Ghana

Ghana: general info for travelers

Ghana is a country located in West Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea to the south. It is known for its vibrant culture, diverse wildlife, and historic landmarks. Ghana is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches, national parks, and waterfalls in Africa. The people of Ghana are friendly and welcoming, and the country is a popular destination for both cultural and eco-tourism. The capital city is Accra, and other popular cities include Kumasi, Tamale, and Takoradi. The official language is English, and the currency is the Ghanaian cedi.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Ghana, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Ghana: places to visit

Sure, here are some main places to visit in Ghana and their descriptions: 1. Accra - This is the capital city of Ghana and is the country's economic and political hub. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, cultural landmarks, and bustling markets. Some notable places to visit in Accra include the Osu Castle, The National Museum, Independence Square, and Labadi Beach.
2. Cape Coast - This coastal town is located in the Central region of Ghana. It is home to some of Ghana's most famous tourist attractions, including the Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which has a dark history related to the transatlantic slave trade. Other notable places to visit in Cape Coast include the Kakum National Park, Elmina Castle, and the Cape Coast University.
3. Kumasi - This city is located in the Ashanti region of Ghana and is known as the cultural capital of the country. Kumasi is home to many prominent landmarks related to the Ashanti Kingdom, including the Manhyia Palace Museum, the Kejetia Market, the Kumasi Zoo, and the Kumasi Central Market.
4. Mole National Park - This is Ghana's largest wildlife reserve and is located in the Northern region of the country. It is home to various wildlife including elephants, buffaloes, hyenas, leopards, and many more. Visitors can go on a safari drive or take a guided walking tour.
5. Lake Volta - This is the largest man-made lake in the world, and it spans across the eastern part of Ghana. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake to see the surrounding villages, islands, and wildlife.
6. Ada Foah - This is a small town located along the Volta River in between Ghana and Togo. It is a beautiful spot to relax, enjoy the beach, and take part in water sports. Visitors can also visit the nearby colorful stilted villages and take a canoe trip to see the local mangrove forests.
I hope this information is helpful in organizing your trip to Ghana.
There is more to see and do in Ghana: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Ghana: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Ghana, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
Ghana has two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The rainy season runs from April to October, while the dry season runs from November to March.
If you prefer milder temperatures, it is best to go to Ghana during the dry season, particularly from November to February. During this time, temperatures are cooler and the humidity is lower. If you don't mind a bit of rain and would like to experience lush green landscapes, then the rainy season could be a good time to visit Ghana. However, heavy rainfall can sometimes lead to flooding and disrupt travel plans.
It's worth noting that Ghana is a tropical country, so temperatures are usually warm throughout the year, averaging between 25°C to 30°C.

Ghana: activities and what to do

Ghana has a wide range of activities and sports to offer for tourists who are interested in keeping their holidays active. Here are some options: 1. Surfing – Ghana is known for having some of the best surf spots in Africa, especially at Busua beach in the Western Region.
2. Hiking and Trekking – There are many beautiful, scenic routes to choose from, including the Volta Region, the Aburi Botanical Gardens, and the Shai Hills Reserve.
3. Canoeing and Kayaking – Paddle through the waterways of Ghana, visiting traditional villages and bird watching at the same time.
4. Golfing – There are several world-class golf courses in Ghana, including the Achimota Golf Club and the Celebrity Golf Club.
5. Fishing – You can take a fishing trip and catch some of Ghana's favorite fish, such as tuna, barracuda, and tilapia.
6. Cycling – Grab a bicycle and explore the countryside, scenic routes, and the city of Accra.
7. Football – Join a local team or watch a match at the famous Accra Sports Stadium.
8. Yoga and meditation – Top resorts like Escape3points now offer classes, workshops, and retreats to help you increase mindfulness and relaxation while on vacation.
There are plenty more activities and sports to engage in Ghana, depending on interests!

