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Ultimate Ghana Travel Cheat Sheet 2025: Everything You Need To Know Before Visiting

Planning your 2025 trip to Ghana? This insider cheat sheet covers everything from local customs and transportation to safety tips and hidden gems, with money-saving advice from a frequent visitor.

Introduction: Why Ghana Should Be Your Next African Adventure

The first time I landed at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, I was completely overwhelmed. Despite months of research, nothing prepared me for the vibrant energy, blazing heat, and sensory explosion that is Ghana. Fast forward seven visits later, and I’ve gone from confused tourist to confident traveler who knows how to navigate the bustling markets of Makola, haggle for the perfect kente cloth in Kumasi, and find the best waakye in Accra (hint: it’s at a tiny street stall near Labadi Beach that doesn’t even have a name).

This cheat sheet compiles everything I wish someone had told me before my first trip to Ghana. Whether you’re visiting for business, heritage tourism, or simply to experience one of West Africa’s most stable and welcoming countries, I’ve made the mistakes so you don’t have to!

Essential Planning Information for Ghana

Visa Requirements & Entry Procedures (Updated for 2025)

Most visitors to Ghana require a visa. As of 2025, Ghana has updated its e-visa system, making the process significantly more streamlined than when I first visited in 2018 and had to mail my passport to the embassy.

  • E-Visa: Apply through the official Ghana Immigration Service portal at least 2 weeks before travel
  • Cost: $100-150 USD depending on single or multiple entry (prices increased by 20% in late 2024)
  • Required documents: Passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of accommodation, return ticket, yellow fever certificate
  • Visa on arrival: Available in emergency situations for $150 USD, but I strongly recommend against relying on this option

Insider Tip: Save money by applying directly through the Ghana Immigration Service rather than using third-party services that charge additional fees. I once paid an extra $75 using an agency before realizing how straightforward the official process was!

Health & Vaccinations

Ghana requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travelers, and there are several other health precautions to consider:

Vaccination/Medication Required/Recommended Approximate Cost Notes
Yellow Fever Required $75-100 USD Must be obtained at least 10 days before travel
Malaria Prophylaxis Highly Recommended $30-100 USD Malarone is expensive but has fewer side effects
Typhoid Recommended $35-50 USD Especially if visiting rural areas
Hepatitis A & B Recommended $100-175 USD Long-lasting protection

I learned the hard way about mosquito protection during my second trip when I ran out of repellent and thought “just one night won’t hurt.” Three days of fever and the worst headache of my life later, I never travel without multiple forms of mosquito protection:

  • Bring DEET-based repellent (at least 30%)
  • Pack lightweight long sleeves and pants for evenings
  • Consider pre-treating clothes with permethrin before your trip
  • Sleep under mosquito nets, even in air-conditioned rooms

Currency & Money Matters

Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). As of early 2025, exchange rates are approximately:

  • 1 USD = ~14 GHS
  • 1 EUR = ~15 GHS
  • 1 GBP = ~17 GHS

The cedi has been relatively volatile, so check current rates before travel. I’ve watched it fluctuate significantly even during a two-week stay.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: Never exchange money at the airport! The rates are terrible. I once lost nearly 15% compared to using an ATM in town. Instead, withdraw from ATMs at major banks like Ecobank or Standard Chartered in Accra, or exchange small amounts at your hotel until you find a reputable forex bureau.

Most urban businesses now accept mobile money payments through services like MTN Mobile Money, but Ghana remains predominantly cash-based outside major cities. I recommend:

  • Bringing 2-3 different credit/debit cards (Visa most widely accepted)
  • Informing your bank of travel plans to avoid freezes
  • Keeping small denominations (5, 10, 20 GHS) for markets and taxis
  • Downloading the MTN Mobile Money app if staying longer than a week

Understanding Ghanaian Culture & Etiquette

Greeting Customs & Basic Phrases

Ghanaians are incredibly friendly and place great importance on proper greetings. Taking time for formal hellos shows respect. When I rushed through a greeting with an elder in a village near Elmina, my local friend gently pulled me aside to explain I had unintentionally been rude.

