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The Biggest Tree in Ghana: A Natural Wonder
Petrina Darrah
Posted: May 5, 2023
Ghana is known for its rich culture and history, but it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the world. Among these is the biggest tree in Ghana, a magnificent specimen of the baobab tree that stands tall and proud in the heart of the country. In this article, we’ll explore the baobab tree, the search for the biggest tree in Ghana, and what it’s like to visit this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
The Baobab Tree
The baobab tree, also known as the “tree of life,” is a species of tree that is native to Africa. It is a large, long-lived tree that can reach up to 30 metres in height and 10 metres in diameter, with a massive trunk that can store up to 120,000 litres of water. The baobab tree is known for its unique shape, with a thick, bottle-like trunk that tapers towards the top, and its branches that resemble roots.
In Ghana, the baobab tree has long been a part of the country’s cultural and historical heritage. It is often used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments, and it plays a significant role in local folklore. For example, it is said that the tree was once upside down, but the gods turned it right-side up so that it could continue to grow and provide for the people.
Finding the Biggest Tree
Locating the biggest tree in Ghana was no easy task. With the baobab tree’s massive size and the dense vegetation of the Ghanaian landscape, finding this natural wonder was a challenge. But with the help of local guides and experts, the tree was eventually located in the town of Larabanga, in the northern region of Ghana.
Measuring the tree was no simple feat, either. To obtain accurate measurements, experts used a combination of ground-level measurements and aerial photography. The final measurements revealed that the biggest tree in Ghana is approximately 16 metres in height and 11.7 metres in diameter, making it one of the largest baobab trees in the world.
Visiting the Tree
For travellers who want to visit the biggest tree in Ghana, a trip to the town of Larabanga is a must. The tree is located in the courtyard of the Larabanga Mosque, a historic and important religious site in the region. Visitors are welcome to see the tree up close and take pictures, but it’s important to remember to be respectful of the tree and the mosque.
The town of Larabanga and its surrounding area are also worth exploring. The town is known for its unique architecture, which includes mud and stick houses and a centuries-old mosque. The nearby Mole National Park is also a popular attraction, where visitors can see elephants, baboons, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
When visiting the biggest tree in Ghana, it’s important to remember to practise responsible tourism. The baobab tree is a natural wonder that deserves to be protected and preserved, and visitors can do their part by respecting the tree and its environment. This includes not touching the tree, not climbing on its branches, and not leaving any litter behind.
Volunteering with GVI in Ghana: Discovering Natural Wonders and Culture
If you’re looking to get more involved with the community and explore the natural wonders of Ghana, volunteering with an organisation like GVI can be a great option. GVI is a global organisation that offers volunteer opportunities in various fields, including environmental conservation, community development, and education. By volunteering with GVI in Ghana, you can not only contribute to important projects and initiatives, but also have the opportunity to explore the country’s natural wonders, like the biggest tree in Ghana, and culture in a unique and immersive way.
The biggest tree in Ghana is a natural wonder that is well worth a visit. Its massive size and cultural significance make it a must-see attraction for anyone travelling to Ghana. But beyond its sheer size, the baobab tree is also a symbol of the country’s rich heritage and connection to the natural world. By visiting this incredible tree and practising responsible tourism, travellers can help to ensure that it remains a wonder of Ghana for generations to come.
By Petrina Darrah
Petrina Darrah is a freelance writer from New Zealand with a passion for outdoor adventure and sustainable travel. She has been writing about travel for more than five years and her work has appeared in print and digital publications including National Geographic Travel, Conde Nast Travel, Business Insider, Atlas Obscura and more. You can see more of her work at petrinadarrah.com.
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