Ghana: few words on history and culture

Ghana, officially known as the Republic of Ghana, is a country located in West Africa. The country has a rich history and culture that dates back to ancient times. Ghana's history can be divided into three main periods: the ancient Ghana Empire, the medieval periods of the Ashanti Kingdoms, and the era of British colonial rule. Ghana is known for its vibrant and diverse culture, which is a mix of traditional African, Christian, and Muslim influences. The people of Ghana have a rich and varied cultural heritage, which is celebrated through music, dance, and art. Drumming and dance are an integral part of Ghanaian culture, with different rhythms and styles of dance associated with different traditional events. Other important aspects of the Ghanaian culture include clothing, food, and festivals. Traditional Ghanaian clothing is colorful, with bold patterns and prints. Ghanaian cuisine includes popular dishes such as jollof rice, banku, fufu, and kenkey. Festivals are an important part of Ghanaian culture, with events like the Yam Festival, Homowo, and the Aboakyir Festival celebrated across the country. Overall, Ghana is a country with a rich and fascinating history and culture that is well worth exploring for anyone interested in learning more about West Africa.

Ghana: how to move around on holiday

The best means of transportation to reach and visit Ghana depends on your location and preferences. The most common ways to reach Ghana are: 1. Air travel: The main international airport in Ghana is the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, which receives flights from all over the world.
2. Overland travel: If you are travelling from neighboring countries, there are several land borders you can cross. There are also several bus companies that operate services between Ghana and other West African countries.
Within Ghana, the most popular means of transportation are: 1. Taxis: Taxis are plentiful and affordable in Ghana, particularly in major cities like Accra and Kumasi. You can hail a taxi from the side of the road or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt.
2. Buses: Long-distance buses operate between major cities in Ghana and neighboring countries. The most popular bus companies in Ghana are STC and VIP.
3. Tro-Tros: Tro-Tros are minibuses that operate throughout Ghana. They are the most common mode of transportation for locals and are generally affordable.
4. Car rentals: If you prefer to drive yourself, car rentals are available in major cities in Ghana. However, roads in Ghana are not always in the best condition, so it's important to exercise caution when driving. To hire a car to visit Ghana, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Ghana: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Ghana with a full stomach:D
Here are some of the main traditional foods of Ghana: 1. Jollof Rice: Jollof rice is a popular one-pot dish made with rice, tomato sauce, onions, and spices. It is a staple food in West African countries, including Ghana.
2. Banku and Okra Soup: Banku is a traditional Ghanaian fermented corn and cassava dough that is cooked and served with soups and stews. Okra soup is a stew made with meat or fish, okra, onions, and spices.
3. Fufu and Light Soup: Fufu is another staple food in Ghana, made from boiled and mashed cassava or yams, and then rolled into balls. It is usually served with light soup, a flavorful broth made with vegetables, meat or fish, onions, and spices.
4. Kenkey and Fish: Kenkey is a fermented maize dough that is similar to banku, and is usually eaten with fried fish and hot pepper sauce.
5. Waakye: Waakye is a popular street food in Ghana that consists of rice and beans cooked together and served with a spicy sauce made from meat, fish, or vegetables.
6. Red Red: Red Red is a popular vegetarian dish made with black-eyed peas, plantains, and palm oil. It is usually served with rice or bread.
These are just a few of the many delicious traditional foods that you can try when visiting Ghana.

Ghana: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Compared to some other African countries, Ghana can be considered a bit more expensive for tourists. However, it still offers good value for money when compared to many western countries. Prices for food, accommodation, and transportation can vary depending on the location and the type of experience you're looking for. Generally, cities and tourist hubs tend to have higher prices than rural areas. That being said, with careful planning and budgeting, it's possible to have an affordable and enjoyable trip to Ghana.

Ghana: where to find accodation

There are many options for finding accommodation in Ghana. Some popular websites for booking hotels, guesthouses, and apartments include Booking.com, Agoda, Airbnb, and Expedia. You can also check out the Ghana Tourism Authority's website for a list of accredited hotels and guesthouses in different areas of the country. Additionally, many hotels and guesthouses in Ghana have their own websites, so you can also try searching for specific properties online. Finally, if you are looking for budget options, you may want to consider checking out local homestays or hostels.
You can check hotel prices in Ghana here:
Booking.com

