Ireland Ghana

Ghana is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea to the south. The capital city, Accra, is a lively hub known for its markets, beaches, and vibrant nightlife. The official language is English, and the country uses the Ghanaian cedi (GHS) as its currency.

Ghanaian food is known for its bold flavours and hearty dishes. Staple foods include maize, cassava, and plantains, typically served with stews or soups. Popular dishes are jollof rice, a spiced tomato-based rice dish,  waakye, a savoury combination of rice and beans; banku, fermented corn and cassava dough, and fufu, a dough-like food made from cassava or yams, served with soups or stews. While Ghana isn’t known for wine production, palm wine and locally brewed drinks like akpeteshie, a traditional liquor, are widely enjoyed.

Ghana offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. At Mole National Park, you can embark on safaris to observe elephants, antelopes, and other wildlife in their natural surroundings. Kakum National Park has hiking trails and a canopy walkway that takes you through the rainforest treetops. Along the coast, visitors can enjoy beach activities such as fishing, surfing, and simply relaxing by the ocean.. For those interested in history, visiting the Cape Coast and Elmina Castles provides insight into Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade.

Ghana is home to a wide variety of landscapes. From the tropical beaches along the Atlantic coast to the vast savannahs in the northern regions, the country has much to offer nature lovers. Notable natural attractions include Kakum National Park, with its famous canopy walk, and Mole National Park, where visitors can observe elephants, antelopes, and other wildlife.

Ghana celebrates numerous festivals, with each region having its own unique celebration. The Ga people in Accra observe the Homowo Festival, which signifies the conclusion of the harvest season. In Kumasi, the Ashanti people hold the Akwasidae Festival to pay tribute to their ancestors and kings. Cape Coast hosts the Panafest, a cultural event that occurs every two years and is dedicated to celebrating the African diaspora and the nation's history.

Travellers to Ghana should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses. Vaccinations for yellow fever (mandatory), hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and meningitis are recommended. Malaria is prevalent in Ghana, so taking anti-malarial medication and using mosquito repellents is strongly advised. Tap water is generally not safe for drinking; bottled water is recommended.

The official currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS).

Ghana operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz. The standard plug types are D and G.

Ghana has various transportation options, including taxis, buses, and tro-tros (shared minivans used for public transport). Domestic flights are available for long-distance travel, particularly between Accra and cities like Kumasi or Tamale. Buses are affordable and popular for intercity travel, though journeys can be long due to road conditions. Renting a car is an option, but it’s best done with a local driver due to major cities' varying road conditions and traffic.

English is the official language of Ghana and is used in government, education, and business. However, numerous local languages are spoken across the country, including Twi, Ga, and Ewe.

Respect for local customs is key in Ghana. Greetings are very important and often involve a handshake, which is usually done with the right hand. Greetings start from the right side whenever you are in a group. Be mindful of humor and teasing, as what is considered funny in one language might not be funny in another.

• Rainy Season (March to November): In the south, the rain is usually heavy between April and June, while the rain from September to November is lighter. The Northern region experiences rain all through from April to October.

• Dry Season (December to February): During the dry season, there is minimal rainfall and cooler temperatures due to the dry harmattan wind from the Sahara. It's advisable to use lip balms, nasal decongestants, and moisturizing lotions during this time. The dry season is ideal for travel since roads are not blocked by floods, and it is easier to spot wildlife.

Travel costs in Ghana can vary depending on your style of travel. Budget travellers can find accommodation in guesthouses and hotels ranging from $20 to $50 per night. Mid-range hotels cost around $60 to $120 per night, while luxury hotels in cities like Accra may exceed $150.

Street food and local restaurants are affordable, with meals costing around $2 to $10, while dining in more upscale restaurants may cost between $15 and $30 per meal. Public transportation is inexpensive, with tro-tro rides costing less than $1 and intercity bus fares ranging from $5 to $15. Domestic flights between major cities can range from $50 to $150 depending on the route and booking time.

• Start your visit in Accra by exploring markets, museums, and nearby beaches. 

• Travel to Cape Coast and Elmina to visit the historic castles and learn about the transatlantic slave trade. 

• For wildlife lovers, a trip to Mole National Park is essential. 

• Don’t miss the canopy walk at Kakum National Park, and if you can, time your visit to coincide with one of Ghana’s lively festivals.

• Sample Ghanaian street food like kelewele (spiced fried plantains) and chinchinga (spiced meat skewers) for an authentic taste of the local flavour.

• Lastly, engaging with local communities and sampling street food is a great way to connect with Ghana’s welcoming people.