Entry Requirements & Visas
New for 2026: Enhanced E-Visa System
Ghana's e-visa platform has been upgraded for faster processing, allowing most travelers to apply online in under 15 minutes for a fee of $150-200 depending on duration. Approval typically takes 3-7 business days, so apply at least two weeks before departure to ensure smooth entry.
Passport Requirements
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Ghana, with at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Always verify with your issuing country for any additional re-entry validity periods, and consider renewing early if your document is nearing expiration to avoid last-minute issues.
Children under 18 traveling without both parents should carry a notarized consent letter to prevent delays at immigration.
Visa-Free Countries
Citizens of ECOWAS member states (like Nigeria and Senegal) can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, while most other nationalities require a visa but can obtain it on arrival at major airports like Kotoka International in Accra.
Visa on arrival is available for single-entry stays up to 60 days, but pre-applying for an e-visa is recommended for smoother processing and to avoid queues.
Always check the latest list on the Ghana Immigration Service website, as exemptions can change based on diplomatic relations.
Visa Applications
For e-visas, apply via the official Ghana Immigration portal (ghanaimmigration.org), submitting a passport scan, flight itinerary, accommodation proof, and bank statements showing sufficient funds (at least $100/day).
The process costs $150 for a 30-day tourist visa and takes 3-7 days; expedited options are available for an extra fee if you're short on time.
Business visas require an invitation letter from a Ghanaian company, and processing can extend to 14 days, so plan accordingly for work-related trips.
Border Crossings
Air entry through Accra's Kotoka International Airport is the most straightforward, with visa-on-arrival desks handling most nationalities efficiently during peak hours.
Land borders with Togo, Côte d'Ivoire, and Burkina Faso require pre-arranged visas and may involve longer waits; always carry your yellow fever certificate for checks.
Sea arrivals via ports like Tema are less common for tourists but follow similar protocols—declare any valuables to avoid customs issues upon exit.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive health insurance is strongly recommended, covering medical evacuation (which can cost $50,000+), tropical diseases, and adventure activities like hiking in Mole National Park.
Policies should include coverage for COVID-19 related issues and start from $2-5/day; providers like World Nomads offer Ghana-specific plans with 24/7 assistance.
Carry printed policy details and emergency contacts, as some remote areas have limited medical facilities, and proof may be requested at entry points.
Extensions Possible
Visa extensions for up to 60 additional days can be applied for at the Ghana Immigration Service office in Accra or regional centers, requiring a fee of about 500 GHS and justification like ongoing tourism or business.
Apply at least one week before expiration to avoid overstay fines (up to 500 GHS/day); overstay without extension can lead to deportation and bans.
Extensions are not guaranteed, so have supporting documents like hotel bookings or event invitations to strengthen your case.
Money, Budget & Costs
Smart Money Management
Ghana uses the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). For the best exchange rates and lowest fees, use Wise to send money or convert currency - they offer real exchange rates with transparent fees, saving you money compared to traditional banks.
Daily Budget Breakdown
Money-Saving Pro Tips
Book Flights Early
Find the best deals to Accra by comparing prices on Trip.com, Expedia, or Booking.com.
Booking 2-3 months in advance can save you 30-50% on airfare, especially during the dry season peak.
Consider flying into regional hubs like Kumasi for cheaper domestic connections via low-cost carriers.
Eat Like a Local
Dine at roadside chop bars for authentic meals like banku or fufu under GHS 30, avoiding tourist restaurants to save up to 60% on food expenses.
Local markets in Accra or Kumasi offer fresh fruits, grilled tilapia, and ready-to-eat dishes at bargain prices—haggle politely for the best deals.
Opt for set lunches (chop set) which include rice, protein, and soup for a filling meal at half the price of à la carte options.
Public Transport Passes
Use tro-tros (shared minibuses) for intercity travel at GHS 20-50 per leg, or get an STP card for Accra's bus system to cut daily commuting costs by 40%.
Domestic flights via Africa World Airlines start at GHS 200 one-way if booked early, far cheaper than private transfers for longer distances.
Avoid peak hours to skip surcharges and negotiate fares with taxi drivers for fixed routes like airport to city center.
Free Attractions
Explore public beaches like Labadi in Accra, Osu night markets, and Kakum National Park trails, which offer rich cultural experiences without entrance fees.
Many historical sites like the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum have free or low-cost entry on national holidays, allowing budget travelers to immerse in history affordably.
Join community walking tours in villages for authentic insights, often hosted by locals for tips only rather than fixed prices.
Card vs Cash
Cards are accepted in urban hotels and malls, but carry cash (GHS) for markets, tro-tros, and rural areas where mobile money like MTN MoMo is also widely used.
Withdraw from bank ATMs (Ecobank or GTBank) for better rates than airport exchanges, and avoid dynamic currency conversion to prevent extra fees.
Use mobile wallets for seamless payments—register on arrival to transfer funds instantly and track spending in real-time.
Attraction Bundles
Purchase a Ghana Tourism Authority pass for bundled entry to multiple sites like Elmina Castle and slave route museums at GHS 200 for 7 days, saving 30% on individual tickets.
