- Attractions in Ghana
- Language
- Ghana is a linguistically diverse country, home to over 80 languages. The official language is English, a vestige of its colonial past, and is widely spoken and understood across the country. It is used in government, media, and education, making it easy for English-speaking visitors to navigate the country. Akan, a native language, is the most commonly spoken local language, particularly its dialects Twi and Fante. Other local languages include Ewe, Ga, Dagbani, Dangme, and Nzema. Despite the diversity, Ghanaians are largely multilingual, often fluent in English and at least one local language.
- Best time to visit
- The best time to visit Ghana is during the dry season, which falls between November and April. During this period, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the country's beautiful landscapes, wildlife parks, and coastal regions. It's also a great time to participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and cultural festivals. However, it's worth noting that temperatures can get quite high, especially in the northern regions, so it's advisable to stay hydrated and wear sun protection. Also, as this is a popular time to visit, it's recommended to book accommodation and tours in advance.
- Festivals
- Date: MarchFestival name: Independence DayIndependence Day celebrates Ghana's independence from British colonial rule in 1957. The day is marked by military parades, cultural performances, and speeches by government officials. Visitors can enjoy vibrant celebrations in the capital, Accra, with traditional music, dance, and the chance to witness the pride and patriotism of the Ghanaian people.
- Date: AugustFestival name: Homowo FestivalCelebrated primarily by the Ga people in Accra and surrounding areas, Homowo is a harvest festival that involves traditional rituals, feasting, and cultural displays. It typically falls in August and marks the end of the hunger season with an abundance of food, particularly the traditional dish "kpala." Travelers can immerse themselves in lively street processions, drumming, and dance performances.
- Local cuisine
- Jollof Rice
- A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices like thyme and chili. It's often served with grilled meats, chicken, or fried plantains.
- Banku and Tilapia
- Banku is a dough-like dish made from fermented corn and cassava dough, cooked into a smooth paste, and served with tilapia fish cooked in a rich, spicy tomato-based sauce.
- Fufu and Light Soup
- Fufu is made by pounding boiled cassava and plantains into a stretchy, smooth consistency. It's served with light soup, a flavorful broth made with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and meat such as goat, chicken, or beef.
- Kelewele
- Spicy fried plantains coated in a mixture of ginger, garlic, and chili powder. It's typically served as a snack or side dish and often accompanied by peanuts or roasted fish.
- Groundnut Soup
- A savory soup made with ground peanuts, tomatoes, onions, and meat (usually goat, beef, or chicken). It's rich and creamy, typically served with rice balls, fufu, or pounded yam.
- Chinchinga
- Grilled skewers of marinated beef, chicken, or fish, often served with a spicy sauce and accompanied by bread or fried yam. This dish is a popular street food in Ghana.
- Eba and Okra Soup
- Eba is a starchy dish made from cassava flour, kneaded into a smooth dough. It's paired with okra soup, a thick and mucilaginous soup made from okra, tomatoes, onions, and various meats.
- Palm Nut Soup
- A rich, flavorful soup made from the pulp of palm nuts, often cooked with meat or fish, and spiced with ginger, garlic, and other local herbs. It's served with rice balls, fufu, or banku.
- Packing
When packing for a trip to Ghana, it's essential to consider the tropical climate. Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended, along with a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of sunblock for protection against the strong sun. As the evenings can be cooler, a light jacket or sweater is also advisable. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring, and if you plan to visit any religious sites, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is required. Don't forget to pack a reliable insect repellent and any necessary prescription medications. It's also recommended to bring a universal power adapter as plugs can vary, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. Remember, it's always best to pack light and leave room for any local crafts or souvenirs you may pick up during your visit.
- Currency
The official currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS), which is subdivided into 100 pesewas. The currency is available in both coin and banknote forms, with coins denominated in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50 pesewas and 1, 2 cedis, and banknotes in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, and 200 cedis. ATMs are prevalent in Ghana, especially in cities and larger towns, and most of them accept international debit and credit cards. Credit cards are increasingly accepted in urban areas at hotels, upscale restaurants, and shops, but cash is generally preferred in rural areas and smaller establishments. It's advisable for visitors to keep smaller denominations on hand for minor transactions.
- Transport
Ghana's primary international gateway is Kotoka International Airport, located in the capital city of Accra. For in-country travel, a variety of options are available. Intercity buses are a popular choice, with providers like VIP and STC offering relatively comfortable and reliable service. Shared taxis and tro-tros (minibuses) are common in urban areas, providing an affordable yet bustling way of getting around. Car rentals are available, but be aware that road conditions can be challenging, and traffic in Accra can be heavy. Ride-hailing services such as Uber are also operational in major cities. For navigating Ghana's transportation, patience and flexibility are key. Always confirm fares before departure and be prepared for unexpected delays or changes in schedule.
- Emergency
In Ghana, it's considered disrespectful to use your left hand for gesturing or giving and receiving items, as the left hand is traditionally seen as unclean. Also, direct eye contact with elders or people of status is often avoided as a sign of respect. When visiting sacred or religious sites, be sure to follow local customs and dress modestly. It's also important to ask for permission before taking photos of people. In case of an emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or ambulance services.
- Power socket
Ghana uses Type D and Type G power sockets. The standard voltage is 230 V, and the standard frequency is 50 Hz. Type D plug has three round pins in a triangular pattern and the Type G plug has three rectangular blades in a triangular pattern.
- Top Ghana tour operators
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