Welcome to another thrilling episode of #InsideAccra.Today, I went into the heart of the Achimota Forest, deep within Accra, to explore the most talked about Accra Zoo.
Getting to the Accra Zoo is an adventure in itself. Located within the Achimota Forest, it borders Dzorwulu to the west, Abofu to the east, and Abelemkpe to the south. This natural oasis is relatively close to the renowned Achimota School. And, at just 12 cedis for adults, the entrance fee hinted at the exciting day that lay ahead.
Before arriving at the zoo, visitors pass through a unique area where people gather to offer prayers. This spiritual touch added a distinct dimension to my journey and set the tone for the adventure that awaited us.
Upon arrival, the waiting area greeted us with an unexpected marvel—an enchanting aquarium. This beautiful display provided a mere glimpse of the wonders that awaited within the zoo’s confines. Notably, I spotted a first aid box, a reassuring sign of safety for all visitors.
My excitement soared as I eagerly awaited my tour guide, who would be my gateway to this world of wildlife. Finally, my guide arrived, exuding friendliness and enthusiasm. And thus, my adventure began.
My journey commenced with a visit to the mangabi, a member of the monkey family. Here, I learned that monkeys boast a lifespan of approximately 30 years and are not advisable as household pets. My exploration continued with the black-crowned cranes, elegant creatures that bear a striking resemblance to flamingoes, boasting a lifespan of 25 years.
Next, I ventured into the fascinating world of serpents, coming face to face with a viper and a python. Our avian odyssey followed, with the majestic ostrich taking center stage. Known for laying the largest eggs in the world, these magnificent birds can live up to 50 years. Remarkably, the particular ostrich I encountered was already 20 years old.
One of the most intriguing highlights was the jackal, often associated with the term “Laughing Jackal.” These nocturnal creatures added an air of mystery to this adventure. The porcupines followed, each with a life span of 15 to 20 years, and then I encountered the mighty Nile crocodile, renowned for its strength and a lifespan of up to 70 years.
Did you know that crocodiles rely on birds to clean their teeth? Birds fearlessly remove debris from their mouths, forging a unique symbiotic relationship. Amidst the wildlife encounters, a delicate butterfly graced the ground, captivating my senses with its delicate beauty.
My journey continued with antelopes, deer, and tortoises, each species bearing its unique characteristics. The zebras brought a touch of Africa’s wilderness to this adventure, and then I reached the regal lions, securely enclosed in a multi-layered cage. It was fascinating to learn that lions are somewhat insecure about their sons, constantly vying for dominance.
My expedition continued with a visit to the geese, known for their aggressiveness and potential to serve as protective pets at home. Finally, I encountered the Eastern lesser spot-nosed monkey, marking the end of my animal encounters.
As a bonus, the Accra Zoo offers space for recreational activities, including archery, foosball, and trampolining, all available for just 10 cedis each. However, I must admit that my visit left me somewhat underwhelmed. I had anticipated encountering more animals on this expedition. Nevertheless, it was a day filled with fascinating discoveries, and the zoo’s commitment to providing a natural habitat for the animals was commendable.
Conclusively, I must say, Accra’s zoo is not merely a place of entertainment; it’s a sanctuary where animals thrive in an environment that mirrors their natural habitats. As I rode back to the main entrance on a tricycle, I couldn’t help but reflect on the importance of conservation and the need to protect these creatures and their habitats.
Thank you for joining me on this episode of #InsideAccra. Stay tuned for more adventures as I continue to unveil the hidden gems of this remarkable city, one day at a time.