Ghana

Sandwiched between the West African countries of Cote d'Ivoire and Togo in the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana is a friendly and largely safe country with locals who are usually eager to help first-time foreigners find their feet on African soil. This spectacularly scenic nation boasts an exquisite tropical coastline and exceptional national parks providing a haven for some unusual flora and fauna. The capital, Accra, is a thriving metropolis replete with bustling markets, luxury hotels and lively nightlife. Fill your itinerary with visits to gorgeous palm-fringed beaches, ancient forts, historical castles, and quaint fishing villages. Whether you are seeking a relaxing beach vacation or are keen to immerse yourself in the fascinating ancient cultures of this nation's diverse ethnic groups, Ghana offers a unique and compelling African experience.


Banking and Currency

Currency:  
Local currency: Ghana Cedi  
Symbol: GH¢ and GH₵ 
ISO code: GHS 
Subunit: Ghana pesewas 
Banknotes: Gh₵ 10, Gh₵ 20, Gh₵ 5, Gh₵ 1, Gh₵ 2, Gh₵ 50. 
Coins: Coins are in denominations of GH₵1, 10 Gp, 50 Gp, 1 Gp, 20 Gp, 5 Gp 

Banking: 
Card Transactions: 
ATMs: Yes, in large urban areas 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Yes/No 
Diner’s club: No 
 
Banking Hours: 
Weekdays: Mon-Fri 0830-1600 
Weekends: Sat 0800-1200 
Public Holidays:  
Foreign exchange services: Yes 


Travel, Transport and Getting Around

Air: 
Main airlines: Ghana Airways 
International Airports: Kotoka International Airport   
 
Road: 
Tar roads: Yes 
Gravel roads: Yes 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
Uber available: No 
 
Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 
 
Rail: 
Railway system: Yes 
Subway System: No 
 
Water: 
Ferries: Yes 
Water taxis: Yes 
Leisure cruises: Yes 


Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, if peeled and well-cooked 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes, if well-cooked 
Street food: No 
 
Local cuisine:  

Across the country, local food can be enjoyed in small restaurants known as 'chop bars' where either rice or other starchy local staples such as kenkey, a fermented corn dough,or fufu, a firm ball of fermented maize served together with a meat or vegetable sauce. Notable highlights include red-red, a spicy concoction of rice and beans cooked in red palm oil, jollof rice, prawns and other seafood. By generously employing tomatoes, hot peppers and onions, many Ghanaian dishes are often red or orange in appearance. 

 
Drinks: 

Pito- Beer brewed in the Northern region made from millet. 

Zom koom- Toasted millet flour in water. 

Palm wine - A potent wine made from the sap of palm trees. 

Coconut juice - Typically served in the shell 
 
Tipping: 10% 


Climate and Weather

Annual rainfall: 1209.75 mm 
Average temperature: 28°C 
 
Summer: 

Average Highs: About 32°C 

Average Lows: Around 24°C 

Winter: 

Average Highs: 30°C 

Average Lows: 22°C 

 
Best time to visit:  

Thanks to its proximity to the equator, Ghana enjoys a tropical climate, with temperatures soaring to 30°C and dropping to a temperate 20°C, however, October to March is marginally cooler and less humid.


Clothing and Dress Recommendations

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: Yes 
 
Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: No 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 
 
General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): No 
Hat, sunglasses and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 
 


Internet Availability

Internet cafes: Yes 
Accommodation options: Yes 
Restaurants: Yes 
Cafes: Yes 
Shopping malls: Yes 
Public parks: No 
Libraries: Yes 


Electricity and Plug Standards

Plug Type:D and G 
Voltage (V):230 V 
Frequency Hertz (Hz):50 V 

*A Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances. 


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