The Cape Coast / Elmina area is at the very heart of Ghana's history.

Just a few kilometers from the Elmina Resort stands Elmina Castle, which date from 1482 and mark the place where Europeans first made contact with West Africa. It served as both a fort and later a slave prison.

Now restored, it is a World Heritage Site.

Cape Coast Castle is another World Heritage Site and now a museum. Dating from 1683, it was built by the Dutch and then later used by the British up to the time when Ghana gained Independence.

An estimated 6.3 million slaves were exported from Ghana's shores to the New World. And of that number, many perished in prisons or en route. Kakun National Park is one of the Central Region's most popular natural attractions.

This tropical rain forest is home to a large variety of birds, mammals, reptiles and butterflies.

A 1000 foot long walkway through the tree canopy is the only one of its type in Africa.

Nearby is the Efutu Mampon Ostrich Farm where visitors can get a close up view of these ungainly birds.

Throughout the Central Region one can see the whimsical designs of Posuban Shrines, structures built by Fante warriors who are members of Asafo Companies.

Cultural events and festivals play an important role in tourist activities at Cape Coast and Elmina.

Emancipation Days commemorates the end of slavery and is held every August.

The region celebrates many festivals, marked by colorful processions.

Panafest is a biannual event, celebrating Pan-African with an international showcase of African dance and music.