Ghana is the friendliest introduction to West Africa: English-speaking, about six and a half hours from London and full of history, culture and colour. The castles of Cape Coast and Elmina tell the story of the transatlantic slave trade; Kakum’s canopy walk and Kumasi’s Ashanti heritage add rainforest and kings.
This guide covers where to go, when, and what to know before you travel. For our hand-picked trips, see our Ghana holidays page.
The quick answer
- Start in Accra for its monuments, markets and food.
- Spend real time at Cape Coast and Elmina.
- Walk the canopy in Kakum National Park.
- Add Kumasi for Ashanti culture and Kente weaving.
- Go between November and March.
Where to go
| Region | Best for | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Accra & the east coast | City, culture | Nkrumah Mausoleum, Jamestown, Ada |
| Cape Coast & Elmina | History | UNESCO castles, Kakum canopy walk |
| Kumasi & Ashanti | Culture, crafts | Manhyia Palace, Kejetia market, Kente villages |
| West coast & Volta | Beaches, nature | Busua, Axim, Lake Volta, Wli Falls |
A week covers Accra, Cape Coast and Kumasi; our West Africa tours combine Ghana with Togo and Benin.
Things to do
- Cape Coast and Elmina castles — moving, essential visits, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Kakum canopy walkway — high above the rainforest.
- Accra — the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Arch, Jamestown and Makola market.
- Kumasi — the Manhyia Palace and one of West Africa’s biggest markets.
- Kente weaving villages — near Kumasi.
- Mole National Park — Ghana’s main safari area in the north.
When to go
November to March is the best time, during the dry season, although the Harmattan can bring hazy skies from December to February. The main rains fall from April to June, with a shorter rainy season in September and October.
Getting there and entry
Direct flights from London Heathrow to Accra take about 6 hours 30 minutes, with no time difference in winter. UK passport holders need a visa arranged in advance, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. Check the FCDO travel advice for Ghana before you go.
Money and local costs
The Ghanaian cedi is the currency; cards work in larger hotels in Accra, and mobile money is widely used. Malaria is present, so antimalarials are essential.
Food and drink
Try jollof rice (Ghana’s version is fiercely defended), red-red bean stew with fried plantain, kelewele spiced plantain, banku with tilapia and fresh coconut.
Frequently asked questions
When is the best time to visit Ghana?
November to March, the dry season.
How long is the flight?
About 6 hours 30 minutes direct from London Heathrow to Accra.
Do I need a visa and vaccinations?
Yes — a visa arranged in advance and a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Antimalarials are essential.
What are the must-see sights?
Cape Coast and Elmina castles, Kakum’s canopy walk, Accra and Kumasi.
Can I combine Ghana with Togo and Benin?
Yes, our tours cross all three in about two weeks.
Planning a Ghana holiday?
Tell us whether you want history, culture or beaches, and we will build the trip.
