Practical Tips & Hacks: Accra

Money-Saving Strategies

Smart choices for your budget while exploring Accra.

Discount Cards & Passes

Accra has no city-wide tourist discount cards.
Focus on other methods for savings.
Seek out local deals and promotions.
Bargaining is a common way to reduce costs.

Free Activities

Explore Independence Square.
Wander Jamestown's streets.
People-watch at Makola Market or Osu.
Visit historical sites from the exterior.

Happy Hours & Dining

Some upscale venues in Osu and Labone have happy hour drink deals.
Look for lunch specials; they often present better value.
Local eateries and chop bars are budget-friendly.
Dine where locals eat for authentic, lower-priced meals.

Transportation Savings

Use tro-tros and shared taxis for low-cost daily transport.
Compare Uber and Bolt fares for each trip.
Always negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.
Bargain with non-app taxi drivers.

Accommodation Alternatives

Finding lodging that fits your travel style and budget.

Apartment & House Rentals

Renting an apartment or house via Airbnb suits longer stays or groups.
Rentals often include kitchen facilities.
Cost-effectiveness compared to hotels for larger parties.
Look for guesthouses outside main tourist zones for lower rates.

Guesthouse Options

Guesthouses offer affordable rates.
Often well-connected to transport networks.
Consider locations slightly outside central hubs.
Value accommodations for budget travelers.

Alternative Stays

Explore boutique hotels for unique experiences.
Consider serviced apartments for extended visits.
Beach resorts are available along the coast.
Verify reviews and amenities before booking.

Booking Considerations

Book ahead during high season or holidays.
Confirm Wi-Fi availability and reliability.
Check if breakfast or other meals are included.
Understand payment policies and cancellation terms.

Local Insights

Learn from local customs and common travel scenarios for a smoother journey.

Common Tourist Mistakes

Not Bargaining: Always bargain at markets and with traditional taxis.
Only Eating Western: Miss authentic, cheaper local food; try street food.
Not Confirming Fares: Agree on a price before getting into a non-app taxi.
Ignoring Heat/Hydration: Drink plenty of bottled water in the heat. Consider a Personal safety alarm.

Local Customs to Know

"Akwaaba" (Welcome): A common, friendly greeting. Respond with "Medaase" (Thank you).
Right Hand Use: Always use your right hand for greetings, eating, and passing objects.
Respect for Elders: Show deference and respect to older people in all interactions.
"Ghana Time": Things often run later than scheduled. Practice patience.

Unofficial Rules & Social Norms

Haggling: Expected in markets and with traditional taxi drivers.
Approach haggling with a good-natured attitude and a smile.
Eye Contact: Generally acceptable, but prolonged direct eye contact with elders might be seen as disrespectful.
"My friend!": Often used by hawkers to get attention; a common sales tactic.

Phrases that Impress Locals

Learning and using basic Twi phrases demonstrates respect.
"Medaase" (Thank you) for showing gratitude.
"Ete sen?" (How are you?) for friendly interactions.
"Me ho yɛ" (I'm fine) as a common reply.

Solo, Family & Group Advice

Tailored tips for different travel styles.

Solo Traveler Safety & Social

Exercise general caution, especially at night. Inform someone of your itinerary.
Consider carrying a Personal safety alarm for peace of mind.
Stay in hostels or guesthouses known for social atmosphere to meet others.
Engage with locals respectfully for social opportunities.

Family-Friendly Adaptations

Patience: Traveling with children needs flexibility and downtime.
Hydration/Sun: Keep children well-hydrated and protected from strong sun.
Food: Ensure food hygiene; opt for bottled water and cooked foods.
Car Seats: Not always in taxis; consider bringing your own for safety.

Managing Group Logistics

Accommodation: For groups, book larger vacation rentals or hotel suites.
Transportation: Hiring a private minivan with a driver simplifies group movement.
Dining: For popular restaurants, call ahead for reservations, especially for larger groups.
Planning: A cohesive group plan reduces last-minute decisions.

Accessibility Considerations

Accra is not generally very accessible for mobility issues.
Plan thoroughly and confirm accessible options for lodging and transport.
Communicate your needs clearly when booking services.
Seek local assistance for specific accessibility queries.

Smart Money Management

Carry small denominations of Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Many small vendors and tro-tro conductors may not have change for large notes. This makes daily transactions smoother.

Time-Saving Tips

Efficient planning for maximizing your time enjoying Accra's attractions.

Route Optimization

Group attractions by geographical area to minimize travel time between them.

Timing Your Visits

Visit popular sites early mornings to avoid midday heat and crowds.

Digital Navigation

Use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt for faster, direct transport to specific destinations.

Efficient Planning Considerations

Best Times for Attractions

Visit Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum and National Museum in the early morning.
Avoid Makola Market during peak midday heat and extreme crowding.
Enjoy beaches in late afternoon for cooler temperatures.

Pre-Booking & Transport

Pre-book accommodation, notably during high season.
Book long-distance bus tickets with reputable companies in advance.
Specialized tours benefit from pre-booking, but local attractions rarely need it.

Navigation Hint

Group visits to Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, and the National Museum together as they are close in Central Accra. Explore James Town's forts, lighthouse, and Brazil House concurrently.

Practical Tips & Hacks