Discover Tailor-Made Ghana Vacations

For most travellers, including wildlife enthusiasts, the best time to visit Ghana is during the dry season from November to March. 

“There’s less humidity and rain, so travellers can really enjoy the beaches, pools, and national parks,” says Destination Specialist Yolanda Smidt.

It’s crucial to note that between December and February, the Harmattan winds blow down from the Sahara, creating dry, dusty conditions that can impact visibility and air quality, especially in the north.

The green season (April to October) brings a lush beauty to the landscapes, while cultural festivals animate cities and villages alike. In the south, there are two main rainy seasons: a heavier one from April to June and a minor one from September to November. In the north, the wet season stretches continuously through this period. 

Read our guide to the best time to visit Ghana for more insights. Regardless of when you go, the country’s warmth—both in weather and spirit—makes every visit memorable. Let us help you choose the perfect time for your Ghana journey.

Much of this artistic influence can be traced back to the Ashanti Kingdom, an empire that once ruled central Ghana and was known for its intricate woodworking and handwoven textiles. Many Ghana cultural tours include Kumasi, the former royal capital, where museums showcase gold regalia, ceremonial stools, and other treasures, and craft workshops still thrive. 

Beyond the Ashanti heartland, Ghana’s many ethnic groups celebrate traditions through food, music, and dance. Family life still reflects time-honoured customs like day-naming (the practice of giving children a name corresponding to the day they were born). On the coast, specialized carpenters craft fantasy coffins, colourful caskets that honour the individuality of the deceased. Our full guide to Ghana culture and traditions delves further into the country’s unique identity.

Across these regions, ingredients such as cassava, plantains, millet, and rice form the base of countless dishes, unified by a love of spice, whether from aromatic ginger and cloves or the searing heat of black pepper and Scotch bonnet.

Traditional Ghanaian cooking celebrates depth of flavour through stews, soups, and rice dishes that draw from centuries of regional influence. Jollof rice, a vibrant tomato-based dish, is a national treasure, while groundnut stew combines chicken and sweet potatoes in a creamy peanut broth. Fufu, a smooth dumpling made from pounded cassava or plantains, and banku, a fermented maize and cassava dough, are classic accompaniments. Coastal kitchens elevate seafood such as tilapia, prawns, and crab, while grilled goat and chicken skewers sizzle at roadside stalls. Sweet treats like bofrot, fried dough balls reminiscent of doughnuts, round off many meals.

Dining in Ghana follows a respectful rhythm. Meals are often eaten by hand, using only the right hand, and guests are encouraged to share and show appreciation. Drinking is typically discreet, though visitors may encounter local beverages such as palm wine or the tangy hibiscus drink sobolo. Vegetarians and vegans are well served by plant-based stews and growing numbers of meat-free restaurants. For travellers, chop bars—bustling local eateries—offer authentic food and warm conversation, often for less than the price of a coffee back home.

In addition to a passport valid for at least six months, travellers from many countries, including the U.S. and Canada, will need a visa, which can be obtained online before departure.

The climate is warm and humid year-round. As Ghana lies within a malaria zone, you’ll want to take precautions to protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially during the rainy months (e.g., using antimalarial medication, DEET-based insect repellent, and wearing long-sleeve shirts and pants at dawn and dusk). 

“Bring lightweight clothes, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, an open mind, and a willingness to learn about another culture and its history,” says Destination Specialist Yolanda Smidt. “You’ll be amazed by how wonderful the people are.”

Ghana is fairly conservative, so modest attire (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended in rural areas and at cultural sites. Greetings are an important part of social interaction. Always use your right hand and avoid pointing or giving a thumbs-up, which can be considered offensive. Public displays of affection are best avoided.

English is the official language, though Twi, Ga, and Ewe are widely spoken. The currency is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS). While credit cards are accepted at some hotels and businesses in major cities like Accra and Kumasi, many places only accept cash. ATMs are available in urban areas, airports, and malls. Tap water isn’t safe to drink in most areas, so stick to bottled or filtered water throughout your journey. 

Read our full guide to things to know about Ghana for more practical advice.