Ghana practical guide
Orientation only. Conditions change; every section names an official source to check before you travel. VisitAfrica does not issue travel advice or sell travel services.
Safety and Etiquette
Keep an eye on your phone and bag in busy spots like Kejetia Market in Kumasi or Makola in Accra, the same way you would in any big city market. Use a registered taxi or ride-hailing app like Bolt or Uber to get around. Greetings are the heart of Ghanaian etiquette: shake hands with the right hand, and greet the eldest or most senior person in a group first. Don't be surprised if someone asks where you're from as a friendly opener — it's normal conversation, not nosiness. Many Ghanaians carry a "day name" (Kofi, Ama, Kwame, Akosua) based on the day they were born, and visitors are sometimes given one too, as a warm gesture. Chieftaincy is still an important part of Ghanaian life. If you're visiting a chief's palace, such as Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, ask before taking photos and dress modestly. The same courtesy applies at shrines, government buildings, and military checkpoints. Funerals are large, colourful public events in Ghana — black and red clothing signals mourning, so it's worth keeping that in mind if one is happening near you. The national emergency number is 112, which works on all networks.
Source: Ghana Police Service and Ghana Tourism AuthorityHealth and Emergencies
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is strictly mandatory for all international travelers aged 9 months and older entering Ghana, and proof must be presented to port health officials upon arrival. The certificate must be administered at least 10 days before departure to be considered valid. Ghana is a high-risk zone for malaria transmission; visitors are strongly advised to consult a travel clinic to obtain appropriate prophylactic medication (such as Malarone or Doxycycline) and pack mosquito repellents containing DEET. In the event of a medical or safety crisis, travelers can dial the centralized national emergency hotline at 112 from any local network to connect with emergency services, including the National Ambulance Service.
Source: Ministry of Health, Ghana Official Portal (MoH)Transport
For fast travel between Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale, use domestic airlines like Africa World Airlines or PassionAir. For intercity road travel, reliable air-conditioned coaches (such as STC or VIP buses) are the safest options, though journey times can vary due to highway congestion. Within major cities, digital ride-hailing apps (Uber, Bolt, Yango) offer the most convenient transport for tourists, while local minibuses (trotros) provide an authentic, ultra-budget alternative for short distances. Avoid nighttime intercity road travel due to poor highway lighting.
Source: Ghana Tourism Authority Official Portal (GTA) / Visit GhanaCurrency and Payments
The currency is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS), commonly displayed as GH₵. Mobile money (MoMo) services like MTN MoMo, Telecel Cash, and AT Money are the most popular payment options across the country, used heavily by local markets, vendors, and transportation services. Visitors can easily set up a MoMo wallet by registering a local SIM card with a passport. While standard credit/debit cards are accepted at major supermarkets and hotels in cities like Accra and Kumasi, travelers should carry small cedi banknotes for daily use. Use secure ATMs located inside bank branches, and only exchange foreign currency at official banks or licensed forex bureaux.
Source: Ghana Tourism Authority Service PortalConnectivity
Mobile data coverage is excellent in urban hubs like Accra and Kumasi, primarily driven by 4G infrastructure, while 5G networks are progressively rolling out across central districts. Short-term visitors can purchase a physical SIM card from licensed network providers (such as MTN, Telecel, or AT) at the airport or official service centers by presenting their international passport and proof of entry. Per National Communications Authority (NCA) mandates, tourist SIM cards are valid for a maximum of 30 days before mandatory deactivation, unless a resident Non-Citizen Ghana Card is acquired. For greater convenience and to bypass in-person biometric registration rules, international travelers are highly encouraged to buy and install digital eSIMs prior to arrival.
Source: National Communications Authority Official Portal (NCA)