Keta Lagoon Protected Area

Keta Lagoon Complex Ramsar Site is a coastal wetland protected area in the Volta Region, designated a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance in 1992. Ghana's Forestry Commission gives the complex a management area of 1,200 km² and a lagoon area of 300 km², managed for multiple uses with significant local participation. The Keta Lagoon itself holds brackish water and is the largest lagoon in Ghana.

The complex lies between the Volta River and the Atlantic Ocean, separated from the Gulf of Guinea by a narrow sand bar. Its habitats include tidal flats, salt pans, mangroves, strand vegetation and freshwater marshes. It is described as one of the most important sites for waterbirds on the East Atlantic Flyway, with peak counts exceeding 100,000 individuals. Resident and migratory species recorded include terns, waders, African jacanas, pied kingfishers, herons and African spoonbills. Conservation objectives cover migratory birds, mangrove forest and sea turtle breeding grounds.

Anlo-Ewe communities have lived here for centuries, with livelihoods based on fishing, salt extraction and clam harvesting. The Ramsar complex spans the Keta and Anloga area, including Woe; the site sits in Keta Municipal District, Volta Region, at roughly 5°53'N, 0°50'E, about 1 m above sea level.

The Forestry Commission states the site is "yet to be developed to receive tourists," and no visitor facilities are documented. Bird watching is the activity the Commission lists. Tour operators describe guided canoe safaris on the lagoon, a bird watching lookout at Woe, a village tour at the Tosukpo ecotourism site that includes an akpeteshie distilling demonstration, a nocturnal marine turtle expedition, and beach relaxation and swimming in the ocean or freshwater lagoon. Cultural drumming and dance performances are offered optionally at an extra fee. Overnight stays are arranged by operators at a nearby beach resort rather than on-site.

Because facilities are not documented, visitors should treat arrangements as operator-led and confirm details, including any fees, directly with a tour operator before travelling. Public viewpoints are generally free, though guide, boat or community visit costs may apply.