Learn these basic phrases in Twi (pronounced “ch-wee”), the most widely spoken local language:

  • Akwaaba – Welcome
  • Ɛte sɛn? – How are you? (pronounced “eh-teh sen”)
  • Me da ase – Thank you (pronounced “meh dah ah-seh”)
  • Yɛbɛhyia bio – See you again (pronounced “yeh-beh-sh-ya bee-oh”)
  • Kafra – Sorry/Excuse me

When meeting people, especially elders:

  1. Offer a handshake with your right hand (never left)
  2. In more traditional settings, grasp your right wrist with your left hand during handshakes as a sign of respect
  3. Exchange full greetings before starting business conversations

Dress Code & Cultural Sensitivities

Ghana is relatively conservative in dress, especially outside tourist areas. During my first visit, I made the mistake of wearing shorts that hit above the knee while visiting a rural community—I quickly noticed the uncomfortable glances and bought a wrap skirt from a local vendor to cover up.

  • For women: Shoulders covered, skirts/dresses below knee length, no deep necklines
  • For men: Long pants in most settings, shorts acceptable only in very casual/beach areas
  • Religious sites: Women should bring a scarf to cover hair when visiting mosques
  • Business meetings: Conservative business attire despite the heat

Sunday is observed as a church day throughout much of Ghana. The streets fill with people in their beautiful church clothes, and many businesses close. Plan accordingly, as this once left me without access to certain services I needed.

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Instead of buying new “modest” clothes for your trip, borrow items from friends or shop secondhand. I found a beautiful ankle-length cotton skirt at a thrift store for $6 that became my go-to for village visits and saved me from emergency purchases.

Transportation Guide: Getting Around Ghana

Navigating Accra & Major Cities

Accra’s traffic is legendary—and not in a good way! During rush hour (7-9am and 4-7pm), a trip that might take 20 minutes can easily stretch to 2 hours. Plan accordingly!

Taxi Options:

  • Regular taxis: Abundant but require negotiation before entering. Expect to pay 15-30 GHS for short trips within Accra neighborhoods, 40-80 GHS for longer crosstown journeys.
  • Uber/Bolt: Available in Accra and Kumasi with transparent pricing. Generally 10-20% cheaper than regular taxis.
  • Dropping: Shared taxis that run set routes. Much cheaper (5-10 GHS) but require local knowledge.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Use the ride-sharing app Bolt instead of Uber. It consistently offers 10-15% lower fares for the same routes. I saved nearly $40 during a week in Accra just by comparing prices between the two apps before booking.

For navigating Accra’s landmarks, here’s a helpful map of the central areas:

Intercity Travel Options

For travel between Ghanaian cities, you have several options:

Mode Comfort Level Cost (Accra-Kumasi) Travel Time Notes
VIP/STC Buses High 80-120 GHS 4-5 hours Air-conditioned, assigned seats, most reliable
Metro Mass Medium 50-70 GHS 5-6 hours Basic but functional, more frequent departures
Tro-tro (minivans) Basic 40-60 GHS 6+ hours Cramped, frequent stops, authentic experience
Domestic Flight Highest 350-500 GHS 45 minutes Limited schedule, only between major cities

My personal recommendation is the VIP bus service for most intercity travel. On a journey from Accra to Cape Coast, I opted for the cheaper tro-tro option and regretted it immediately when I found myself squeezed in with 16 other passengers, a basket of live chickens, and no functioning windows during the rainy season. The extra 30 GHS for the VIP bus would have been worth every pesewa!

