Ghana – Travel Guide
Discover Ghana, a land of rich history and vibrant culture, from the bustling markets of Accra to the ancient forts of Cape Coast. Indulge in authentic cuisine, savoring traditional dishes like jollof rice and banku, infused with local spices and flavors. Immerse yourself in history at the UNESCO-listed Elmina Castle and the vibrant arts scene of Kumasi. Marvel at the natural beauty of Kakum National Park and the serene beaches of Busua. Experience the warmth of Ghanaian hospitality in the lively neighborhoods of Jamestown and the traditional villages of the Ashanti region. Ghana invites you to explore its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture, promising an unforgettable journey in West Africa.
All about Ghana
Ghana FAQ
What is Ghana known for?
Ghana is known for its distinct cultural heritage, vibrant traditions, and captivating landscapes. The region boasts historical sites such as the Larabanga Mosque, believed to be one of the oldest mosques in West Africa, and the ancient trading center of Yendi. Northern Ghana’s landscape is characterized by vast savannahs, lush shea tree forests, and the scenic waterfalls of Wli and Kintampo. Visitors can also explore the Mole National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, and baboons. Northern Ghana offers a rich cultural experience and an opportunity to immerse oneself in the traditional way of life of its welcoming communities.
What are the best places to visit in Ghana?
Among the top places to visit is Cape Coast, known for its poignant history and the UNESCO-listed Cape Coast Castle, a former slave trade hub. The vibrant capital city, Accra, offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with attractions like the bustling Makola Market, Independence Square, and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. Kumasi, the cultural hub of Ghana, is renowned for the Ashanti Kingdoms’ rich heritage, including the Manhyia Palace and the bustling Kejetia Market. The serene beaches of Kokrobite and Busua are perfect for relaxation and water sports. For wildlife enthusiasts, Mole National Park provides a chance to spot elephants, antelopes, and various bird species in their natural habitat. The scenic Volta Region is home to the mesmerizing Wli Waterfalls and the Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. Additionally, the picturesque landscapes of the Central Region, including Kakum National Park and Elmina Castle, offer a glimpse into Ghana’s natural beauty and historical significance. With its diverse attractions, Ghana welcomes visitors with its warm hospitality and vibrant cultural experiences.
How many days should I spend in Ghana?
We recommend 7-10 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel, and activities. We suggest a minimum of 3 nights in larger cities.
What is the best way to get around Ghana?
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in urban areas and offer a more comfortable and convenient way to travel. Negotiating the fare in advance is recommended, and it is advisable to use metered taxis or agree on a price before starting the journey.
Tro-tros: Tro-tros are minivans or buses that serve as the primary means of transport within cities and towns. They are an affordable option but can be crowded. Tro-tros operate on set routes and can be flagged down from designated stations or along the roadside.
Car Rental: Renting a car provides flexibility and convenience, especially for exploring remote areas or embarking on a road trip. International car rental agencies are available in major cities. However, be aware of the local driving conditions and consider hiring a driver if you’re not familiar with the area.
What is the currency of Ghana?
The currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). The cedi is further divided into smaller units called pesewas. It’s important to note that while some businesses, hotels, and larger establishments accept credit cards, the widespread use of cards is not as common in smaller towns and markets. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash when traveling in Ghana, especially in more remote areas.
Do people speak English in Ghana?
Yes, English is the official language of Ghana and is widely spoken and understood throughout the country. It serves as the medium of instruction in schools, used in government and business transactions, and is the primary language of communication in urban areas.
Best time to visit Ghana
Ghana’s low altitude and proximity to the Equator gives it a typical tropical climate, with average daily temperatures approaching 86 degrees F on most days, humidity is high, and usually upwards of 80% along the coast. The nighttime temperatures do drop considerably, especially in the relatively dry north more so than in the humid south.
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The only relatively temperate parts of the country are the highlands flanking the Volta Basin, where temperatures can be genuinely cool after dusk.
In most respects, the best time to visit Ghana is during the northern hemisphere winter, between October and April when the temperatures are a great deal cooler and more comfortable due to the lower humidity levels. These months also form the dry season, and that means fewer mosquitoes, dirt roads are in better condition, and a better time for exploring nature, since game viewing is best when the grass is low and resident bird populations are supplemented by all sorts of Palaearctic migrants.
Ghana Seasons:
Summer – June to August
Autumn/fall – September to November
Winter – December to February
Spring – March to May
October – November (Dry Season)
The Dry season runs from October through March, which is one of the best times to spot game in Mole National Park, when it’s dry it’s common to see elephants especially from December to March. The climate at this time of year is marginally cooler and less humid than the spring and summer months in Ghana. Harmattan winds blow in from the Sahara desert in December and can reduce visibility throughout the country, the winds bring a little cooler weather, but also extreme dryness. Wildlife this time of year is easier to see and will be clustered around the scarce waterholes, especially during the driest months of January, February, and March. The dusty dry season offers some of the best wildlife viewing in the region.
