Ghana Travel Guide (West Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Ghana

Ghana is a vibrant West African country known for its welcoming people, rich culture, and stunning natural beauty. It is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the continent of Africa without breaking the bank. With a mix of history, culture, and outdoor adventures, Ghana has something to offer everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Ghana

Ghana is full of exciting destinations, from cosmopolitan cities to picturesque wildlife reserves. Here are some of the best places to visit in Ghana:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cape Coast Castle: One of several former slave castles along Ghana’s coastline, Cape Coast Castle is now a museum and popular tourist attraction.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: This park and museum is dedicated to Ghana’s first president and founder of the country.
National Museum of Ghana: A must-visit for history buffs, the National Museum of Ghana showcases the country’s rich culture and history.

Natural Attractions of Ghana: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kakum National Park: Known for its canopy walkway, Kakum National Park offers visitors the opportunity to explore Ghana’s lush rainforests.
Mole National Park: A great spot for wildlife enthusiasts, Mole National Park is home to elephants, hippos, and other African animals.
Lake Bosumtwi: This serene lake is surrounded by rolling hills and is believed to have been formed by a meteor strike over a million years ago.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ghana

Ghana has no shortage of hiking and biking opportunities, whether you’re a seasoned trekker or just looking for a leisurely stroll. Some popular routes include:

Aburi Botanical Gardens: This garden is a great place for a peaceful walk and picnic.
Wli Waterfalls: Located on the border between Ghana and Togo, this stunning area offers hiking and biking routes.
Amedzofe: This village in the Volta Region is known for its beautiful hikes and picturesque views.

Best Things to Do in Ghana: Activities and Tours

In addition to the places mentioned above, Ghana offers plenty of unique and exciting activities and tours. Some options include:

Experience Ghanaian culture through dance and drumming lessons.
Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Ghanaian dishes.
Go on a safari to see the country’s exotic wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ghana

If you’re planning a trip to Ghana, here’s a sample itinerary for a week-long visit:

Day	Activity
1	Explore Accra, Ghana’s capital city
2	Visit Cape Coast Castle and Kakum National Park
3	Travel to Kumasi, stopping at the Ashanti craft villages along the way
4	Learn about the Ashanti Empire at the Manhyia Palace Museum and visit the Kejetia Market
5	Relax on the beaches of Busua
6	Visit the wildlife at Mole National Park
7	Return to Accra and explore the city’s nightlife

Food and Drink Scene of Ghana

Ghanaian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, drawing on local ingredients and West African culinary traditions.

Must-Try Dishes

Banku and Tilapia: A popular Ghanaian dish consisting of fermented corn and cassava dough served with fried fish.
Jollof Rice: A one-pot rice dish made with tomato paste, spices, and vegetables. It is a staple food in many West African countries, including Ghana.
Waakye: A dish made of rice and beans, typically served with spicy tomato sauce and fried plantains.

Local Beverages

Palm Wine: A popular alcoholic beverage made from palm tree sap. It is a traditional drink in West Africa.
Sobolo: A refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus leaves, ginger, and sugar. It is often served chilled.
Akpeteshie: A strong liquor made from fermented palm wine or sugarcane. It is often used in traditional medicine and is not for the faint-hearted.

Where to Stay in Ghana: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ghana has accommodation options for every budget, from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels.

Luxury Hotels: Some popular options include Labadi Beach Hotel in Accra and Golden Tulip Kumasi City in Kumasi.
Mid-Range Hotels: For a comfortable stay that won’t break the bank, consider Coconut Grove Hotels in Accra or The Royal Senchi Resort in Akosombo.
Hostels and Guesthouses: If you’re looking for budget accommodation, check out Asaasi Yaa Hostels in Accra or the Samartine Hotel Guesthouse in Kumasi.

What to Buy in Ghana: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ghana is a great place to pick up unique souvenirs that showcase the country’s culture and traditions.

Kente Cloth: A brightly colored, handwoven cloth that is traditionally worn on special occasions. It makes for a beautiful and practical souvenir.
Beaded Jewelry: Ghana is known for its beautiful beaded jewelry, which is made by local artisans and comes in a range of styles and colors.
Shea Butter: A popular cosmetic ingredient, shea butter is made from the nuts of the shea tree and is used for moisturizing and healing the skin.

Local Culture and Customs of Ghana

Ghanaian culture is rich and diverse, with over 100 ethnic groups and a long history of traditions and customs. Some things to keep in mind:

Greetings are important in Ghanaian culture. Take the time to shake hands and exchange pleasantries when meeting someone new.
Dress modestly for visits to religious sites and other cultural attractions.
Ghanaian culture places a high value on family and community, and this is reflected in daily life.

Best Time to Visit Ghana

The best time to visit Ghana is between October and April, when the temperatures are cooler and drier. However, even during the rainy season (May to September), there are plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ghana

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Try local foods and drinks.
Always negotiate prices before making a purchase.

Don’t:

Assume that everyone in Ghana speaks English. Try to learn a few basic phrases in Twi or another local language.
Take photographs without permission.
Disrupt local wildlife or ecosystems by littering or disturbing habitats.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ghana

Ghana is a relatively safe country compared to others in the region, but it’s important to take normal safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and not carrying large amounts of cash or valuables in public. Avoid walking alone at night and take taxis instead.

Health in Ghana

It’s recommended that travelers receive vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and typhoid before visiting Ghana. Malaria is also prevalent in some areas, so taking anti-malarial medication is advised. Be sure to also drink bottled or purified water and avoid street food to prevent illness.

Getting to Ghana: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ghana is accessible by air, bus, and car.

Airports Near Ghana

The Kotoka International Airport in Accra is the main entry point for visitors to Ghana. Other airports in Ghana include the Kumasi International Airport and the Tamale International Airport.

Bus Stations Near Ghana

Several bus companies operate between Ghana and neighboring countries, such as Nigeria and Togo. The STC Bus Company is a popular option for domestic travel within Ghana.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available in Ghana. However, it’s important to exercise caution when using these options to avoid scams and other issues.

How to Get Around in Ghana

In major cities like Accra and Kumasi, taxis and shared minivans called tro-tros are the most common mode of transportation. Motorbikes and bicycles are also an easy way to get around in some areas. For longer journeys, buses and private cars are available.

Where to Go Next from Ghana: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Ghana’s neighbors, Togo, Ivory Coast, and Burkina Faso, are all worth visiting and offer a different perspective on West African culture and traditions.

Conclusion

Ghana is a vibrant and welcoming country with plenty to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history, outdoor adventures, or cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful destination. With proper planning and preparation, your trip to Ghana is sure to be a memorable one.