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Tamale Travel Resources

Tamale Travel Resources

Tamale Northern, Ghana Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Chronological steps for a hassle-free trip.

Milestones

Strategic actions for a well-organized trip.

3

Months Before

Passport Validity

Check validity (6+ months beyond return).

Visa Application

Research requirements, apply early.

Health Consultation

Vaccinations, antimalarials, health check.

1

Month Before

Domestic Travel

Book flights and accommodation.

Travel Insurance

Purchase comprehensive coverage.

Packing Prep

Gather purpose-built kit, appropriate clothing.

1

Week Before

Confirmations

Flights, hotels, tours.

Document Copies

Digital and physical, stored separately.

Bank Notification

Inform bank of travel plans.

Advance Bookings

Critical reservations to make ahead of time.

Reservations

  • International and domestic flights
  • Accommodation in Tamale and Mole
  • Inter-city bus tickets for major routes
  • Organized tours to Mole National Park

Pre-Trip Research

Familiarize yourself with Tamale and Ghana.

Cultural & Practical Info

  • Ghanaian culture, customs, etiquette
  • Tamale's history, attractions, cuisine
  • Travel health and safety advisories
  • Home preparation before departure

Home Preparations

Steps to secure your home before leaving.

Inform Loved Ones

  • Family/friends of itinerary
  • Emergency contacts
  • Neighbors aware of absence
  • Share route details

Suspend Deliveries

  • Suspend mail delivery
  • Pause newspaper subscriptions
  • Arrange package holds
  • Consider utility adjustments

Secure Your Property

  • Lock doors and windows
  • Arrange for pet and plant care
  • Activate home alarm system
  • Hide spare keys safely

Passport Check

Your passport must be valid for at least six months past your planned departure from Ghana.

Arrival Checklist

These steps ensure a smooth transition upon entering Tamale.

Airport Procedures

  • 1
    Immigration Clearanc

    Present passport, visa, and Yellow Fever certificate.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage from the baggage claim.

  • 3
    Customs Declaration

    Clear customs with any declared items.

Essential Services

  • Currency Exchange

    Exchange currency or use an ATM for Ghana Cedis.

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase and register for communication.

  • Bottled Water

    Acquire immediately for hydration.

Orientation & Transport

Orientation

Locate your accommodation.

Familiarize with your immediate neighborhood and obtain a local map.

Initial Purchases

Acquire enough GHS for transport.

Cover small purchases like bottled water.

From Entry Point

Licensed taxi from Tamale Airport.

Negotiate bus terminal taxi or motorcycle taxi fares beforehand.

SIM Card Tip

Buy and register a local SIM card (e.g., MTN) for easy communication and internet service.

Departure Preparation

Plan for a stress-free departure from Tamale.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Allocate time for last-minute souvenir shopping
  • Research shipping costs and procedures for large items
  • Shipping from Ghana can be expensive
  • Shipping can also be slow

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Ghana does not operate a VAT refund scheme
  • Do not expect to claim VAT refunds
  • No tourist VAT refund is available
  • Plan purchases accordingly

Pre-Departure Timing

Arrive early for a relaxed departure.

Recommended Timings

  • Domestic Flight (TML)1-2 hours prior
  • Inter-city Bus30-60 minutes prior
  • International Flight (ACC)3 hours prior
  • Allow extra timeFor vehicle movement or delays

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm onward travel arrangements
  • Pack securely, fragile items well protected
  • Allow ample time for travel to airport/station
  • Account for potential traffic or delays

Luggage Photo

Take a photo of your luggage before departure.

This assists if your bags are lost or damaged and you need to file a claim.

Tamale Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts