Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Eastern Forest & Atewa Highlands, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
6.382382, -1.162925
IUCN Category
IV
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 Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Cana (DBBC), 364 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 392 km away.

Weather & Climate in Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 29.1°C (up to 36.3°C). The coolest conditions are in July at 25.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 14.8mm. Average humidity: 64.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 28.1°C (rainfall: 14.8mm)
  • February: 29.1°C (rainfall: 36.2mm)
  • March: 27.7°C (rainfall: 139.1mm)
  • April: 27.6°C (rainfall: 144.5mm)
  • May: 27.1°C (rainfall: 161.7mm)
  • June: 25.4°C (rainfall: 219.1mm)
  • July: 25.0°C (rainfall: 168.7mm)
  • August: 25.0°C (rainfall: 144.1mm)
  • September: 25.0°C (rainfall: 240.0mm)
  • October: 25.2°C (rainfall: 190.3mm)
  • November: 26.2°C (rainfall: 72.3mm)
  • December: 27.4°C (rainfall: 21.1mm)

Best Time to Visit Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 28.12°C, rainfall 14.8mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 64.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 29.13°C, rainfall 36.2mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 65.7%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.67°C, rainfall 139.1mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 78.5%
  • April: Good, temperature 27.57°C, rainfall 144.5mm, sunshine 8.8 hrs, humidity 79.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 27.09°C, rainfall 161.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 81.1%
  • June: Good, temperature 25.44°C, rainfall 219.1mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 85%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.96°C, rainfall 168.7mm, sunshine 8 hrs, humidity 83%
  • August: Good, temperature 24.99°C, rainfall 144.1mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 25°C, rainfall 240mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 85%
  • October: Good, temperature 25.2°C, rainfall 190.3mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 87.4%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.24°C, rainfall 72.3mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 27.39°C, rainfall 21.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 70.8%

Wildlife in Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

Home to 73 recorded species including 42 iconic birds, 17 birds of prey, 8 tropical birds, 6 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 26.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 79%.

  • 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

Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve for wildlife viewing, and what kind of crowd levels can I expect during peak season?

The dry season, typically from November to March, offers the best conditions for spotting wildlife as animals congregate around water sources and vegetation is less dense. Mirasa Hills is known for its exceptionally low visitor numbers, ensuring a tranquil and intimate safari experience even during these peak months.

What unique wildlife species can I expect to encounter at Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve that might be harder to spot in other African safari destinations?

Mirasa Hills is a haven for West African forest species, including various primates like the Mona monkey and olive colobus, as well as forest antelopes such as Maxwell's duiker. Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting endemic species like the Yellow-billed Turaco and various hornbills within its dense canopy.

Beyond general malaria prevention, what specific safety advice or health considerations should visitors keep in mind for a trip to Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve?

While comprehensive malaria prophylaxis is crucial, visitors should also prioritize staying hydrated in the tropical climate and wearing appropriate clothing to protect against insects and sun. Always adhere to your guide's instructions, especially during forest walks, to ensure your safety within the natural environment.

What type of safari activities and accommodation options are typically available at Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve, given its classification as a 'Forest Reserve'?

Unlike open savanna parks, Mirasa Hills primarily offers immersive guided forest walks and birdwatching excursions, allowing for an intimate exploration of its rich biodiversity. Accommodation within or near the reserve tends to be eco-friendly, ranging from basic guesthouses to comfortable tented camps, emphasizing a connection with nature.

What are the typical costs associated with visiting Mirasa Hills Forest Reserve, and how accessible is it for independent travelers?

Entry fees are generally modest, but the main costs will involve transportation from major cities like Accra and hiring a local guide, which is highly recommended for navigating the reserve. While independent travel is possible, many visitors find it more convenient and enriching to arrange their visit through a local tour operator who can handle logistics.

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.