For Your Information
Key Things About Ghana
Cultural Heritage
Ghana has a rich cultural heritage, with over 100 ethnic groups. Each group has its unique traditions, languages, and customs. Be sure to explore local festivals, music (such as highlife and hiplife), and dance. The colorful kente cloth is particularly iconic.
Language
While English is the official language, there are many local languages spoken across the country. Common languages include Akan, Ewe, and Ga. Learning a few words or greetings in these languages, like "Akwaaba" (meaning "Welcome" in Akan), can go a long way in building rapport with locals.
Rich History
Ghana is known for being the first African country to gain independence in 1957. Visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Center, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and the Cape Coast Castle to learn about Ghana’s history, particularly its role in the transatlantic slave trade.
Getting to Ghana
Several international airlines, including British Airways and Delta Airlines, operate regularly scheduled flights from Ghana (Kotoka International Airport - Accra) to major cities in North America, Europe, Africa, Asia and the Middle East.
Transportation
Public transportation can be a bit challenging, so it’s best to rely on taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt in major cities. Alternatively, you can take tro-tros (shared minivans) for a more local experience, though they can be crowded.
Climate
Bounded on the South by the Atlantic Ocean and on the West by La Cote d'Ivoire, the East by Togo and the North by Burkina Faso. Ghana is a tropical country. The South Western part is located within the warm wet forest zone similar to the Amazon. Accra, the capital, is located in the dry equatorial zones.
Tipping
Tipping is permitted in hotels, restaurants, etc. It is rarely added to the bill. Whenever it is not added the quality of service should dictate your generosity to the waiter, taxi driver, porter, tour guide, etc.
Visas
Visas are required by most non-residents except all citizens of African countries and countries on the exempt list. Ghana Missions and Embassies abroad will assist in issuing individual as well as group visas.
Money/Currency
Ghana’s currency is the cedi which comes in denominations of GHC 200, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1. Coins come in denominations of GHC 2 and 1 and also 50p, 20p, 10p, 5p & 1 pesewas.
Ghanaian Cuisine
Ghanaian food is flavorful and diverse. Some must-try dishes include: Jollof rice (a popular West African rice dish with tomatoes and spices), Banku and tilapia (fermented corn dough with fish), Fufu (pounded yam or plantain served with soup), Kelewele (spicy fried plantains). Street food is also a big part of the food culture, and trying some local snacks like chinchinga (kebabs) is highly recommended.
Ghanaian Music
Music is an integral part of Ghanaian culture. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience live performances of Afrobeat, hiplife, or traditional drumming. Traditional dances are energetic and often performed at festivals or social gatherings.
Commerce
The currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS). It's important to exchange your money at reputable places and always carry some cash with you, especially in smaller towns where card payments may not be accepted.
Health Requirements
Yellow fever vaccination is required by all who hail from counties where yellow fever is prevalent (mostly in African Countries) except infants under one year. Please do not forget to bring your health Certificate which shows that you have a yellow fever vaccination.
Electricity
If you are bringing along any electrical appliances, they should operate on or be adaptable to 220 / 240 volts. Electric outlets in Ghana accept either 3pronged, or sometimes 2-pronged. British or Continental European type plus or converters.
Packing the Right Clothing
Since the climate is warm and tropical all year round be sure to pack light washable cotton clothing and casual wear. Do not forget your sunglasses and comfortable walking shoes. There are no restrictions on what men and women may wear. Slacks and shorts for both sexes are permissible.
Credit Cards
The most widely accepted credit cards are Visa and Mastercard. These cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, banks and businesses. Your card may be used for payment at most all airlines, leading hotels and major supermarkets. However be cautious when using your credit to avoid fraud.
Drinking Water
Safe but it is advisable for visitors to use bottled drinking water which is available for sale in hotels and supermarkets.
Medical Facilities
Modern private and public hospitals and clinics are available in all cities and big towns. Tourist should contact travelers’ medical insurance companies to cover any medical contingencies while away from their home countries.
Communications
Most major hotels also have business centers which provide secretarial and courier services. Ghana has six Telecommunications companies which provide voice and data services. with a valid Identity card/passport, one can acquire a sim from any of the telecos. You can make long distance telephone calls within the country.
Entertainment
Most cities and towns have facilities for nightlife such as cultural centers to theatres, cinema houses, discotheques, pubs, street cafes and casinos. Consult your hotel reception for what is on and where to go.
Passport
Required by all.