Ghana: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the Ghana Tourism Authority, Ghana welcomed around 1.13 million tourists in 2019, and the number has been increasing in recent years. There are a few peak periods when the number of tourists is higher than usual, such as during the Christmas and New Year holidays, Easter, and the summer months (June to August). These periods can be crowded, with increased demand for accommodations, transportation, and tourist attractions. It's a good idea to plan your trip well in advance if you're visiting during these peak periods.
Ghana is a generally safe country for tourists. However, visitors should exercise caution when traveling at night and in unfamiliar areas. There are some places in Ghana, particularly in the major cities, where petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing may occur. It is advisable to avoid displaying valuables in public and not leaving personal belongings unattended. Additionally, travelers should avoid political gatherings or demonstrations.
As for specific places to avoid, it is recommended to avoid the northern borders of Ghana due to the potential for terrorist activity and the borders with Togo and Cote d'Ivoire due to the potential for cross-border crime. Otherwise, as long as you exercise common sense and take necessary precautions, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Ghana on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Ghana: events for tourists

There are many interesting events that tourists can enjoy in Ghana. Some of the most popular are: 1. The Homowo Festival: This is a popular harvest festival that takes place in August in the Ga community of Accra. It is a time of thanksgiving, feasting, and dancing.
2. The Panafest Festival: This festival takes place every two years in Cape Coast to promote unity and solidarity among Africans. It features music, dance, and performances that showcase African culture.
3. Kwahu Easter Festival: This festival takes place in the Kwahu region of Ghana during Easter and is known for its paragliding activities, street parties, and music concerts.
4. Afrochella Festival: This is an annual music and art festival held in Accra on December 28 every year. It features live music performances, cultural displays, and a fashion show.
5. Aboakyer Festival: This festival takes place in May in the town of Winneba. It features a deer-hunting ritual and is celebrated with a lot of pomp and pageantry.
These are just a few of the many interesting events that take place in Ghana throughout the year.

Ghana: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Ghana, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here is a sample itinerary for a two-week trip to Ghana: Day 1-3: Accra - Visit the Independence Square, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and the National Museum of Ghana - Explore the vibrant markets of Makola and Osu - Relax at the Labadi Beach Day 4-5: Cape Coast - Visit the Cape Coast Castle and learn about the history of the slave trade - Tour the Kakum National Park and walk on the canopy bridge Day 6-7: Volta Region - Visit Wli Waterfalls and hike around the mountains - Visit the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, a community project for the conservation of Mona monkeys Day 8-9: Kumasi - Visit the Manhyia Palace Museum and learn about the Ashanti Kingdom - Explore Kejetia Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa Day 10-12: Northern Ghana - Visit the Mole National Park and spot elephants, baboons, and warthogs - Explore the Larabanga Mosque, one of the oldest mosques in West Africa - Visit the Paga Crocodile Pond and interact with the crocodiles Day 13-14: Ada Foah - Relax at the beautiful beaches of Ada Foah - Go on a boat tour on the Volta River and explore the Ada Estuary Of course, this itinerary can be tailored to suit your interests and preferences. Ghana is a beautiful country with rich culture and history, and there are many other attractions and activities to explore.

