Ghana

Ghana serves as a powerful gateway to the history of West Africa and the African diaspora. Its coastline is dotted with dozens of forts and castles built by various European powers, which served as the last point of contact for millions of slaves. A visit to castles like Cape Coast and Elmina is a sobering and essential historical experience. The culture is rich and diverse, with the Ashanti kingdom in the city of Kumasi providing a fascinating look into the traditions of one of Africa's great peoples.

The natural environment is equally appealing. Visitors can walk high above the rainforest floor on the canopy walk in Kakum National Park, see elephants in Mole National Park, and relax on the tropical beaches of the coast. With its welcoming atmosphere and well-developed tourist infrastructure, Ghana is an excellent destination for a first-time visitor to Sub-Saharan Africa.

Reasons to Visit

• Poignant Slave Forts: Explore the UNESCO-listed forts and castles along the coast to learn about the history of the transatlantic slave trade.
• Friendly and Welcoming Culture: Experience the famously friendly and hospitable nature of the Ghanaian people.
• Vibrant Arts and Music: Immerse yourself in the lively music scene, colorful festivals, and unique crafts of Ghana.
• Lush Nature: Walk among the treetops on the Kakum Canopy Walkway and see elephants and other wildlife in Mole National Park.

Things to Avoid

• Using Your Left Hand: Avoid giving or receiving items with your left hand, as it is considered disrespectful.
• Being Disrespectful to Elders: Elders are highly respected in Ghanaian society. Greet them politely and show deference.
• Ignoring Health Precautions: Consult your doctor about required vaccinations (like Yellow Fever) and malaria prevention before you travel.
• Relying on Timetables: Public transport often runs on a loose schedule. A patient and flexible attitude is essential.

Local Transportation Tips

For long distances, large air-conditioned buses connect the major cities like Accra and Kumasi. For shorter distances, the most common form of transport is the 'tro-tro,' a shared minivan that can be crowded but is very cheap. In cities, taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt are widely available.

Travel Etiquette

• Greetings are Important: Take time to greet people with a friendly "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" before asking for anything.
• Haggling: In markets, bargaining for goods is expected and is part of the social interaction.
• Asking for Photos: Always ask for permission before taking a photograph of a person.
• Respect for Chiefs: If you visit a rural village, there may be specific protocols for greeting the local chief. It's best to go with a local guide.

Did You Know?

Ghana was the first Sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from colonial rule, in 1957. Its first president, Kwame Nkrumah, was a pivotal figure in the pan-African movement.

Cool Ghana Stats

• Cocoa Powerhouse: Ghana is one of the world's largest producers of cocoa beans, the primary ingredient for chocolate.
• Kente Cloth: The colorful and intricate Kente cloth, a symbol of Ghanaian and Ashanti culture, was traditionally worn by royalty.
• Fantasy Coffins: Ghana is known for its unique "fantasy coffins," where people are buried in custom-made coffins shaped to represent their profession or aspirations, such as a fish for a fisherman or an airplane for a pilot.

Recommended Age Group

Ghana is most suitable for adventurous Adults and mature Teens looking for a rich cultural and historical journey.

• Babies (0-2 years): Not recommended. Health risks, the heat, and challenging travel conditions are unsuitable for infants.
• Kids (3-12 years): Not generally recommended. The historical subject matter can be very heavy, and the travel can be arduous for young children.
• Teens (13-19 years): Recommended for well-traveled and open-minded teens. The culture, history, and nature can be a profound educational experience.
• Adults (20-64 years): Highly Recommended. Ghana offers a fantastic and accessible introduction to West Africa, with a great balance of history, culture, and nature.
• Seniors (65+ years): Not recommended. The heat, humidity, and often basic infrastructure can be very challenging for most seniors.

Accessibility Level: Low

• Infrastructure for travelers with disabilities is very limited in Ghana.
• Pavements are often uneven or non-existent, and public transport is not accessible.
• Historic sites like the coastal forts have many stairs and uneven surfaces.
• Accessible hotel rooms are very rare outside of a few top-end international hotels in Accra.