At Golden Hill Parker Hotel, please make the most of your time in Ghana. Our experienced tour guides, together with trusted friends from the local community, will introduce you to the sights and activities that inspire us most. From historic landmarks to cultural treasures, you’ll discover the rich traditions and fascinating history of Elmina.
All you need to do is decide to join—leave the rest to us for an authentic and unforgettable experience.
Activities
ELMINA COMMUNITY TOUR
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of Ghana with our Elmina Community Tour. Guided by locals, you’ll explore the historic town of Elmina—home to captivating heritage sites, bustling markets, and timeless traditions. Immerse yourself in the local way of life, learn the stories behind the town’s landmarks, and create unforgettable cultural memories.
Boat Cruise
Set sail on an unforgettable journey across the serene waters surrounding Golden Hill Parker Hotel. Our boat cruises offer a unique way to experience Ghana’s stunning coastline, complete with breathtaking views and a refreshing sea breeze. Perfect for a relaxing day out, it’s the ideal escape to unwind and soak in the natural beauty of the area.
MASSAGE SESSION AT GOLDEN HILL PARKER HOTEL
Indulge in pure relaxation with a luxurious massage at Golden Hill Parker Hotel. Our professional therapists provide a range of treatments designed to refresh your body, relieve stress, and restore balance. Whether you seek deep relaxation or a soothing escape, our massage services are the perfect complement to your stay.
TRADITIONAL CULTURAL DRUMMING AND DANCING
Experience the vibrant heartbeat of Ghana with a captivating performance by the Akomapa Cultural Troupe. Our traditional drumming and dancing sessions immerse you in the rich rhythms, movements, and heritage of Ghanaian culture. Enjoy an evening filled with energy, music, and storytelling through dance—an unforgettable cultural journey you won’t want to miss.
SCRABBLE
Challenge your mind and have fun with a classic game of Scrabble. Perfect for word lovers, this timeless board game is a great way to relax, bond, and share laughs with friends or family. Whether in our cosy lounge or outdoor seating areas, Scrabble adds a touch of playful competition to your stay at Golden Hill Parker Hotel.
LUDO
Enjoy a classic game of Ludo, perfect for all ages. Gather with family or friends in our cosy lounge for an evening of fun, laughter, and friendly competition.
Darts
Enjoy a fun game of darts near our bar area—perfect for casual play or friendly competition. A great way to relax, socialise, and test your aim during your stay.
KIDS TUNNEL
A fun and colourful play space for toddlers and young children to crawl, climb, and explore. Safe, engaging, and perfect for little adventurers during their stay at Golden Hill Parker Hotel
TRAMPOLINE
A fun and safe way for kids to stay active during their stay. Our trampoline is perfect for families, keeping little ones entertained while parents relax nearby.
METAL FOOTBALL BALL GAME
Enjoy fast-paced fun with our metal football board game, perfect for guests of all ages. Challenge friends or join a casual match near the bar and lounge while enjoying drinks and good company.
Table Tennis
Stay active and have fun with a friendly game of table tennis at Golden Hill Parker Hotel. Whether you’re playing casually with friends or engaging in some light competition, it’s a great way to relax and enjoy your time. Our attentive staff are on hand to serve refreshing drinks and snacks while you play, and all equipment is provided free of charge for your convenience.
NEARBY HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL ATTRACTIONS
The Golden Hill Parker Hotel offers guests the chance to explore iconic historical and cultural sites located in the Central Region of Ghana. Conveniently located near these landmarks, our hotel serves as the perfect base for immersing yourself in Ghana's fascinating past, particularly the legacy of the trans-Atlantic slave trade and local craftsmanship. Below are key attractions located within easy reach of the hotel.
ASSIN MANSO SLAVE RIVER
Distance from the hotel: 40 km (approximately 50 minutes by car)
The Assin Manso Slave River, also known as “Donkor Nsuo” (Slave River), was one of the largest slave markets in Ghana during the trans-Atlantic slave trade. This site marks the place where captured Africans had their “last bath” before being sent to the coast for shipment. Today, it serves as a memorial site with monuments and exhibits that pay tribute to the ancestors who passed through this route. It’s a must-visit for those interested in understanding the complete story of the slave trade in Ghana.
