“Akwaaba” to Ghana. That is how we say welcome in our local language (Twi). You will surely see the spelling or hear it since you are visiting Ghana this December (2023). One can’t express those feelings when you find yourself home and the peace, and calmness that comes with it. The country is a whole vibe on its own. With the friendly locals, beautiful attractions, wild nightlife, and activities throughout the season, honestly, there are people waiting for you to come home. And this 2023 Beyond The Return Ghana is going to be big and entertaining. You probably planning your trip or looking to enjoy the best out of it and that might be the reason you are on this page. In this guide, Mrpocu.com will outline all you need to know about this year’s (2023) Beyond The Return Ghana. From things to do and see to the best accommodation options and activities with places to visit. What are you waiting for? Start scrolling and get ready for this December.
Facts About My Guide
Ghana might not be as big as some other African countries, but it’s somehow a little hard to find your head around it. It is very difficult to write a guide generalizing their entire activities this December (2023), but I have figured out a way to make it simple for everyone in Ghana or now visiting to enjoy the best out of this festive season.
Before I start with my guide first. There are more excellent locations in Ghana for Christmas or Beyond The Return besides Accra. One might travel to other significant cities to have fun and learn more about the country. Even while this guide will cover everything you need to know about Accra and other important cities, it will put a stronger emphasis on Accra because there is where you will be arriving first or that is where major activities take place.
Some travel bloggers and agents sell such guides. Mine is completely free. I’ve worked very hard putting them together for you to enjoy the season. If you find my guide useful, please use any of my affiliate links when booking a hotel or accommodation or anything related to bookings. I’ll get paid a small commission, at no extra cost to you! Thanks.
About Ghana
Ghana is a nation in West Africa that was formerly known as the Gold Coast before becoming independent in 1957 and changing its name to the Republic of Ghana. Although Ghana’s major city, Accra, is a bustling and exciting place, I as a local advise traveling outside of Accra to fully appreciate Ghana’s beauty.
In the year 2019, the government of Ghana marked it as the homecoming year of return. The Year of Return, Ghana 2019 is an initiative of the government of Ghana to encourage African diasporans to come to Africa (specifically Ghana). The year 2019 was symbolic as it commemorated 400 years since the first enslaved Africans touched down in Jamestown, in the English colony of Virginia in America. After a crazy almost two years of this pandemic, it is anticipated that over 150,000 individuals will be traveling at the end of 2021 and will truly be beyond the return experience to remember. And this guide will get you ready for this season.
What To Know Before Planning A Trip To Ghana
Akan is the most popular language here in Ghana, while English is the second most popular language down here. Most locals here might not be fluent in English, but they may understand anything you ask them. For the capital, Accra or Kumasi you can surely find your way around with English.
It is also best to learn the basics Akan language where you can greet people and also respond to their greetings. With that locals will be happier to show you around. Google can be of help or you can make a few friends on social media from Ghana before you visit. It is a plus for you if you already have a family down here.
For the most part, the people here in Ghana are all incredibly friendly, hard-working, patient, and generous individuals.
Strangers will frequently be offered to help you with directions when they get to know you as a tourist, interpret bus announcements, or take you out for drinks and show you around.
Is Ghana Expensive? How Much Can It Cost?
I cannot estimate the cost of traveling to Ghana because every traveler has different needs. Your travel budget in Ghana may be more or lower than that of other tourists. However, I can estimate your daily spending for your trip to Ghana.
Depending on where you want to stay while traveling to Ghana, it may be more affordable than usual. As I mentioned previously, traveling in Accra or Kumasi can be somewhat pricey, but it won’t alter your vacation preferences (budget travelers).
If you travel on a budget you can survive on around USD 20 per day or even less, depending on what you will be doing during the day or where you will eat. But if you are doing expensive restaurants or fine dining settings with higher star hotels or accommodations, then you can be spending about USD 50 a day on food.
Ghana has a different currency which is Cedi (this is the sign of the cedi). When you are to convert to dollars, 10 cedi is USD 1. You should change or convert your money into Cedi, some people may not accept or even know what a dollar is. Every bank or forex can convert it for you but is best you ask someone for the best converting offer in town. So I recommend you convert your money to Cedi as the conversion rate is lower.