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: Book STC/VIP bus tickets a day in advance for popular routes. You’ll secure a better seat and avoid the disappointment of sold-out buses. In 2024, they introduced online booking through their website, saving you a trip to the station: STC Bus Booking.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide

Accra Neighborhoods & Lodging Options

Accra spans a large area with distinctly different neighborhoods. Where you stay dramatically affects your experience:

  • Osu: The expat hub with restaurants, nightlife, and embassies. Most convenient but pricey.
  • Airport Residential: Upscale area with international hotels and quiet streets.
  • Labadi: Near the beach with mid-range hotels and more local atmosphere.
  • Cantonments: Diplomatic quarter with high-end villas and apartments.
  • Adabraka/Kokomlemle: More affordable, centrally located areas with local character.

I’ve stayed in each area and found Osu most convenient for first-time visitors, while Adabraka offers better value and a more authentic experience for return travelers.

Accommodation Types & Price Ranges (2025):

  • Luxury hotels: $150-300+ USD (Kempinski, Movenpick, Marriott)
  • Mid-range hotels: $70-150 USD (Urbano Hotel, Accra City Hotel)
  • Budget hotels: $30-70 USD (Hotel Niagara, Paloma Hotel)
  • Guesthouses: $20-50 USD (Somewhere Nice Hostel, The Sleepy Hippo)
  • Airbnb apartments: $25-200 USD depending on location and amenities

The power situation in Ghana has improved dramatically since 2023, but occasional outages still occur. During my last visit in late 2024, I experienced only two brief power cuts in three weeks. Still, I recommend confirming that your accommodation has a backup generator, especially if you’re visiting during the hot season (February-April) when air conditioning is essential.

Regional Accommodation Highlights

Beyond Accra, each region offers unique lodging experiences:

Cape Coast/Elmina:

  • Beachfront resorts: Coconut Grove Beach Resort ($90-150 USD)
  • Eco-lodges: Brenu Beach Lodge ($40-80 USD)
  • Guesthouses: Oasis Beach Resort ($30-50 USD)

Kumasi:

  • City center hotels: Golden Tulip Kumasi ($120-180 USD)
  • Budget options: Presbyterian Guesthouse ($30-50 USD)

Volta Region:

  • Mountain retreats: Mountain Paradise Lodge at Amedzofe ($50-90 USD)
  • Lakeside lodges: Villa Cisneros at Lake Volta ($60-100 USD)

One of my most memorable stays was at a small eco-lodge called Meet Me There in the Volta Region, where I slept in a traditional mud hut with a thatched roof for just $35 a night, including breakfast made from ingredients grown in their garden. The sound of waves from the nearby lagoon and the absolute darkness at night created the deepest sleep I’ve had in years.

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Many smaller eco-lodges offer discounts of 15-20% for stays of 3+ nights. These properties typically have smaller environmental footprints, support local economies directly, and provide more authentic experiences at lower prices than international chains.

Food & Drink: Culinary Adventures in Ghana

Must-Try Ghanaian Dishes

Ghanaian food is a revelation of complex flavors, with dishes varying by region but sharing common elements like cassava, plantains, rice, and rich stews. The first time I tried fufu with light soup, I had no idea how to eat it properly and used a spoon instead of my fingers—much to the amusement of my Ghanaian friends who gently showed me the proper technique!

Essential dishes to try:

  • Jollof Rice: Spiced rice cooked in tomato sauce (25-40 GHS)
  • Waakye: Rice and beans cooked together with millet leaves (15-30 GHS)
  • Banku: Fermented corn and cassava dough served with okra stew or grilled tilapia (20-45 GHS)
  • Fufu: Pounded cassava and plantain with soup (20-35 GHS)
  • Red-Red: Black-eyed peas in palm oil with fried plantains (15-30 GHS)
  • Kelewele: Spicy fried plantains (5-15 GHS)

The aromas of Ghanaian cooking are intoxicating—the sweet caramelization of plantains frying for kelewele, the earthy spice of grilled tilapia, and the rich tomato base of jollof rice still haunt my dreams between visits.

