As the capital and largest city of Ghana, Accra has a mix of colonial-era and modern architecture that offers visitors an insight into Ghana's past and present. Start your trip by exploring the Independence Square, which is the largest public place in Ghana and a symbol of the country's independence from British colonial rule. Visit the National Museum and the Osu Castle to learn about Ghana's history, then head to the Labadi Beach for a relaxing evening.
Kumasi, located in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, is the historical and cultural center of the Ashanti kingdom. Start your visit to Kumasi by exploring the Manhyia Palace Museum, which is the former residence of the Ashanti king. Other places worth visiting include the Kejetia Market, the largest open-air market in West Africa, the Okomfo Anokye Sword Shrine, and the Kumasi Fort and Military Museum. Take a day trip to the Asante Akim Agogo Cultural Centre to witness traditional drumming, dancing performances, and weaving practices.
Cape Coast is a town on the south coast of Ghana that is rich in history. Start your trip by visiting the Cape Coast Castle and the Elmina Castle, both of which served as major slave trade outposts. These castles are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites and offer guided tours to educate visitors of the dark past. Take a stroll through the Kakum National Park, an ecotourism destination that has a canopy walkway over rainforest trees spanning over 1000 feet.
Takoradi is a major port city in Ghana and serves as the center for Ghana's oil and gas industry. Start your trip exploring the Pankrono Beach, a small beach not frequented by touristy crowds. Visit the Takoradi Market Circle, one of the largest open-air markets in Ghana, which offers a wide range of fresh produce and textiles. You can also take a short day trip to Nzulezo, a village built completely on stilts over Lake Tadane.
The Lake Bosomtwe is a beautiful natural lake located in the Ashanti region that is said to have been created by a meteorite impact. Relax on the lake's tranquil beaches, take a boat ride, or go hiking through the surrounding hills.
Tamale is the capital city of the Northern region of Ghana and is rich in culture and history. Begin your visit by exploring the central market and the nearby Tamale Cultural Center, which features a variety of traditional Ghanaian dances, music and crafts. Take a day trip to the Mole National Park to see elephants, baboons, and antelopes in the vast savannah grasslands.
Bolgatanga is the capital city of the Upper East Region of Ghana and is known for its traditional mud houses and basket weaving. Explore the Bolgatanga Market, which is famous for its handmade crafts and traditional baskets, as well as the Tengzug Shrine and the Paga Crocodile Ponds, where you can get up close with crocodiles that are believed to be sacred by the local people.
Ada Foah is a small town located on the Volta River estuary and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Take a boat ride around the estuary to explore the river's wildlife, including birds and crocodiles. Relax on the beaches, and visit the Keta Lagoon area, where you can fish, kayak, and engage with the local Dangme people who live in the surrounding communities.
Take the day to relax and explore some of the places in Accra that you may have missed, depending on your interests. End your trip by visiting Osu, a trendy neighborhood that has a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.
Due to the long distances between cities, flying within Ghana may be the quickest and most efficient option. Domestic airlines such as Africa World Airlines and Fly540 operate flights from Accra to Kumasi, Takoradi, Tamale, and Kumasi. Car rentals are also available in major towns, though be prepared to encounter poor road conditions, particularly outside of cities. The cost of a driver ranges from GHC 200-500 [$34.75-$87.64] per day, depending on the duration of the trip and bargaining skills.
If you want to focus your trip on cultural immersion, consider staying with a local host family instead of hotels. Also, plan ahead if you intend to visit during the rainy season, which is typically from April to October.
The only international airport in Ghana is Kotoka International Airport (ACC), which is located in Accra and is approximately 6 miles from the city center.