Cape Coast Castle, Ghana Vacation Packages and Tours

Cape Coast Castle, Ghana

Cape Coast Castle is one of the biggest slave castles along the coast of West Africa. Built in 1555, it was originally a Portuguese trading post and, in the 18th century, a main shipping point for slaves across the Atlantic. After Ghana became independent in 1957, the government opened Cape Coast Castle as a museum in 1974, and further restoration of the castle took place in the early 1990s.

On a tour of the castle, you can get a glimpse into life during the slave trade era through architectural features such as slave dungeons, the governor's apartments, and cannons and mortars used in the castle' defense. A museum located within the castle houses old muskets, shackles, ancient pottery, ceremonial drums, and other art and cultural artifacts that provide insights into Ghana's history. As the tour involves walking and climbing stairs, make sure to wear comfortable shoes. The weather can be hot, so light and breathable clothing is recommended.