Where to Eat: From Street Food to Fine Dining

Ghana offers eating experiences at every price point:

Street Food (5-15 GHS):

  • Waakye joints: Look for leaves wrapped in plants by roadside vendors
  • Kelewele stands: Often found at intersections in the evening
  • Kofi brokeman: Roasted plantain and peanuts, a perfect snack

Local “Chop Bars” (15-40 GHS):

  • Asanka Local: Authentic Ghanaian food in Osu, Accra
  • Bush Canteen: Popular spot for fufu in East Legon, Accra
  • Grace’s Chop Bar: Legendary banku in Kumasi

Mid-range Restaurants (40-80 GHS):

  • Buka Restaurant: Pan-African cuisine in Osu
  • Azmera Restaurant: Excellent local food in a comfortable setting
  • Country Kitchen: Reliable local dishes in Airport Residential Area

Fine Dining (80-200+ GHS):

  • Santoku: Japanese-inspired cuisine in Accra
  • Urban Grill: Steakhouse and continental cuisine
  • La Chaumiere: French-influenced menu in a colonial setting

The most memorable meal I’ve had in Ghana wasn’t at an upscale restaurant but at a tiny roadside chop bar in Kumasi where I was the only non-Ghanaian. For 22 GHS (about $3), I had the most perfectly prepared fufu with groundnut soup and a side of grilled guinea fowl. When I complimented the cook, she beamed with pride and gave me an extra piece of meat “for being brave enough to eat like a Ghanaian.”

Drinking Water & Beverages

Tap water is not safe to drink in Ghana. Stick to:

  • Bottled water: 1-2 GHS for small bottles, 5-7 GHS for large ones
  • Pure water sachets: 0.5 GHS each, the most economical option but create plastic waste
  • Water purification: Consider bringing a UV purifier if staying long-term

Local beverages worth trying:

  • Fresh coconut water: 5-10 GHS, sold by vendors who cut it open for you
  • Sobolo: Hibiscus drink often spiced with ginger (5-10 GHS)
  • Club Beer/Star Beer: Local lagers (10-15 GHS in stores, 15-30 GHS in bars)
  • Palm wine: Fermented palm sap, slightly fizzy and sweet (10-20 GHS)
  • Akpeteshie: Local distilled spirit, very strong! (5-15 GHS per shot)

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Bring a reusable water bottle with a built-in filter. I use a LifeStraw bottle that allows me to refill from hotel water dispensers and saves about 400 GHS ($30) per week compared to buying individual bottles, while also reducing plastic waste.

Top Experiences & Attractions in Ghana

Historical Sites & Cultural Landmarks

Ghana’s rich history spans ancient kingdoms, the tragic legacy of the transatlantic slave trade, and the inspiring story of independence. These historical sites offer profound insights:

Cape Coast & Elmina Castles:

These UNESCO World Heritage Sites were once centers of the transatlantic slave trade. Standing in the dungeons where captive Africans were held before being shipped across the Atlantic was one of the most emotionally powerful experiences of my life. The contrast between the dungeons’ darkness and the beautiful coastal setting creates a haunting dissonance.

  • Entry fee: 50 GHS for Ghanaians, 150 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Guided tour: Included in entry fee
  • Hours: 9am-4:30pm daily

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park:

Dedicated to Ghana’s first president and independence leader, this Accra landmark was completely renovated in 2023-2024 and reopened with new exhibits. The mausoleum and museum offer fascinating insights into Ghana’s path to independence.

  • Entry fee: 30 GHS for Ghanaians, 100 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Hours: 9am-5pm daily

Manhyia Palace Museum (Kumasi):

The seat of the Asantehene (king of the Ashanti people), this museum showcases the rich culture and history of the Ashanti Kingdom. If your visit coincides with Akwasidae festival (held every six weeks on Sunday), you might witness traditional ceremonies and see the current Asantehene in full regalia.

