Is Ghana Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Updated on December 30, 2025
Ghana
Safety Index:
73
* Based on Research & Crime Data
User Sentiment:
77
* Rated 77 / 100 based on 61 user reviews.

On the western edge of Africa, along the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana sits at the crossroads of ancient kingdoms and colonial scars.

Once the heart of the Ashanti Empire and later the British Gold Coast, it became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence in 1957, a move that sparked ripple effects across the continent.

In 2024, about two million travelers made their way here, lured by the promise of something authentic.

Some came to stand inside the dark dungeons of Cape Coast Castle, others to lose themselves in the noise and motion of Accra, or to hike rainforest canopies and feel the spray from Wli Falls.

Whether it’s history, music, food, or natural beauty, Ghana delivers it in full color.

But travel here takes awareness.

It’s not dangerous across the board, but women and LGBTQ+ visitors often face challenges that go beyond the usual culture shock.

Between street harassment, lack of legal protection, and growing crime rates, there’s much to know before you book a trip to Ghana.

Warnings & Dangers in Ghana

Overall Risk

OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM

Ghana has a medium risk, especially for women and LGBTQ+ travelers. We'll talk more about the specific risks as we go through this article. There are also some clear places to avoid.

Transport & Taxis Risk

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM

Roads can be chaotic, and accidents are common, especially at night. Licensed taxis are safer than hopping into random cars, but you’ll still need to negotiate fares. Public buses vary in reliability. It’s a medium risk all the way around.

Pickpockets Risk

PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM

Accra’s markets and transport hubs are hot spots for pickpockets, especially during festivals or rush hours. Thieves often work in groups and target distracted tourists. Treat this as a medium risk, and keep an eye on news headlines because crime has been increasing since 2021.

Natural Disasters Risk

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW

You won’t need to worry about earthquakes or hurricanes here, but seasonal flooding is a real issue, especially from April to June. Roads can wash out fast. The risk is low for most tourists, but higher if you’re traveling inland or during the rainy season.

Mugging Risk

MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM

This is another medium risk, mostly because tourists get targeted by criminals. Don't fight back if you are confronted. Lower your risk by traveling during the day and keeping your guard up, even in tourist areas.

Terrorism Risk

TERRORISM RISK: LOW

Ghana comes with the standard "terrorism can happen anywhere" warning, but don't get a false sense of safety. Report suspicious activity and avoid demonstrations or protests.

Scams Risk

SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM

This is a medium risk. Expect sob stories, fake tour operators, or overcharging. Internet-based scams are a national problem, too. Read the latest government advisories for more recent scams.

Women Travelers Risk

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: HIGH

This is a high risk due to government advisories that specifically mention women being targeted for violent crimes. Reports of sexual assault and gender-based violence, while often underreported, are serious enough to be a concern. It's definitely not a place for solo female travelers.

Tap Water Risk

TAP WATER RISK: HIGH

Don’t drink the tap water. It’s not consistently treated, even in major cities. Stick to bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. The risk of stomach issues is high enough that it’s just not worth taking a chance.

Safest Places to Visit in Ghana

The website “visitghana.com” is operated by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), which serves as Ghana’s official destination management organization.

It operates under the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture.

One of the must-see Ghana sites is Cape Coast Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers a sobering look at the transatlantic slave trade.

Nearby Elmina Castle is equally powerful, and both sit along a coastline known for palm-lined beaches and fishing villages.

In Accra, visit the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, W.E.B. DuBois Center, and Makola Market for a taste of modern Ghanaian culture, history, and commerce.

Just outside the city, Aburi Botanical Gardens gives a cool escape into lush landscapes.

Nearby Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm lets you see where Ghana’s chocolate industry began.

Nature lovers can head to Kakum National Park, famous for its canopy walkway above the rainforest.

Further inland, Lake Bosomtwe, a meteor-formed lake near Kumasi, is peaceful and surrounded by small villages.

Kumasi itself, the heart of the Ashanti kingdom, houses the Manhyia Palace Museum and sprawling Kejetia Market.

To the east, Shai Hills Resource Reserve mixes savanna with caves and baboons, while Ada Foah offers laid-back beaches and river estuaries perfect for boating.

You can also explore Nzulezo, a stilt village over Lake Tadane, for something completely different.

For waterfalls and hiking, Wli Falls in the Volta Region delivers.

It’s the tallest in West Africa.

Places to Avoid in Ghana

We have a lot of places to go through here, so you might want to open a map in a new tab while we explain.

Avoid traveling to Ghana’s northern border areas due to the risk of terrorism and armed violence.

