About Ghana 

Ghana is a country in western Africa, situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea. Ghana is one of the leading countries of Africa, partly because of its considerable natural wealth and partly because it was the first black African country south of the Sahara to achieve independence from colonial rule.

In addition to being known for its lush forests, diverse animal life, and miles of sandy beaches along a picturesque coast, Ghana is also celebrated for its rich history—its habitation possibly dating from 10,000 BCE—and as a fascinating repository of cultural heritage.

Culture

Ghana has a rich indigenous culture. Culturally, the peoples of Ghana have many affinities with their French-speaking neighbours, but each ethnic group has distinctive cultural attributes. In all parts of the country, the cultural heritage is closely linked with religion and the institution of chieftaincy. Various festivals and rites are centred on chieftaincy and the family and are occasioned by such events as harvest, marriage, birth, puberty, and death.

Although the bonds of the extended family are an important factor in the social norms of Ghanaians as a whole, they tend to be much less pronounced among the urban population, where the trend is toward the nuclear family, especially among the professional classes and scattered immigrant groups. Traditional social values, such as respect for elders and the veneration of dead ancestors, are generally more evident among the rural than the urban population.

Best time to go

The best time to go to Ghana is from October to March when the climate is marginally cooler and less humid, and you'll miss the spring and summer rains. Harmattan - the Saharan wind - blows in December, which causes haze, dust and very dry skin.

How many days do I need in Ghana?

Even if you're short on time, one week is just enough to take in the most popular tourist sites in Ghana. I should know: my friends and I had exactly eight days in the country and saw a lot! We divided our time between Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast. Here's what we saw and did in each area.

Things to do

From surfing and exploring the great outdoors to seeing some of the country’s historical sites, Ghana offers enough experiences to satisfy people of various ages, interests, and likes. The festivals in Ghana allow you to experience directly the traditions and culture of the African people. Also, you can practice surfing, take a walk through Jamestown, try the local cuisine, visit Cape Coast Castle, enjoy local drinks and music, buy fabric from local markets, visit Mole National Park, visit Wli Waterfalls and Mount Afadjato.

Getting around Ghana

Plane

Africa World Airlines (AWA) and Passion Air operate domestic flights within Ghana, with routes fanning out from Accra. Both airlines have several flights daily to Takoradi, Tamale and Kumasi, and Passion Air also offers flights to Wa, Ho and Sunyani. 

Public buses 

The public buses run by Ghana's State Transport Corporation (STC) are a safe and affordable choice for short-haul and long-distance travel around the country, and they're comfortable even for longer journeys.

Car hire

Driving in Ghana is not for the fainthearted, but you can rent a car and drive in Ghana yourself if you have an international driver’s permit in addition to your home license.

Tro-tros

Tro-tros are small minivans or buses and they can be found in most cities in Ghana. They work like hop-on-hop-off public buses, stopping regularly along the way for passengers to board and disembark.

Taxis

Ordinary taxis are the most expensive way to get around in Ghana. Taxis are not metered, so you'll have to bargain for a fare, and drivers often charge higher prices for tourists.

Walking

Ghana’s cities often lack sidewalks, but it’s easy enough to get around on foot on the edge of the road, and this can be faster than sitting in traffic.

Health & Safety

Fully vaccinated travellers no longer need to provide pre-departure COVID-19 test results or be tested on arrival at Kotoka International Airport. Non-resident unvaccinated travellers won't be granted entry into Ghana. Land borders are now open.

Yellow fever, malaria and other insect-borne diseases are common, as are waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases, such as cholera, hepatitis, Lassa fever, meningococcal meningitis, bilharzia and tuberculosis. Avoid insect bites, ice cubes, and raw or undercooked food. Drink boiled or bottled water. Consider what vaccinations and medicine you need.

Make sure you have the right insurance and enough money to cover all your costs.