Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa is a protected area in Ghana.

Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa at a Glance

Location
Northern Savanna & Cross-Border Wildlife, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
8.765866, 0.824348
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 Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Mango (DXMG), 183 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), 318 km away.

Weather & Climate in Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

The warmest temperatures in Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa occur in March, averaging 27.7°C (up to 34.4°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 23.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in December with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 38.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.6°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • February: 27.0°C (rainfall: 7.1mm)
  • March: 27.7°C (rainfall: 59.1mm)
  • April: 27.0°C (rainfall: 96.3mm)
  • May: 26.2°C (rainfall: 136.0mm)
  • June: 24.5°C (rainfall: 198.2mm)
  • July: 23.5°C (rainfall: 248.4mm)
  • August: 23.5°C (rainfall: 287.7mm)
  • September: 23.5°C (rainfall: 237.7mm)
  • October: 24.8°C (rainfall: 152.4mm)
  • November: 26.2°C (rainfall: 9.8mm)
  • December: 25.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

The best months to visit Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.57°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 34.4%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.03°C, rainfall 7.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 36.6%
  • March: Great, temperature 27.7°C, rainfall 59.1mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 63.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 26.98°C, rainfall 96.3mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 71.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 26.22°C, rainfall 136mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 77.9%
  • June: Good, temperature 24.51°C, rainfall 198.2mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 83.7%
  • July: Good, temperature 23.52°C, rainfall 248.4mm, sunshine 8.4 hrs, humidity 86.9%
  • August: Good, temperature 23.47°C, rainfall 287.7mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 85.3%
  • September: Good, temperature 23.54°C, rainfall 237.7mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 86.9%
  • October: Good, temperature 24.75°C, rainfall 152.4mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 79.6%
  • November: Great, temperature 26.17°C, rainfall 9.8mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 55.8%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.63°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 38.9%

Wildlife in Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

Home to 77 recorded species including 36 iconic birds, 24 birds of prey, 13 waterbirds, 4 tropical birds.

Recommended Packing List for Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa

Based on average temperature of 25.4°C, typical conditions, humidity 67%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 25°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 Northern Savanna & Cross-Border Wildlife

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa FAQs

When is the best time to visit Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa for optimal wildlife viewing and weather conditions?

The dry season, typically from November to March, offers the best conditions for a safari in Fazao-Malfakassa. During this period, vegetation is sparser, making wildlife easier to spot, and the roads are more accessible. Expect a tranquil experience due to the park's low crowding level.

What unique wildlife can I expect to encounter at Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa, given its location in Ghana?

While large predators are rare, Fazao-Malfakassa is home to a diverse array of West African fauna, including various antelope species like kob and hartebeest, as well as primates such as baboons and patas monkeys. Birdwatchers will also find a rich variety of avian species.

What specific health precautions should I take when planning a safari to Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa, particularly regarding malaria?

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

How does the low crowding level at Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa impact the safari experience compared to more popular parks?

With a crowding level of 1/5, visitors to Fazao-Malfakassa can expect a highly intimate and undisturbed safari experience, often having wildlife sightings entirely to themselves. This offers a unique opportunity for quiet contemplation and photography without the typical tourist crowds.

What are the typical costs and logistical considerations for arranging a safari to Parc National de Fazao-Malfakassa?

As a less developed park, costs might involve hiring a local guide and a 4x4 vehicle, as public transport options are limited. It's advisable to arrange tours through reputable Ghanaian operators who can provide current pricing for park entry, guiding services, and accommodation near the park.

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.