Ghana

Ghana is a land of profound heritage and infectious optimism. Often cited as the “friendliest country in Africa,” it is a place where history is etched into colonial forts and the future is being written in the high-design galleries of Accra. From the misty canopy of the Kakum rainforest to the regal traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom, Ghana offers a journey that is as intellectually stimulating as it is visually spectacular.

Whether you are tracing the roots of the diaspora, surfing the Atlantic breaks, or being draped in hand-woven Kente cloth, Ghana welcomes you with a soul-stirring “Akwaaba” (Welcome).

Why we love Ghana

We love Ghana for its “vibe”—a unique blend of high-energy urban life and deep-seated tradition. It is a country that honors its difficult history with grace while celebrating its present with color and music. It is the ability to spend a morning in a solemn 15th-century castle and an evening at a world-class jazz club. It is the gold, the cocoa, the kente, and the genuine warmth of the Ghanaian people that makes this nation the heartbeat of West Africa.

The Most Beautiful Places in Ghana

From the “Black Star” city to the northern savannahs:

1. Accra

Ghana’s capital is a thriving metropolis of contrast. Explore the historic district of Jamestown with its colonial lighthouse, visit the symbolic Black Star Square, and dive into the contemporary art scene at the Gallery 1957. As the sun sets, the city’s rooftop bars and luxury restaurants in districts like Cantonments and Osu showcase the sophisticated side of modern Africa.

2. Cape Coast & Elmina

A coastline of haunting beauty and immense historical significance. The UNESCO-listed castles of Cape Coast and Elmina are powerful monuments to the transatlantic slave trade. Walking through the “Door of No Return” is a rite of passage for many travelers. Today, these historic towns are also vibrant fishing hubs, where hundreds of colorful pirogues line the shore.

3. Kakum National Park

Escape to the jungle. Kakum is famous for its Canopy Walkway—a series of seven suspension bridges hanging 30 meters above the forest floor. It offers a rare bird’s-eye view of the tropical rainforest, home to forest elephants and hundreds of species of butterflies and birds.

4. Kumasi & The Ashanti Heartland

The cultural capital of Ghana. Kumasi is the seat of the Asantehene (the Ashanti King) and a place of immense royal pride. Visit the Manhyia Palace Museum to learn about the legend of the Golden Stool, and explore Kejetia Market—the largest open-air market in West Africa—a dizzying, vibrant labyrinth of commerce.

5. Mole National Park

Located in the far north, Mole is Ghana’s premier wildlife sanctuary. It is a vast savanna land where you can experience a “walking safari” to see herds of elephants, antelopes, and baboons. Staying at a lodge overlooking the watering holes offers a serene, remote connection to the wild.

Highlights of a Tour Through Ghana

  • Kente Weaving in Bonwire: Visit the village where the world-famous Kente cloth originated. Watch master weavers create intricate patterns by hand and learn the symbolic meaning behind every color and thread.
  • The Highlife Heritage: Experience “Highlife” music—the melodic heart of Ghana. From live bands in Accra to traditional drumming in the villages, the rhythm of Ghana is ever-present.
  • Ada Foah & The Volta River: Where the great Volta River meets the Atlantic. This is a haven of luxury beach houses and eco-resorts, perfect for jet-skiing, sailing, or simply relaxing on the sandbanks.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March). This is also the time of the festive “December in GH” season, when Accra becomes the global epicenter for African music, fashion, and returnee celebrations.
  • Getting around: While the roads are generally good, traffic in Accra can be legendary. We recommend private drivers or internal flights to Kumasi or Tamale (for Mole) to maximize your time.
  • Language: English is the official language, making travel exceptionally easy. However, a “Me da ase” (Thank you in Twi) will be met with great appreciation.
  • Currency: The Ghana Cedi (GHS) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and upscale restaurants in Accra, but cash is essential for the markets and smaller towns.