Deep in the Akuapem highlands of Ghana lies Asenema Waterfalls, a serene and often-overlooked treasure tucked away just outside Akropong, in the Eastern Region. This picturesque cascade, enveloped by dense tropical forest and rich cultural heritage, has grown from a local hideout into an emerging destination for eco-tourists, hikers, and nature enthusiasts.

While Asenema Waterfalls doesn't have extensive colonial or ancient documentation like forts or castles, its history is deeply interwoven with local culture and spirituality.

• The name Asenema is derived from the Akan language, reflecting the local community’s respect for nature and ancestral connections to land and water.

• Oral traditions from elders of Akuapem and Abiriw suggest that the site was historically visited during cleansing rituals and spiritual festivals.

• The surrounding forest is believed to be home to sacred trees and traditional herbs used by indigenous healers (okomfo and abosomfo).

Today, the community continues to revere the area for its purity, tranquility, and biodiversity, even as it gradually transforms into a nature-based tourism hotspot.

Asenema Waterfalls plunges down a rock face into a small, clear basin surrounded by lush greenery and tropical canopy. The area is known for:

• Towering forest trees, creating a cool and shaded environment.

• Birds, butterflies, and monkeys that inhabit the area.

• A short nature trail that winds through the forest, ideal for hiking, photography, and picnics.

The sound of cascading water, chirping birds, and rustling leaves make this a perfect retreat from Accra’s urban hustle just about 90 minutes’ drive away.

With increased interest in eco-tourism and sustainable travel, Asenema Waterfalls is gaining traction as one of Ghana’s hidden wonders. Local authorities and tourism boards have begun modest infrastructural improvements, aiming to strike a balance between tourism and conservation.