Spotting wildlife in Mole National Park, Ghana

There’s a sense of peace to be found at Mole (say “mo-lay”), and if you are looking for a laid-back approach to a safari, you’ve found it. Spotting wildlife in Ghana‘s Mole National Park makes for an unusual and memorable vacation.

But as with any safari experience, a bit of planning is required, just to ensure you spot as many wildlife species as possible. This handy guide to spotting wildlife in Mole Park is exactly what you need to get yourself prepped and ready for an authentic adventure in this magical expanse. From the best time to visit to what to pack, keep reading for all the details you could need to enjoy a successful wildlife experience in the northern reaches of Ghana.

Animals in Mole National Park

The first thing to do is consider what types of animals you can spot in this region, and which ones you’ll want to look out for. There are hundreds of different species, including several endangered ones – and while you won’t see them all, you’ll certainly get to cross a fair few off your list, so keep your favorites in mind as you roam the park grounds.

Mammals

There are over 93 species of mammals in Mole, and the park is particularly known for its large mammals. The biggest of them is the African elephant: there are about 600 of them currently in Mole National Park, the most you’ll find anywhere in West Africa.

Other mammals to look out for include antelopes, buffalo, warthog, bushpig, baboons, aardvark, hyena, and green and patas monkeys. Leopards and lions are very rare and hard to spot, so consider yourself lucky if you’re blessed with even just a quick glance.

Amphibians and reptiles

The park is home to about nine different species of amphibians and roughly 33 reptiles. You’ll have an easy time spotting crocodiles in the rivers or ponds. Peek behind bushes or stones for lizards, snakes, and tortoises, or venture into wetter zones in search of frogs and toads.

Butterflies

Mole has a whopping 120 different butterflies for you to glimpse and marvel at as they flutter past. These mystical creatures, along with dragonflies and a wide variety of beetles, are common in the savannah.

Birds

With over 300 bird species recorded, Mole National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The main species to try spotting include the malachite kingfisher, Abyssinian ground hornbill, yellow-billed shrike, carmine bee-eater, saddle-billed stork, and martial eagle. You may also catch glimpses of colorful sunbirds, weavers, rollers, woodpeckers, and various bee-eaters.

Nine best places to spot wildlife in Ghana’s Mole National Park

Where exactly should one go in the park for the best chances of spotting an animal? Mole is the largest national park in Ghana, with a surface area of more than 1,767 square miles (4,577 sq km), so you’d be forgiven for asking yourself the question. The park has open savannah grasslands dotted with waterholes, riverbanks, and ponds, which draw plenty of wildlife – making it easier to spot them.

1. Mole Motel

Mole Motel is located within the park, on a ridge overlooking a water reservoir and the Lovi River valley. This positioning makes the area a hotspot for panoramic views, often filled with wildlife. You’ll see elephants, monkeys, warthogs, baboons, and antelopes straight from the motel and even nearby trails.

It’s also the ideal base for guided walking and driving safaris. You’ll find a few waterholes to visit nearby, such as the Zaina Waterhole. These are reliable spots for seeing elephants, buffalo, warthogs, kob, and birds, especially during the dry season.

2. The Lovi River

The Lovi River is one of the major rivers that flows seasonally and is a tributary of the White Volta River. It attracts a wealth of animals hoping to quench their thirst. Therefore, the chances of spotting wildlife here like elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and various bird species are high.

3. Zaina Lodge

This luxury eco-lodge is situated within the park and is conveniently near prime wildlife areas. You’ll get to spot magnificent creatures directly from the comfort of the lodge, from elephants to antelopes and baboons. You can also visit the quieter pockets of the park through exclusive safari drives organized by the lodge.

4. Brugbani Salt Lick

The Brugbani Salt Lick is often part of longer game drives, and it’s a good place to stop for wildlife viewing. Here, you’ll see herbivores like waterbuck, elephants, and hartebeest. These animals are attracted to this spot for its natural mineral deposits.

You can visit the nearby Tree Hide viewing platform for an expansive look at the animals. You may get a chance to spot hyenas, buffalo, baboons, leopards, antelopes, and a variety of birds while you’re here.

5. The Mole River

The Mole River is one of the two major rivers in the park, along with the Lovi River. It flows seasonally and often dries up during the long dry season. It does, however, leave behind empty pools and drinking holes that are essential for wildlife during this period.

Animals congregate around its remaining water sources throughout the year, making it a must-visit region for wildlife enthusiasts. Enthusiasts may get to spot elephants, buffalo, roan antelopes, and waterbuck here.

There are also monkeys, warthogs, and numerous bird species to enjoy glimpses of, including migratory birds that frequent the riverbanks. Lastly, predators such as spotted hyenas and leopards can also be seen here, though less frequently, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled and your patience in check.

6. Out on walking safaris

Although not a specific place, walking safaris offer excellent opportunities to spot a broader range of fauna and flora at a slow and relaxed pace. Knowledgeable guides will know exactly where to take you and teach you all about the park’s ecosystem, offering you a rich and in-depth, deeply personal experience.

7. During safari drives

Safari drives are a foolproof way to cover way more ground and increase your chances of spotting wild animals. They allow you to venture off to remote areas that are otherwise not easy or possible to reach on foot, making them a great option for the curious and intrepid traveler.

