Visit Greater Accra
Top Tourist Attractions in Greater Accra Region
Greater Accra may be Ghana’s smallest region in terms of land size, but it packs a powerful punch when it comes to history, culture, and coastal beauty. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a returning visitor, here are the top attractions in Greater Accra you shouldn’t miss:
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1. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park – A Symbol of Ghanaian Independence
A Video tour of the kwame nkrumah memorial park
This recently refurbished memorial park honors the life and legacy of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first president and a champion of African liberation. The mausoleum is surrounded by tranquil gardens, water features, and bronze statues—creating an atmosphere of reverence and reflection.
Don’t Miss: The actual resting place of Nkrumah and his wife, and rare footage and artifacts from Ghana’s independence struggle.
Location: High Street, Accra
Opening Hours: Mon–Sun, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Local & international rates apply
2. Black Star Square & Independence Arch – A National Landmark
Location: Accra Central
Just minutes away is Independence Square, the heart of Ghana’s national pride and civic life. It’s where national parades take place and where the Black Star Arch towers above visitors, symbolizing African unity and freedom.
Don’t Miss: The newly added Nationalism Park and the panoramic view of the arch, sea, and bustling Accra streets.
3. Labadi Beach – Accra’s Favorite Urban Escape
An Aerial View of the beautiful Labadi Beach
If you want fun, culture, and relaxation in one spot, head to Labadi Beach. With horse rides, reggae nights, drumming performances, and local food vendors, this is more than just sand and sea—it’s Accra’s beach culture at its finest.
Location: La, Accra
Best Time: Late afternoons or weekends
Entry Fee: Small fee applies (free if staying at beachfront hotels)
Don’t Miss: Live music on weekends and grilled tilapia by the shore.
4. Jamestown Lighthouse & Historic Quarter – Accra’s Oldest District
Location: Jamestown, Accra
Step into the past with a walk through Jamestown, a colonial-era district where Ghana’s British and Ga origins intersect. The iconic red-and-white Jamestown Lighthouse watches over fishermen, murals, boxing gyms, and annual street art festivals.
Don’t Miss: The Chale Wote Festival in August and local walking tours with guides who know every hidden alley.
5. W.E.B. DuBois Centre – Legacy of Pan-Africanism
Location: Cantonments, Accra
Opening Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Entry Fee: Affordable and guided tours available
This quiet and leafy sanctuary houses the remains of W.E.B. DuBois, the African-American scholar who made Ghana his home. With a personal library, museum, and mausoleum, the center honors DuBois’s contributions to Pan-Africanism and intellectual liberation.
Don’t Miss: His personal desk, manuscripts, and the library of African history.
6. Christianborg Castle (Osu Castle) – A Fortress of Mixed Legacies
A video Tour of Christianborg Castle (Osu Castle)
Location: Osu, Accra
Tours: Available by request with National Heritage staff
Entry Fee: Modest fee applies (if open)
Overlooking the Gulf of Guinea, Christianborg Castle was once the seat of government and the Danish colonial seat. While it has a controversial past linked to the transatlantic slave trade, it remains a key historical monument.
Don’t Miss: Panoramic sea views and colonial architecture.
7. Shai Hills Resource Reserve – Nature Just Outside the City
Location: Doryumu, 40–45 minutes from Accra
Opening Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entry Fee: Reasonable rates; guides available
Yes, Shai Hills is officially part of the Greater Accra Region! Nestled just 50 kilometers from Accra, this nature reserve offers a unique and exciting escape into Ghana’s natural beauty. It’s an area where you can experience both wildlife and cultural history in one place.
Shai Hills is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboon troops, monkeys, antelope, and an array of bird species. The reserve is also famous for its ancient rock formations and caves, many of which were once used as hideouts by the local Shai people during the 19th century. These caves, set amidst rugged hills, have a fascinating history tied to the area’s early inhabitants.
Don’t Miss: The caves once used as hideouts by the Shai people and rock climbing tours.
Where to Eat in the Greater Accra Region
| Restaurant | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Bistro 22 | Pan-African Fine Dining | Labone |
| AutDine Accra | African Fusion | Osu |
| Santoku | Modern Japanese Cuisine | Airport City |
Where to Stay in the Greater Accra Region
| Hotel | Location | Highlights |
| Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City | Airport City | Luxury spa, rooftop pool |
| Urbano Boutique Hotel | Osu | Stylish rooms, central location |
| La Palm Royal Beach Hotel | Labadi Beach | Beachfront luxury, gardens |
Cultural Experiences to Try
- Attend a live highlife or hip-life concert in Osu
- Tour the Jamestown street art and Chale Wote Festival scene
- Take a cooking class to learn Ghanaian cuisine
- Visit the Artists Alliance Gallery for contemporary art
Travel Tips for Exploring Greater Accra Region
Safety: Stay aware in crowded markets and beaches after darkExplore More:
Best Time to Visit: November to March (dry season)
Getting There: International flights to Kotoka Airport; town buses and ride-hail services within city
Local Transport: Taxis, ride-hailing apps, and organized city tours
Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)
How many days should I spend here?
2–4 days lets you explore city highlights and nearby beaches comfortably.
Is Accra crowded?
Yes, especially around markets and beaches—plan visits early or late to avoid peak hours.
What should I wear?
Smart casual for city tours; swimwear for beaches; modest wear for religious sites.
