It appeared to be just another gathering of famous people when some of the most well-known faces from the African diaspora arrived for a recent vacation in Accra, Ghana.
Idris Elba, Naomi Campbell, Mike Hill, and Luvvie Ajayi were among the actors who mingled with supermodel Naomi Campbell, TV sports presenter Mike Hill, and author Luvvie Ajayi. A deliberate and ambitious campaign to make Ghana a major tourism destination lies behind this gathering of movie stars, fashion monarchy, and top creatives.
Ghana recently published a 15-year tourism plan that aims to double the number of tourists visiting the country from one million to eight million by 2027. According to the proposal, Ghana’s travel industry will generate $8.3 billion per year by 2027, plus associated benefits.
Ghana’s Ministry of Tourism is in charge of tourism regulation. This ministry is in charge of promoting and developing tourism-related activities in Ghana.
People visit Ghana all the time. No matter the time or season. Visitors to Ghana come from all over the world, including South and Latin America, Asia, and Europe. Tourists flock to Ghana for its year-round tropical warmth and diverse fauna. Ghana has waterfalls (including the Kintampo Waterfalls and the Tagbo Falls, which is the largest waterfall in West Africa), palm-lined sandy beaches, caverns, mountains, rivers, and a meteorite impact crater. These are some of the things Ghana tourism keeps growing every day.
Reservoirs and lakes, such as Lake Bosumtwi or the Bosumtwi meteorite crater, and Lake Volta, the world’s largest man-made lake by surface area, are other attractions. There are dozens of castles and forts in Ghana, as well as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, wildlife reserves, and national parks.
There are so many reasons you should visit Ghana. And in this post, I will give you reasons you should consider adding Ghana to your bucket list.
Is Ghana Good For Tourists?
Ghana was ranked 108th out of 139 countries as the world’s favorite tourism destination by the World Economic Forum in 2010. From 2009, the country had risen two places in the rankings. Ghana was ranked the eleventh-most friendly country in the world by Forbes Magazine in 2011.
The claim was based on a study of a diverse group of travelers conducted in 2010. Ghana was placed first out of all the African countries that were included in the poll. Ghana is ranked as the world’s seventieth most stable country and the 58th most tranquil country.
This is why Ghana is a safe and best place for tourists around the world.
Why Do Tourists Visit Ghana
Visiting Ghana is more about immersing yourself in the culture than it is about seeing the sights. The country is a melting pot of rich heritage, culture, pride, and hospitality that warmly welcomes you. Ghana boasts a plethora of natural beauty and distant wilderness, in line with its African culture. If you’re looking for a game safari, you’ll be disappointed because Ghana has no game reserves or hunting permits.
Despite the fact that Ghana is small, there are numerous reasons why Ghana is an excellent introduction to Africa!
What is Ghana Know For
Ghana is known for its diverse culture, historical sites, recreational facilities, and welcoming people. Ghana was the first area in Sub-Saharan Africa where Europeans came to trade, first in gold, then in slaves. It was also the region’s first black African nation to gain independence from a colonial power, in this case, the United Kingdom.
Despite having abundant natural riches and a well-developed educational system and competent government service, Ghana became a victim of corruption and incompetence shortly after gaining independence in 1957.
What Every Tourist Should Know Before Visiting Ghana
Akan is the most widely spoken language in Ghana, whereas English is the second most widely spoken language. Most locals might not be fluent in English, they should be able to understand whatever you ask them. You’ll be fine in the capital, Accra, or Kumasi if you speak English.
It’s also a good idea to master the fundamentals of Akan so that you can meet people and answer their greetings. Locals will be more than happy to show you around. You can use Google or establish a few Ghanaian pals on social media before you go.
The people of Ghana are, for the most part, wonderfully nice, hardworking, patient, and generous people.
Strangers will frequently volunteer to assist you with directions, interpret bus announcements, or take you out for drinks and show you around once they learn that you are a tourist.
Best Place To Stay In Ghana
Ghana is ready for you anytime and offers every type of accommodation you could think of. From top Airbnb apartments, tree-houses, luxury hotels, and resorts. Accommodation prices in Ghana might not be the same when you staying in Accra or Kumasi. Others are less expensive and can also go higher during high season and major holidays, such as Christmas. Well, you don’t have to break the bank to get accommodation in Ghana.
Most travelers know how to find cheap accommodation everywhere. If you are new to finding accommodation according to your budget, here are some examples to help you plan.
- Local Guest Houses: starting from $10 – $17 per night
- Normal Hotels: starting from $34 – $50 per night
- Mid – Range Hotels: starting from $80 – $150
- Top Resorts & Fancy Hotels $200 – $500 per night
Couchsurfing.com is another best option for you as a budget traveler. Make sure you read some reviews before selecting a host. You can also make some new friends online and ask if they will let you stay at their place when you visit. If you can get a friend, don’t forget to tip them when leaving. Couchsurfing helps boost Ghana tourism and other tourism industry around the world.
