Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–25 | $30–70 |
| Food | $5–12 | $15–30 |
| Transport | $3–8 | $10–20 |
| Activities | $5–15 | $15–40 |
| Entry Fees | $2–5 | $5–10 |
| Daily Total | $25–65 | $75–170 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Most nationalities require a visa — e-visa available online before travel
- Keep a digital and physical copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance at all times
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry into Ghana
Health & Safety
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended — consult your doctor before travel
- Travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is essential
- Drink bottled or sachet water only — avoid tap water and ice in local restaurants
Getting Around
- Tro-tros (shared minibuses) are the cheapest transport — routes cover all of Accra
- Bolt and Uber operate in Accra and are safer and more convenient than street taxis
- Traffic in Accra is heavy, especially during morning and evening rush hours — allow extra time
Connectivity
- Buy a MTN or Vodafone SIM card at the airport for affordable data — registration requires your passport
- WiFi is available at most hotels and cafes in Accra but speeds vary
- Mobile money (MoMo) is widely used in Ghana — you can load credit onto your SIM for cashless payments
Money
- Currency: GHS (Ghana Cedi). ATMs are widely available in Accra. Visa and Mastercard accepted
- Carry cash for markets, tro-tros, and small vendors — cards are only accepted at hotels and larger restaurants
- Tip 10% at restaurants. Guides and drivers appreciate tips — budget 20–50 GHS per day
Packing Tips
- Light, breathable clothing — Accra is hot and humid year-round (28–33°C)
- Comfortable walking shoes for market and city walking, plus sandals for the beach
- A reusable water bottle, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small daypack are essential
Cultural tips
Greetings Matter
Ghanaians greet each other warmly before any conversation — always say hello before asking a question or making a request. A handshake and smile go a long way. Older people are addressed with respect.
Photography Respect
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets and fishing villages. Most Ghanaians are happy to be photographed but appreciate being asked first. Show the photo on your screen afterwards — it often starts a conversation.
Dress Modestly
Ghana is a relatively conservative country — dress modestly when visiting cultural sites, markets, and neighbourhoods. Beachwear is fine on the beach but not appropriate in town. Cover shoulders and knees at religious sites.
Language & Communication
English is widely spoken in Ghana, making communication easy for English-speaking travellers. Learning a few Twi phrases — Akwaaba (welcome), Medaase (thank you) — earns big smiles.
Support Local Economy
Choose locally-owned guesthouses, eat at chop bars, and buy from artisans directly. Your spending has the most impact when it stays in the community. Avoid international chain hotels where possible.
Ghana Time
Things move at their own pace in Ghana — transport leaves when full, appointments are approximate, and patience is a virtue. Relax into the rhythm and you will enjoy the experience far more.
