All the things you want to know about Ghana
General (12)
What language is spoken in Ghana?
English is the official language and widely spoken, making Ghana very accessible for English-speaking travelers. However, over 250 local languages exist. Twi is the most common indigenous language. Learn basic phrases: "Akwaaba" (welcome), "Medaase" (thank you), "Ete sen" (hello).
What is the best time to visit Ghana?
The dry season (November to March) is ideal for wildlife viewing, festivals, and outdoor activities.
You'll enjoy lower humidity, better visibility, and major events like Afrochella in December.
However, Harmattan winds (December-February) bring dusty conditions.
The rainy season (April-August) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists but can disrupt travel.
What should I pack for Ghana?
Essentials include lightweight, breathable clothing for heat, long sleeves/pants for evening mosquito protection, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, camera, LED flashlight for power outages, first aid kit, and both USD and local currency.
Avoid camouflage or military-style clothing - it's illegal for civilians.
What are Ghana's must-visit attractions?
Top sites include Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle (UNESCO World Heritage slave trade sites), Kakum National Park (famous canopy walkway), Mole National Park (West Africa's largest elephant population), Wli Waterfalls (Ghana's highest), Lake Volta (world's largest man-made lake by surface area), and vibrant Accra markets.
What Ghanaian dishes must I try?
Essential dishes: Jollof rice (Ghana's national dish), Fufu (pounded cassava/yam with soup, eaten with right hand), Banku (fermented corn dough with grilled tilapia), Kenkey (fermented corn in leaves with fried fish), Red-red (black-eyed peas with plantain), and Kelewele (spicy fried plantains).
Food is often very spicy.
What souvenirs should I buy in Ghana?
Popular souvenirs include Kente cloth ($50-$300+, visit Bonwire village for authentic pieces), wood carvings (masks, animals), handcrafted glass beads, Bolgatanga baskets, African drums, shea butter products, traditional jewelry (gold, beads, cowrie shells), and local spices like kpakpo shito. Shop at Accra Arts Centre, Makola Market, or Kumasi
What cultural etiquette should I know?
- Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and giving/receiving items (left hand is disrespectful).
- Remove shoes before entering homes.
- Ask permission before photographing people.
- Expect personal questions about age, marital status, and family—it's not considered intrusive.
- Bargaining is expected at markets.
Where should I stay in Ghana?
Options range from budget hostels ($20-60/night), mid-range hotels ($40-200), to luxury hotels ($250-350+ in Accra). Coastal eco-resorts include Ko-Sa Beach Resort, Aqua Safari, and Lemon Beach Resort. Use booking platforms like Airbnb, jiji.com.gh, or join Facebook expat groups for recommendations.
How is internet connectivity in Ghana?
Ghana has the best internet speeds in Africa. Options include mobile data/eSIMs (Vodafone, MTN, AirtelTigo with 4G in cities), portable WiFi routers for rent, and free WiFi at most hotels. Digital nomads find Ghana very workable for remote work.
That said, the internet can be found instable at times and international speeds may vary wildly.
Are there any clothing restrictions in Ghana?
Yes, camouflage or military-style clothing is illegal for civilians to wear. Stick to casual, modest clothing. Lightweight, breathable fabrics work best in the heat.
What wildlife can I see in Ghana?
Mole National Park has West Africa's largest elephant population, plus antelopes, warthogs, and baboons. Best visited November-April.
Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary protects sacred monkeys.
Kakum National Park offers rainforest wildlife viewing from canopy walkways.
Ghana is more focused on culture and history than safari experiences.
What myths about Ghana should I ignore?
Ghana is not primarily about safaris, it's known for culture, history, and beaches.
The country is not dangerous or disease-ridden; it's one of Africa's safest and most stable nations.
Major cities have modern infrastructure and amenities. Not everyone lives in poverty, Ghana has a growing middle class and vibrant economy.