Ghana Entry Requirements
Kotoka International Airport and Kumasi International Airport are Ghana’s two main international airports. Most tourists choose to fly into Kotoka International Airport when traveling to Accra. A health declaration form must be submitted online by all visitors no later than three days before their trip to Ghana.
If you’re fully vaccinated:
- All travelers aged 18 years and over are required to provide evidence of being fully vaccinated against COVID-19 at the point of embarkation and upon arrival in Ghana.
- There is no pre-travel or on-arrival testing requirement if you are fully vaccinated. Non-resident unvaccinated travelers will not be granted entry into Ghana. Ground staff at your departure airport will not allow you to travel.
If you’re not fully vaccinated:
Non-resident
- Non-resident unvaccinated travelers will not be granted entry into Ghana. Ground staff at your departure airport will not allow you to travel.
Resident
You will need to take the following steps in addition to completion of the online health declaration form, set out in more detail below:
- Take a pre-travel PCR test; load that onto the Trusted Travel Scheme website and generate a Travel Code; pay for an on-arrival test, and be subject to vaccination on arrival. Travel smart Tip: Carrying paper copies of everything will make your journey through the airport more straightforward.
- You will be required to present a negative PCR test that was taken not more than 48 hours before the start of your journey, both to the airline before embarkation, and upon arrival.
- Complete additional health declaration forms online before arrival
- Do an additional antigen test on arrival in Ghana and will be offered vaccination upon arrival.
Visa Requirement
To enter Ghana, you need a visa. The cost of a single entry visa for a holder of a UK passport is £60. For information and to submit an online application, go to the Ghana High Commission website. A single entrance visa for people with US passports costs $60. For further information, go visit the Ghana Embassy in Washington, DC’s website. Holders of an ECOWAS passport—including my fellow Nigerians—can visit Ghana without a visa for up to three months.
NB: Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into Ghana.
Dual Nationality
Ghana accepts dual citizenship. Dual citizens of Ghana and the United Kingdom should register with the Interior Ministry in Ghana and obtain a Dual Nationality Card in order to avoid paying visa fees. A visa is not necessary if this card is produced at the point of entry into Ghana.
Yellow Fever Certificate Requirements
You will be expected to present a yellow fever vaccination certificate from all travelers 9 months of age and older on arrival in Ghana. Read a full guide on Yellow Fever Certificate to help you plan your trip.
Transportation System In Ghana
Low-cost planes, rental vehicles, public minibusses (Trotro), taxis, internet taxis (Uber and Bolt), and buses are just a few of the available transportation options in Ghana. Ghana is normally a fairly easy and affordable place to travel.
Budget Airlines
For tourists, flying within Ghana is not expensive, but it might be for locals. Many long-distance buses are more pleasant than the majority of domestic flights. However, only the major cities—Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, Takoradi, Ho, Tamale, and Sunyani—can be reached by flight in Ghana. By making an advance reservation with a low-cost airline, you can secure a flight for as little as USD 25. Depending on the season, the price could increase a little.
Car Rentals in Ghana
Kayak.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 a 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 of 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)
Using a Trotro to travel around might be a good idea if your budget is restricted. You ride in a shared minibus or van that travels between locations with other passengers, advise the driver where you want to get out, and pay when you get there. They occasionally also pay the fare just before the vehicle begins to move. The other riders would be happy to assist you in reaching your goal. The cost varies depending on the distance; remember to ask the driver’s conductor (locals refer to them as “Mate”) for the cost or to obtain your change.
Buses In Ghana
When travelling 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.
Traditional 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.
Best Place To Stay In Ghana
Ghana welcomes visitors at any time and provides every kind of lodging imaginable. from the finest Airbnb homes, treehouses, five-star hotels, and resorts. The cost of lodging in Ghana may differ depending on whether you stay in Accra or Kumasi. Others are less expensive but their prices might also increase during the peak season and significant holidays, like Christmas. You don’t have to spend a fortune on lodging in Ghana, though.
Some of the top neighbourhoods you can stay in Accra are Osu Oxford street, East Legon, Cantonment, Dzorwulu and Haatso.
