Travel Essentials
LetVisitGhana: Travel Essentials for Your Trip to Ghana
Table of Contents
Ghana is a culturally vibrant country in West Africa, known for its warm hospitality and rich history. English is the official language, and Ghanaians greet visitors with a hearty “Akwaaba” (welcome). The climate is tropical: expect highs around 30°C year-round, with a rainy season (Apr–Jul and Sept–Oct in the south)
Ghana’s coastline features 28 historic forts and castles (e.g. Elmina, Cape Coast), all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Tourism initiatives like the “Year of Return” (2019) have increased interest in Ghana, especially among the African diaspora. Travelers arrive mainly via Kotoka International Airport (Accra) or Kumasi Airport. For guided experiences, see our tour packages and in-depth regional travel guides covering Ghana’s attractions.
Visa Requirements: Entry rules for US, UK, EU, and regional travelers
Most visitors (including US, UK and EU citizens) must obtain a Ghanaian visa before arrival Only citizens of ECOWAS nations (e.g. Nigeria, Senegal) and a handful of bilateral partners are visa-exempt
Ghana has recently introduced easier schemes – for example, a temporary visa-on-arrival for tourists during Dec 2024– and an electronic visa (eVisa) system is planned. Note: Ghana requires all travelers (over 9 months old) to have a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
Passports should generally be valid for at least 6 months. Always check current entry rules with Ghanaian embassies or the Immigration Service before you go.
Vaccinations & Health
Health precautions are important for Ghana travel. Yellow Fever vaccine is mandatory (proof required on arrival) In addition to routine immunizations (MMR, polio, etc.)
CDC recommends Hepatitis A and B, typhoid and other vaccines for Ghana Malaria is present nationwide, so malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised for all travelers
Use insect repellent and bed nets in rural areas. Be cautious with food and water: stick to bottled/boiled water and well-cooked foods to avoid diarrhea. Health facilities in Ghana are limited; hospitals often require cash payment.
Purchase comprehensive travel health insurance before you go and pack a medical kit with prescriptions (malaria pills, antibiotics for diarrhea, pain relievers, etc).
Currency & Money Tips
The official currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) Ghana remains largely a cash-based economy: small shops, markets and taxis usually take only cedis and may expect exact change
At the airport or banks you can exchange USD, EUR or GBP for cedis ATMs (for Visa/Mastercard) are common in Accra, Kumasi and other cities, but may be scarce in villages.
Credit/debit cards and mobile money (e.g. MTN Mobile Money) work at many hotels and larger stores but carry enough cash for markets and tips. To avoid scams, use authorized forex bureaus and count your money. Tipping ~10% is customary in restaurants, and rounding up fares for taxi drivers or hotel porters is appreciated.
Safety & Travel Insurance
Ghana is relatively stable and safer than many countries, but exercise increased caution. Violent crime (muggings, carjackings, assaults) does occur, often at night or in isolated areas
Pickpockets may operate in crowded markets and on public transport. Avoid travel to northern border regions (Upper East/West, North East by Burkina/Togo) where intermittent unrest and kidnappings have been reported
In Accra or Kumasi, stay alert after dark, secure your belongings, and use reputable taxis or ride-hailing apps. For emergencies, Ghana has short emergency numbers: Police 191, Fire 192, Ambulance 112
We strongly recommend travel insurance to cover medical costs, theft and delays and a tour guide (usually comes at a small cost )– Ghana’s medical care is basic and often cash-only
Packing List
Pack for warm, humid weather with some rain protection. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton or linen) and plenty of layers – nights (especially in the north or during Harmattan) can be cooler
Modesty is important: cover shoulders and knees in villages, markets and religious sites A hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen are essential to prevent sunburn. Include a light raincoat or umbrella since southern Ghana has two rainy seasons
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are a must. Other essentials: insect repellent (DEET or picaridin), hand sanitizer, personal first-aid kit, and a reusable water bottle. Electronics: Ghana uses 230 V electricity with Type D and G plugs (UK-style three-pin)
Pack a universal travel adapter and power bank for charging devices. Don’t forget copies of important documents (passport, insurance) and a secure daypack or money belt for valuables.
