Ghana Travel Advice
Ghana is a West African country known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and stable democracy. It became the first sub-Saharan African nation to gain independence in 1957 and has since developed a diverse economy based on agriculture, mining, and oil production.
The country is ethnically diverse, with English as the official language and Christianity as the dominant religion. Popular for its vibrant music, colorful kente cloth, and historic sites, Ghana is a key cultural and economic player in the region.
Ghana’s political environment is characterized by active civic participation, a free press, and a robust civil society. While the country has been praised for its democratic stability, it faces challenges related to corruption, economic inequality, and political patronage.
Visiting Ghana FAQsHire a bodyguard in Ghana
If you are interested in hiring a bodyguard for your travel to Ghana, please see our page for Bodyguard Services in Ghana.
Key Information for Ghana
Emergency Services
Police emergency: 191
Fire emergency: 192
Medical emergency: 193
Note: While some emergency services staff will speak English, some, particularly in rural areas, may not.
Country Overview
Capital City: Accra
Official State Language(s): English
Official State Religion(s): Christianity and Islam
State Currency: Ghana Cedi (GH₵)
Current Capital Time:
How safe is Ghana?
While Ghana has largely avoided direct terrorist attacks, the country faces an increasing threat from extremist groups active in neighboring West African nations. However, since Ghana’s commercial discovery of hydrocarbons, the country’s maritime domain has faced escalating offshore threats.
These include illegal fishing activities that deplete fish stocks, piracy that targets oil vessels, and maritime terrorism that poses risks to national security. Additionally, oil bunkering—where stolen oil is illegally stored or transported—and narcotic trafficking through Ghanaian waters have become more prevalent, amplifying security challenges. The environmental impacts of oil exploration and production have also raised concerns, as oil spills and related degradation threaten marine ecosystems.
Collectively, these issues have significantly heightened the national security threat profile, necessitating enhanced maritime security and environmental protection measures.
Health Emergencies in Ghana
When visiting Ghana, travelers should be aware of health concerns such as malaria and Yellow Fever, both of which are prevalent, with vaccination against Yellow Fever required for entry. Rabies is also a risk, particularly in rural areas or with animal exposure, so a pre-exposure vaccine is recommended for longer stays or high-risk activities.
Other concerns include typhoid, cholera, and schistosomiasis, which can be avoided with proper food, water, and environmental precautions. Taking preventive measures like vaccinations, insect protection, and avoiding untreated water is essential to stay healthy during your visit.
Key Security Issues
Aside from petty crime, public disorder in Ghana is relatively low, though instances can occur, particularly during periods of political tension, protests, or social unrest. For example, demonstrations are common, especially in urban areas like Accra, and can be triggered by economic issues, political events, or dissatisfaction with government policies. While most protests are peaceful, some have led to disruptions, roadblocks, and clashes with law enforcement.
Local disputes, particularly in Upper East and Volta Regions, can also contribute to localized public disorder. The government often responds by increasing security measures, and travelers are generally advised to stay informed about local news and avoid large gatherings when visiting these areas.
Crime in Ghana
Crime in Ghana is generally low compared to other countries in the region, but visitors should still exercise caution, particularly in urban areas like Accra and Kumasi. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas, markets, and public transport.
While violent crime is less common, incidents like armed robbery and carjacking have been reported, mainly at night. Taking basic precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas and not displaying valuables, can help ensure a safe visit.
Global Travel AdvisoriesFAQs for visiting Ghana
You can find the following embassies in Ghana for the UK and US:
British High Commission Accra
Julius Nyerere Link,
PO Box 296,
Accra,
Ghana
Telephone: +233 30 221 3250
Email: [email protected]
U.S. Embassy Accra
No. 24 Fourth Circular Rd,
Accra,
Ghana
Telephone: +233 30 274 1000
Email: [email protected]
To visit Ghana, most travelers need a visa, with requirements varying by nationality:
It is recommended that all visitors must have an "in date" passport, with an ‘expiry date’ at least 3 months after the day you plan to leave Ghana.
Visa-Exempt Countries: ECOWAS nationals (like Nigeria and Côte d'Ivoire) can visit Ghana visa-free for up to 90 days.
Visa on Arrival: Available to citizens of select countries, but confirm eligibility with a Ghanaian embassy before travel.
Tourist Visa: Required for most travelers, including those from the US, UK, and Canada. This typically covers up to 90 days and requires a completed form, passport photos, proof of accommodation, return ticket, and payment of fees.
Business Visa: For business travelers, requiring an invitation letter from a Ghanaian organization.
Yellow Fever Vaccination: Mandatory for all visitors over nine months old.
Always check with your local Ghanaian embassy for the latest visa requirements.
Ghanaian border officials have the right to ask for:
Your contact details
Your onward or return travel tickets
Proof of a hotel booking or other accommodation details
While Ghana has largely avoided direct terrorist attacks, the country faces an increasing threat from extremist groups active in neighboring West African nations.