Most travellers 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
Best Hotel Options to Book From
Luxury Hotels In Accra ($200 + USD)
Holiday In Accra: Holiday Inn Accra Airport, which is just 0.6 miles from Kotoka International Airport and 4.3 miles from Accra’s downtown, features an outdoor pool with a terrace, a restaurant, a bar, and a business centre. The Holiday Inn’s guest rooms come equipped with air conditioning, an LCD TV with satellite channels, and a safe. There is a bathtub in each of the private bathrooms. Every day, a buffet breakfast is offered along with regional specialities and other cuisines. There is a tour desk available to visitors, and Wi-Fi is free throughout the entire building. The Holiday Inn Accra Airport provides a gym, a complimentary airport shuttle, massages, and laundry services.
Labadi Beach Hotel: The beach is a short stroll from this house. Labadi Beach Hotel is a beachfront establishment that is 4.3 miles from the heart of Accra. It features an outdoor pool and air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. There is a sauna, a fitness centre, and massages are offered among the amenities. Satellite channels are available on the flat-screen TVs in each room. There is a bathtub and a separate shower in the private bathroom. Every day, a buffet breakfast is provided, and the on-site restaurant serves both regional and global cuisine. The hotel bar serves drinks where you may unwind.
Mid-Range Hotels In Accra ($100 – $190 USD)
Accra City Hotel: The Accra City Hotel is 1.2 miles from the beach and situated in the city’s downtown. It provides tennis courts, a workout facility, and free Wi-Fi. The Accra City Hotel’s air-conditioned guest rooms have a flat-screen TV, a mini-bar, and a refrigerator in addition to being simply furnished. Each one of them has a private restroom with a hairdryer and complimentary toiletries. At the Accra City Hotel, breakfast is available each morning, and the on-site restaurant offers snacks, hamburgers, ice cream, and cold beverages. The distance to Kotoka International Airport is 5 miles. The airport shuttle service provided by Accra City Hotel is complimentary for all visitors.
Fiesta Royale Hotel: The Fiesta Royale Hotel in Accra has a restaurant and an outdoor pool. There is free WiFi access. You will have a TV, air conditioning, and minibar in each of these rooms. Moreover, an electric kettle is present. Private bathrooms feature a bath, a hairdryer, and complimentary toiletries. A sitting area and satellite channels are extras. There is a fitness centre in the Fiesta Royale Hotel. There are also conference rooms, a common lounge, and luggage storage available at the hotel. There is free parking on the property.
Budget Hotels In Accra ($50 – $100 USD)
Maple Leaf Hotel: The Maple Leaf Hotel, which is 12 minutes drive from the Accra International Conference Center, offers a bar and air-conditioned rooms with satellite TV and an attached toilet. It’s 9.3 miles to the beach. Each room at the Maple Leaf Hotel has a private bathroom with a shower or bathtub. A desk and a wardrobe are also included in each one. Every morning, a continental breakfast is offered, and guests may also ask the hotel for a home-cooked regional dish. You can pay extra to get a beauty treatment after breakfast. The Melcom Shopping Mall is located 701 metres from the property, while Achimota Mall is 1.2 miles distant. The hotel is situated 2.5 miles from the Achimota Golf Course and 6.2 miles from Kotoka International Airport.
Alisa Hotel Labone provides accommodations in Accra, Ghana, 3.1 miles from Independence Square, and has a restaurant. There is a flat-screen TV in each room. The resort has a front desk open around the clock. The on-site bar is open to visitors. On-site private parking is cost-free. Alisa Hotel Labone is 3.7 miles from Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, while Osu Castle is 2.5 miles distant. Alisa Hotel Labone provides accommodations in Accra, Ghana, 3.1 miles from Independence Square, and has a restaurant. There is a flat-screen TV in each room. The resort has a front desk open around the clock. The on-site bar is open to visitors. On-site private parking is cost-free. Alisa Hotel Labone is 3.7 miles away from Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park.
Best Restaurants In Accra
The Republic Bar & Grill
A terrific spot to dine, drink, and mingle is The Republic Bar and Grill in Accra, Ghana. The environment is laid-back and pleasant, the food is delectable and reasonably priced, and the drinks are strong and reasonably priced. The Republic is ideal for a laid-back date or a night out with friends.