  • Entry fee: 30 GHS for Ghanaians, 80 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Hours: 9am-4pm (closed Mondays)

Natural Wonders & Outdoor Adventures

Ghana’s diverse landscapes offer everything from rainforests to savannas:

Kakum National Park:

Just north of Cape Coast, this rainforest reserve features a canopy walkway suspended 30 meters above the ground. Walking across the swaying rope bridges while watching for birds and monkeys in the treetops is both terrifying and exhilarating. When I visited during a light rain, the forest came alive with sounds and smells—the earthy petrichor rising from the forest floor, the calls of hornbills, and the distant chattering of monkeys created a multisensory experience I’ll never forget.

  • Entry fee: 50 GHS for Ghanaians, 150 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Canopy walkway: Additional 50 GHS
  • Hours: 8:30am-3:30pm daily

Wli Waterfalls:

In the Volta Region near the Togo border, Wli is Ghana’s highest waterfall. The 40-minute hike to the falls takes you through lush forest and over several small streams. The cooling mist and thundering sound of water create a magical atmosphere.

  • Entry fee: 30 GHS for Ghanaians, 80 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Guide fee: 50-100 GHS (recommended)

Mole National Park:

Ghana’s largest wildlife refuge in the northern region offers safari experiences at a fraction of East African prices. Seeing elephants bathing at the watering hole just meters from my budget accommodation was surreal.

  • Entry fee: 40 GHS for Ghanaians, 150 GHS for non-Ghanaians
  • Walking safari: 100-150 GHS
  • Driving safari: 200-250 GHS

Craft Villages & Shopping Experiences

Ghana is renowned for its crafts and textiles:

Bonwire Kente Village:

Near Kumasi, this village is the heart of traditional kente cloth weaving. Watching the weavers work their looms, creating intricate patterns passed down through generations, gives you a new appreciation for the skill involved in creating these symbolic textiles.

  • Demonstration fee: Typically 20-30 GHS
  • Kente prices: 300-3,000 GHS depending on size and complexity

Ntonso Adinkra Village:

Also near Kumasi, Ntonso specializes in adinkra cloth, stamped with symbolic patterns using natural dyes. You can try your hand at stamping your own cloth.

  • Demonstration: 20-30 GHS
  • Workshop participation: 50-100 GHS

Accra Markets:

  • Makola Market: The sprawling heart of Accra’s commercial life
  • Arts Centre: Touristy but comprehensive collection of crafts from across Ghana
  • Kantamanto: Secondhand clothing market, a fascinating glimpse into global clothing recycling

I once got completely lost in the labyrinthine Makola Market and ended up in a section selling traditional herbs and spiritual items. What started as momentary panic turned into one of my most interesting cultural experiences when a friendly vendor spent an hour explaining the medicinal uses of different plants and introduced me to her entire family who ran neighboring stalls.

Safety, Scams & Practical Advice

Staying Safe in Ghana

Ghana is one of Africa’s safest countries, but normal precautions apply:

  • Petty theft: Keep valuables secure, especially in crowded areas
  • Transportation safety: Use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, especially at night
  • Beach safety: Strong currents make swimming dangerous at many beaches; ask locals about safe areas
  • Health safety: Drink only bottled or purified water, use mosquito protection

After living through a scary incident where my bag was snatched in a crowded market during my second visit, I’ve developed these habits:

  • Keep phones in front pockets, never back pockets
  • Wear crossbody bags in front of your body in crowded areas
  • Split money between different pockets/bags
  • Leave passport in hotel safe, carry only a copy
  • Be especially alert when using phone in public

Common Scams & How to Avoid Them

Most Ghanaians are incredibly honest and helpful, but like anywhere, scams target tourists:

The “Friendly Guide” Scam:

Someone approaches offering free help, then demands payment after. Politely decline unsolicited assistance or agree on any fees upfront.

