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Accra Travel Tips

Accra Travel Tips

Accra Greater Accra, Ghana Travel Guide

Mobile Connectivity

Ghana's main mobile carriers are MTN, Vodafone, and AirtelTigo. MTN generally has the widest network protection and fastest data speeds.

SIM Card Details

  • Purchase SIM cards upon arrival at Kotoka International Airport or at authorized vendor shops.
  • SIM cards are inexpensive (around GHS 5-10), and data bundles are affordable.
  • Mobile data, with a local SIM, often proves the most reliable way to stay connected.

Internet & Bridging Language Gaps

Wi-Fi is available in the majority of hotels, upscale restaurants, and cafes, though quality and speed vary.

Translation Tools & Phrases

  • English is the official language of Ghana, widely spoken in urban areas.
  • The Google Translate app with offline English-Twi packs is a useful tool.
  • A physical Twi phrasebook can also be helpful for quick reference. Learn Twi with Rosetta Stone.

Basic Twi Phrases

Learning a few basic Twi phrases creates a connection with locals.

Greetings & Responses

  • Hello: Akwaaba (welcome), Agoo (to get attention), Me ma wo akye (Good morning)
  • Thank you: Medaase
  • Please: Miyɛsrɛw (or add medaase to a request)

Essential Twi Expressions

More simple phrases for day-to-day communication.

Useful Phrases

  • Yes: Aane
  • No: Daabi
  • How are you?: Wo ho te sen?

More Connectivity & Phrases

More Twi for Travelers

  • I'm fine: Me ho yɛ
  • How much?: Sɛn na ɛyɛ?
  • Water: Nsuo
  • Delicious: Ɛyɛ dɛ

Connectivity & Convenience

Smart Tip

Acquire your local SIM card at the airport upon arrival. Vendors there assist foreign travelers with registration to get connected right away.

Business Hours & Schedules

Know the typical operating times for businesses and services.

Operating Hours

General times for offices, shops, and markets.

Money Access

Bank schedules and widespread ATM availability.

Public Holidays

Days when services might be closed or limited.

Airport Comforts & Rights

Services exist to streamline your airport experience and address flight disruptions.

Traveler Benefits

  • Priority Pass for airport lounge access globally.
  • Compensair for flight delays, cancellations, or denied boarding.
  • These services simplify airport travel.

Additional Hours Information

Markets start early. Restaurant hours vary. Nightclubs operate late into the morning.

Seasonal Notes

  • Few businesses have seasonal closures.
  • Some might operate on reduced hours during major public holiday periods.
  • Always verify opening times if visiting during these times.

Daily Operating Details

Business Type

  • Offices/Banks: Mon-Fri
  • Shops/Malls: Mon-Sat
  • Markets: Daily

Hours

  • 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM
  • 6:00 AM - 7:00 PM

Holiday Awareness

Ghana observes Christian and Muslim holidays, as well as national holidays. During these days, services like banks and government offices are closed. Check the current year's public holiday calendar before your travel.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Interacting respectfully with Ghanaian culture enriches your travel experience.

Greetings & Attire

Always use your right hand for greetings, shaking hands, and handling items. Always greet someone before asking a question or starting a conversation.

Customs

  • "Akwaaba" (welcome) is a common and friendly greeting.
  • Modest dress is recommended. Covered shoulders and knees at religious sites.
  • The left hand is considered unclean; avoid its use for gestures, eating, or passing objects.

Dining & Photo Ethics

Use your right hand for eating traditional meals. Tipping is appreciated for good service, though not always required.

Permissions

  • Always get consent before taking pictures of individuals, especially children.
  • Respect "no photography" signs in sensitive areas or private settings.
  • Never photograph military or government buildings.

Social Sensitivities

Understand boundaries for smooth social interaction.

Topics to Approach Carefully

  • Avoid discussing politics unless a local initiates the conversation.
  • Respect traditional beliefs and practices.
  • Never disrespect elders.

Gender & Discretion

Ghanaian society is largely patriarchal. Public displays of affection are generally not common, especially between unmarried couples.

Cultural Awareness

  • Homosexuality is illegal in Ghana; LGBTQ+ individuals often face stigma.
  • Public displays of affection between same-sex partners are strongly advised against for safety.
  • Exercise extreme discretion in public.

Important Cultural Notes

Practices to Avoid

  • Using your left hand for giving or receiving items.
  • Unauthorized photography in sensitive areas.

Good Practices

  • Bargain respectfully in markets.
  • Remove shoes before entering religious sites.
  • Remain calm and quiet in sacred spaces.

Further Etiquette Notes

General Practices

  • Ask permission before photographing children.
  • Use your right hand for eating traditional meals.
  • Tipping is appreciated for good service.

Social Conduct

  • Greetings are an important part of social interaction.
  • Bargaining is expected at markets; do so politely.
  • Women travelers find modest dress comfortable.

Engagement Advice

Learning a few basic Twi phrases creates positive interactions. Remember "Medaase" (Thank you) and "Akwaaba" (Welcome).

Accessibility Information

Accra's infrastructure poses challenges for travelers with mobility issues. Specialized services are limited.

Infrastructure for Mobility

Sidewalks are often uneven, broken, or non-existent. Ramps and elevators are rare outside modern, upscale buildings.

Challenges

  • Bumpy pavements present difficulties.
  • Ramps and elevators are uncommon in older structures.
  • Public transport (tro-tros, shared taxis) has high thresholds and busy conditions.

Accessible Attractions & Transport

Some modern malls and luxury hotels feature accessible facilities. Public historical sites are generally not wheelchair-friendly.

Limited Access

  • Historical sites often have stairs, uneven terrain, or narrow pathways.
  • Ride-sharing services may not have vehicles with accessibility features.
  • Pre-arranging private accessible transport is often the most dependable option.

Sensory Accessibility

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Support

  • Consider traveling with a companion.
  • Engage a local guide for assistance.
  • Specific information on accessible travel is scarce.

Planning Accessibility

Thorough preparation is important for accessible travel in Accra.

Recommendations

  • Get in touch with local disability advocacy organizations for advice.
  • Consult travel agents specializing in accessible travel.
  • Confirm accessibility details directly with hotels and tour operators.

General Accessibility Note

Accra's infrastructureNeeds improvement for universal accessibility.
PrioritizeDirect confirmations for your specific needs.
Mobility challengesRequire extra planning.
Limited servicesFor sensory impairments.
Pre-booking accessible transportIs often necessary.
Modern buildingsMay offer better facilities.

Traveler Note

For travelers with mobility challenges, planning ahead and verifying facilities directly with suppliers is highly recommended.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Accra. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation