Travel Advice
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Country Description

Ghana is a developing country on the West Coast of Africa. Facilities for tourism are available in the population centers of the greater Accra region, Kumasi in the Ashanti region, and in the Cape Coast area of the Central region but are limited in the more remote areas of the country.

Entry Requirements

A passport and visa are required, as is evidence of a yellow fever vaccination. Travelers should obtain the latest information and details from their nearest Ghanaian Embassy or Consulate.

Safety & Security

Travellers should avoid political rallies and street demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times.

Crime Prevention

Pickpocketing, purse snatching, and various types of scams are the most common forms of crime confronting visitors. Travelers have reported instances of these types of theft in crowded market areas, beaches and parks, and at tourist attractions. Travelers who limit their display of jewelry and handle their cash discreetly reduce their vulnerability to crime.

In recent years, there have been reported substantial financial losses from questionable transactions involving gold and other precious metals. The Government of Ghana maintains strict regulations on these natural resources. All agents must be licensed and all transactions must be certified. See Customs Restrictions below.

Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations targets foreignersand poses a danger of financial loss and physical harm.

Persons contemplating business deals in Ghana with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly urged to check with their relevant Department of Commerce before providing any information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Ghana.

The loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the consular section of your national Embassy.

Medical Facilities

Medical facilities are limited, particularly outside Accra, the capital. Doctors and hospitals take only cash payment for health care services. Travelers should be aware that evidence of and/or assurances from insurance companies will not be accepted as settlement of medical expenses in Ghana.

Medical Insurance

Check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death.

Other Health Information

Travelers should consider taking prophylaxis against malaria.

Traffic Safety & Road Conditions

The information below concerning Ghana is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Safety of Public Transportation: Fair
Urban Road Conditions/Maintenance: Good
Rural Road Conditions/Maintenance: Poor
Availability of Roadside Assistance: Poor

Most primary roads are generally paved and well maintained. However, roads outside the major cities are in poor condition. The road from Accra to the central region tourist area of Cape Coast continues to be the site of many accidents. Travel in darkness, particularly outside the major cities, is extremely hazardous, due to poor street lighting and the unpredictable behavior of pedestrians, bicyclists and farm animals, such as goats and pigs.

The safety standards of the small private buses that transit roads and highways are uncertain. Travelers are encouraged to consider this when making travel arrangements.

Travelers are routinely stopped at police checkpoints throughout Ghana. Automobiles and passengers may be searched. Drivers must possess an international drivers license. Foreign nationals are expected to carry documentation of their status, such as a passport and visa.

Customs Restrictions

Visitors entering Ghana with more than 5,000 US dollars in cash are required to declare the amount upon entry into Ghana. Currency exchange is available at most banks and at licensed foreign exchange bureaus. Currency transactions with private citizens are illegal.

The Government of Ghana maintains strict regulations on the import and export of gold, diamonds and other precious natural resources. Only agents licensed by the Precious Metals and Mining Commission, tel. (233)(21) 664-635 or 664-579, may handle import-export transactions of these natural resources. Any transaction lacking this Commission's endorsement may be illegal and/or fraudulent. Attempts to evade regulations are punishable by prison terms.

In rare instances, visitors arriving in Ghana with sophisticated electronic equipment (video cameras and laptop computers) may have to deposit 17.5 per cent of the item's value with the Customs and Excise office at the airport. To get the deposit refunded, visitors must apply to the Customs and Excise Office in central Accra 48 hours before departure.

Criminal Penalties

While in a foreign country, travellers are subject to that country's laws and regulations. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe than for similar offenses in your home country. Persons violating Ghanaian law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Ghana are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.

Prohibitions on Photography

Taking pictures near sensitive installations, including military sites and government buildings, is prohibited. In some instances, film and cameras have been confiscated. Photographs of Accra's International Airport are prohibited.

Clothing Prohibitions

The wearing of any military apparel, such as camouflage jackets or trousers, or any clothing or items which may appear military in nature, is strictly prohibited.

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