Ghana

Ghana

Ghana offers a vibrant cultural experience with rich history, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality. Explore ancient slave castles, bustling markets, and beautiful national parks.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$70/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

AccraWest AfricaGold CoastAshanti KingdomVolta River

🇬🇭 Country Information: Ghana

CapitalAccra
CurrencyGhanaian cedi (GH₵)
LanguageEnglish , Akan (Twi, Fante, Akuapem), Ewe, Ga, Dagbani, Dagaare, Nzema
Phone Code+233
Electricity230V (Type D, G)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants (5
  • 10%), hotels (a small amount for porters/housekeeping), and for tour guides/drivers (negotiated or at the end of the service)

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are available, especially in urban areas; it's advisable to use reputable bank ATMs
  • Credit cards are accepted in major hotels and some larger establishments, but cash is preferred for most transactions, especially outside of Accra and other major cities
  • It is better to bring a mix of cash (USD, GBP, or EUR) and a debit/credit card for ATMs
  • There is no official black market for cash, but unofficial money changers might offer slightly better rates at a higher risk

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
  • Women should cover their shoulders and knees
  • Men should avoid sleeveless shirts in formal settings
  • Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and exchanging money, as the left hand is considered unclean
  • It is customary to greet elders first and show respect
  • Bargaining is common in markets

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. LGBTQ+ acts are criminalized in Ghana, and societal attitudes are largely unaccepting. There are no laws protecting LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are very strict, with severe penalties for possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs, including cannabis

Special Laws

  • Photography near government buildings, military installations, or sensitive areas should be avoided or done with permission
  • It is illegal to possess or consume recreational drugs
  • Visitors should carry identification at all times

Common Phrases

HelloAkwaaba (ah-kwaa-ba)
PleaseMepa wo kyɛw (meh-paa wo chyao)
Thank youMedaase (meh-daa-seh)
Good eveningMaadwo (maa-dwo)
Good morningMaakye (maa-kyeh)

Climate

General climate classification for Ghana, which is largely tropical.

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Jollof Rice must_try

A staple rice dish cooked in a flavorful blend of tomatoes, peppers, onions, and spices. It is often served with chicken, goat, or cow meat and someti

Banku and Grilled Tilapia must_try

Banku is a starchy staple made from a fermented mixture of corn dough and cassava dough, served as a solidified ball. It is typically paired with gril

Fufu must_try

A renowned delicacy made by pounding boiled starchy root vegetables like cassava, plantain, or cocoyam until it forms a soft, sticky dough. It is trad

Red Red must_try

A popular Ghanaian bean and fish stew, utilizing black-eyed peas or kidney beans. The stew is often served with fried ripe plantains and can be accomp

Kelewele street_food

A popular street snack made from ripe plantain that is cubed and fried. The plantains are seasoned with spices like ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt b

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

High-Quality Accommodation (Hotels/Guesthouses) Accommodation
Book 1–3 months in advance

Accommodation in major cities like Accra and Kumasi, especially well-reviewed hotels, can book up quickly during peak travel seasons and major festivals.

Domestic Flights (e.g., Accra to Tamale) Transport
Book 3 weeks to 3 months in advance

Domestic routes, especially during peak seasons or when major airlines are operating, have limited capacity, making last-minute booking expensive or impossible.

Fun Facts

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