Local Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Ghanaians are friendly and polite. Always greet people warmly – say “Akwaaba” upon arrival and use the right hand when shaking hands, eating or exchanging itemS. The classic Ghanaian handshake often includes a light finger snap
Greet elders first and use titles (Mr./Madam) to show respect Dress conservatively: women should avoid very short skirts or plunging tops, and men should be modest (no tank tops or very short shorts) in town or religious places.
Tipping is not mandatory but customary: about 5–10% in restaurants, and a few cedis for guides or drivers for good service. Avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion in casual conversation
Finally, always ask permission before photographing people or private property – Ghanaians value their privacy and will appreciate the courtesy.
Essential Travel Services
Airport transfers: At Accra’s Kotoka Airport, official taxis (prepaid coupons) and ride-hailing cars (Uber, Bolt) are available. Many hotels provide pickup services. LetVisitGhana also offers convenient airport transfer arrangements.
SIM cards: Buying a local SIM is easy and affordable Providers like MTN, Vodafone and AirtelTigo have stores and kiosks (even at the airport)
MTN is the largest network and has the most reliable coverage in rural areas. You’ll need your passport to register the SIM. Cheap data packages make mobile internet plentiful – we recommend downloading ride-hailing and payment apps (Uber/Bolt, MTN Mobile Money, etc.) for convenience if you travelling solo
Local guides and tours: English is widely spoken, and local guides can enrich your visit.
Consider booking a guide through LetVisitGhana or at visitor centers for attractions like Kakum National Park, Lake Volta or Cape Coast Castle.
Getting around: Ghana’s major cities are linked by domestic flights (Accra–Kumasi–Tamale) and by long-distance buses. Private coaches (STC, VIP Ghana) are comfortable for travel between cities.
For budget travel, shared minibuses (“tro-tros”) run fixed routes between towns. In cities, metered taxis and rickshaws (known locally as “trotros” for short hops) are common – always agree on a fare or insist on the meter. See our regional guides for details on public transport and local customs in each area.
Recommended Travel Gear
- Universal Travel Adapter (Type D/G): Enables charging devices on 230 V outlets (A good adapter with USB ports is very handy.)
- Portable Power Bank: Ghana’s power can be unreliable. Carry extra battery capacity for phones/cameras.
- Insect Repellent: A DEET or picaridin spray/roll-on protects against mosquitoes and tsetse flies.
- Sunblock & Sunglasses: High SPF suncream and UV-blocking sunglasses are essential under Ghana’s strong sun.
- First-Aid Kit: Include antimalarial pills, diarrhea antibiotics, pain relievers, bandages, etc.
- Travel Apps: Offline maps (Google Maps or Maps.me) and a currency converter app are useful. Download ride-hailing apps (Uber/Bolt) and mobile money apps (MTN Mobile Money) if you get a local SIM.
- Secure Bag: A theft-resistant daypack or money belt will keep valuables safe in crowds.
- Water Purification: Tablets or a filter straw can be handy if you’re unsure about water quality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to travel to Ghana?
Yes, most visitors (including US, UK, EU citizens) must obtain a visa or entry permit in advance Check the nearest Ghanaian embassy for application instructions. Citizens of ECOWAS countries do not need a visa for visits (up to 90 days).
What vaccines and medications are required?
What vaccines and medications are required?
Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry We also advise Hepatitis A/B and typhoid shots, and taking prescription malaria prophylaxis Carry a travel health kit and ensure your routine vaccines (MMR, tetanus, etc.) are up to date.
Is Ghana a safe destination?
Ghana is generally stable, but crime (thefts, occasional assaults) can happen. Exercise caution at night and avoid remote border areas Travel insurance is highly recommended for health and safety
What voltage and plug type are used in Ghana?
What voltage and plug type are used in Ghana?
Ghana’s electricity is 230 V/50 Hz. Outlets accept Type D (three large round pins) and Type G (UK three-pin) plugs If you’re from the US or Europe, bring an appropriate travel adapter.
Should I buy travel insurance?
Yes. Ghana’s hospitals often require cash up front. A comprehensive travel insurance plan (covering medical care, evacuation and trip issues) is strongly advised
Any other tips for first-time visitors?
Pack clothes for hot, humid weather and some rain gear. Respect local customs: greet people properly, cover up in rural/religious areas, and always use your right hand when eating or exchanging items. Learn a few phrases in Twi or Ga (many people appreciate it) and enjoy the friendly Ghanaian culture!