Paragliding Festival

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The signature event at Odweanoma Mountains, featuring international pilots and tandem flights for thrill-seekers.

 The Event: Kwahu Paragliding Festival

This festival is the main attraction of the massive Kwahu Easter celebrations. While the entire region celebrates Easter with homecomings, street carnivals, and music, the paragliding festival is the flagship event that draws tens of thousands of local and international tourists.

  • When: It takes place once a year, typically spanning the Easter weekend (from Good Friday to Easter Monday).
  • Where: The launch site is from the peak of the Odweanoma Mountain, and the landing zone is usually the Nkawkaw Sports Stadium or a designated field at the base of the scarp.

The International Pilots

This is a crucial part of the event's success and safety.

  • Expertise: The Ghana Tourism Authority invites highly experienced, professional paragliding pilots from around the world (often from countries like Germany, the USA, Japan, Switzerland, and France) to conduct the flights.
  • Safety & Spectacle: These pilots are not just there to fly passengers; they also perform acrobatic displays and solo flights, creating a stunning spectacle for the crowds watching from below. Their international status adds to the prestige and draws media attention.

The Experience: Tandem Flights for Thrill-Seekers

This is the core activity for the public ("thrill-seekers").

  • What it is: A tandem flight involves a passenger (you) being securely strapped into a harness in front of a certified professional pilot. You are connected to the same paraglider (or "wing").
  • The Launch: You and the pilot run a few steps off the edge of the Odweanoma Mountain, and the wing lifts you gracefully into the air.
  • The Flight: You get to soar like an eagle over the stunning Kwahu ridge, enjoying breathtaking aerial views of the lush landscape, the towns below, and the Volta Lake in the distance. The flight itself can last from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the wind and thermal conditions.
  • The "Thrill": It's an incredible adrenaline rush combined with a sense of serene freedom. It is the only event of its kind in West Africa and offers a truly unique perspective on the country's landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the next festival?

The festival is an annual Easter tradition. Daily Schedule: Flights typically run from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM each day, weather permitting.

Where does it take place?

Take-off: Odweanoma Mountain in Atibie-Kwahu, Eastern Region.Landing: Nkawkaw Sports Stadium (at the base of the mountain).

How much does it cost to fly?

Prices are subject to annual review by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), but 2025 estimates based on recent trends are:Standard Rate: ~GHS 1,350 – GHS 1,500 per passenger.Early Bird: Often discounted by GHS 100–200 if purchased in March.Note: This fee covers the flight, insurance, and transportation from the landing site back up the mountain.

How do I buy a ticket?

Online: Tickets are usually sold via the official portal VisitGhana.com or verified ticketing partners like eGotickets.On-Site: A limited number of tickets are sold at the event, but buying in advance is highly recommended as slots sell out quickly.

Can I bring my own gear and fly solo?

es. The festival welcomes experienced solo pilots from around the world.Requirements: You must provide proof of certification (IPPI card or equivalent) and insurance.Registration: Solo pilots usually do not pay the commercial passenger fee but may need to register with the organizers for airspace clearance.Action Item: Contact the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) at least 4 weeks in advance to confirm safety clearance.

How do I get from Accra to Kwahu?

By Bus (Budget): Take an STC, VIP, or 2M Express bus from Accra (Circle or Tudu stations) to Nkawkaw. The trip takes 3–4 hours. From Nkawkaw, take a local taxi to Atibie/Odweanoma Mountain.By Car (Flexible): Drive towards Kumasi on the N6. Turn right at the Bunso Junction (Linda Dor Rest Stop) toward Nkawkaw. The drive takes about 2.5 – 3 hours.By Air: Domestic flights (e.g., PassionAir) fly to Kumasi. From Kumasi, it is a ~2-hour drive/bus ride back east to Kwahu.

Where should I stay?

Accommodation books out months in advance. Options include:Luxury: Rock City Hotel (Nkwatia) – The largest and most upscale option.Mid-Range: Modak Royal Hotel (Pepease), Wags Hotel (Obomeng).Budget/Camping: Many homeowners rent out rooms/apartments for the weekend. Official camping spots are sometimes available near the Odweanoma site or at specific lodges like Kwahu Mountain Lodge.

Are there weight or age limits?

Weight: Generally, passengers must weigh between 40kg and 90kg. Pilots may refuse to fly passengers exceeding the limit for safety reasons.Age: There is no strict upper age limit, provided you are in good health. Minors require parental consent.Health: Do not fly if you have heart conditions, severe vertigo, or are pregnant.

What should I wear?

Shoes: Closed-toe shoes (sneakers/trainers) are mandatory. You will have to run a few steps during take-off. No sandals or slippers.Clothing: Comfortable pants (jeans/leggings) or knee-length shorts. Avoid loose skirts/dresses as the harness goes between your legs.

What else is there to do?

The "Kwahu Easter" is a massive street festival.Hiking: Exploring the Nkofie Mystical Caves (requires a guide).Street Carnival: The streets of Obomeng and Mpraeso turn into a 24/7 party with music, food vendors, and dancing.Food: Try the local fufu with light soup, grilled tilapia, and kebab from the hundreds of street vendors ("Cocoa Season").