Things To Do
in Accra
Accra, the capital city of Ghana, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, diverse culture, and dynamic economy. It serves as the administrative, economic, and educational heart of the country, hosting a mix of modern buildings, colonial architecture, bustling markets, and traditional crafts.
Accra's beautiful coastline, friendly locals, and lively music scene make it a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.
- "Me da wo ase" - Thank you
- "Yɛn ara nsɛm" - It's our matter
- "Ɛyɛ" - It is good
- "Odo yɛ" - Love is
- "Kɔtɔkɔ" - Go well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum to learn about Ghana's first President. Enjoy the gardens and take some time for reflection.
Visit the W.E.B. Du Bois Center to discover more about the Pan-African movement. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery nearby.
Head to Jamestown for a street art tour and beautiful coastal views. Wrap up your evening with a fresh seafood dinner at a local restaurant.
Spend the morning lounging at Labadi Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the ocean breeze. You can partake in beach volleyball or horse riding.
Grab a beachside lunch and indulge in traditional Ghanaian jollof rice and grilled fish. Take a leisurely stroll along the shore.
Enjoy live music at the beach as the sun sets over the horizon. Savor a refreshing drink and dine at one of the beach bars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Warm climate throughout the year, appealing to sun lovers.
- Growing economy with diverse business opportunities.
- Friendly and hospitable people.
- Access to beautiful beaches and coastal areas.
- Cultural festivals and events throughout the year.
- Increasing investment in infrastructure and development.
- Traffic congestion and poor road infrastructure in some areas.
- Challenges with waste management and pollution.
- Higher cost of living in certain neighborhoods.
- Limited access to quality healthcare facilities.
- Security concerns in some areas.
- Harsh sun and humidity may be uncomfortable for some.
- Limited public transportation options.
Best Activities in Accra
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the historic Osu Castle which was once a colonial Danish-Norwegian and later British fort.
Relax and enjoy the sun, sea, and sand at Labadi Beach, one of the most popular beaches in Accra.
Explore the lush and beautiful Aburi Botanical Gardens, featuring a wide variety of plants and trees.
Tours
Uncover the best of Accra with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Accra
Visit one of these nice places.
Visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum for a panoramic view of the city skyline and a chance to capture stunning photos of the surrounding area.
Head to Labadi Beach for picturesque views of the coast, colorful fishing boats, and vibrant sunsets, offering plenty of photo opportunities.
Explore Osu Castle and enjoy breathtaking views of the coastline, cityscape, and historic architecture, providing excellent photo spots.
Food in Accra
Accra Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular one-pot dish made with seasoned rice, tomatoes, and various meats or vegetables. Best enjoyed at Bantama Market or Maquis Tante Marie.
Must-Try!
A staple dish featuring fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and hot pepper sauce. Try it at Asanka Local or Azmera Restaurant.
Spicy, fried plantains infused with ginger, onions, and peppers. Look for street vendors in Osu or Labadi Beach for the best experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Accra better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Accra's largest markets, offering a wide array of street food delights such as waakye, fufu, and grilled meats. A must-visit for a true taste of local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Accra, it is common to greet people with a firm handshake and a warm smile. It is also customary to use titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss when addressing someone, especially if they are older or in a position of authority.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Ghanaian culture. It is important to show deference to older individuals by addressing them with respect and following traditional customs of greeting and interaction.
When in public spaces in Accra, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or attending formal events. Women are often expected to dress modestly, covering their shoulders and wearing dresses or skirts that fall below the knee.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Accra with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Accra
Ensure a smooth experience
In Accra, Ghana, tipping is not mandatory but is generally appreciated for good service. It is customary to tip around 10% of the bill at restaurants and to tip hotel staff, tour guides, and taxi drivers for exceptional service.
Payment in Accra, Ghana is primarily made in cash, especially for small transactions. Some businesses may accept credit or debit cards, but it's always good to have cash on hand. ATMs are widely available for withdrawing cash. Mobile money services such as M-Pesa and MTN Mobile Money are also popular for making payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Accra.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. This season is not recommended for travel as outdoor activities may be limited.
This is the best time to visit Accra, Ghana. Expect dry and sunny weather, making it ideal for exploring the city, beaches, and outdoor attractions.
During this season, Accra experiences dusty winds from the Sahara desert, resulting in hazy conditions. However, it can still be a good time to visit if you don't mind the dust.
Accra at Night
Hiking in Accra
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 30 kilometers from Accra, the Aburi Botanical Gardens offers scenic hiking trails amidst lush greenery and diverse plant species. The cool climate and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect spot for hiking.
Though a bit further from Accra, Kakum National Park features stunning hiking trails, canopy walks, and a rich variety of wildlife. It is renowned for its natural beauty and biodiversity, making it a popular spot for nature enthusiasts.
Just a short drive from Accra, Shai Hills offers various hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and beautiful rock formations. The reserve is home to several species of antelope and birdlife, providing a great hiking experience.
The Akwapim Hills are located northeast of Accra and provide a range of hiking opportunities with panoramic views. The area is characterized by rolling hills and is excellent for both novice and experienced hikers.
This trail is situated near the Tetteh Quarshie Interchange and offers a more urban hiking experience, allowing you to explore the outskirts of Accra with some greenery and local scenery.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Accra through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Accra by plane.
The main international airport serving Accra, Ghana.
Located in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, approximately 500 km from Accra.
Located in Lagos, Nigeria, approximately 600 km from Accra.
Located in Cotonou, Benin, approximately 650 km from Accra.
Located in Niamey, Niger, approximately 1,200 km from Accra.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Ghana, predominantly found in the southern regions, including Accra.
A significant ethnic group in Ghana, mainly located in the Volta Region, but also present in Accra.
The native ethnic group of the Greater Accra Region, including the capital city, Accra.
A group of ethnicities predominantly from the northern regions of Ghana, with some presence in urban areas like Accra.
Ethnic groups from the northern regions, including the Dagombas and Mamprusis, seen in Accra due to migration.
Including various immigrant communities and smaller ethnic groups from within and outside Ghana.
The Soul of Accra
Discover the essence of Accra through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Accra, with a passionate following. The city is home to several professional clubs, and local matches often attract large crowds.
Basketball has gained popularity in recent years, especially among the youth. Many schools and communities have their own basketball courts, and local tournaments are frequently held.
Athletics, including track and field events, is widely practiced in schools and colleges. Ghana has produced notable athletes who have competed internationally.
Volleyball is popular in both recreational and competitive settings. There are several clubs and leagues dedicated to the sport in Accra.
Rugby is steadily gaining traction in Accra, with various clubs and increasing participation among young people.
Boxing has a rich history in Ghana, with many successful boxers emerging from the country. Training gyms are prevalent, and the sport enjoys a dedicated following.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Accra.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ghanaian cuisine heavily features meat and fish, many restaurants in Accra offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, especially in tourist areas like Osu and Labone.
Some eateries in Accra are mindful of gluten-free dietary needs, and it's recommended to inquire about the ingredients and preparation methods when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Accra with these cultural adventures.