The “Inflated Price” Game:

I once paid 300% more than the local price for a fabric at the Arts Centre because I didn’t know better. Now I always:

  • Ask my hotel about typical prices before shopping
  • Start negotiating at 40-50% of the initial asking price
  • Be prepared to walk away (often brings the price down)
  • Shop with local friends when possible

The “Currency Confusion” Trick:

Some vendors might “confuse” dollars with cedis or claim you gave them smaller denominations than you did.

  • Count change carefully before leaving
  • Announce the denomination as you hand over bills

Communication & Internet Access

Staying connected in Ghana is relatively easy:

SIM Cards:

  • Major providers: MTN (best coverage), Vodafone, AirtelTigo
  • Cost: 5-10 GHS for SIM card
  • Registration: Requires passport and sometimes biometric registration
  • Data packages: 10 GHS for ~1GB, 50 GHS for ~5GB

Due to new regulations implemented in 2023, foreigners can now only register SIM cards at official provider shops, not street vendors. This process takes 15-30 minutes but is worth it for the convenience of local data.

Wi-Fi Availability:

  • Common in mid-range and upscale hotels
  • Available in many cafés and restaurants in Accra
  • Less reliable outside major cities

Money-Saving Insider Tip: Download maps.me or Google Maps offline maps before your trip. This saved me countless cedis in data charges and potential taxi scams by allowing me to navigate and verify routes without using data.

Responsible Tourism in Ghana

Cultural Sensitivity & Photography Etiquette

Respecting Ghanaian culture enhances your experience and creates positive interactions:

  • Photography: Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas or at ceremonies
  • Religious sites: Remove shoes when entering mosques, dress modestly in churches
  • Traditional authorities: Show respect to chiefs and elders; in some areas, bringing a small gift (like schnapps) is appropriate when meeting a chief

One of my most embarrassing moments came when I casually snapped photos at a village funeral without realizing the cultural significance of the event. A kind elder took me aside and explained that I should have asked permission and potentially made a small donation to the family. I apologized, deleted the photos, and learned a valuable lesson about respecting cultural boundaries.

Environmental Considerations

Ghana faces environmental challenges that responsible tourists can help address:

  • Decline bottled water when alternatives exist (refillable bottles)
  • Avoid single-use plastics; bring reusable shopping bags
  • Consider carbon offsetting flights to Ghana
  • Support eco-friendly accommodations and tour operators

Sustainability Tip that Saves Money: Many Ghanaian restaurants automatically serve bottled water and add it to your bill. Request tap water that’s been boiled or filtered instead (most restaurants have this available for staff). This saves about 7-10 GHS per meal and reduces plastic waste.

Supporting Local Communities

Your travel choices can positively impact Ghanaians:

  • Book tours with Ghanaian-owned companies
  • Stay in locally-owned accommodations when possible
  • Buy directly from artisans rather than middlemen
  • Consider community-based tourism initiatives

During my last visit, I stayed at a community-run guesthouse in the Volta Region where profits fund a local school. The accommodations were simple but clean, and knowing my tourism dollars were directly supporting education made the experience far more meaningful than staying at a luxury resort.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Ghana

Ghana offers an incredible introduction to West Africa with its combination of historical significance, cultural richness, natural beauty, and friendly people. After seven visits, I’m still discovering new aspects of this dynamic country.

To make the most of your Ghana adventure, follow this 5-step action plan:

  1. Prepare documentation early: Apply for your e-visa at least 3 weeks before travel, ensure your yellow fever certificate is valid, and make copies of all important documents.
  2. Plan a balanced itinerary: Combine Accra’s urban energy with historical sites in Cape Coast, cultural experiences in Kumasi, and natural beauty in the Volta Region. Allow 10-14 days for a comprehensive first visit.
  3. Connect with locals: Whether through guided tours, cooking classes, or simply striking up conversations, engaging with Ghanaians transforms your understanding of the country. Consider using social platforms like Meetup or Couchsurfing to find local events.
  4. Embrace flexibility: Ghana operates on what locals jokingly call “GMT” – “Ghana Maybe Time.” Build buffer time into your schedule, accept that not everything will go according to plan, and view changes as opportunities for unexpected discoveries.
  5. Engage respectfully with history: Ghana’s historical sites, particularly those connected to the slave trade, can be emotionally challenging. Approach them with openness to learn and reflect on their continued relevance to contemporary issues.

