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Accra travel guide

Ghana

Basics

CountryGhana

Time zoneAfrica/Accra

CurrencyGHS

Official language(s)English

The dry season from November to March is the best time to visit. Be sure to haggle when shopping in markets to get the right price.

Places to visit

National Theatre of Ghana

One of Accra’s main performance venues, good for theater, dance, and music shows. The building itself is also widely recognized as a cultural landmark.

LocationAccra, Ghana

Nearest stationNational Theatre area

HoursVaries by event

AdmissionVaries by event

Travel tipVisit on a show day for the best experience. Traffic can be busy around major events.

W.E.B. Du Bois Centre

A memorial and cultural site focused on the African diaspora and Pan-Africanism. It helps visitors understand Accra’s intellectual and political history when combined with nearby heritage stops.

LocationAccra, Ghana

Nearest stationIndependence Arch area

HoursCheck ahead

AdmissionCheck ahead

Travel tipIt pairs well with a stop near Independence Arch. Check ahead for any special exhibitions or events.

Aburi Botanical Gardens

A historic botanical garden outside Accra that is great for a nature break. Its trees, lawns, and shaded paths make it a pleasant escape from the city.

LocationAburi, Eastern Region, Ghana

Nearest stationAburi area

HoursCheck ahead

AdmissionCheck ahead

Travel tipAllow half a day because travel from central Accra takes time. Paths can be slippery after rain.

Independence Square (Black Star Square)

A large ceremonial space symbolizing Ghana’s independence and national identity.

LocationIndependence Avenue, Accra

Travel tipGreat for photos, but there is little shade. Morning or late afternoon is more comfortable.

James Town Lighthouse

An iconic lighthouse that reflects Accra’s coastal history and colonial-era heritage.

LocationJamestown, Accra

Travel tipCombine it with the nearby alleys and murals for a richer visit. A guide can help you understand the area better.

Independence Arch

A symbolic monument commemorating Ghana's independence.

HoursOpen 24 hours

AdmissionFree

Travel tipGreat place to take photos while exploring the surrounding park.

National Museum of Ghana

A museum showcasing Ghana's history and culture.

Hours09:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Admission10 GHS

Travel tipYou can gain deeper insights with a guided tour.

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

A mausoleum dedicated to Ghana's first president.

Hours08:00 AM - 05:00 PM

Admission5 GHS

Travel tipYou can also visit the adjacent botanical gardens.

Makola Market

A vibrant traditional market in Ghana.

Hours06:00 AM - 06:00 PM

AdmissionFree

Travel tipGreat for buying local foods and souvenirs.

Food to try

Kelewele Spot

A local delicacy of fried plantains.

Hours04:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Admission10 GHS

Travel tipIt's a popular dessert after meals.

Events

Homoowo Festival

A major festival celebrating harvest, heritage, and community traditions in the Ga area, with music and processions.

WhenUsually around August each year

LocationAccra Region, Ghana

AdmissionUsually free

Travel tipDates can vary each year, so check before visiting. Dress respectfully and follow local customs.

Chale Wote Street Art Festival

A major urban festival celebrating music, art, fashion, and creative culture in Accra.

WhenUsually around August to September each year

LocationAccra, Ghana

Nearest stationJames Town area

HoursDaytime and evening during the festival

AdmissionSome events free, some ticketed

Travel tipEvents happen across the city, so plan your transport in advance. Arrive early for popular performances.

Ghana Music Festival

A festival celebrating Ghana's music and culture.

WhenEvery December

Travel tipEnjoy performances from various artists.

Ghana Independence Celebration

A festival celebrating Ghana's independence.

WhenEvery August

Travel tipJoin in to experience Ghanaian culture.

Ghana Cultural Festival

An event to experience traditional Ghanaian culture.

WhenSummer (June - August)

Travel tipThere will be various performances and exhibitions.

Basic travel phrases (English)

Hello

Hello · Greeting

Thank you

Thank you · Thanks

Nice to meet you

Nice to meet you · Nice to meet you

Have a great day

Have a great day · Wishing a good day

Welcome

Welcome · Welcome

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