Everyone can find something on the menu, and the staff is happy to offer suggestions. There is plenty of room to roam about, and the music is energetic but not overly loud. The Republic Bar and Grill is a fantastic choice for a fun night out in Accra.
Coco Lounge
East Legon in Accra is home to the bar and lounge known as Coco Lounge. Every day from early in the morning until late at night, the lounge is open and serves a variety of drinks and cocktails. The meal selection at Coco Lounge also offers items including jollof rice, chicken wings, and chicken curry. The lounge is a well-liked location for after-work beverages and socializing because of its casual atmosphere. In addition, Coco Lounge regularly holds events like DJ nights, karaoke nights, and musical acts.
Potbelly Shack (OSU)
Osu’s PotBelly Shack is a wonderful spot to go for food and drinks. The cowhide-covered chairs and the outdoor space, which is reminiscent of an old cowboy western saloon, give this event a distinct sense of the outback. Occasionally, you can encounter a horse waiting for its owner.
As the name suggests, you’ll leave here with a belly full. However, this chain of eateries is renowned for their “Mad Dogs” in addition to their outstanding grilled and BBQ treats.
Pot Belly Shack has a selection of 12 Mad Dogs which are a combination of hotdogs with a variety of toppings. From Chicago Mild or Spice which comes with relish, tomatoes and lettuce to Coney Island which comes with Chilli, minced meat and Cheese.
Alley Bar
As the name implies, Alley Bar is a special little experience because it is essentially located in an alley. A bar is located at the end of what looks like a long, wide corridor. But because of this, it’s a wonderfully lovely and occasionally small space for live performances. If you have to “face the wall,” at least it’s a neon-lit wall, so it’s not too horrible.
In addition to a well-stocked bar and delicious cocktails, The Alley offers a fantastic cuisine menu with many regular barbecues. Overall, a fantastic after-party and pre-party location. Or it actually works well if you want to grab some lunch.
El Padrino Lounge
El Padrino has established itself as a haven for Accra’s luxury cigar connoisseurs by providing a top-notch bar, restaurant, and cigar lounge experience.
A fine dining restaurant open for lunch and dinner, a non-smoking dining area, a bar with small-batch spirits, and West Africa’s largest walk-in humidor to preserve its cornucopia, a diverse range of tobacco blends and cigar types are all featured in this lounge’s ultra-modern decor of rich woods and leathers. When you really want to spoil yourself, your loved ones, or your partner, this location is ideal.
Vixie’s Delicacies
Authentic Lebanese homemade cuisine at its best. This restaurant is a little hidden oasis of a gem that really is one to experience as it’s tucked away in the back streets. The restaurant provides a real cosy and homely feel which makes the food even more delicious. Vixie’s Delicacies has a combination of Lebanese and Continental dishes, situated in Dzorwulu, it has quick access from most directions.
Other Best Restaurants Options
- Urban Grill
- The Buka Restaurant
- Dimaensa
- Bistro 22
- Skybar
- Am:Pm
- Breakfast To Breakfast
- Frankies
- Papaye
Best Nightlife Location
Purple Pub Osu
The capital’s most popular street bar, with its trademark “five fingers” drink, draws crowds most evenings. Purple is rocking on Friday night, so it can’t be boring. The music is typically loud, which causes the venue to fill up and attract attention. If you’re looking for a street pub with live music, the purple bar is the spot to go with your pals.
Kona Bar
The best bar on Oxford Street Osu is Kona, which is frequented by celebrities. Although the place has grown in popularity, it has a pleasant atmosphere that adds to the enjoyment of meeting new people.
+233 Jaz Bar & Gill
This is probably Accra’s best live music bar. +233 has a large open-air beer garden with a stage in the centre, multiple bar counters on the borders, and a large number of tables in the middle. The jazz band performs a lot of cover tunes of American and African classics, and it’s a lot of fun. When compared to a typical Western restaurant or hotel, the cuisine is inexpensive.
Afrikiko
Afrikiko is the greatest option in Accra if you want to visit a destination that is not only romantic but also exciting. The infrequent salsa nights will brighten the spirits of the tourists. They frequently hold dance sessions that also involve dance lessons.
