Ghana Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go!

Ghana is a top destination for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and history. From its breathtaking beaches and wildlife to its rich cultural heritage and friendly locals, Tourism in Ghana offers an experience like no other. Whether you’re visiting for business, leisure, or relocation, Monnet One Travel and Tour is here to make your journey smooth and unforgettable.

This guide covers everything you need to know about traveling to Ghana, from visa requirements and entry regulations to the best places to visit and what to expect upon arrival.

👉 Want to skip straight to the travel logistics? Scroll down to the visa section! Otherwise, keep reading to understand why Ghana is the place to be.

Why More People Are Traveling to Ghana

Ghana has become one of the most sought-after travel destinations, attracting visitors from all over the world. Whether for heritage tourism, business, investment, or adventure, people are choosing to visit Ghana in record numbers. But why?

Beyond the Return Movement – Ghana launched the Beyond the Return initiative following the massive success of the Year of Return 2019, which marked 400 years since the first enslaved Africans arrived in North America. This initiative encourages people of African descent to visit, reconnect with their roots, and even settle or invest in Ghana. Many travelers are now moving beyond tourism to explore citizenship opportunities, real estate, and business ventures.

Booming Economy & Investment Opportunities – From tech startups to real estate and agriculture, Ghana has positioned itself as an attractive investment hub. Diasporans and foreign investors alike are coming to explore business opportunities in one of Africa’s fastest-growing economies.

Cultural & Heritage Tourism – Ghana offers some of the most significant historical sites for people of African descent. Places like Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle provide an emotional and historical connection to the past, while cultural festivals like Chale Wote and Afrochella celebrate Ghana’s thriving modern culture.

Incredible Travel Experiences – Whether you want to relax on pristine beaches, go on a wildlife safari, or immerse yourself in Ghana’s rich traditions and vibrant nightlife, the country has something for every traveler.

Visa and Entry Requirements for Traveling to Ghana

Before you can enjoy the beauty of Ghana, you’ll need the right travel documents. Here’s what you should know:

Do you need a visa? Yes! Most travelers require a visa to enter Ghana.
How to apply: You can apply for a visa online through the Ghana High Commission or visit a Ghanaian embassy in your country. Make sure to provide all necessary documents, including proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
Processing time: Standard processing takes 10 to 15 days, but expedited services may be available for an additional fee.
Passport requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of arrival.
Vaccination requirement: You must present a yellow fever vaccination certificate upon entry. Other recommended vaccines include malaria, typhoid, and hepatitis.
Customs regulations: Be mindful of currency restrictions and prohibited items. Carry no more than the equivalent of $10,000 USD in cash to avoid confiscation.

[Information sourced from official travel advisories, including FCDO travel advice for Ghana and the Canadian government travel advice on Ghana.]

[For more details, check the Ghana High Commission website.]

What to Expect When You Arrive in Ghana

Airport Arrival and Immigration Process

Your journey will most likely begin at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana’s capital. Here’s what to expect:

Immigration & Customs: Have your passport, visa, and yellow fever vaccination certificate ready for inspection. Border officials may ask questions about your stay, so keep details of your accommodation and return ticket accessible.
Baggage Claim & Customs Checks: Bags may be searched randomly. Avoid carrying items prohibited under Ghanaian law.
Local SIM Cards & Internet Access: Purchase a SIM card from network providers like MTN, Telecel, or AirtelTigo at the airport to stay connected. Internet speeds can vary, so consider getting a portable WiFi device.
Currency Exchange: Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). There are exchange booths and ATMs at the airport, but rates are often better at Forex bureaus in the city.

Transportation & Getting Around

Airport Transfers: Monnet One Travel and Tour offers reliable pick-up services to ensure a hassle-free arrival.
Ride-Hailing Services: Uber, Bolt, and Yango are widely available in Accra and offer safer transport than traditional taxis.
Car Rentals: If you prefer to drive, rental options are available, but be aware that Ghanaian traffic can be hectic.
Public Transport: Tro-tros (shared minibuses) are the cheapest way to get around but can be confusing for newcomers.

Cultural Etiquette & Local Customs

Greetings Matter: Always greet people when entering a space. A handshake with a snap is a common informal greeting while a verbal greeting will suffice for a formal one.
Right-Hand Rule: In Ghanaian culture, handing items or eating with the left hand is considered disrespectful.
Respect for Elders: Elders are highly respected in Ghanaian society. It’s polite to stand when greeting them and to offer your seat if necessary.
Dress Code Awareness: While Accra is modern and relaxed, modest dressing is expected in more traditional regions.

Safety & Security Tips

Avoid Flashing Valuables: Pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like Makola Market or Osu Oxford Street.
Beware of Scams & “Love Fraud” Schemes: Be cautious of people who develop fast romantic connections and then ask for financial help.
Police Stops: It’s common for police to conduct random stops. Having a copy of your passport and maybe a little “tip” can be helpful.

Top Must-Visit Places in Ghana

Ghana offers a diverse range of attractions for every type of traveler. Here are some highlights:

Historical & Cultural Sites

Cape Coast Castle & Elmina Castle – Explore Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum – Learn about Ghana’s first president and independence movement.
W.E.B. Du Bois Center – A museum dedicated to the Pan-African activist and scholar.

Nature & Wildlife Adventures

Kakum National Park – Experience the famous canopy walk in the rainforest.
Mole National Park – Go on a safari to see elephants, antelopes, and baboons.
Wli Waterfalls – Visit Ghana’s tallest waterfall, located in the Volta Region.

Beaches & Relaxation

Labadi Beach – One of Accra’s most popular beaches with live music and local food.
Busua Beach – A perfect spot for surfing and relaxation.
Ada Foah – A serene escape with stunning lagoons and water activities.

Tips for a Smooth Stay in Ghana

Stay Hydrated – Ghana’s climate is warm, so drink plenty of water.
Respect Local Customs – Ghanaians are friendly and hospitable; greeting with a handshake is common.
Use Local Transportation Wisely – Opt for ride-hailing apps or private drivers over public transport for safety.
Try the Local Cuisine – Enjoy dishes like jollof rice, banku with tilapia, and waakye.
Be Cautious with Valuables – Keep your belongings secure in busy areas.

Let Monnet One Travel And Tour Handle All These Things For You!

Whether you’re an African diasporan seeking to reconnect with your roots, an investor exploring emerging opportunities, or a traveler eager to experience rich cultural heritage, Ghana warmly welcomes you.

The nation’s Beyond the Return initiative, a successor to the Year of Return, is a 10-year program (2020-2030) aimed at strengthening bonds with the African diaspora by promoting tourism, fostering economic collaborations, and encouraging investments in Ghana.

This movement has inspired many African descendants worldwide to return to Africa, driven by a desire to reconnect with their ancestral heritage, explore new economic prospects, and contribute to the continent’s growth. Countries like Ghana have facilitated this reconnection by offering citizenship pathways and creating initiatives that invite the diaspora to invest, build, and thrive in their ancestral lands.

At Monnet One Travel and Tour, we understand the profound significance of this journey. Our services are tailored to ensure a seamless and enriching experience, from visa assistance and flight bookings to personalized cultural tours that immerse you in Ghana’s vibrant traditions and history. Let us guide you in rediscovering your heritage and exploring the abundant opportunities that await in Ghana.

Contact us today to embark on a transformative journey that bridges the past and future, connecting you to the heart of Africa.