A bustling market in the heart of Accra, known for its wide array of goods from food to clothing and traditional crafts.

Makola Market is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Accra, Ghana. As one of the city's most vibrant and bustling markets, it offers a unique glimpse into the daily life of locals. /n From fresh produce and traditional African textiles to handmade jewelry and local crafts, the market is a treasure trove of goods. The lively atmosphere and the friendly vendors make shopping here a truly enjoyable experience. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or just want to soak up the local culture, Makola Market is the place to be.

A bustling market in the heart of Accra, known for its vibrant atmosphere and wide range of goods.

James Town is a vibrant neighborhood in Accra known for its rich history and culture. It's famous for the annual Chale Wote Street Art Festival which attracts artists from all over the world.

James Town is a bustling neighborhood in Accra, Ghana, known for its rich history and cultural significance. It's a place where the old meets the new, with colonial-era buildings standing alongside modern structures. The neighborhood is home to several important landmarks, including the James Fort and the Ussher Fort, both of which date back to the 17th century. /n The area is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with numerous festivals and events taking place throughout the year. One of the most notable of these is the Chale Wote Street Art Festival, which attracts artists and spectators from around the world. In addition to its historical and cultural attractions, James Town is also known for its lively street life, with numerous shops, restaurants, and markets to explore.

James Town is a vibrant neighborhood in Accra, known for its rich history and cultural significance.

A historic lighthouse located in the Jamestown neighborhood of Accra. It provides a panoramic view of the city.

The Jamestown Lighthouse is a historic landmark in Accra, Ghana. Built by the British in the 19th century, it's one of the oldest lighthouses in the country. /n The lighthouse offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. It's a popular tourist attraction, and a great spot for photography. The surrounding area, Jamestown, is one of the oldest districts in the city, and is rich in history and culture.

A historic lighthouse offering panoramic views of Accra.

The final resting place of the first President of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah. It also houses a museum detailing his life and times.

The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum is a significant historical site in Accra. It's a tribute to Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah, and a symbol of the country's struggle for independence. The mausoleum is located in a beautiful park and is surrounded by water, which is a symbol of life. /n The mausoleum itself is made of marble and is the final resting place of Nkrumah and his wife. Inside, you can find a museum that tells the story of Nkrumah's life and the struggle for independence. The mausoleum is a must-visit for anyone interested in Ghana's history.

The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum is a significant historical site in Accra.

A vibrant marketplace and cultural hub where you can find a wide variety of Ghanaian crafts, art, and traditional items.

The Accra Arts Center is a vibrant hub for local arts and crafts in Accra, Ghana. It offers a wide range of handmade items, from traditional textiles to intricate beadwork. The center is a bustling marketplace where local artisans sell their wares. /n The center also offers workshops and demonstrations, allowing visitors to learn about traditional Ghanaian crafts. Whether you're looking for a unique souvenir or want to immerse yourself in local culture, the Accra Arts Center is a must-visit.

A vibrant hub for local arts and crafts, offering a wide range of handmade items.

The National Theatre, opened in 1992, is a distinctive building with a post-modern architectural style. It houses the three resident companies of the National Dance Company, the National Symphony Orchestra, and the National Theatre Players.

The National Theatre, located in the heart of Accra, is a testament to Ghana's rich cultural heritage and architectural prowess. Opened in 1992, the theatre has since become a hub for the performing arts, hosting a variety of performances that range from traditional dance and music to contemporary plays and concerts. /n The building itself is a sight to behold, with its unique design that resembles a ship's sail. Inside, the theatre boasts a grand auditorium, two exhibition halls, and a restaurant. The National Theatre is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, the National Dance Company, and the National Drama Company, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in experiencing Ghana's vibrant performing arts scene.

The National Theatre in Accra is a hub for performing arts, showcasing Ghana's rich culture.

A beautiful garden located in the hills north of Accra, featuring a wide variety of plant species, both native and exotic.

Aburi Botanical Gardens is a beautiful, serene spot in Accra. It's a great place to relax, enjoy nature, and learn about various plant species. The gardens are home to a wide variety of plants, from local species to exotic plants from around the world. /n The gardens are also home to a number of bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching. There are also several walking trails, which allow you to explore the gardens at your own pace. The Aburi Botanical Gardens is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.

