Accra to Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary — Playful Mona Monkeys in a Sacred Forest

Introduction

Nestled deep in the Volta Region of Ghana, the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary is one of the country’s most unique eco-tourism destinations as researched by Accra Street Journal. Famous for its playful Mona monkeys, lush sacred groves, and rich Ewe cultural traditions, this sanctuary blends wildlife conservation with community heritage.

For centuries, the people of Tafi Atome have considered the monkeys sacred messengers of their ancestors. Today, the sanctuary attracts both local and international visitors who want to witness this human-animal coexistence firsthand. This guide by Accra Street Journal provides everything you need to know about traveling from Accra to Tafi Atome — transport, fares, lodging, entry fees, cultural history, and travel tips.

Distance and Location

• Distance from Accra: ~220 km

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• Travel time: 5–6 hours by road

• Region: Volta Region (near Hohoe, about 15 km south of Hohoe town)

• Coordinates: Between Wli Falls and Mount Afadjato — can be combined with both

Transport Options from Accra

1. By Bus / Tro-Tro

   • Take an STC bus or tro-tro from Accra (Tudu, Madina, or Circle Station) to Hohoe.

   • From Hohoe, board a shared taxi to Tafi Atome (₵15–₵25).

   • Accra → Hohoe fare: ₵120–₵150.

2. By Private Car / Rental

   • Drive via Accra–Tema Motorway → Ho → Hohoe → Tafi Atome.

   • Car rental costs: ₵600–₵1,200 per day (depending on vehicle type).

3. Tour Packages

   • Many weekend packages combine Tafi Atome + Wli Falls + Afadjato.

   • Typical price: ₵1,800–₵2,500 per person (2–3 days, including meals and accommodation).

Rest Stops Along the Way

• Kpong / Atimpoku (near Akosombo): Try grilled tilapia and banku.

• Ho: Great for refueling, buying snacks, or enjoying local dishes.

• Hohoe: A good stop before continuing to Tafi Atome; has guesthouses and eateries.

Entry Fees & Tourist Information

• Entry Fees (2025):

  • Ghanaians: ₵20–₵30

  • Foreigners: ₵40–₵60

  • Students (with ID): ₵10–₵15

• Guided Tours:

  • Compulsory, as local guides explain history and help you interact safely with monkeys.

  • Guide fee: ₵20–₵40 depending on group size.

• Operating Hours: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM

• Contact: Tafi Atome Ecotourism Office – Tel: +233 24 567 8910

History and Cultural Significance

For over 200 years, the people of Tafi Atome have lived alongside Mona monkeys (Cercopithecus mona), believing they are spiritual guardians. The forest where the monkeys live is considered a sacred grove, protected by traditional taboos.

In the 1990s, conservation NGOs partnered with the community to formalize protection and promote eco-tourism. Today, the sanctuary is run by a community-based tourism committee, ensuring that revenue supports schools, clinics, and local development.

The Sanctuary Experience

1. Meeting the Monkeys

   • The monkeys roam freely in the village and forest.

   • They are friendly and curious, especially when visitors bring bananas.

   • It’s common to have monkeys sit on your shoulder or eat from your hand.

2. Sacred Forest Tour

   • A guided walk through the forest reveals tall silk cotton trees, medicinal plants, and shrines.

   • The forest is also home to butterflies, birds, and other wildlife.

3. Cultural Experiences

   • Visitors may witness traditional drumming, dancing, and storytelling in the village.

   • Craft shops sell handmade souvenirs (woven cloth, carvings, beadwork).

Hotels and Guest Houses Near Tafi Atome

• Tafi Atome Guest Lodge – Simple eco-lodge managed by locals (~₵150/night).

• Waterfall Lodge (Wli area) – Mid-range accommodation (~₵250/night).

• Freedom Hotel (Hohoe) – More luxurious option with modern amenities (~₵400/night).

• Home-stays in Tafi Atome – Cultural immersion at budget prices (~₵80–₵120/night).

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (Nov–March): Easier travel conditions, clear views, and more predictable weather.

• Rainy Season (April–Oct): Forest is lush, monkeys are active, but paths may be muddy.

Recommendation: Morning visits are best, as monkeys are most active between 7–10 AM.

FAQs

Q: Can I touch the monkeys?
Yes, but only if they approach you. Avoid forcing interaction.

Q: Do I need to bring bananas?
It’s optional, but they love bananas. You can buy some in the village.

Q: How long is the visit?
Typically 1–2 hours, depending on whether you do the forest walk.

Q: Is it safe?
Yes. The monkeys are habituated to humans and are not aggressive.

Q: Can I combine Tafi Atome with Wli Falls?
Yes, many tours combine both in one day.

Travel Tips

• Carry bananas or peanuts to attract the monkeys.

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking through the forest.

• Respect the cultural significance of the grove — avoid littering.

• Support local businesses by buying souvenirs or eating at community-run spots.

• Combine with Wli Falls and Afadjato for a fuller Volta Region experience.

Source: Accra Street Journal

Last Updated on October 1, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu

Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.

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