|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
When Ghana announced its initiative, The Year of the Return, in 2019 to welcome the African diaspora back to the continent and the West African country, it was an opportunity for many to build a connection rooted in history, culture and traditions.
However, even before 2019’s global call, many have visited or moved to the country which is rich in resources, opportunities for growth, creativity and values.
Specifically, Accra, the country’s capital, has become a hub for culinary and entrepreneurial innovation that continues to attract those with and without Ghanaian roots.
“You arrive at a new Ghana every year. It’s a never ending learning process. I feel like I am still finding new spaces and discovering more and more about the space,” says Michelle Konadu, who manages social media and communications for international affairs at the Ghana Tourism Authority.
The first generation Ghanaian American moved from New York to Ghana in 2015. “Ghana is a bit of a magical place because it’s very welcoming. When a person comes to Ghana for the first time, what makes them fall in love with it is the fact that it feels like home, no matter who it is or where they are from. It feels like a place you can stay.”
Things to Do in Ghana
Konadu’s sentiments are shared as many from the diaspora continue to place Ghana, Accra and neighboring cities at the top of the list to visit, with thousands making it a reality each year.
Just as you would research other destinations before visiting, Konadu shares that one thing that may surprise some is that Ghana is still a really conservative country and the value system is different. “You can’t look at the same thing the way you would in the states, the same way in Ghana because they mean two completely different things,” she says.
Becoming familiar with cultural norms and traditions of Ghanaian people is not only respectful, but will make your visit and especially a move that much more enjoyable.
So now you’re booked and ready. What should you do first? Where should you eat? What activities should you get into? Konadu was not without plenty of recommendations to make your first or repeat trip beyond memorable.
We’re also adding in a few of own things to do Ghana, in Accra specifically, worth adding to your upcoming itinerary now and later.
Tourist Attractions
This list is just the beginning and a good start, especially for anyone visiting for first time.
1. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum – Learn about Ghana’s first president and his legacy while visiting his final resting place.
2. Black Star Square (Independence Square) – An iconic national landmark seen in photos, movies and videos around the world.
3. W.E.B. Du Bois Centre – Learn about the work and legacy of the Pan-Africanist leader .
4. Crescendo Foods Cooking Classes and Co-Working Space in Accra – Join hands-on cooking classes with local chefs for a deeper taste of Ghana’s culinary scene and enjoy a vibrant co-working space that connects food lovers and entrepreneurs alike.
5. Jamestown Lighthouse & Fishing Community – An iconic landmark with a mix of history, boxing culture, and street art.
6. Manhyia Palace Museum – A place to honor Ashanti royalty, the museum contains over 10,000 works of art and design dating back to ancient times.
7. Mole National Park – Ghana’s largest and most prestigious protected land where you can take a safari with elephants and antelope.
8. Wli Waterfalls – Visit the tallest waterfall in West Africa surrounded by lush greenery and scenic hiking trails.
9. Assin Manso Ancestral Slave River – A memorial to remember those enslaved and the site of their last bath as part of the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
10. Cape Coast Castle – Humbling visit to the slave dungeons and museum sharing its history related to the Transatlantic Slave Trade.
11. Elmina Castle – Another key site that tells the story of the Transatlantic Slave Trade in Ghana.
12. Green Butterfly Market – A market for artisanal crafts and local goods that is must go-to on the 1st and 3rd Saturdays of the month.
13. The Velvet Hut – A concept shop for all things interior (perfect place for souvenir shopping)
14. fairafric Farm to Factory Tour – Located in the Easter region of Ghana (Amanse), learn about organic farming with partnering cocoa farmers
15. Tetteh Quashie Cocoa Farm – Visit Ghana’s first cocoa farm started in 1879 by Tetteh Quashie.
16. Cooking Class in Cape Coast – Learn and participate in cooking dishes such as palava sauce and yams.
17. Batiking in Cape Coast – Release your inner artist in this technique workshop deeply rooted in Ghanaian tradition.
18. Kakum National Park – Famous for its canopy walkway through the rainforest.
Cultural Activities
If you really want to be immersed in Ghanaian culture, Konadu recommends experiencing one or more of the activities below.