Aburi Botanical Gardens is a beautiful, serene spot in Accra.

The Akosombo Dam, also known as the Volta Dam, is a hydroelectric dam on the Volta River in southeastern Ghana. It's a significant source of power for the country and has created one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, Lake Volta.

Akosombo Dam is a significant landmark in Ghana. It's a hydroelectric dam on the Volta River, which has played a crucial role in the country's development. The dam was constructed in the 1960s and has since been a major source of electricity for the country. /n The dam is also a popular tourist attraction, with visitors coming to marvel at the massive structure and the beautiful scenery that surrounds it. The area around the dam is also home to a variety of wildlife, making it a great spot for nature lovers. In addition to its practical uses and natural beauty, the Akosombo Dam also holds historical significance, as it represents a major achievement in Ghana's post-independence development.

Akosombo Dam, a significant landmark in Ghana, is a hydroelectric dam on the Volta River.

Experience the vibrant culture and rich history of Accra, Ghana's bustling capital. This city offers a blend of modern and traditional attractions, from the bustling Makola Market, where you can haggle for local goods, to the serene beaches of Labadi and Kokrobite. Explore the city's colonial past at the Osu Castle, or delve into Ghana's history at the National Museum. Don't miss the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, dedicated to Ghana's first president. Enjoy local cuisine at a chop bar, and dance the night away at one of the city's lively nightclubs. Accra's warm climate, friendly locals, and diverse experiences make it a must-visit African destination.

Makola Market

James Town

Jamestown Lighthouse

Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Makola Market, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and shop for traditional Ghanaian textiles and crafts.

Enjoy a traditional Ghanaian lunch at a local eatery, where you can sample dishes like jollof rice, waakye, and kelewele.

Spend the afternoon exploring the historic James Town neighborhood, known for its colonial-era architecture and the iconic Jamestown Lighthouse.

Dine at a local restaurant serving fresh seafood caught by the local fishermen. Try the grilled tilapia or the lobster thermidor.

End your day with a stroll along the beach, enjoying the cool evening breeze and the sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

Exploring Central Accra and James Town

Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum

Accra Arts Center

National Theatre

Begin your day with a visit to the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, a monument dedicated to Ghana's first president and a symbol of the country's struggle for independence.

Have lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes like banku and tilapia, a popular Ghanaian dish.

Spend the afternoon at the Accra Arts Center, where you can shop for traditional Ghanaian arts and crafts, and watch performances by local musicians and dancers.

Enjoy a dinner of traditional Ghanaian cuisine at a local restaurant. Try the fufu and goat soup, a staple dish in Ghana.

End your day with a visit to the National Theatre, where you can catch a performance of traditional Ghanaian music and dance.

Immersing in Ghanaian History and Culture

Aburi Botanical Gardens

Akosombo Dam

Start your day with a visit to the Aburi Botanical Gardens, a beautiful oasis of calm and tranquility just outside the bustling city of Accra.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the gardens, surrounded by the lush greenery and the sound of birdsong.

Spend the afternoon exploring the nearby Akosombo Dam, a marvel of modern engineering that provides much of Ghana's electricity.

Dine at a local restaurant near the dam, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the Volta River.

End your day with a relaxing boat ride on the Volta River, enjoying the peaceful surroundings and the stunning sunset.

Experiencing Nature and Engineering Marvels

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Taxis are a common mode of transport in Accra. They are easily identifiable by their yellow fender. You can hail them from the roadside or find them at designated taxi ranks. It's advisable to negotiate the fare before the journey starts as most taxis do not have meters.

Tro Tros are minibuses that operate on specific routes throughout the city. They are a popular and affordable way to get around, although they can be crowded. Tro Tros usually have a conductor who shouts out the destination and collects fares.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt operate in Accra. They offer a convenient and safe way to get around the city. You can book a ride using their respective mobile apps. The fare is calculated based on the distance and time of travel.

If you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental companies in Accra. You will need a valid international driver's license. Traffic in Accra can be heavy, especially during peak hours, and road conditions vary.

Accra has a public bus system operated by Metro Mass Transit. The buses are larger and less crowded than Tro Tros, but they also operate on fixed routes. They are a good option for longer distances within the city.

Cycling is not very common in Accra due to the heavy traffic and lack of dedicated cycling lanes. However, some areas of the city are more bike-friendly. It's a good option for short distances and to avoid traffic jams.

Motorcycle taxis, locally known as 'Okada', are a fast way to get around in Accra, especially during traffic jams. However, they are considered less safe due to the risks associated with motorbike riding.

Walking is a viable option for short distances, especially in the city center where attractions are close to each other. However, be aware that pedestrian infrastructure like sidewalks and crosswalks may be lacking in some areas.

A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and various spices. It is a staple in Ghanaian cuisine and is often served with chicken or fish.

Jollof Rice

A traditional Ghanaian dish made from rice and beans. It's usually served with a variety of accompaniments like spaghetti, boiled eggs, fried fish, and shito (a spicy black pepper sauce).

Waakye

A classic Ghanaian dish consisting of fermented corn and cassava dough (Banku) served with grilled tilapia and a spicy pepper sauce.

Banku and Tilapia

A popular Ghanaian snack made from ripe plantains that are marinated in a mixture of spices and then deep-fried until golden and crispy.

Kelewele

A traditional Ghanaian meal. Fufu is a starchy accompaniment made by pounding cassava and plantain or yam, and is served with a rich and flavorful goat soup.

Fufu and Goat Soup

A popular Ghanaian bean stew that gets its name from the red palm oil and red pepper used in its preparation. It's typically served with fried plantains.

Red Red

A hot and spicy condiment made from dried seafood, chillies, garlic, ginger and other spices. It's a staple in Ghanaian cuisine and is often served with rice dishes and fried fish.

Shito

A rich and creamy soup made from groundnuts (peanuts), tomatoes, onions, and various spices. It's often served with rice balls or fufu.

Groundnut Soup

A traditional Ghanaian alcoholic beverage made from the sap of various species of palm tree. It's a popular drink in rural areas and is often served at social gatherings and festivals.

Palm Wine

A refreshing Ghanaian drink made from hibiscus flowers, ginger, and sugar. It's often served chilled and is popular for its health benefits.

Sobolo

A traditional Ghanaian beer made from fermented millet or sorghum. It's a popular drink in northern Ghana and is often served at social events.

Pito

A traditional dish from the Volta region of Ghana. Akple is a type of dumpling made from cornmeal, and it's served with a slimy soup made from okra.

Akple and Okro Soup

New Year's Day

Constitution Day

Constitution Day observed

Independence Day

Good Friday

Easter Monday

Eid ul-Fitr

Eid ul-Fitr Holiday

May Day

Eid al-Adha

Founders' Day

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day

Farmer's Day

Christmas Day

Boxing Day

Founders' Day observed

Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day observed

A beautiful garden located on a highland for nature lovers.

A dense tropical rain forest in southern Ghana. The park is home to over 300 bird species, butterflies, and endangered mammals like the Diana monkey.

Kakum National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this castle was a significant node in the tragic trans-Atlantic slave trade.

Elmina Castle

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this castle was one of about forty 'slave castles' built by European traders.

Cape Coast Castle

A beautiful beach resort located on the outskirts of Accra. It's a perfect place for relaxation and has a restaurant that serves local and continental dishes.

Bojo Beach

A wildlife park where you can see baboons, antelopes, birds and have a great hiking experience.

Shai Hills Resource Reserve

A town on the southeast coast of Ghana, where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean. It's known for water sports and birdwatching.

Ada Foah

A beautiful waterfall located in the Eastern Region of Ghana. It's a twin waterfall (male and female) and is surrounded by the beautiful Boti Forest Reserve.

Boti Falls

A massive hydroelectric dam on the Volta River. It's also a great spot for picnics and boat rides.

African art on display at an outdoor market

Fishing boats moored together in the port of Tema

Accra is the capital city of Ghana and is known for its vibrant culture and friendly locals.

The official language is English, but many locals also speak Twi, Ga, and Ewe.

The currency used in Accra is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS). It's advisable to have some local currency for small purchases, although credit cards are widely accepted in many places.

Accra has a tropical climate. The average temperature is around 81°F (27°C), but it can get as hot as 91°F (33°C) during the dry season (November to April).

The rainy season in Accra is from April to mid-July and from September to October. It's advisable to carry an umbrella or raincoat during these periods.

Accra is generally safe for tourists, but like any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Public transportation in Accra includes buses, shared taxis, and tro-tros (minibuses). Uber is also available in the city.

Ghana operates on Greenwich Mean Time (GMT). It does not observe daylight saving time.

Ghana uses Type G power plugs, the same as the UK. If your devices use different plugs, you'll need an adapter.

Tap water in Accra is not safe to drink. It's recommended to drink bottled water.

Accra has a vibrant nightlife with many clubs, bars, and live music venues. However, it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night.

Ghanaian cuisine is rich and diverse. Try local dishes like jollof rice, banku, and fufu.

Bargaining is common in markets and some shops in Accra. It's considered part of the shopping experience.

Ghanaians are generally very friendly and hospitable. Don't be surprised if locals strike up a conversation with you.

It's customary to greet people with a handshake. Using the right hand is considered respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothes.

It's advisable to get vaccinated for diseases like yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B before traveling to Accra.

Accra has a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Be respectful when photographing people or religious sites.

Internet access is widely available in Accra, with many hotels, restaurants, and cafes offering free Wi-Fi.

Tipping is not mandatory in Accra, but it's appreciated. A tip of 10% is customary in restaurants if service charge is not included in the bill.

January is one of the hottest months in Accra, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 31°C. It's a great time to visit the beaches, but remember to stay hydrated.

February is also quite hot, with temperatures slightly higher than January. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities, but don't forget your sunscreen.

March continues the hot trend, with temperatures similar to February. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor markets and historical sites.

April sees a slight drop in temperature, but it's still quite warm. It's a good time to visit the national parks and wildlife reserves.

May is the start of the rainy season, but temperatures remain warm. It's a good time to visit museums and indoor attractions.

June is in the middle of the rainy season, with temperatures ranging from 23°C to 30°C. It's a good time to explore the city's indoor attractions and enjoy local cuisine.

July is the coolest month in Accra, with temperatures dropping slightly. It's a great time to explore the city without the intense heat.

August continues the cool trend, with temperatures similar to July. It's a perfect time to visit the historical sites and enjoy the local festivals.

September marks the end of the rainy season, with temperatures starting to rise again. It's a good time to visit the beaches and enjoy water sports.

October is quite warm, with temperatures ranging from 24°C to 31°C. It's a great time to explore the city's outdoor markets and historical sites.

November is one of the hottest months in Accra, with temperatures similar to February. It's a perfect time for outdoor activities, but don't forget your sunscreen.

December is also quite hot, with temperatures slightly lower than November. It's a great time to visit the beaches, but remember to stay hydrated.

Accra, the capital city of Ghana, experiences a tropical savanna climate, which means it's generally hot and humid throughout the year. Average temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) to 30°C (86°F), so lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for your visit.

The city experiences two rainy seasons, the first from April to mid-July and the second from late September to November. If you're planning to visit during these periods, be sure to pack a raincoat or umbrella. Despite the rain, these periods can still be a good time to visit as the rain often falls in short, heavy showers, leaving plenty of time to explore.

The driest months are from November to March, which is also when the Harmattan winds blow from the Sahara Desert, causing dusty skies and cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings. If you're visiting during this period, you might want to pack a light jacket or sweater for the cooler evenings and sunglasses to protect your eyes from the dust.

Regardless of when you visit, don't forget to pack sun protection, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the sun can be quite strong all year round. Also, remember to stay hydrated, especially during the hot afternoons.

In terms of activities, the weather in Accra allows for year-round sightseeing. However, if you're interested in outdoor activities like wildlife viewing or hiking, the drier months might be more comfortable. On the other hand, the rainy season can be a great time to experience the city's vibrant culture indoors, with many museums, galleries, and restaurants to explore. 

Remember, the weather can change, so it's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip to make any necessary adjustments to your packing list. Enjoy your trip to Accra!

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3-Day Adventure & Sightseeing Offbeat Guide to Accra, Ghana

About Accra, Ghana