GHANA

Ghana, a vibrant West African nation, is a land of rich history, diverse culture, and welcoming people. From the bustling markets of Accra to the poignant slave castles and lush national parks, Ghana offers a unique and authentic African experience, being the first Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence.

Region: West Africa

Capital: Accra

Official Language: English

Level of Travel Safety: Generally safe for tourists. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, is common in crowded areas, especially in Accra and at beaches. Armed robberies on highways can occur, so limit intercity travel to daytime.

A map of Africa with Ghana highlighted in green.

Why Visit Ghana?

Rich History & Heritage: Explore the legacy of the Ashanti Kingdom in Kumasi or walk through the dungeons of Cape Coast Castle.

Vibrant Culture: Witness festivals like Homowo or Aboakyir, filled with drumming, dance, and color.

Friendly People: Ghana is known as “Africa for beginners” for its safety and famously welcoming locals.

A canopy walkway suspended high among tall trees in a dense forest.

Breathtaking Nature: From the canopy walk in Kakum to the serene beaches of Busua, Ghana’s natural beauty surprises.

Buzzing Music & Nightlife: Accra pulses with afrobeats, highlife, and hiplife – don’t miss a live band night or beach party.

Delicious Cuisine: Taste your way through spicy jollof, fufu and soup, or grilled tilapia with banku.

A wide river or lake with lush green banks and buildings under a cloudy sky.

Essential Trip Information

Most travelers require a visa to enter Ghana.

Apply for a visa via the official Ghana Immigration Service: Ghana Immigration Service.

e-Visa system available for many nationalities—apply at least 2 weeks in advance.

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory; carry your vaccination certificate.

Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay.

Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS).

  • US$1 ≈ GHS 13 (exchange rates vary).

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: Bring some USD or EUR for exchange on arrival.
  • During Your Trip: ATMs are common in cities (Barclays, Ecobank). Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard) accepted in major hotels/restaurants.
  • What to Avoid: Black market exchanges and unfamiliar ATMs.

English is the official language.

Local languages include Twi, Ga, Ewe, and Dagbani.

Helpful phrases: “Medaase” (Thank you), “Ete sen?” (How are you?), “Wɔ he?” (Where is…?)

Generally safe, but watch for pickpockets in crowded markets and public transport.

Avoid isolated areas after dark, especially in urban centers.

Emergency numbers: Police – 191, Ambulance – 193

Yellow fever vaccination required.

Malaria is present: use mosquito repellent and consider antimalarials.

Travel insurance is strongly recommended.

Tap water is not safe to drink—use bottled or filtered water.

Taxis are cheap but agree on fare in advance (no meters).

Ride-hailing apps like Bolt and Yango are reliable in Accra.

“Tro-tros” (shared minibuses) are the most common local transport.

Roads vary in quality; allow extra travel time, especially during rains.

Ghana is affordable for most travelers, though tourist areas can be pricier.

Accommodation

  • Budget: Guesthouses/hostels (US$15–40/night)

  • Mid-range: Boutique hotels (US$60–120/night)

  • Luxury: Resorts/international hotels (US$150–300+/night)

Food

  • Street food: US$1–3 (try waakye, kelewele, fried fish)

  • Local restaurants: US$4–10/person

  • International dining: US$15–30/person

Drinks

  • Local beer (Club, Star): US$1.50–3

  • Imported wine or cocktails: US$6–12

Transportation

  • Shared taxi (“tro-tro”): US$0.50–2 (local routes)

  • Private taxis: US$3–10 (short trips in Accra)

  • Long-distance buses: US$10–25

Money-Saving Tips

  • Eat at “chop bars” for hearty, authentic meals.

  • Use VIP or STC buses instead of flights for intercity travel.

  • Stay in locally run guesthouses outside Accra.

Explore Ghana

Ghana’s bustling capital city, located on the south coast, is a vibrant metropolis offering a mix of historical sites, lively markets, and modern entertainment. Explore Jamestown’s colonial architecture, haggle for goods at Makola Market, and relax on the popular Labadi Beach.

This UNESCO World Heritage site, situated on the Central Region’s coast, is a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade. A powerful and essential visit, it offers a deep historical understanding of Ghana’s past and the resilience of its people.

Also a UNESCO World Heritage site and located just west of Cape Coast on the Central Region’s coast, this is the oldest European-built structure in Sub-Saharan Africa. It served various European powers, primarily for the gold and later, slave trade, and offers a profound historical experience.

Nestled in the Central Region, this lush rainforest is famous for its exhilarating Canopy Walkway, suspended high above the forest floor. It’s an excellent destination for nature lovers, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting various primate species.