Ghana: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Ghana described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Accra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, located on the country's southern coast. It has a population of over 2 million people and is the administrative, cultural, and economic center of the co... CONTINUE here for a trip to Accra
- Agogo is a town located in the Asante Akim North District of the Ashanti Region in Ghana. It is located about 80 km north of Kumasi, the capital city of the region, and has a population of approximate... CONTINUE here for a trip to Agogo
- Akosombo is a town in the southeastern region of Ghana located on the eastern banks of the Volta River. It is popular for its hydroelectric dam, the Akosombo Dam, which was built in the 1960s to gener... CONTINUE here for a trip to Akosombo
- Axim is a coastal town located in the Western Region of Ghana. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant fishing industry, and historical landmarks such as the Fort St. Antonio and the Nzulezu St... CONTINUE here for a trip to Axim
- Bawku is a town located in the Upper East Region of Ghana, West Africa. It has a population of approximately 70,000 people and is known for its vibrant local market, traditional crafts such as pottery... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bawku
- Begoro is a small town located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. It is situated at the foot of the Atewa Range, which is known for its rich biodiversity and the presence of the Atewa Forest Reserve. The... CONTINUE here for a trip to Begoro
- Berekum is a town in the Bono Region of Ghana. It has a population of approximately 60,000 people. The town is known for its rich cultural heritage, with several festivals celebrated throughout the ye... CONTINUE here for a trip to Berekum
- Bolgatanga is a city located in the Upper East Region of Ghana. It is the capital of the Bolgatanga Municipal District and has a population of approximately 73,000 people. The city is known for its tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Bolgatanga
- Cape Coast is a city located on the south coast of Ghana, approximately 150 kilometers west of Accra. It is the capital of the Central Region of Ghana and has a population of around 170,000 people. Ca... CONTINUE here for a trip to Cape Coast
- Elmina is a coastal town located in the Central Region of Ghana, West Africa. It is known for its beautiful beaches, fishing harbors, historic landmarks, and traditional crafts. Elmina is famous for t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Elmina
- Ho is the capital city of the Volta Region in Ghana. It is situated in the southeast of the region and is known for its lush greenery, scenic beauty, and traditional festivals. Some of the main attrac... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ho
- Hohoe is a town located in the Volta Region of Ghana, West Africa. It is situated between two mountains, the Afadjato and the Aduadu, and is known for its beautiful natural scenery. Hohoe has a divers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Hohoe
- Kintampo is a town located in the Brong-Ahafo Region of Ghana, in West Africa. It is situated on the main highway between Kumasi and Tamale, making it a popular stopover for travelers. The town is sur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kintampo
- Koforidua is a city located in the eastern region of Ghana. The city is known for its commercial activities, educational institutions, and tourist attractions. Koforidua has a population of approximat... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koforidua
- Kumasi is a city located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, West Africa. It is the country's second-largest city and is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance as the capital of ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kumasi
- Nalerigu is a small town in the northeastern part of Ghana. It is the capital of the East Mamprusi District and is located in the northern region of the country. The town has a population of approxima... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nalerigu
- Navrongo is a town located in the Upper East Region of Ghana, near the border with Burkina Faso. It has a population of approximately 30,000 people and is known for its hot and dry climate. The town i... CONTINUE here for a trip to Navrongo
- Nkawkaw is a town located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. It is situated on the Accra-Kumasi highway, making it a strategic location for travelers between the capital city and the Ashanti Region. The ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nkawkaw
- Nsawam is a small town located in the Eastern Region of Ghana, about 35 kilometers from Accra, the capital city. It has a population of approximately 70,000 people and it is mainly known for its agric... CONTINUE here for a trip to Nsawam
- Obuasi is a town in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, known for its gold mining activities. It has a population of around 180,000 people and is located approximately 157 kilometers northwest of the capital... CONTINUE here for a trip to Obuasi
- Salaga is a small town situated in the Northern Region of Ghana. It is the capital of the East Gonja district. Salaga is historically important as it was a key center for the slave trade, where slaves... CONTINUE here for a trip to Salaga
- Sekondi-Takoradi is a twin-city located in the Western region of Ghana. It is the largest city in the region and the third-largest in Ghana. The city is a major economic center, especially for the cou... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sekondi-Takoradi
- Sunyani is a city located in the Brong-Ahafo region of Ghana. It is the capital of the region and has a population of around 76,000 people. The city is known for its agricultural industry, with crops ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sunyani
- Takoradi is the capital city of the Western Region of Ghana, located on the country's southern coast. It is the fourth-largest city in Ghana and a major seaport, serving as a gateway to the country's ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Takoradi
- Tamale is the largest city in northern Ghana, located in the Northern Region. It is a cultural, commercial, and agricultural hub with a diverse population of over 350,000 people. The city is known for... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamale
- Tarkwa is a town located in the western region of Ghana, specifically in the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipal Assembly. It is known for its mining industry, with several large-scale mining companies operating ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tarkwa
- Techiman is a town located in the Brong-Ahafo region of Ghana, West Africa. It is the capital of the Techiman Municipal District and has a population of approximately 153,000 people. The town has a tr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Techiman
- Wa is a town located in the Upper West Region of Ghana. It is the capital of the region and has a population of around 78,000 people. The town is known for its unique culture, festivals, and crafts su... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wa
- Wenchi is a small town located in the Brong-Ahafo region of Ghana. It is situated in the middle of the country and surrounded by lush green hills and valleys. The town has a number of attractions incl... CONTINUE here for a trip to Wenchi
- Yendi is a town located in the Northern Region of Ghana, West Africa. It is the capital of the Yendi District and is primarily known for its rich cultural heritage, including the history of the Dagbon... CONTINUE here for a trip to Yendi


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