Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest and most famous wildlife reserve, home to elephants, antelopes, baboons, and many other incredible animals.

If you’re planning a visit, here are 8 important things to know before you go.

1. Where is Mole National Park Located?

Mole National Park is in northern Ghana, specifically in the Savannah Region. The park’s entrance is near the small town of Larabanga, and the closest major city is Tamale, about 146 km away. If you’re coming from Accra, the journey is about 700 km, so be prepared for a long trip!

Quick Travel Distances:

Location	Distance to Mole National Park
Tamale	146 km
Kumasi	430 km
Accra	700 km
Damongo (nearest town)	24 km

2. What Makes Mole National Park Special?

Mole National Park isn’t just any national park in Ghana—it’s the best place in the country to see elephants in the wild! The park spans over 4,500 square kilometers, making it a vast, mostly untouched savannah landscape filled with diverse wildlife. Unlike some game reserves where you have to stay in a vehicle, Mole allows walking safaris, giving you a close-up experience with nature.

3. When is the Best Time to Visit?

Ghana has two main seasons: the dry season (November to April) and the wet season (May to October). If you want to see a lot of animals, the dry season is best. That’s because water sources shrink, forcing animals like elephants and antelopes to gather around the remaining watering holes, making them easier to spot.

Season	What to Expect
Dry Season (Nov – Apr)	Best for wildlife viewing; animals gather at waterholes.
Wet Season (May – Oct)	Lush greenery; harder to spot animals, but fewer tourists.

4. What Animals Can You See?

Mole National Park is home to over 93 species of mammals and 344 bird species. The stars of the park are the elephants, but you’ll also see:

• Antelopes (kob, waterbuck, hartebeest)
• Warthogs (yes, like Pumbaa from The Lion King!)
• Monkeys (baboons, colobus, and vervet monkeys)
• Crocodiles
• Over 30 species of reptiles

Lions and leopards are rare, but they have been spotted occasionally.

5. How Do You Explore the Park?

There are two main ways to explore:

1. Walking Safari: A guided tour on foot where you can get surprisingly close to animals. It’s safe because rangers accompany you, ensuring a thrilling but controlled experience.
2. Jeep Safari: If you prefer a more traditional game drive, you can hop into a safari vehicle. This is great for covering more ground and seeing animals from different parts of the park.

6. Where Can You Stay?

Mole has accommodations for different budgets:

• Zaina Lodge – Ghana’s first luxury safari lodge, with a pool and stunning views over the savannah.
• Mole Motel – A budget-friendly option located inside the park.
• Camping – If you’re adventurous, you can camp inside designated areas within the park.

7. What Should You Pack?

Mole National Park is hot and sunny most of the year. Here’s what you should bring:

• Light, breathable clothes in neutral colors (bright colors may startle animals!)
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars for spotting distant animals
• Camera (you’ll want to capture the elephants!)
• Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent
• A reusable water bottle to stay hydrated

8. Is There Anything Else to Do Nearby?

Yes! While you’re in the area, check out these attractions:

• Larabanga Mosque – Ghana’s oldest mosque, just outside the park.
• Paga Crocodile Pond – Interact with friendly crocodiles in northern Ghana.
• Bui National Park – Another national park in Ghana with hippos and a beautiful dam.

Mole National Park is an amazing place to experience wildlife in Ghana. Whether you’re walking among elephants, watching warthogs roam freely, or enjoying the stunning landscape, this park is a must-visit for nature lovers. Plan well, pack wisely, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!