Ghana’s largest wildlife park, found in the northern region, is a premier destination for safaris. Visitors can embark on walking safaris and game drives to see elephants, antelopes, baboons, and a variety of birdlife, often congregating around watering holes during the dry season.

The historical capital of the Ashanti Kingdom, located in the Ashanti Region in central Ghana, Kumasi is a vibrant city rich in culture and tradition. Visit the Manhyia Palace Museum, explore the sprawling Kejetia Market, and immerse yourself in Ashanti heritage.

One of the world’s largest artificial lakes, Lake Volta covers a significant portion of eastern Ghana. Formed by the Akosombo Dam, it offers serene boat trips, opportunities to visit Dodi Island, and insights into the country’s hydroelectric power generation.

Found in the picturesque Volta Region, Wli is the highest waterfall in West Africa. Visitors can hike to both the upper and lower falls, surrounded by lush forest and an abundance of butterflies and bats, providing a refreshing natural escape.

his unique village, located on stilts over Lake Amansuri in the Western Region, offers a fascinating glimpse into a traditional way of life. Accessible by canoe, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Tentative Site, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of people with nature.

Situated in the Upper East Region, near the border with Burkina Faso, these sacred ponds are home to friendly crocodiles that are believed to be reincarnations of ancestors. Visitors can remarkably interact with these crocodiles, often touching them, guided by locals.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices (on flights and accommodations)
  • Fewer Crowds at popular attractions
  • Lush, Green Landscapes
  • Vibrant Local Festivals (e.g., Homowo in Accra)
  • Cooler Temperatures (especially in coastal areas)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy and Frequent Rainfall (can disrupt travel plans)
  • High Humidity
  • Roads can be Poor (muddy, some impassable, especially in rural areas)
  • Limited Outdoor Activities (non-city based)
  • Increased Mosquito Activity

Key Regions:

  • Accra: City activities like museums, markets, and nightlife are less affected by rain.
  • Kumasi: Explore the Ashanti Kingdom’s cultural sites and markets, many are indoors.
  • Cape Coast & Elmina: The castles offer indoor historical experiences.
  • Volta Region (Wli Waterfalls): Waterfalls are at their most impressive during this time, but trails can be slippery.

Key Advantages:

  • Manageable Crowds
  • Reasonable Prices
  • Lush Scenery Still Present
  • Harvest Festivals in Full Swing (September-October)
  • Increasingly Pleasant Weather (less intense rain, lower humidity towards November)

Main Drawbacks:

  • Occasional Showers (can still be heavy at times)
  • Humidity persists (especially in September)
  • Harmattan Winds Begin (November, leading to dust and reduced visibility)
  • Some roads might still be recovering from the major wet season.

Key Regions:

  • Coastal Regions (Accra, Cape Coast, Elmina): Good for exploring historical sites and beaches with fewer crowds.
  • Ashanti Region (Kumasi): Perfect for cultural immersion and exploring vibrant markets.
  • Volta Region: Still good for hiking and waterfalls, with trails becoming drier.
  • Mole National Park: Game viewing improves as the landscape starts to dry, concentrating animals.
  • Dry Season (December – March)
  • Christmas and New Year Holiday Period
  • International Festivals (e.g., Afrochella in December)

Planning Your Trip

Politics: Avoid discussing politics with locals; the subject can be sensitive.

Tipping: A 10% tip at restaurants is appreciated; US$1–2 per bag for hotel staff.

Dress Code: Casual wear for sightseeing and visiting local markets. For upscale areas, smart-casual is suitable.

Museum Behavior: Respectful and quiet in sacred places like the W.E.B. Du Bois Center or the Cape Coast Castle.

Bartering: Common in local markets but avoid aggressive bargaining.

Ghana can accommodate a wide range of budgets, from affordable backpacking to luxury stays.

Accommodation: Hostels (~US$10–40), hotels (~US$50–150), luxury (~US$200+).

Food: Street food (~US$2–5), casual restaurants (~US$10–25), fine dining (~US$50+).

Transport: Taxis (~US$2–5 per ride), buses (~US$5–20), minibus (~US$0.50–2).

Activities: Museum entry (US$2–10), guided tours (~US$15–50), safari experiences (~US$100+).

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$50–80 (hostels, street food, local transport).

  • Mid-range: US$100–200 (3-star hotels, meals at restaurants, local tours).

  • Luxury: US$300+ (luxury resorts, fine dining, private tours).

Free Wi-Fi: Available in cafes, hotels, and some public spaces in major cities like Accra and Kumasi.

