Ghana is a country in West Africa that is known for its rich culture, history, and natural beauty. It is often called the "Land of Gold" because of its abundant gold resources and its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Ghana is also one of the friendliest and most peaceful countries in Africa, and has a stable democracy and a vibrant economy. If you are planning to visit Ghana, you might be wondering what to expect as a tourist in this diverse and fascinating country. In this blog post, I will share with you some of the things that you can expect to see, do, and experience in Ghana, and some tips on how to make the most of your trip.
What to See in Ghana
Ghana has a lot to offer to tourists who are interested in seeing its cultural and natural attractions. Some of the most popular places to visit in Ghana are:
• Accra: The capital and largest city of Ghana, Accra is a bustling metropolis that has a mix of modern and colonial architecture, museums, markets, and nightlife. Some of the highlights of Accra are the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, the National Museum, the Independence Square, the Makola Market, and the Labadi Beach.
• Cape Coast and Elmina: These two coastal towns are famous for their historic castles that were used as forts and slave dungeons by the European traders. The Cape Coast Castle and the Elmina Castle are both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that tell the story of the slave trade and its impact on the people of Ghana and the diaspora. You can also visit the nearby Kakum National Park, which has a canopy walkway that offers a stunning view of the rainforest and its wildlife.
• Kumasi: The second-largest city and the cultural capital of Ghana, Kumasi is the home of the Ashanti kingdom, one of the most powerful and influential kingdoms in West Africa. You can visit the Manhyia Palace, the official residence of the Asantehene, the king of the Ashanti, and the Kumasi Cultural Centre, which has a museum, a library, and a craft village. You can also explore the Kejetia Market, the largest open-air market in West Africa, and the Kumasi Central Mosque, the largest mosque in Ghana.
• Mole National Park: The largest and most popular wildlife reserve in Ghana, Mole National Park is home to elephants, lions, antelopes, monkeys, and many other animals that you can see on a safari. You can also enjoy the scenic views of the park from the Mole Motel, which overlooks a waterhole where the animals come to drink. You can also visit the nearby Larabanga Mosque, the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa, which has a Sudanese architectural style.
• Lake Volta: The largest artificial lake in the world by surface area, Lake Volta was created by the construction of the Akosombo Dam on the Volta River. The lake is a source of hydroelectric power, irrigation, and fishing for Ghana, and also a tourist attraction for its scenic beauty and recreational activities. You can take a boat ride on the lake and visit some of the islands, such as Dodi Island, which has a resort and a golf course, or Digya National Park, which has a variety of wildlife.
What to Do in Ghana
Ghana has a lot to offer to tourists who are looking for fun and adventure. Some of the things that you can do in Ghana are:
• Hike to the highest mountain in Ghana, Mount Afadjato, which has a summit elevation of 885 metres (2,904 ft). You can enjoy the panoramic views of the landscape and the nearby Tagbo Falls, which is the highest waterfall in West Africa.
• Experience the culture and music of Ghana at the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, which is held annually in August in the Jamestown neighborhood of Accra. The festival showcases the creativity and talent of local and international artists, who transform the streets into a colorful and vibrant gallery of graffiti, murals, installations, performances, and workshops.
• Learn about the history and heritage of Ghana at the Panafest, which is a biennial festival that celebrates the culture and identity of the African people and the diaspora. The festival is held in July and August in various locations in Ghana, such as Cape Coast, Elmina, and Accra, and features events such as lectures, exhibitions, concerts, theater, and a pilgrimage to the slave dungeons and the Door of No Return.
• Taste the delicious and diverse cuisine of Ghana, which is influenced by the various ethnic groups, regions, and colonial influences in the country. Some of the typical dishes of Ghana are fufu, a dough-like staple made from cassava or plantain, which is eaten with soup or stew; jollof rice, a spicy rice dish with meat or vegetables; waakye, a dish of rice and beans cooked with spices and served with stew, salad, and fried plantain; and kelewele, a snack of fried plantain seasoned with ginger, pepper, and salt.
• Shop for souvenirs and handicrafts at the various markets and shops in Ghana, where you can find items such as kente cloth, a colorful woven fabric that is a symbol of the Ashanti culture; adinkra symbols, geometric designs that represent concepts and proverbs; beads, which are used for jewelry, decoration, and currency; and wood carvings, masks, and sculptures that depict animals, humans, and spirits.
What to Expect in Ghana
Ghana is a country that has a lot of charm and character, but also some challenges and difficulties. Here are some of the things that you can expect to encounter in Ghana, and some tips on how to deal with them:
• The weather in Ghana is hot and humid throughout the year, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F). The rainy season is from April to June and from September to November, and the dry season is from December to March. You should pack light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat or umbrella to protect yourself from the sun and the rain.
• The currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS), which is divided into 100 pesewas. The exchange rate as of April 2023 is 1 USD = 6.08 GHS. You can exchange your money at the airport, banks, hotels, or forex bureaus, but be aware of the commission fees and the exchange rates. You can also use your credit or debit card at some ATMs, but be careful of the transaction fees and the security risks. You should always carry some cash with you, as many places do not accept cards or electronic payments.
• The transportation in Ghana is varied and affordable, but also chaotic and unreliable. You can choose from different modes of transport, such as taxis, tro-tros (minibuses), buses, trains, or domestic flights. Taxis are convenient and comfortable, but you should always negotiate the fare before getting in, as they do not have meters. Tro-tros are cheap and ubiquitous, but they are also crowded, noisy, and unsafe. Buses are more comfortable and reliable than tro-tros, but they are also more expensive and less frequent. Trains are slow and limited, but they offer a scenic and nostalgic way to travel. Domestic flights are fast and convenient, but they are also costly and subject to delays and cancellations.
The culture in Ghana is diverse and vibrant, but also conservative and traditional. You should respect the customs and norms of the Ghanaian people, and avoid any behavior that might offend or disrespect them. Some of the things that you should keep in mind are:
• Greet people with a smile and a handshake, and use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Dr. when addressing them. You can also learn some greetings in the local languages, such as "Akwaaba" (welcome) or "Medaase" (thank you) in Twi, the most widely spoken language in Ghana.
• Dress modestly and appropriately, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. You should avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or dresses that are above the knee, or tops that are too revealing or low-cut. You should also cover your head and shoulders when entering a mosque or a shrine.
• Use your right hand for eating, waving, and handing things to people, as the left hand is considered unclean and rude. You should also avoid pointing at people or things with your finger, as this is also considered rude. You can use your whole hand or your chin instead.
• Avoid public displays of affection, such as kissing, hugging, or holding hands, as this is considered inappropriate and immoral. You should also avoid any topics or jokes that might be sensitive or controversial, such as politics, religion, or sexuality.
• Tip generously and politely, as this is expected and appreciated in Ghana. You should tip around 10% of the bill at restaurants, hotels, and bars, and around 5% of the fare for taxis and tro-tros. You should also tip your guides, drivers, and porters, depending on the quality and duration of their service.
Ghana is a country that will surprise you, delight you, and challenge you. It is a country that will make you feel welcome, inspired, and transformed. It is a country that you will never forget. If you are looking for a destination that offers culture, history, nature, and adventure, then Ghana is the place for you. I hope this blog post has given you some insight into what to expect as a tourist in Ghana, and some tips on how to make the most of your
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