READ MORE: HOW TO FIND CHEAP ACCOMMODATION ANYWHERE
Eating Ghanaian Food
While Fufu is the most popular local food in Ghana, there are many other local delicious cuisines you can try. There are incredible local food choices travelers can try, delicious, healthy, and organic.
Many people think that Ghanaian food is just rice or maybe Jollof with chicken, But it’s really hard to find Jollof in some local communities, as they’re more into local cuisines than anything.
Transportation System In Ghana
Ghana offers many forms of transportation, from low-cost airlines to buses, public minibusses (Trotro), taxis, online taxis (uber and bolt), and rental cars. Traveling around Ghana is generally very easy and cheap. These means of transport helps to boost Ghana tourism.
Budget Airlines
Flying around Ghana can be a little expensive for locals, but not expensive to tourists. Most domestic flights are often more comfortable than some long-distance buses. But flight can go everywhere in Ghana, it is only the big cities, Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Takoradi, Ho, Temale, and Sunyani. You can get a flight starting around USD 25 by booking a budget airline in Advance. Price can go high a little depending on the season.
Car Rentals In Ghana
Wop3car.com searches all the big car rental companies and finds the best price. This is probably the easiest way to rent a car in Ghana. Pre-booking a car online will cost you about $50 a day, and many of Ghana’s road is little bad so be extra careful when driving.
Online Taxis ( Uber, Bolt, and Yango)
online taxis don’t work everywhere, they are most active in the big cities Accra, Kumasi, Takoradi, and Cape Coast. It is also affordable and very easy to get around with online taxis. You just have to select a location and the driver will take you to your destination. Online taxis charge according to the distance, less amount the app can charge is USD 1.
Minibusses (Trotro)
If you’re on a tight budget, you might want to use a Trotro to get around. These shared minibusses/vans connect different towns, and you ride along with other riders, tell the driver where you want to get out, and pay once you reach your destination. They sometimes also take the fares right after it starts to move. Other riders will also love to help you get to your destination. The price varies based on distance, don’t forget to ask for the price or take your change from the driver’s conductor (locals call them ‘’Mate’’)
Buses In Ghana
When traveling long distances between cities, a comfortable option is to use Mexico’s fantastic VIP Transport System (trusted brand). Buses have AC, reclinable seats, and Akan language movies. They are faster & more comfortable than Trotro for long distances. Some of these Minibuses also travel a long distance, but it is best to use these big buses as a tourist for your safety. Three hours trip can cost only USD 5.
Taxis
Taxi drivers in Ghana generally don’t have meters, so ask the price before you get in and also ask the driver if he can take you to where you going. Some drivers don’t know everywhere. Local rides within a city or town should cost between $1 – $2. It will be a bit more expensive to hail cabs from bus stations or tourist areas.
READ MORE: HOW TO FIND CHEAP FLIGHT IN GHANA
Visa Requirements
Use the VisaCentral Ghana Document Preparation Service to ensure your document is accurately prepared and correctly submitted According to consular requirements.
You must provide your actual signed passport, including one copy of the personal information page of your passport. Make sure your passport is valid for the next six months.
Check out more requirement tips here before you make plans.
Tourist Sites In Ghana
Cape Coast Castle
Location: Cape Coast, Central Region
Sitting on the Cape Coast shore, The Cape Coast Castle is the most popular and famous historical destination in Ghana. The castle host about thousands of tourist each year because the era of the slave trade. It’s one of the last memory slaves had before being shipped to Europe.
If you are looking to learn more about African-American or trans-Atlantic slave trade history, the Cape Coast Castle is one of the best destinations in Ghana to visit. So I would highly recommend staying for more days and visit the Central Region for the best experience.
Highlights In Cape Coast
- There are other attractions you can visit on a budget, Like Kakum National Park
- Find affordable accommodation on Airbnb in Cape Coast.
- Take a day trip to the Assin Manso slave river, where slaves have their last bath.
- It’s best to take a long-distance bus to save more money
- Visit Elmina Castle, it’s just an hour’s drive from Cape Coast Castle.
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park
Location: Accra, Greater Accra Region
Located in the capital city, Accra, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial part is a popular attraction for tourists here in Ghana. It’s a small museum dedicated to the country’s founding father, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The part features everything you need to know about independence day and our first president as a nation.
You can just ask a taxi driver to take you there or select the location on your online taxi app and your ride will take you to the destination. The park is just 30min drive from the international airport.
Highlights When Visiting The Park
- The Gate fee is about USD 3 for tourists.
- Ask the tour guide for everything you need to know.
- Get your photography gear ready for some shots, the mausoleum is clad from top to bottom with Italian marble.