8. Kwomwoghlugu and Asibey pools

The Kwomwoghlugu and Asibey pools are among the top wetland areas within the park for birdwatching. These significant natural features are vital watering points for wildlife, particularly during the dry season. You might even get to spot hippos there, if luck is on your side.

9. Riverine forests

These are dense, species-rich forests found along the edges of rivers and streams within Mole National Park. The Riverine forests are filled with tall trees and various plant species that serve as vital habitats for many of the park’s wildlife, including endangered species like the yellow-backed duiker and black and white colobus monkey. Large carnivores like lions (albeit an extremely rare sight), leopards, and hyenas may also be spotted in these parts.

Read more: What to know before you go on safari

The best time to visit Mole National Park for wildlife spotting

Ghana’s relatively undisturbed Guinea Savannah region is a distinct ecological zone with open tree savannas, tall grasses, and scattered flora. This region has a relatively dry climate with a single rainy season (typically from May to October). The annual rainfall is between 39 and 51 inches (1,000 and 1,300mm) during these months.

Therefore, the best time to visit the park is in the dry season, which typically lasts from November to March. Since access is limited in the rainy season, it’s easier to spot wildlife in the dry season because they’re forced to congregate at waterholes and ponds.

How to get around Mole National Park

The main modes of transport in Mole Park are walking or driving and Jeep tours. Walking or driving outside of hotel grounds is strictly forbidden without a professional and armed guide, who’ll help ensure not just your safety but a more immersive and enriching experience.

Safaris on foot usually take place in the mornings and late afternoons, and last about two hours. Chartered Jeep tours are the most popular way to get around the park and allow you to see many more animals, while motorbikes, though not as common, are another fun way to explore the park.

Finally, whenever you need to leave the park, taxis are available from the nearby town of Larabanga.

Read more: Top things to do in Ghana

Pro tips for spotting wildlife in Mole National Park

If it’s your first time planning a visit, don’t worry: we offer a few top tips and tricks to help you spot wildlife in Mole National Park, make the most of your journey, and enjoy a safe and comfortable trip.

• Don’t wander off: It’s crucial to stay close to your local guide and within designated areas for your safety. Stick to all park regulations and don’t wander off on your own.
• Stay hydrated: Carry plenty of water with you to stay hydrated in the dry climate of the savannah region.
• Be aware of tsetse flies: These are large biting flies that spread trypanosomiasis, a parasitic infection in humans. Early symptoms include swollen bumps around the bite, a fever, swollen lymph nodes, and muscle and joint pain. Advanced symptoms range from confusion to sleep disturbances and difficulty walking. Use bed nets, insect repellents, avoid bushes, and wear long-sleeved, neutral-colored clothing.
• Get your timing right: Timing is essential for successful wildlife viewing. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for game viewing, since most animals are active during these times.
• Respect wildlife and keep a safe distance: Allow animals their space, move slowly and quietly, and avoid disturbing them. Any sudden movements or loud noises can make wildlife uneasy, causing them to hide.

What to pack for a safari experience in Ghana

What you bring on your trip is just as important as any other travel logistics. You’d want to be well-prepared for a safari trip in order to avoid any uncomfortable or unnecessary scenarios, such as having the wrong shoes ruin your walking safari.

Here’s a quick list of all the essentials to pack:

• Sturdy hiking shoes for walking tours
• Neutral-toned and long-sleeved clothing
• A raincoat or an umbrella for the rainy season
• Sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
• Snacks and water
• Insect repellent
• A camera and binoculars
• Thick socks and long trousers to protect you from wild plants, thorns, and insects
• Cash to tip park rangers and to buy souvenirs at cash-only gift shops
• Basic medication for allergies, stomach issues, headaches, or insect bites and stings
• Warm layers – the early mornings and late afternoons can be chilly
• A bright torch for when the sun goes down
• A portable charger to keep your electronics readily available

Read more: Go off the beaten track in Ghana

FAQs about Mole National Park

We’ve answered a few popular questions about Mole National Park; if you have any more in mind, don’t hesitate to reach out to our locally-based travel agents in Ghana, who’ll be more than happy to help.

Which region is Mole National Park located in?

Mole National Park is located in the Savannah Region of northern Ghana, West Africa.

Are there other national parks in Ghana worth visiting?

Yes. Ghana is home to seven national parks. Besides Mole National Park, the other six are: Kyabobo, Kakum, Digya, Bia, Bui, and Nini Suhien National Parks.

How many days is enough for a safari tour in Ghana?

You’ll typically want to spend three to five days as a starting point for a fulfilling safari experience. Of course, how long you do stay depends on your personal preferences, what you’d like to see, and the type of safari you want. Would you like to try a walking safari or a night safari? Are you planning to see more of Ghana while you’re there or simply keep to the park grounds? With help from our local agents, whatever you desire can be added to your custom-made itinerary, and the length of your overall trip can be adapted according to your needs.

Are there elephants in Ghana?

Certainly. Out of all of Ghana’s national parks, Mole Park is the most famous place to spot elephants. It’s a hotspot for elephant conservation and boasts the most viable habitat for elephants in the country.

Make it happen

If you’d like to plan a trip to Mole National Park, then our local experts in Ghana are just the people to speak to. Enquire today and they can begin creating your bespoke Ghanaian trip of a lifetime, which can be shaped to your preferences.