By Ariyana Griffin
Day five started early and there was no room for errors or mistakes when it came to oversleeping or missing the bus. We were prompted to be outside at 3 a.m. – sharp – so we could prepare for our early morning flight to Tamale, the capital city of the northern region of Ghana.
This experience would allow us to see not only a different region of Ghana, but also experience what it was like to take a domestic flight in another country. Boarding a PassionAir plane from Accra to Tamale, we were excited and curious as to what the flight would be like. Tired from the early morning, I actually napped the majority of the short flight. I woke up feeling refreshed, curious and ready to go!
Upon landing I admired how green and rural Tamale was compared to the hustle and bustle of the city life in Accra. We traveled from the airport to Mole National Park, Ghana’s first, largest and most prestigious protected area. Our hotel was right in the middle of a safari. Just moments after checking in, we started to spot wildlife. The hotel overlooked breathtaking scenery and there were benches placed especially for us to relax and take it all in.
We had a free day overall, but we decided as a group that we would go on a night safari once the sun went down. In the meantime, we played in the pool, ate lunch and chilled in our rooms. I ate red red, which quickly became my go-to and favorite meal in Ghana. It consists of a stew made from red beans paired perfectly with plantains and/or banku. I took the downtime to focus on hydrating and relaxing my body from the activities prior.
Before we knew it, night fell and it was time for the safari. I was scared but also thrilled for what wildlife may be out there. I have never experienced a safari before but I figured what better place to do it than here.
On our adventure we saw a few animals such as antelopes and lizards under the night moon, but heard more of them. The park is known for having over 90 species of mammals– which was mind blowing to me! My group decided we would wake up bright and early and catch a morning safari with hopes of seeing more wildlife and more scenery.
The post Ariyana Abroad: On the way to Tamale! appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
