehicle or taking a shared taxi from nearby towns like Kumasi or Accra, as public transport directly to the reserve entrance may be limited.

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.