My journey with Ghana began as a curious tourist and has evolved into a deep, ongoing relationship with a country that continues to challenge, inspire, and welcome me. I hope this cheat sheet helps you develop your own meaningful connection with Ghana’s extraordinary culture and people.

Yɛbɛhyia bio! (See you again!)

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Ghana?

The most comfortable months are November to March during the dry season when temperatures are hot but humidity is lower. I prefer November-December when the harmattan (dry desert winds) hasn’t fully arrived, skies are clear, and temperatures are manageable (28-32°C/82-90°F during the day).

Avoid the peak rainy season (May-June in southern Ghana) unless you don’t mind frequent downpours. August has a brief dry spell between rainy periods that can be a good window for travel with fewer tourists.

How much money should I budget per day in Ghana?

Based on my 2024/2025 visits, daily budgets approximate:

  • Budget traveler: $30-60 USD (hostels, local food, public transportation)
  • Mid-range traveler: $80-150 USD (3-star hotels, mix of local and international restaurants, taxis)
  • Luxury traveler: $200+ USD (4-5 star hotels, upscale dining, private transportation)

ATMs are widely available in cities but may have withdrawal limits of 1,000-2,000 GHS per transaction. I typically brought $200 USD in cash for emergencies and relied on ATMs for daily expenses.

Is Ghana safe for solo female travelers?

As a woman who has traveled solo in Ghana multiple times, I can say it’s generally safe but requires standard precautions. Street harassment exists but is usually limited to verbal comments. I felt comfortable in most situations but was extra cautious after dark.

Tips for solo female travelers:

  • Dress modestly to avoid unwanted attention
  • Be firm but polite when declining unwanted advances
  • Use ride-sharing apps rather than hailing taxis after dark
  • Connect with other travelers or locals for evening activities
  • Trust your instincts and don’t worry about appearing rude if a situation feels uncomfortable

Do I need to take malaria pills for Ghana?

Yes, Ghana is a high-risk area for malaria year-round. Consult a travel doctor, but most will prescribe Malarone, doxycycline, or mefloquine. I’ve used Malarone successfully despite its higher cost because it has fewer side effects and requires shorter pre/post-trip dosing.

Complement medication with:

  • Mosquito repellent with 20-30% DEET
  • Covering up at dawn/dusk when mosquitoes are most active
  • Using air conditioning or fans (mosquitoes dislike air movement)
  • Sleeping under treated bed nets

Can I drink alcohol in Ghana?

Yes, alcohol is legal and widely available in Ghana. Beer is the most common alcoholic beverage, with local brands like Club Beer and Star Beer costing 10-15 GHS in stores and 15-30 GHS in bars. Wine and spirits are available but more expensive, often imported.

Note that Ghana is approximately 20% Muslim, and in northern regions and Muslim communities, alcohol may be less available or its consumption viewed critically. Always respect local sensitivities.

What power adapters do I need in Ghana?

Ghana uses Type D and Type G plugs (UK-style three rectangular prongs) with 230V power. Most modern electronics (phones, laptops, cameras) handle 110V-240V, so you’ll only need a physical adapter, not a voltage converter. I bring a universal adapter with surge protection since power fluctuations can occur.

How is the internet in Ghana?

Internet access has improved dramatically in urban areas. 4G is available in major cities with speeds sufficient for video calls and basic streaming. Rural areas still have patchy coverage, often limited to 3G or less.

Wi-Fi is standard in mid-range and upscale accommodations but quality varies. Don’t expect high-speed connections outside of business hotels and upscale establishments.

References