Financials (4)
What currency does Ghana use and where can I exchange money?
The official currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Exchange rates fluctuate but are approximately 10-11 GHS to 1 USD.
A new law has been passed enforcing the use of GHS and ban the use of USD in daily life and pricing of goods and services.
You can exchange money at banks, authorized forex bureaus, and hotels. Bring EUR, USD or GBP for the best rates.
At most banks, you can draw GHS from the wall using your foreign Mastercard or Visa card. Be aware that cards with MAESTRO do not work.
Can I use credit cards in Ghana?
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at hotels, restaurants, and larger establishments in cities.
However, cash is essential for markets, small vendors, tro-tros, and rural areas.
Always carry some cash.
What is mobile money and how does it work?
Mobile money is extremely popular in Ghana and works like a digital wallet on your phone.
Major providers include MTN Mobile Money, AirtelTigo Money, and Vodafone Cash.
You can pay for goods, services, and transfer money easily. Many locals prefer it over cash. But you need a local phone chip to be able to use it.
How much should I budget for a trip to Ghana?
Budget varies by travel style:
- Flights cost $1,000-$1,600 from the US, £800-£1,300 from the UK.
- A one-week trip costs $1,000-$2,000 total; two weeks costs $2,000-$4,000.
- Daily expenses: budget travellers $40-60, mid-range $100-150, luxury $200+.
Visas (5)
Do I need a VISA to enter Ghana?
All non-residents are requested to obtain Visa at the nearest embassy in advance of travelling to Ghana.
Note: some countries issue Visas only to their nationals and residents of the country.
Business visitors need to provide a letter of invitation and proof of funds to cover the expenses of their stay.
As said, the only exceptions that do not require Visa allowing their nationals can stay in Ghana for up to 90 days are citizens of 21 countries and territories - Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nationals, excluding Morocco.
Single-entry Visa are valid for 3 months. 1 or even 2-year multiple entry visas can be granted for specific purposes. You may be asked to provide proof of funds to cover your stay, return ticket and credit or debit card.
When in Ghana Visa extension can be granted by Ghana Immigration Service. They may ask for proof of funds to fully support your stay.
Every traveller must carry yellow fever vaccination certificates well as the appropriate COVID vaccination details [this can change without notice, keep an eye out for changes]!
Most visitors need to obtain a visa before arrival, except citizens of 21 ECOWAS countries who can stay up to 90 days visa-free. Apply at your nearest Ghanaian embassy with your passport, return ticket, photos, invitation letter, and fee. Single-entry visas are typically valid for three months.
Most embassies require you to fill out an application form online and visit the embassy to hand in your passport with 2 passport photos. Also bring your Yellow Fever booklet,
Most embassies require you to fill out an application form online and visit the embassy to hand in your passport with 2 passport photos. Also bring your Yellow Fever booklet,
The online process is a bit lengthy, be aware. What you need is your passport, a copy of paid tickets (including return ticket), a letter of invitation from someone in Ghana and the copy of their passport / ID, 2 passport photos, your Yellow Fever booklet. You can pay the VISA fee online. The fee depends on the type of Visa.
Note: some countries issue Visas only to their nationals and residents of the country.
Business visitors need to provide a letter of invitation and proof of funds to cover the expenses of their stay.
As said, the only exceptions that do not require Visa allowing their nationals can stay in Ghana for up to 90 days are citizens of 21 countries and territories - Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nationals, excluding Morocco.
Single-entry Visa are valid for 3 months. 1 or even 2-year multiple entry visas can be granted for specific purposes. You may be asked to provide proof of funds to cover your stay, return ticket and credit or debit card.
When in Ghana Visa extension can be granted by Ghana Immigration Service. They may ask for proof of funds to fully support your stay.
Every traveller must carry yellow fever vaccination certificates well as the appropriate COVID vaccination details [this can change without notice, keep an eye out for changes]!
Do I need a VISA when in Transit?