1. Funeral Ceremony – A major social event in Ghana, often lasting several days with music, dance, food, and storytelling to honor the departed.
2. Traditional Wedding (Engagement Ceremony) – Known as knocking or traditional marriage, featuring colorful kente, music, and symbolic gift exchanges between families.
3. Naming Ceremony (Outdooring) – The baby’s official introduction to the community, traditionally held on the 8th day after birth.
4. Festival Homecoming – Join locals in annual festivals such as Homowo (Accra, Ga people), Aboakyer (Winneba), or Odwira (Akwapim).
5. Durbar of Chiefs – A grand gathering of chiefs in full traditional regalia, usually during festivals.
6. Market Day Experience – Immerse yourself in the energy of towns like Techiman or Kejetia on market day, filled with vendors, food, fabrics, and bartering.
7. Church Into the New Year – Join a Watch Night Service on December 31st, a deep-rooted Ghanaian tradition.
Hot Spots for Food and Music in Ghana
Again, this list of where to eat, drink and hang out is by no mean exhausted, but it will keep you busy for a while.
1. Tatale – Plant-based interpretations of African and international dishes.
2. Republic Bar & Grill– Local gin cocktails and live bands.
3. Front/Back – Exclusive artsy nightlife hub, popular with creatives and diaspora.
4. Tea Baa – Great food even better decor and ambiance.
5. +233 Jazz Bar & Grill – Music venue for highlife, afro jazz and other genres.
6. Sandbox Beach Club – Step out in an oasis for culture and community.
7. Sai Wine & Champagne Cafe – Celebrating ten years as Ghana’s first and leading wine café.
8. Buka Restaurant – Enjoy authentic African cuisine in the heart of Ghana.
9. Living Room – With its landscaped garden decor, Living Room offers a relaxing dining experience.
10. Afrikana Beach House – Bohemian atmosphere perfect for day events and night events, culinary exploration and parties.
11. 1957 Daiquiri Bar – Ghana’s first daiquiri bar known for its loaded fries and wings.
12. District 24 – An expansive menu that caters to everyone’s tastes.
13. Exhale Lounge – An open-air haven with delectable cocktails and mouthwatering cuisine.
14. Starbites – Popular spot throughout Accra offering tasty menu offerings and entertainment.
15. Ilona – Indulge in authentic Mediterranean dishes in the heart of Accra.
16. Palm Moments – A hub for Accra creatives that includes a cafe and restaurant.
17. Afrikiko Leisure Center – Gathering spot known for salsa nights and vibrant evenings.
RELATED: Nadia Takyiwaa-Mensah Builds on a Vision for Sai Wine and Champagne Cafe
Detty December – A Diaspora Holiday Homecoming
Last but not least, Konadu has the 411 to Detty December, known as the time of year when the Ghanaians return home for the holidays and marked by concerts and other activities and events. If you have been, then you know.
But if you’re planning to head to Ghana in December, here are some great tips from Konadu to help get you prepared.
1. Book flights and hotels early (ideally by September/October). Arrive between December 15–20 to settle in before the festivities. Stay until January 2–5 to experience both Christmas and New Year’s celebrations.
2. Secure event tickets in advance; popular shows sell out quickly. Big concerts include AfroFuture (December 28- 29), Little Havana Beach Party, Polo Beach Club, Wildaland Festival (December 26 – 27).
3. Expect heavy traffic in Accra, plan rides ahead.
4. Balance your schedule; mix daytime heritage and culture with nightlife events.
5. Pack light, breathable cotton clothes and bring something white (for New Year’s).
6. Stay safe; move in groups, use Bolt/Uber, and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
We certainly can’t capture all of the things do in Ghana here, so be sure to visit Ghana Tourism Authority online for additional information and guidance as you plan your arrival into Ghana.