ELMINA LOCAL SALT MINING SITE
Distance from the hotel: 1 km (approximately 6 minutes by car)
Elmina is not only known for its forts and castles but also for its Salt Mining Site, where traditional methods of salt extraction are still in use. Visitors can watch the locals at work, harvesting salt from the lagoons. It’s an insightful experience that showcases the region’s natural resources and the enduring importance of salt in local trade.
The most common method for salt production in Elmina is through solar evaporation, where seawater is collected in shallow ponds (salt pans) and left to evaporate under the sun. This natural process concentrates the salt, which is then harvested.
Elmina's salt mining is characterized by small-scale, artisanal producers, many of whom are part of local communities. These producers often rely on family labor and traditional methods.
JOSEPH’S MINOR BASILICA
Distance from the hotel: 2.5 km (approximately 8 minutes by car)
A beautiful testament to Ghana’s Catholic heritage, St. Joseph’s Minor Basilica in Elmina is one of the oldest Roman Catholic churches in Ghana. Built in the 19th century, the basilica features intricate European-style architecture. Its serene atmosphere makes it a peaceful retreat for visitors, while its history offers insight into the role of religion during Ghana’s colonial era.
ELMINA BOAT BUILDING AND REPAIR YARD
Distance from the hotel: 1.5 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)
At the Elmina Boat Building Yard, you can witness local craftsmen building and repairing traditional fishing boats, a practice that has been passed down through generations. The yard plays an essential role in the thriving fishing industry of Elmina. Visitors can see the boats being constructed and learn about the techniques used by artisans to maintain their fleets.
ELMINA JAVA MUSEUM
Distance from the hotel: 2.2 km (approximately 7 minutes by car)
The Elmina Java Museum tells the fascinating story of the Ghanaian soldiers who served in the Dutch colonial army in the East Indies during the 19th century. This little-known chapter of Ghana’s history is highlighted through personal artifacts, historical documents, and multimedia displays. It’s a unique cultural stop that offers a different perspective on Ghana’s colonial interactions.
CAPE COAST CASTLE
Distance from the hotel: 15 km (approximately 20 minutes by car)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Cape Coast Castle was another key location in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Originally built by the Swedes in 1653 for timber and gold trading, it was later repurposed as a slave depot. Visitors can tour the dungeons and museum, which houses artifacts, maps, and records related to the slave trade. This emotional journey provides insight into the harsh realities faced by enslaved Africans before their forced departure through the “Gate of No Return.”
FORT ST. JAGO
Distance from the hotel: 1.6 km (approximately 5 minutes by car)
Fort St. Jago, located on a hilltop overlooking Elmina Castle, was built by the Dutch to protect the main fort from attacks. Originally a chapel, it was later converted into a military stronghold. This historical site offers panoramic views of Elmina and the coastline, making it a great spot for both history buffs and photography enthusiasts. Tours are available to explain its strategic importance during colonial times.
KAKUM NATIONAL PARK
Distance from the hotel: 38 km (approximately 50 minutes by car)
Kakum National Park is a renowned tropical rainforest reserve that offers visitors a unique experience of nature. The highlight of the park is its Canopy Walkway, which stands 30 meters above the forest floor, giving a breathtaking view of the rich biodiversity below. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, monkeys, and a variety of birds. Visitors can enjoy guided tours that provide insights into the flora and fauna, as well as the conservation efforts in place to protect the ecosystem.
ELMINA CASTLE
Distance from the hotel: 1.2 km (approximately 4 minutes by car)
Built by the Portuguese in 1482, Elmina Castle is the oldest European structure in sub-Saharan Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This imposing fortress served as a major hub for the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Visitors can explore the dungeons, governor’s quarters, and the infamous “Door of No Return.” Elmina Castle stands as a haunting reminder of a dark chapter in history and offers educational tours focused on the castle’s role in the slave trade and Ghana’s colonial past.