Draw River Forest Reserve

Draw River Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Draw River Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Western Rainforests & Coastal Reserves, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
5.229893, -2.350532
Crowds
Moderate
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season) for wildlife and national parks. Best birding November to April.

Getting to Draw River Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aérodrome de Cana (DBBC), 530 km away.

Weather & Climate in Draw River Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Draw River Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 26.9°C (up to 32.0°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 24.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in December with average rainfall of 59.3mm. Average humidity: 85.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 26.2°C (rainfall: 60.4mm)
  • February: 26.9°C (rainfall: 71.1mm)
  • March: 26.6°C (rainfall: 137.6mm)
  • April: 26.6°C (rainfall: 160.7mm)
  • May: 25.9°C (rainfall: 233.7mm)
  • June: 24.6°C (rainfall: 344.5mm)
  • July: 24.2°C (rainfall: 157.7mm)
  • August: 24.0°C (rainfall: 118.5mm)
  • September: 24.4°C (rainfall: 161.5mm)
  • October: 24.7°C (rainfall: 253.4mm)
  • November: 25.3°C (rainfall: 148.9mm)
  • December: 26.0°C (rainfall: 59.3mm)

Best Time to Visit Draw River Forest Reserve

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

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 26.22°C, rainfall 60.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 84%
  • February: Great, temperature 26.92°C, rainfall 71.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 84.4%
  • March: Good, temperature 26.64°C, rainfall 137.6mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 86.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 26.65°C, rainfall 160.7mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 86.2%
  • May: Good, temperature 25.95°C, rainfall 233.7mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 88.9%
  • June: Good, temperature 24.6°C, rainfall 344.5mm, sunshine 6.8 hrs, humidity 90.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.19°C, rainfall 157.7mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 88.1%
  • August: Good, temperature 24.02°C, rainfall 118.5mm, sunshine 7.9 hrs, humidity 87.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 24.36°C, rainfall 161.5mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 89.2%
  • October: Good, temperature 24.68°C, rainfall 253.4mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 90.7%
  • November: Good, temperature 25.31°C, rainfall 148.9mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 89.1%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.99°C, rainfall 59.3mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 85.3%

Wildlife in Draw River Forest Reserve

Home to 84 recorded species including 36 iconic birds, 24 waterbirds, 15 birds of prey, 7 tropical birds, 1 marine & freshwater, 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Draw River Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 25.5°C, typical conditions, humidity 88%.

  • 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

Safari Lodges in Draw River Forest Reserve

50 safari lodges available.

Other

luxury

Similar Parks in Western Rainforests & Coastal Reserves

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Draw River Forest Reserve FAQs

What unique wildlife encounters can I expect at Draw River Forest Reserve?

Draw River Forest Reserve is renowned for its diverse primate population, including various monkey species and baboons, often spotted during guided walks. Visitors can also anticipate seeing forest antelopes like duikers, a rich array of birdlife, and potentially smaller predators within its dense forest habitat.

What is the best time of year to visit Draw River Forest Reserve for optimal wildlife viewing?

The dry season, typically from November to March, offers the best conditions for visiting Draw River Forest Reserve. During this period, vegetation is less dense and animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. The weather is also generally more comfortable for outdoor activities.

What types of safari activities are available at Draw River Forest Reserve, and what should I expect from the experience?

Draw River Forest Reserve primarily offers guided walking safaris and birdwatching excursions, allowing for an immersive experience within the forest ecosystem. While vehicle safaris are limited due to terrain, the focus is on intimate encounters with the forest's smaller inhabitants and rich flora. Expect a blend of serene nature walks and opportunities for close observation.

Beyond the high malaria risk, what other health and safety precautions are recommended for visitors to Draw River Forest Reserve?

Visitors should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider vaccinations for yellow fever and typhoid, as these are common in Ghana. It's also advisable to carry insect repellent for general bug bites and stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months. Always follow your guide's instructions for safety within the reserve.

What are the typical entry fees and accommodation options near Draw River Forest Reserve?

Entry fees for Draw River Forest Reserve are approximately 50-70 GHS for international visitors, with additional costs for guided tours. Accommodation options range from basic guesthouses in nearby villages to a few eco-lodges situated closer to the reserve's periphery, offering varying levels of comfort. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly during the peak dry season.

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.