SIM Cards: Available from MTN, Vodafone, and Airtel-Tigo stores (~US$10–20 for 5–10GB of data).

eSIMs: Supported by major networks, but ensure compatibility before purchasing.

Recommended for: Medical coverage, especially for long stays. Ghana has limited healthcare facilities, so ensure you’re covered.

Adventure Activities: Check if your insurance covers activities like hiking or safaris, as some policies may exclude certain adventure sports.

From luxury resorts to budget accommodations, Ghana offers options to suit all travelers’ needs.

Luxury:

  • Beachfront: Labadi Beach Hotel (Accra), Anomabo Beach Resort (Central Ghana).
  • Jungle retreats: Mole National Park Lodges.

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels: The African Regent Hotel (Accra), Royal View Hotel (Kumasi).
  • Eco-lodges: Hans Cottage Botel (Cape Coast), Bonito Beach Resort (Elmina).

Budget:

  • Guesthouses: ~US$10–40/night (Kumasi, Takoradi).
  • Hostels: The Gold Coast Hostel (Accra), The Relax Hostel (Tamale).

Unique Stays:

  • Eco-lodges: Shai Hills Reserve (near Accra).
  • Cultural homestays: Rural areas like Akwapim Hills.

Tip: Book early for beachfront resorts during peak season (Dec–Mar) to ensure availability.

Ghana’s transport network is diverse, with various options ranging from buses to taxis. Plan wisely to get the most out of your time.

Buses:

  • Public buses: Affordable (US$5–20) for long-distance travel.
  • VIP & STC buses: Comfortable for longer journeys, such as Accra–Kumasi (US$20–30).

Taxis & Shared Taxis:

  • In cities: Affordable and negotiable (US$2–5 for short trips).
  • Shared taxis: Cost-effective but less comfortable for long-distance trips (US$5–10 per person).

Minibuses:

  • Great for short-distance travel within cities and towns (US$0.50–2).

Domestic Flights:

  • Limited but useful for long distances (Accra–Tamale, ~US$120).

Car Rentals:

  • Renting a car (US$50–80/day) is possible but not recommended due to challenging driving conditions. It’s better to hire a driver-guide (~US$60–100/day).

Bold Recommendation: Use buses for long-distance travel and taxis or shared taxis for flexibility within cities.

Handy Tips

Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). The notes come in GHS 1, GHS 5, GHS 10, GHS 20, GHS 50, and GHS 100 denominations; coins include 1Gp, 5Gp, 10Gp, 20Gp, and 50Gp.

  • Exchanging Currency: Avoid exchanging money at airports as rates are less favorable. Use ATMs or local banks for better exchange rates.

  • Using Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted in urban areas, but it’s advisable to carry cash for smaller shops or rural areas.

  • Tipping Etiquette: Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

    • Restaurants/Bars: 10–15% of the bill (check if service charge is already included).

    • Taxis/Rideshares: Round up the fare or add 10%.

    • Hotel Staff: GHS 5–10 per day for housekeeping.

    • Tour Guides: GHS 20–50 depending on the tour.

English is the official language of Ghana, and it is widely spoken throughout the country. However, there are many local languages, such as Twi, Ga, Ewe, and Dagbani.

Helpful phrases:

  • “Where is the nearest taxi?”

  • “How much is this?”

  • “Can I get a receipt?”

Pro Tip: Locals may appreciate a greeting in a local language (e.g., “Akwaaba” for welcome in Twi) before switching to English.

Ghana is generally considered safe for tourists, but it’s important to stay alert in busy areas (like markets or bus stations) and avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night.

Emergency Contacts:

  • 112: All emergencies (police, medical, fire).
  • 100: Police (for general emergencies).
  • 193: Fire emergency.

Your Embassy: Keep your embassy’s contact information handy in case of emergencies (located in Accra for most nations).

Ghana uses 230V/50Hz with Type G plugs (three rectangular pins). If you’re traveling from a country that uses different plug types, you will need an adapter.

Tap water is generally safe in most major cities, but in rural areas, it’s best to drink bottled water. Always ask for bottled water if you’re unsure.

Ghana observes the following public holidays:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 6 Mar: Independence Day

  • Good Friday and Easter Monday: Variable dates (Christian holidays)

  • 1 May: Labour Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

  • 26 Dec: Boxing Day

Note: Museums and attractions may be crowded during holidays like Independence Day (March 6).

Stores: Typically open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM (some close earlier on Saturdays). Shops may be closed on Sundays.

Pharmacies: Major pharmacies (like Medicare Pharmacy) are often open 24/7 in cities.

