To be honest, I don’t know why people ask google why Ghana is expensive to visit. I sometimes ask myself if there is any other Ghana somewhere, but hey, after two hours of research, there is only one Ghana on this globe. Yes I know that is funny, I just wanted to be sure. In this Ultimate travel guide, you will get to know it is cheap to visit Ghana
Is it possible to travel to Ghana on a Budget? Of course yes. Learn how to plan your trip with my Ultimate travel guide to Ghana – featuring travel tips, costs, things to do, places to stay, what you need, and more. Discover the best of Ghana before you visit and save money for your next trip.
Facts About My Guide
Ghana might not be one of the biggest African countries, but it’s very hard to find your heads around it. It’s very difficult to write a budget travel guide generalizing the entire diverse country, but I have figured a way to make it very simple for every tourist visiting Ghana for the first time or tourist who is already in Ghana.
Some places might be a little expensive to stay and see, Accra and Kumasi can get extra depending on the season you visiting (Christmas and new year). Even though it can get expensive at some places, but that won’t change anything in your budget. So this guide focuses on all parts of the country. Because every part of Ghana has an unlimited attraction to offer every tourist.
In this article, Mrpocu.com will share some of his best places to visit in Ghana, beautiful beaches, best restaurants, things to do, and some of the best local foods you need to try.
Some travel bloggers sell such travel guides. My Ghana travel guide is completely free. I’ve worked very hard putting it together for you. If you find my guide useful, please share it on your social media platforms for other travelers to see. Thank you.
Ghana Budget travel Guide
Ghana has so many to offer everyone. White sand beaches, surfing destinations, historical sites, safari parks, cheap street foods, and friendly locals, makes it a great vacation destination. There is always a wonderful reason to visit Ghana.
Some African countries have been named as a bad destination for tourists due to wars, but I can say with confidence that Ghana is safer for tourists than anywhere else in African. And besides, It’s the second peaceful country in African ranked by experts.
I don’t know what you have heard on the media. If it’s bad, then the media is painting a very bad image of the country. You might assume Ghana is a dangerous destination for travelers. Well, it’s not.
What To Know Before Planning A Trip To Ghana
Akan is the popular language here in Ghana, while English is the second 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 the greeting. With that locals will be happier to show you around. Google can be of help or you can make few friends on social media from Ghana before you visit.
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 a tourist, interpret bus announcements, or take you out for drinks and show you around.
Is Ghana Expensive? How Much Can It Cost?
I can’t tell how much it can cost to visit Ghana, everyone travels differently. Your travel budget in Ghana can be less or hight than other travelers. But I can make a daily estimate on how you can spend when you visit Ghana.
Traveling to Ghana can be extra affordable depending on where you will be staying. As I said earlier, Accra or Kumasi can get a little expensive to get around, but still won’t change your travel style (budget travelers).
If you traveling 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.
Ghana has a different currency which is Cedi ( this is the sign of cedi). When you are to convert to dollars, a cedi is for USD 1. You should change or convert your money into Cedi, some people may not accept or even know what 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.
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.
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.
How To Spend On Meals
Some of these luxury restaurants don’t even sell expensive food, you can get a meal for just USD 7 at a luxury restaurant. You can easily be full after eating one plate, so restaurant food here in Ghana doesn’t cost much.
If you are bored with some international cuisines you can try some of our local cuisines like fufu, Ampasi, waakye, or even Gari and more. You can ask the seller what they are made of and they will be very happy to explain everything to you.
However, if you looking to try some local cuisines you can pay $1 or $2 more to have the seller deliver your food with a drink to the table.
Another testy food option in Ghana you can try Banku, it is made of corn and very smooth. One can try it with Okro stew or grind pepper, onion, and tomatoes. Banku usually costs even less than Fufu.
READ MORE: BEST PLACES TO EAT IN GHANA
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.
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, so 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 Ghana’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.
Things To See And Do In Ghana
Planning a trip to Ghana can be one of your best travel experiences ever. The country has an incredibly rich history and culture, with many ancient attractions to offer you. Just make sure you plan your trip very well so you can enjoy all the country has to offer.
Here are some of the best places and things to do in Ghana.
Historical Sites
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.
Things To Do In Ghana
Go Surfing
Ghana might not be one of the best-surfing destinations in Africa, but we have amazing beaches and waves. African waves are in the Ivory Coast and has also made it way to Ghana. First Busua beach was known for surfing and now added Kokrobite as the second best surfing destination in Ghana.
Now many locals are loving it, so you can try surfing with some of the best surfing schools in Ghana. Mr. Brigt’s Surf School in Kokrobite is the best option for you.
Take A Tour On The Oxford Street, Osu
There are many active streets in Ghana where you can take a tour, but oxford street is the best street for every tourist in Ghana. This famous street has what every tourist will need, find the best Africa-wears, best street food, best banking services and enjoy the best nightlife in Ghana on Oxford street.
Street vendors and other tourists are always walking around, so you can also try and blend in by wearing some of the best Africa prints. You don’t need to carry much cash on you, there are ATMs everywhere on the street.
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 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.
GhanaTravel Guide: More Articles & Experiences
Planning to travel to Ghana soon? Browse all my blog posts about Ghana to get ideas & recommendations.
Have any travel questions about Ghana? Other suggestions or tips? Drop me a message in the comments below!