There are places you visit for the scenery, and there are places that stay with you because of what they represent. Keta, in Ghana’s Volta Region, is both.
On every visit, I am struck by the contrast. Vast stretches of white sand meet the turquoise Atlantic, creating a landscape that could almost pass for the Caribbean. Yet, beyond the postcard views lies a town shaped by centuries of history, a distinctive cultural identity and an ongoing battle with the sea.
Keta remains one of Ghana’s most intriguing coastal destinations, but it is still overlooked by many travellers.
Fort Prinzenstein: A History We Cannot Afford to Lose
Built by the Danes in 1784, Fort Prinzenstein is a sobering reminder of European involvement in the transatlantic slave trade. Enslaved Africans were held here before being transported across the Atlantic, making the fort an important part of Ghana’s painful colonial history.
Walking through its surviving walls is a reminder that history is not always preserved in museums. Sometimes, it stands exposed to the elements, waiting for someone to pay attention.
And that is precisely the problem.
Coastal erosion has severely damaged sections of the fort and continues to threaten Keta’s shoreline. While coastal protection measures have helped defend parts of the area, the future of this historic landmark remains a concern.
Many visitors to Ghana know Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle. Far fewer know Fort Prinzenstein, despite its significance.
Its preservation deserves greater attention, not simply as a tourism attraction, but as a physical record of a history that must remain visible to future generations.
The Beach Escape You Might Be Missing
Away from the fort, Keta reveals a different personality.
The coastline is expansive and refreshingly understated. Long stretches of sand, open skies and the sound of the Atlantic create an atmosphere far removed from the pace of Accra. For travellers seeking a quieter coastal escape, the appeal is immediate.
And there are places to stay.
Eli Beach Resort, around Tegbi, offers an ocean-facing setting for visitors looking to unwind by the coast. Aborigines Beach Resort provides another option, with accommodation and recreational facilities for a relaxed getaway.
