Kick off your trip to Accra by soaking up the sun at the popular and vibrant Labadi Beach. A long stretch of golden sand, the beach offers a range of activities from swimming and paddle-boarding to enjoying fresh seafood, drinks and live music from the nearby beach bars.
Built to celebrate Ghana's independence from British colonial rule, Independence Square is Ghana's most important national landmark. The Black Star Gate is the entrance to the square, and features a black star surmounted by a stylized eagle with its wings spread in full flight. Visitors can also take in the nearby Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park for more history and tours of the mausoleum of Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana’s first President.
The Osu Castle is situated on the coastline of Accra and is a former 17th-century Danish slave fort, which originally served as a government house and office for the first President of Ghana. Today, it stands as a museum, with tours offered of its infamous slave dungeons, boulders and impressive gardens.
Escape the heat of the city and head to the Aburi Botanical Gardens. Known for its exotic plant species, the garden offers a serene and peaceful environment to unwind and take a leisurely stroll. The garden also has a restaurant that serves light snacks and meals.
A day of shopping awaits at Accra Mall, one of Ghana’s premiere shopping destinations. Afterward, head over to the nearby W.E.B. Du Bois Museum, the former home of the renowned African American civil rights activist, historian, and Pan-Africanist, that captures his life, works and legacy.
Another stunning beach option, Kokrobite offers white sands, clear waters, and lively beach bars. You can also book a surf lesson, indulge in exhilarating beach games or tour the surrounding fishing villages on foot or bike.
Accra's vibrant art scene is showcased at the Accra Arts Centre. This bustling market area is full of stores selling African artifacts, textiles, and other souvenirs. From handcrafted clothing and jewelry, to paintings and carvings, you will find all types of unique pieces to take home.
Kakum National Park is a tropical rainforest located in southern Ghana offering breathtaking vistas of the African tropical rainforest. It is one of the few natural plantations in the world with indigenous trees preserved to maintain a delicate ecosystem. Take a canopy walk or hike to admire the scenery and for an unforgettable adventure.
Visit Cape Coast Castle, located on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Ghana’s Central Region. Built-in the 1600s by the Swedes and later controlled by the British, it was one of the many castles, forts, and trading posts built on Ghana’s coastline to facilitate the transatlantic slave trade. Spend a few hours stepping back in time and get transported by its history, museum displays and architecture.
Another idyllic beach retreat option is Laboma Beach Resort located near the historic town of Axim. The resort is tucked away in a quiet fishing village and provides the perfect relaxation location for tourists to enjoy serene tranquility while enjoying some of the best sunsets in the world.
Wrap up your trip in Ghana by browsing the Oxford Street Mall in Osu Accra, which features primarily international brands. Afterward, bid farewell to Accra and Ghana as you travel back to Kotoka International Airport to catch your flight back home!
Getting around Accra is relatively easy, safe and efficient thanks to a well-connected bus, taxi and Uber services. Popular car rental companies like Avis, Budget, Hertz, and Europcar are also available at Kotoka International Airport. Ridesharing services like Uber and Bolt are also available, with estimated fares ranging from GHS 10 to GHS 70 depending on the destination and time of day.
If you have more time, consider a trip to the Western Region where you can visit the Kakum National forest, Nzulezo Stilt-Possibility village, and Ankasa Conversation Area. Alternatively, if you have less time, consider exploring the art and food scene in Jamestown, or taking a day trip to Ada to enjoy water sports like boating and jet-skiing.
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is Ghana's premier international airport, located about 6 miles (10km) north of Accra's central business district. It handles all international and regional flights for the country and serves as the hub for domestic flights. Shops, restaurants, and various services are available at the airport.