December – September (Wet Season)
Rain usually begins to fall in the wetter center and south in April, May, and June with a brief respite from July to August. A shorter rainy season comes in September, October, and the first part of November. In the desert, like the north, the rains usually arrive from March to September. The rain can cause terrible flooding and blocked roads in the north.
The country does not experience strong seasonal changes like most Europeans and North Americans are used to. The average daily temperatures are reasonably consistent throughout the year, and the average temperature for the northern hemisphere winter months is actually higher than for the summer months. In Accra for example the hottest temperatures are from November through January, despite it lying in the same hemisphere as Europe.
Holidays – Event and Festivals
Ghana is a beautiful African country known for its rich history, and amazing culture, a place filled with several ethnicities that come together to celebrate life. The country has deep roots in traditional values and local celebrations in the form of religious holidays, and festivals observed every year throughout the country. These holidays in Ghana bring in an environment of cheerfulness across streets and also teach people different values of humanity.
Events and Festivals
-Ghana’s National Day – Independence Day – March 6th – public parades, dance, and music performances to celebrate their patriotism and honor the heroes and freedom fighters who led to the liberty of the nation.
-Ed al-Fitr – Festival of Breaking the Fast – Holy month of Ramadan – April
-Aboakyir – Winneba – May (first weekend of the month) – 300-year-old hunting festival where the town’s two oldest asafo companies, dressed in full traditional regalia, compete to hunt down and capture a bushbuck using only their bare hands.
-Prampram, Homowo, which means “mocking hunger” – August and September – the largest harvest months for fish and grain.
-Oguaa Fetu Afahye (adorning of new clothes) – First Saturday in September, when local chiefs and asafo companies dressed in full traditional regalia lead processions through the streets of Cape Coast.
-Anomabu – A five-day long Bontungu – August – A variety of drumming, and dancing rituals held to bring God’s blessing for the forthcoming year.
-Bakatue Festival – First Tuesday of July – The beginning of a new fishing season.
-Agumatsa Waterfall Festival – November – Dancing, drumming, and colorful costumes.
-Odwira – September – in Ashanti – This is a week-long affair with a final procession through town held on Friday.
Tipping in Ghana
A tip in Ghana is referred to as a “dash”, tipping is not always expected in Ghana, but it is considered an act of goodwill, as the service workers in the country don’t get paid that much. The amount you decide to tip in restaurants, hotels, and taxis should be a reflection of the services you received. Tips are not expected in restaurants in Ghana, except at upscale.
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Bargaining and bartering are big in Ghana, especially at markets in small villages, you can bring items from home to trade. Initially, a seller will offer the item at 30-50% more than what they expect for the item. You can counteroffer should be ridiculously low, about 50% less than what you are willing to pay.
Currency: Can I pay in U.S. dollars, or should I use the Ghanaian Cedi?
The currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS), and the smaller pesewa the US dollar is not accepted. You will need to exchange your currency for Ghanaian cedi, which can be done upon arrival at the airport currency exchange desks or banks and specialized stores called Foreign Exchange Bureaus. ATMs can be found in Accra, tipping is discretionary and appreciated, and cash is usually preferred.
Restaurants, Cafes, and Bars: When should I tip? How much is customary?
Tipping in restaurants and bars in Ghana is not too common, especially in smaller eating establishments such as chop bars, and street food vendors. Upscale restaurants are more common places to tip and anywhere between 5-10% should be good. Leaving some change at small restaurants is considered generous. In some restaurants a 10% service charge is sometimes added to the bill, be sure to look for any additional charges and keep in mind this amount never makes it to the wait staff, so tipping a few Cedi is massively appreciated.
Hotel Staff: Who should I tip?
At hotels in Ghana, it is usually common to tip hotel porters, or bellboys a few Cedi’s or two. It is customary to leave a tip for the maid who cleans your room, a few cedis per day is a good amount.
Taxi Drivers: Should I tip?
Taxi drivers usually receive 5-10% of the fare, especially if they were helpful and efficient, rounding up the change or leaving a few Cedi is generally appreciated.
Tour Guides: Is a tip required?
Tipping guides in Ghana are usually common and a significant part of income for service employees, tips are performance-based and should be provided in exchange for excellent service. A 10% tip for guides and drivers is around $10-$20 a day, so like $3 per person for groups. These tips should be given to each person individually, for example to your driver, and to your guide.
Miscellaneous: other services
If visiting a spa or hair salon in Ghana, you should tip up to 10% of the bill if you received great service. You can always tip more if you feel as if the service deserved it.
Final Thoughts:
Remember that it is perfectly okay to abstain, especially if you are not happy with the service provided. Unlike in the U.S., waiters are paid a living wage, and the expectations for tipping are lower in Romania than in America. This is also true for hotel staff, though if you encounter a problem with the service within the hotel, we highly recommend speaking with the manager.
When paying for services in cash (which we generally recommend for services other than your hotel) remember to take your receipt. This is important for two reasons; If you leave a tip on a credit card, the person providing the service may not always get it, and if there is a discrepancy it is important to have your receipt to settle it with the manager of the establishment and to prove that you paid for the service.
Top City in Ghana
What to expect while traveling