Transit passengers do not require a Visa as long as they do not leave the international transit area.
Are there any special rules for entry with children?
Visa applicants under the age of 18 are required to submit a letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian with their application form.
What do I need to arrange when travelling to other countries from Ghana?
When travelling to other countries from Ghana, check with the embassies or high commission of your destination countries for travel visa requirements! Also make sure that, if you want to return to Ghana again, you have a multiple-entry Visa.
What documents do children need to travel to Ghana?
Minors must submit a letter of consent from a parent or guardian with their visa application.
When travelling with only one of the parents, sometimes a letter of 'no objection' will be required from the other parent. Although not strictly enforced, be aware that this my be required when either applying for the Visa or when entering Ghana [or on return to your home country].
Local transport (1)
How do I get around in Ghana?
Options include:
- Tro-tros - cheap minibuses, $0.20-2 but overcrowded and accident-prone
- Uber/Bolt - safer, more comfortable, available in Accra)
- Taxis - negotiate fares upfront
- Intercity buses like STC and VIP - reliable for long distances
Safety (3)
Is it safe to take tro-tros?
Tro-tros are the cheapest option but have high accident rates, are often overcrowded, and lack safety standards. They're fine for short trips during daytime if you're adventurous, but use ride-hailing apps or taxis for safety, especially at night.
Is Ghana safe for tourists?
Ghana ranks as the 4th safest country in Africa and is generally very safe.
However, be cautious of petty crime like pickpocketing at markets, beaches, and tourist sites. Violent crime is rare but avoid walking alone at night.
Women should take extra precautions as sexual assault is underreported but remains a concern.
What are common scams in Ghana?
Common scams include romance scams, internet fraud, friendship offers leading to financial requests, fake business ventures, overcharging tourists, and work opportunity scams.
Be skeptical of unsolicited offers and always negotiate prices upfront.
Weather and Climate (1)
What is the weather like in Ghana?
Ghana has a tropical climate.
Dry season (November-March) has temperatures of 77-95°F with low humidity.
Rainy season (April-August) brings cooler temperatures, high humidity, and afternoon downpours.
Harmattan winds (December-February) bring dry, dusty air from the Sahara.
Health and medical (4)
Is yellow fever vaccination mandatory for Ghana?
Yes, all travelers over 9 months old must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate upon arrival. In most cases, the certificate is considered valid for life, so you only need to get vaccinated once.
Do I need malaria medication for Ghana?
The CDC recommends all travellers take antimalarial medication.
Popular options include Malarone (Atovaquone/Proguanil), Doxycycline, or Mefloquine.
Malaria is present year-round throughout Ghana, particularly in Northern Regions, Coastal areas, and the Volta Region. Use insect repellent and wear long sleeves in the evening.
What other vaccines do I need for Ghana?
Recommended vaccines include:
- Hepatitis A,
- Typhoid,
- Rabies (if visiting rural areas),
- Meningitis,
Can I drink tap water in Ghana?
Always use bottled, filtered, or purified water, even for brushing teeth. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive.
Public Holidays & Festivals (2)
When are the Public Holidays in Ghana?
Major holidays include:
- New Year’s Day - 1 January
- Independence Day - 6 March
- Good Friday - March/April
- Easter Monday - March/April
- Labour Day - 1 May
- May Bank Holiday - 1st Monday in May
- Africa Unity Day - 25 May
- Republic Day - 1 July
- Founders Day - 21 September
- Christmas Day - 25 December
- Boxing Day - 26 December
- Ghana also celebrates Muslim holidays, with changing dates every year.
What festivals should I experience in Ghana?
Major festivals include Homowo Festival (Ga people celebrating triumph over famine), Aboakyer Festival (ceremonial deer hunt), Fetu Afahye Festival in Cape Coast (most important for Fante people), Panafest (biennial Pan-African celebration), Odwira Festival, and Afrochella music festival in December.