It covers guided tours and transport perks, making it ideal for history-focused itineraries across the coast.
Combine with free festivals like Homowo in August for cultural events that don't require additional paid access.
Smart Packing for Ghana
Essential Items for Any Season
Clothing Essentials
Pack lightweight, breathable cotton clothes for the tropical heat, including long-sleeve shirts and pants for sun protection and modest mosque visits in northern regions.
Include quick-dry items for humidity and a light rain jacket for sudden showers; women should consider scarves for cultural sites like Larabanga Mosque.
Opt for neutral colors to blend in and avoid drawing attention in rural areas, with versatile pieces for both beach lounging and city explorations.
Electronics
Bring a universal adapter for Type D/G plugs (three-pin), a solar-powered power bank for remote areas with unreliable electricity, and a waterproof phone case.
Download offline maps (Maps.me) and translation apps for Twi or Ga phrases; a portable Wi-Fi hotspot helps in spots with spotty coverage outside Accra.
Pack a durable camera for wildlife in Mole Park, but secure devices with anti-theft bags during bustling markets.
Health & Safety
Carry your yellow fever vaccination certificate (mandatory), a comprehensive first-aid kit with anti-malarials, bandages, and rehydration salts for traveler's issues.
Include DEET mosquito repellent, high-SPF sunscreen (50+), and water purification tablets since tap water isn't safe—always use bottled or treated sources.
Have copies of prescriptions, travel insurance, and emergency contacts; add a personal medical kit for minor tropical ailments like heat rash.
Travel Gear
Pack a lightweight daypack for day trips to sites like Cape Coast, a reusable water bottle with filter, and a sarong for versatile use as a towel or cover-up.
Bring a money belt or neck pouch for cash and passport security in crowded areas, plus multiple copies of important documents in waterproof sleeves.
Include a headlamp for power outages in rural guesthouses and eco-friendly bags for market shopping to reduce plastic use.
Footwear Strategy
Choose closed-toe sandals or lightweight hiking shoes for dusty roads and national park trails, with breathable options to combat sweat in 30°C+ heat.
Water shoes are essential for beach hopping at Kokrobite or river crossings; pack flip-flops for showers and casual wear in humid conditions.
Avoid new shoes to prevent blisters—break them in advance for long walks in markets or during festivals like Panafest.
Personal Care
Pack travel-sized biodegradable soap, shampoo, and wet wipes for limited facilities in remote areas; include antifungal cream for humid climates.
A compact umbrella or poncho handles rainy season downpours, while lip balm with SPF and moisturizer combats dry harmattan winds in the north.
Don't forget feminine hygiene products (scarce outside cities), nail clippers, and a small sewing kit for clothing repairs on multi-week trips.
When to Visit Ghana
Dry Season (December-February)
Peak time for beach escapes in Ada and wildlife viewing in Mole National Park, with sunny days at 28-32°C and low humidity ideal for outdoor adventures.
Festivals like the Aboakyir deer hunt in Winneba draw crowds, but book accommodations early as prices rise 20-30% during holidays.
Clear skies make it perfect for stargazing in rural areas, though harmattan dust can slightly haze the air in the north.
Hot Season (March-May)
Great for cultural immersion with temperatures soaring to 35°C, suitable for exploring Accra's markets and historical forts without heavy rain interruptions.
Fewer tourists mean lower costs for sites like Kakum Canopy Walk, and it's prime for birdwatching as migrants arrive.
Stay hydrated and visit early mornings to beat the midday heat; coastal breezes provide some relief in the south.
Major Rainy Season (June-August)
Affordable travel with lush greenery enhancing hikes in Aburi Botanical Gardens, though expect afternoon showers at 25-30°C with high humidity.
Ideal for indoor activities like museums in Kumasi or festivals such as Asafotufiami in Ada, with vibrant local celebrations.
Roads can get muddy in rural areas, so opt for 4x4 transport; the rains bring out fireflies and blooming flora for unique sights.
Minor Rainy Season (September-November)
Shoulder season bargains for relaxed beach stays at Busua, with warming trends to 28°C and shorter rains allowing for waterfall visits like Boti Falls.
Harvest festivals in the Volta Region offer authentic experiences with fresh produce markets and fewer crowds than dry season.
Post-rain landscapes are verdant, perfect for photography, but pack layers for cooler evenings in higher elevations like the Akuapem Hills.
Important Travel Information
- Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Exchange rates fluctuate; cards accepted in cities but cash/mobile money essential for rural areas and markets.
- Language: English is official and widely spoken; local languages like Twi, Ga, and Ewe common—basic phrases appreciated in villages.
- Time Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), UTC+0—no daylight saving.
- Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Type D/G plugs (three-pin square or round).
- Emergency Number: 112 for police, medical, or fire; 191 for ambulance; 18555 for tourism police.
- Tipping: Not mandatory but customary—10% in restaurants, GHS 5-10 for guides or porters; round up taxi fares.
- Water: Tap water unsafe; drink bottled or purified—avoid ice in rural spots.
- Pharmacies: Available in cities (look for "Chemist" signs); stock basics but bring specialized meds from home.