Markets: Local markets open from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM and close earlier on Sundays.

Waakye: Rice and beans cooked together, served with fried plantains, boiled eggs, spaghetti, and pepper sauce.

Jollof Rice: Spicy tomato-based rice dish, often served with grilled chicken or fish.

Banku and Tilapia: Fermented corn and cassava dough balls with grilled tilapia and spicy pepper sauce.

Kenkey and Fried Fish: Cornmeal dough wrapped in corn husk, usually served with pepper sauce and fried fish.

Fufu and Light Soup: Cassava and plantain dough served with tomato-based soup and meat or fish.

Kelewele: Spicy fried plantains flavored with ginger, garlic, and chili.

Chinchinga (Kebabs): Spiced meat skewers grilled on open flame—popular street food.

Tuo Zaafi: Northern Ghana specialty made with millet or corn, served with green leaf soup.

Bofrot (Puff-Puffs): Deep-fried dough balls with a soft, sweet interior.

Atadwe Milk Drink Porridge: Tiger nut milk porridge, creamy and naturally sweet.

Alcoholic:

  • Palm Wine: Sweet, mildly alcoholic drink tapped from palm trees—fresh and slightly fizzy.

  • Akpeteshie: Local moonshine spirit—strong and potent, made from palm or sugarcane.

  • Club Beer: Ghana’s most iconic lager—light, refreshing, and widely enjoyed.

  • Star Beer: Another popular lager with a slightly fuller body.

  • Origin Beer: Herbal-infused beer with unique spice notes, locally brewed.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Sobolo: Deep red hibiscus drink brewed with ginger, cloves, and pineapple peels.

  • Pito: Traditional northern Ghanaian millet drink—fermented, non-alcoholic versions available.

  • Tiger Nut Milk (Atadwe Milk): Creamy, naturally sweet drink made from tiger nuts.

  • Alvaro: Fruity, carbonated malt-based soft drink—no alcohol, very popular.

  • Coconut Water: Sold straight from the coconut at roadside stands—hydrating and sweet.

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: A tribute to Ghana’s first president in Accra.

St. George’s Castle: A historical site in Elmina, offering insight into the transatlantic slave trade.

Volta Region: Visit the waterfalls and traditional villages, offering a glimpse into rural life.

Asante Traditional Culture: Discover the rich history of the Ashanti people in Kumasi.

Ancestral Burial Grounds: Explore the sacred burial grounds of chiefs and royals in various regions.

African Dance & Drumming: Learn about the importance of traditional dances and music.

Boti Falls: A natural wonder in the Eastern Region, considered sacred by the locals.

Akan Gold Weights: Admire the traditional art and craftsmanship of the Akan people.

Osu Castle: A historical site located in the heart of Accra, significant in Ghana’s colonial history.

Aburi Craft Village: A marketplace where artisans sell hand-carved wooden items, perfect for souvenirs.

Cape Coast Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site with a dark history as a slave trade center.

Kakum National Park: Famous for its canopy walk offering stunning views of the rainforest.

Accra Art Center: A vibrant market with arts and crafts from local artisans.

Labadi Beach: One of the best beaches near Accra, perfect for relaxation.

Nightlife: Enjoy the lively bar scene in Osu and East Legon for both local and international music.

National Museum of Ghana: Explore Ghana’s history through its fascinating exhibits.

Aburi Botanical Gardens: A peaceful escape in the hills just outside Accra, great for nature lovers.

Kumasi Cultural Center: Learn about the rich Ashanti culture and history.

Oda Wildlife Sanctuary: A less-visited gem, perfect for eco-tourism.

Traditional Festivals: Experience one of Ghana’s many lively festivals, such as the Homowo Festival in Accra or the Aboakyer Festival in Winneba.

Skybar25: Rooftop bar with panoramic views of Accra—perfect for cocktails and sunsets.

Sandbox Beach Club: Luxe beach club with DJs, seafood, and chic lounges.

Carbon: Accra’s upscale nightclub—great music and glitzy crowd.

Republic Bar & Grill: Try locally infused cocktails with live highlife music.

Bloom Bar: Trendy open-air bar known for its cocktails and stylish crowd.

Front/Back: Exclusive artsy venue mixing Ghanaian culture, cocktails, and creatives.

Alley Bar: Tucked-away nightlife spot with a relaxed, music-filled vibe.

Rockstone’s Office: Popular weekend spot owned by Reggie Rockstone (hip-life legend).

Twist Nightclub: Longtime favorite in Accra for dance, drinks, and DJ sets.

Kona Café & Grill: Cozy venue with grilled food, cocktails, and a chill vibe.