In addition, the restaurant serves delectable food and beverages. Choose your favourite dishes, and the waiters will undoubtedly recommend their favourite. The best thing about the place is that it is a centre of entertainment, with a wide range of cuisine options to suit all palates.
Other options
- Twist
- Ace Tantra
- Carbon Club
- Sandbox Beach Club (Labadi Beach)
- Polo Beach Club
- Plot 7
- SkyBar 25
- Bloom Bar
- LevelUp Lounge
- FrrontBack
- Luna Bar
- Area Bar
- The Alley Bar
Events And Festivals
It’s a smart idea to organize your trip around an event or festival you’ll be interested in attending because there’s always something to do in Ghana, whether it’s an all-white party or a cultural festival. The most trustworthy event portal to be informed about Accra’s activities all year long is Accra events. For events happening in Ghana in December, check out Akwaaba Group and Eventbrite. Ghana is the place to go, especially in December, with annual celebrations like the AfroXmas masquerade festival in Takoradi, Tema and Afrochella making a reappearance!
Top Places To Visit In Ghana During Beyond The Return Ghana
There is more to Ghana than the capital city. I would advise leaving Accra and travelling outside the city to see what the country has to offer. Self-driving in Ghana can be fun though. you can stop anywhere anytime in your own interest. But the best and safe option is to tour or explore with travel agents or tour guides. My friend Med who runs hereisGhanatour can help. Or travelwithLex tour agency is another best option. They are all my friends and offer the best tour experience.
These are some of the top places you can visit in Ghana.
Cape Coast Castle
Location: Cape Coast, Central Region
The Cape Coast Castle, which is located on the Cape Coast beach, is the most well-known and visited historical site in Ghana. Because of the slave trade era, the castle welcomes thousands of tourists every year. One of the final memories the slaves had prior to being sent to Europe.
The Cape Coast Castle is one of the best places to go in Ghana if you want to learn more about the history of the African-American or trans-Atlantic slave trade. For the finest experience, I would therefore strongly advise staying for longer and visiting the Central Region.
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
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Part, which is situated in Ghana’s capital city of Accra, is a well-liked tourist destination. It is a modest museum honouring Dr Kwame Nkrumah, the country’s founder. Everything you need to know about July 4th and our nation’s first president is covered in this section.
Simply request a ride from a cab driver or choose the location on your online taxi app, and your ride will take you there. The international airport is within a 30-minute drive from the park.
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, Ghana’s lone natural lake. Located within an old impact crater with a diameter of 10.5 kilometres (6.5 miles). The lake is a well-liked recreation spot and is located around 30 kilometres (19 mi) southeast of Kumasi, the capital of Ashanti.
There are roughly 30 settlements close to the lake, with Abono being the one that attracts the most visitors. According to the Ashanti people, the lake is said to be sacred. Get in a canoe and go fishing or take a ride with a local fisherman.
Highlights in Bosumtwi
- There are hotels in the village for tourists.
- Trotro or station minibuses 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
For the locals of Accra, Georgia, James Town is an old town in Ghana with colonial structures, art streets, and vibrant streets. A 28-meter-tall (92-foot) building known as the James Town Lighthouse may be found below the picturesque street. It was initially constructed in the 1930s to replace older lighthouses that had been constructed in 1871.
If you do not have a car and are a competent walker, you can walk there from the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. The best site to experience Ga culture is James Town.
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
One of the best places to visit if you’re seeking the top safari destination in West Africa is Ghana’s, Mole Nation Park. Ghana’s vibrant Savannah Region is a must-visit location. The surrounding village of Larabanga is used to access the park’s entrance.
In 1958, the area in the park was designated as a wildlife refuge. To get to the Savannah region, it is advisable to take a low-cost aircraft. However, if you want to save money on lodging, you can take a VIP bus, which is around 24-hour travel and has a lot of legroom. Ensure that you purchase 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.
Read More: 20 BEAUTIFUL PLACES IN GHANA YOU SHOULD VISIT
Things To Do In Ghana
Go Surfing
Ghana may not be one of the top surfing locations in Africa, but our beaches and waves are incredible. Ivory Coast is experiencing African waves, and they have now reached Ghana. Kokrobite has joined Busua Beach as the second-best surfing location in Ghana after Busua Beach.