Notably, groups affiliated with ISIS and Al-Qaeda have been expanding their presence in the region, including in countries like Burkina Faso and Togo, both of which share borders with Ghana. This has led to heightened security concerns, especially in Ghana’s northern regions, which are seen as potential entry points for these groups.
In May 2024, Ghana’s Ministry of National Security issued a warning about a potential terrorist threat, prompting increased vigilance, especially in urban areas and around places of worship. This came after attacks in nearby Togo and the observed spread of extremist activities in Burkina Faso. Ghana is also considered strategically important to these groups for smuggling and logistics, which may deter direct attacks, as they utilize Ghana’s relative stability for operational purposes.
Ghanaian authorities have responded by enhancing border security and encouraging public vigilance through campaigns like “See Something, Say Something” to counter potential threats effectively.
Before visiting Ghana, it’s essential to ensure that you’re up-to-date on certain vaccinations to protect against common diseases and health risks in the region. The specific recommendations may vary depending on your health status, the time of year, and the areas you plan to visit, but the following are generally advised:
Required Vaccine
- Yellow Fever: Ghana requires proof of Yellow Fever vaccination for all travelers over nine months of age. You’ll need to carry an International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP) as proof.
Recommended Vaccines
Tro-TrosRoutine Vaccines**: Ensure you’re up to date on standard vaccines, including:
- Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR)
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (DTaP)
- Polio
- Varicella (Chickenpox)
- Influenza
Hepatitis A and B: These are recommended due to potential exposure through food, water, or personal contact. Hepatitis A is particularly relevant for all travelers, while Hepatitis B is especially important for those engaging in higher-risk activities, such as healthcare work.
Typhoid: Recommended for travelers as it can be contracted through contaminated food or water. This is particularly advisable if you plan to visit rural areas.
MalariaMalaria: While there’s no vaccine for malaria, prophylactic antimalarial medication is recommended. Ghana is a high-risk country for malaria, so speak to your healthcare provider about which antimalarial medication is appropriate for you.
Meningococcal Meningitis: This vaccine is recommended for those traveling during the dry season (December to June), especially if visiting northern regions where meningitis outbreaks are more common.
Rabies: This is particularly recommended for those planning extended stays, engaging in outdoor activities, or visiting rural areas where contact with animals is more likely.
Additional Considerations Consult with a healthcare provider or travel clinic 4-6 weeks before your trip to discuss your vaccination needs. They can provide personalized advice based on your travel itinerary and medical history.
Ghana’s public transportation system includes a range of options, primarily serving urban and intercity travel:
Tro-Tros: These are privately owned minibuses or shared vans that operate on fixed routes. Tro-tros are the most popular and affordable means of public transport, particularly in cities like Accra and Kumasi. While inexpensive, they can be crowded and are often less reliable in terms of scheduling.
Buses: Several bus services operate across Ghana. The State Transport Company (STC) and Metro Mass Transit (MMT) provide intercity and intra-city bus services, offering more comfortable and regulated travel options compared to tro-tros. Private bus companies like VIP and VVIP also provide long-distance travel between major cities.
Taxis: Taxis are widely available in urban areas. They can be hired for specific trips, shared with other passengers (called “shared taxis”), or taken on a metered basis. Negotiating the fare in advance is common practice, as not all taxis use meters.
Ride-Hailing Services: Uber and Bolt operate in Accra, Kumasi, and a few other cities, providing a convenient alternative to traditional taxis with set pricing and app-based service.
Trains: Ghana’s railway system is limited, with services primarily focused on freight. Passenger rail services are minimal, although there are plans to expand and modernize the railway network in the future.
Driving on a Foreign License in Ghana
You can drive in Ghana on a foreign driving license for up to three months, provided it is valid and in English or accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) that translates your license information. After this period, you would need to apply for a Ghanaian driving license. If you plan to stay longer or reside in Ghana, converting your foreign license to a Ghanaian one through the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) is necessary.
If you are driving in heavily congested areas, remain vigilant to the recent scam by many pedestrians who will bump into the car pretending you have hit them. They will then try and extort money from the drivers as compensation for being hit. Drive carefully and allow pedestrians plenty of room.
Extreme weather and natural disasters
Ghana is subject to periodic earthquakes, wildfires, floods and droughts, particularly in the Northern Savannah belt.
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330 High Holborn
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London
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Telephone: +44 207 4566740
Email: [email protected]
Disclaimer
You are responsible for your own safety abroad and for making the decision to travel. The information contained in this Travel Advice for Ghana is provided for information only.
Whilst care is taken to ensure that this country brief is as up-to-date and accurate as possible, it is provided on an “as is” basis without any representation or endorsement made and without warranty of any kind, express or implied. Intelligent Protection International Limited does not assume responsibility and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.