Lake Bosumtwi
Location: Kumasi, Ashanti Region
Yes, the only natural lake in Ghana. Located within an ancient impact crater that is about 10.5 kilometers (6.5mi) in diameter. The lake is about 30 km (19 mi) southeast of Kumasi the capital of Ashanti and is a popular recreational area.
There are about 30 villages near the lake and the most popular village that hosts tourists is the Abono village. It is believed that the lake is a sacred lake, according to the people of Ashanti. Jump into a canoe with a local fisherman and enjoy a canoe ride or go fishing.
Highlights in Bosumtwi
- There are hotels in the village for tourists.
- Trotro or station minibusses are the best options when visiting the lake, Taxis can charge you very high.
- swimming in the lake is awesome.
James Town Lighthouse
Location: James Town, Greater Accra Region
James town is an ancient town in Ghana to the real people of Accra, Ga, with colonial buildings, art streets, and colorful streets. Underneath the charming street, you will find the James Town Lighthouse, which is a 28-meter (92ft) structure. It was originally built in the 1930s, replacing earlier lighthouses that and been built-in 1871.
It is located near the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and you can need a car, you can walk if you are good walking. James Town is the best place to feel the Ga culture.
Highlights in James town
- Be extra careful on these streets, it is best to use the main road.
- Pick up your photography gear, you would like to take pictures on the art street.
- Also, visit the Bukom Boxing Arena.
Mole National Park
Location: Savannah Region
If you’re looking for the best safari destination in West Africa, Mole Nation Park in Ghana is one of the best places to visit. The vibrant part of the Savannah Region is a must-visit place in Ghana. The park entrance is reached through the nearby town of Larabanga.
The park’s land was set aside as a wildlife refuge in 1958. It is best to use a budget flight to get to the Savannah region. But if you are saving on accommodation, then you can take a VIP bus, which is about 24 hours drive with a very big leg-room. Make sure you buy a ticket in advance.
Highlights In Savannah Region
- Also, visit the Larabanga Mosque and Mystic Stone in the Region.
- It is safe and best to use Flight when visiting the Northern Region and take a bus to the Savannah Region.
- Accommodation is very cheap.
Budget Travel Tips For Ghana
- Staying in local guesthouses and moving around in Trotro instead of Taxis or Online-Taxis can save you a lot of money
- If you want to spend less money on food, consider eating some street foods or stands and local restaurants. Keep an eye out for stands or street foods with most people, they’re usually the best.
- For inter-region travels avoid domestic flights and use the VIP TRANSPORTS SYSTEMS, there is plenty of legroom for your comfort.
- There are some conners where products prices may be expensive, but try negotiate for less price And when you think it’s too expensive, turn around and pretend you leaving, the owner will call you to come back for a cheaper offer.
Packing Tips For Ghana (What to Pack)
Are you getting ready for your trip to Ghana, but wondering what to pack? Here are some packing tips for things to bring with you on your journey.
- Bring a baseball cap or a hat, because the sun can get hot some things.
- Make sure you have a comfortable travel backpack or a sturdy travel suitcase.
- Ghana also uses European-style outlets. But is also best to get a nice African-wear when you get here.
- Sneakers and slippers will be very comfortable.
Internet & Cell Phone Service In Ghana
There are many cell phone providers in Ghana, I might not recommend all but the best which is MTN, Vodafone, AirtelTigo, and Glo. These are the best cell phone service you can get in Ghana.
Of all, MTN has the best coverage and you can get service everywhere you visit in Ghana, but it might be a little expensive.
Getting a sim card in Ghana is very simple, they are sold on the street. Anywhere you find a vendor, you can ask for a sim card and they will help you out with registration and teach you how to use it.
You can get a sin card for less than a dollar.
Best Time To Visit Ghana
When is the best time to visit Ghana? Okay, Ghana has a great weather system and you can not figure when is summer, winter, but it is mostly sunny. But we have seasons for top entertainment programs, top parties.
The best Cheap time to visit Ghana is during the off-season between April and November, as it is very cool and accommodation prices are significantly lower. But if you are not traveling on a budget, then Christmas and a new year are the best and fun times to visit Ghana.
Where Not To Visit In Ghana
Well, Ghana ( tourism in Ghana) is a peaceful country and we don’t have problems with war and violence. Every region or destination here in Ghana is open to tourists all the time. Everywhere is allowed to visit and see.
But what is best is to have a bucket list of places you want to see and avoid where you don’t want to visit. But in all, every place is safe to visit.
Challenges To Be Aware Of When You Visit Ghana.
It can get very busy in Accra. There will be a lot of traffic during working hours, so avoid using online taxis and use Trotro to move around.
Make sure you have everything in your small handbag, money, phone, and another important thing you will need. Pickpocketing is everywhere in the World and Ghana is no exception.