Ghana is one of West Africa’s most fascinating destinations, combining history, culture, beaches, wildlife, food and some of the region’s most welcoming cities and communities.
Whether you are visiting Ghana for the first time, returning to see family or planning a longer African vacation, good preparation will make your trip much easier.
Entry requirements for Ghana
Before travelling, check whether your passport requires a visa.
The Ghana High Commission in Canada advises that travellers generally need a visa unless they qualify under an exempt category. Ghana’s official e-Visa portal also allows travellers to check their nationality and entry requirements before applying.
Typical visa applications may require a valid passport, passport photograph, travel dates, accommodation or reference information and other supporting documents depending on the visa type.
Travellers should also check yellow-fever vaccination requirements before departure. Ghanaian authorities state that yellow-fever documentation is checked as part of travel and entry requirements, subject to appropriate medical exemptions.
Because immigration rules can change, always verify the latest information before travelling.
Accra
Most international visitors begin in Accra, Ghana’s capital.
Accra combines modern shopping centres, restaurants, nightlife, beaches, historic neighbourhoods and cultural attractions. Popular areas include Osu, Airport Residential Area, East Legon, Labone and Cantonments.
Visitors interested in history can explore sites such as Independence Square, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and the National Museum.
Cape Coast and Elmina
For travellers interested in Ghana’s history and the transatlantic slave trade, Cape Coast and Elmina are among the country’s most significant destinations.
Both coastal towns contain historic forts and castles associated with centuries of European trade and the slave trade.
Cape Coast is also a useful base for visiting Kakum National Park, known for its tropical forest and canopy walkway.
Kumasi
Kumasi is the historic centre of the Ashanti Kingdom and one of Ghana’s largest cities.
Visitors can explore markets, traditional crafts, Ashanti history and cultural institutions. Kejetia Market is one of the city’s best-known commercial centres.
Northern Ghana
Travellers willing to venture farther north can experience a very different side of Ghana.
Tamale is the principal gateway to northern Ghana, while Mole National Park is one of the country’s best-known wildlife destinations.
The north also offers distinctive architecture, cultural traditions and landscapes that differ considerably from the coastal regions.
Getting around Ghana
In Accra and other major cities, travellers commonly use taxis and ride-hailing services.
For longer journeys, domestic flights and intercity buses can reduce travel time. If you hire a vehicle, consider road conditions, driving distance and whether you are comfortable driving locally.
For rural or unfamiliar destinations, using an experienced driver or tour operator may be worthwhile.
Money and payments
Ghana’s currency is the Ghanaian cedi.
Cards are widely accepted at many hotels, larger restaurants and modern businesses, but cash remains useful for markets, smaller shops, taxis and rural areas.
Avoid carrying unnecessarily large amounts of cash and use reputable banks or financial institutions when exchanging money.
Respect local culture
Ghana is culturally diverse, with many ethnic groups, languages and traditions.
A friendly greeting is highly valued. Dress expectations vary according to location and occasion, and visitors should be particularly respectful when entering religious sites, traditional communities or formal events.
When photographing people, asking permission is a simple sign of respect.
Planning your Ghana trip
For a first visit, a practical itinerary might combine Accra, Cape Coast or Elmina, Kumasi and perhaps northern Ghana if time allows.
Do not try to see the entire country in a few days. Ghana is larger than many visitors expect, and road journeys can take time.
A slower itinerary usually provides a better experience.
Start planning your Ghana journey
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