Now that so many locals like it, you may experience surfing with some of Ghana’s top surfing schools. You should choose Mr Brigt’s Surf School in Kokrobite.
Take A Tour On The Oxford Street, Osu
Although there are numerous bustling streets in Ghana where you can go on a tour, Oxford Street is the best one for visitors. Find the greatest African clothing, the best street cuisine, the best banking services, and experience the best nightlife in Ghana on this well-known street.
You might try to blend in by wearing some of the greatest African designs as there are constantly street merchants and other tourists around. There are ATMs on every street, so you don’t need to carry much cash with you.
Visit the Markets
Accra’s largest outdoor market, Makola Market, is where you can find just about anything. I would advise travelling with a native so they can assist you in negotiating fair pricing for goods.
Visit Legon Botanical Gardens
The Legon Botanical Gardens are a stunning, exciting outdoor play area for all ages, especially children, featuring activities including a high ropes course, children’s playground, kayaking, canopy Walk ziplining, and bird viewing. It is situated in the centre of Accra at the University of Ghana.
Explore The Many Beaches In Accra
Beach hopping is one activity you shouldn’t skip when in Accra. Check out Coco Beach, Bojo Beach, and Labadi Beach, all of which offer a variety of beach activities including jet skiing and horseback riding. Choose a beach resort with beautiful views of the Atlantic ocean if you want a change of scenery.
Greater Accra has additional stunning beaches if you’re ready to travel there. A few kilometres outside of Accra is another well-known beach attraction in Ghana called Kokrobite beach. Visit Aqua Safari Resort for a day vacation, which is about an hour and a half drive from Accra. which offers a wide range of activities, including flyboarding, horseback riding, bonfires, and jet skiing.
Experience Nature At Kakum National Park
For those who enjoy the outdoors, hiking, and adventure, Kakum National Park is a must-see! This national park is an excellent day trip when combined with other activities like a trip to Elimina castle in Cape coast because it is only approximately a 4-hour drive from Ghana’s capital, Accra. The canopy walkway suspended 30 meters above the ground, is the main attraction here. Along with the canopy walk, other activities include camping, climbing the tree house, hiking while taking in the quiet of nature, and birdwatching to witness over 300 different species of birds.
Learn About The History Of The Transatlantic Slave Trade Cape Coast Castle & Elmina Castle
I would advise you to visit Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle while you are there because they both had key roles in the Transatlantic Slave Trade. If you have the time, drive the 20 minutes between Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle. Over 400 years ago, the first slave ship from Ghana’s coast sailed for the Americas. Each colonizing nation, including the Portuguese, British, Dutch, French, Germans, Danes, and Swedes, established its own fort or castle in Ghana.
You will be given a guided tour of Cape Coast Castle where you can see the dungeons where enslaved Africans were kept for up to three months before being transported over the Atlantic to the New World. Observe and experience the hardships the captives endured in this fortress, from the “door of no return” to the shadowy basement dungeons.
Visit Boti Falls
In Ghana’s east, there are two waterfalls called Boti Falls. Depending on traffic, it takes roughly 2.5 hours to drive from Accra. This is yet another fantastic day trip from Accra, and I also suggest stopping at the Aburi Botanical Gardens. My day with the ladies and Michael was so much fun. The rest of my highlights are included in my stories.
The higher falls and the lower falls are the two falls at Boti. Locals refer to the twin waterfalls at the lower falls as “man” and “female.” Which waterfall is the male and which is the female, can you guess?
Locals claim that a rainbow is created when the two come together during the rainy season. When this occurs, it is typically stated that these rivers are mating. Which one is the female and which one is the male, can you guess? To witness Boti Falls, which plunge from a 33 m (108 ft) high cliff into a natural swimming pool, climb 250 steps.
Read More: 13 THINGS NOT TO DO IN GHANA WHEN VISITING FOR FIRST TIME
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 corners where product prices may be expensive, but try to negotiate for less price And when you think it’s too expensive, turn around and pretend you leaving, and 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 on 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 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.
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 other important thing you will need. Pickpocketing is everywhere in the World and Ghana is no exception.