Sustainable & Responsible Travel: Accra

Conservation Sites

Support national parks and resource reserves through entrance fees and adherence to park rules.

Minimize Waste

Reduce plastic, use reusable bottles/bags, and dispose of waste properly in designated bins.

Water Usage

Be mindful of water usage; take shorter showers and turn off taps to support local conservation.

Cultural Stewardship

Respectful interaction with Ghanaian culture enriches your travel and values local traditions.

Support Culture

Actively support cultural preservation by purchasing crafts directly from local artisans. Engage with community-based tourism initiatives.

Local Support

Purchase crafts from local artisans at places like the Arts Centre.
Support community-based tourism for local benefit and heritage preservation.
This approach fosters traditional skills and art forms.
Fees and purchases directly contribute to conservation.

Respectful Interaction Guidelines

Always greet locals warmly. Bargain respectfully and with a friendly demeanor in markets.

Conduct

Use your right hand for greetings, shaking hands, and handling items.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting traditional communities or religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos of individuals.
Avoid using your left hand for gestures, eating, or passing objects.

Ethical Photography

Be mindful of privacy and local norms when taking pictures. Avoid intrusive photography.

Photo Rules

Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially children.
Respect "no photography" signs, especially in sensitive or private settings.
Avoid intrusive photography that might compromise privacy.
Never photograph military or government buildings.

Religious Site Etiquette

Show reverence at places of worship. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor within these sacred spaces.

Entering Holy Sites

Remove your shoes before entering mosques or some traditional shrines.
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor.
Recognize the sanctity of these spaces.

Eco-Friendly Choices

Accommodation

Look for hotels and tour companies with a clear commitment to environmental sustainability. Ecobnb lists eco-friendly accommodation.

Carbon Offset

Offset flight emissions through reputable carbon offset programs. Terrapass carbon offsets are an option.

Green Tip

Carry a small bag for your trash until you find a suitable bin. This helps keep public spaces cleaner and supports local waste management efforts.

Economic Footprint

Your choices as a traveler directly influence the local community.

Supporting Local Businesses

Make conscious decisions to ensure your spending benefits Ghanaians directly.

Ways to Contribute

Eat at local 'chop bars' and family-run restaurants.
Use local transport options like tro-tros and shared taxis.
Purchase goods and services from local markets and shops.
Engage with tour operators who employ local guides.

Fair Trade & Ethical Shopping

Prioritize buying directly from artisans or from shops that clearly state their fair trade practices.

Conscious Buying

Buy directly from artisans or fair trade shops for producer benefit.
Money spent directly benefits producers and their fair wages.
Seek sustainable outdoor gear from Patagonia.
Explore reusable products at Package Free Shop.

Avoiding Harmful Practices & Giving

Be aware of common scams that target tourists. Your donations make the most impact through established channels.

Be Aware

Avoid giving money to begging children; it is more responsible to donate to reputable charities. Do not engage in activities exploiting animals or people.

Appropriate Giving

Donate through established local NGOs, community projects, or educational institutions for effective contributions.

Conservation Support

Support conservation efforts via The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood). Ethical tours through G Adventures.

Impactful Travel

Your support of local businesses and ethical practices fosters sustainable tourism and empowers communities.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel