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.