This includes the Upper East Region, North East Region, Upper West Region, and the western portion of the Savannah Region, specifically west of the N12 Highway.

These areas border Burkina Faso and Côte d’Ivoire, where extremist groups are active and have crossed into Ghana in the past.

The threat is highest near Bawku and remote border towns.

Most governments advise that Bawku should be avoided at all costs.

Also, travel insurance won’t be valid in places that are at the highest risk levels.

It’s also helpful to read the Canadian travel advisory, as that country gets very detailed in places to avoid or higher-risk areas.

For example, the mid-2025 advisory notes the following neighborhoods in Accra as high-crime areas.

  • Agbogbloshie
  • Ashaiman
  • Avenor
  • Nima
  • Sowutuom
  • Sukura

Also, avoid driving on the Accra–Tema and Accra–Kumasi–Tamale highways after dark.

Safety Tips for Traveling to Ghana

  1. If you need urgent help in Ghana, call 112 to reach emergency services. The Ghana Police Service handles law enforcement and has recently increased community patrols. Police stations are easy to find in cities, but response times can be slow. Always report incidents directly at a station rather than waiting for help to come to you.
  2. Ghana doesn’t have a reliable nationwide emergency alert system like in the U.S. or Europe. You won’t get texts about disasters or major events. Follow local news on the radio or trusted social media sources, and consider signing up for alerts through your embassy if they offer that service for travelers.
  3. You’ll need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Ghana. The CDC also recommends hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria is widespread, and you should start using antimalarial meds before arriving.
  4. Mosquitoes in Ghana aren’t just annoying; they carry malaria and other diseases. Use repellent with DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Treat clothes with permethrin before you pack them. Sleep under a mosquito net, even indoors. Air conditioning helps, but it’s not foolproof.
  5. Tourists need an International Driving Permit along with their home license to drive legally in Ghana. Police may ask for both. Renting a car isn’t always the best option due to road conditions and driving habits. If you do drive, make sure your insurance covers you in Ghana and prepare for aggressive traffic.
  6. Robberies targeting airport travelers can happen, especially at night. If another car hits yours, don’t stop to argue or settle it there. Drive straight to the nearest police station to report it. Criminals sometimes fake accidents to trap drivers, so trust your gut and keep moving.
  7. English is Ghana’s official language, so most people in cities and tourist spots speak at least some of it. That said, there are over 80 local languages, and accents can vary widely. If you’re heading into rural areas, it helps to have a guide or learn a few phrases in Twi or Ewe.
  8. Skimming is a major problem in Ghana, and you probably won’t know it happened until you see charges later. Use cash when possible. If you use your card, stick to trusted businesses and never let it out of your sight. Check your bank statements often and report any strange activity immediately.
  9. Don’t light up in public. Smoking is illegal in many public spaces, including bars and markets. People have been arrested for it. You probably won’t get thrown in jail, but you might face fines or police harassment.
  10. Air quality in cities like Accra can be rough, especially during the dry season from October to February, when smog and dust blow in. If you have asthma or other respiratory issues, talk to your doctor before you travel. Consider packing a mask for bad air days and monitoring local conditions daily.

So... How Safe Is Ghana Really?

While Ghana isn’t necessarily too dangerous to visit, there’s enough to worry about that only seasoned travelers should even consider it.

For countries that rank advisory levels on a four-tiered scale, like the United States and Canada, the overall risk is at Level 2.

That means you should take extra precautions.

The Level 2 advisory is also recent, with the US issuing the update in April 2025.

This information is very important to know because women and those who identify as LGBTQ+ face higher risks.

In fact, the warning from the United States reads, “Exercise increased caution in Ghana due to crime and violence against women travelers and lesbian, gay, and bisexual travelers.”

However, all countries agree that some regions should be avoided unless travel is essential.

We detailed those in the Places to Avoid in Ghana sections above.

As of mid-2025, crime rates have been increasing in Ghana.

That includes larger cities and tourist areas.

In the spirit of full disclosure, Ghana is often ranked as one of the safest countries in Africa, even landing second place in Altezza Travel’s 2025 list.

But don’t let the headline fool you into thinking it’s risk-free.

Safety rankings vary depending on the source, and while the country overall scores well, Accra didn’t crack the top 10 safest cities in Africa.

Go with what the travel advisories say and check recent headlines, not obtuse lists that could include wonky data to back up so-called safety levels.

How Does Ghana Compare?

Country Safety Index
Ghana FlagGhana 73
Israel FlagIsrael65
Vanuatu FlagVanuatu70
Burundi FlagBurundi30
Mongolia FlagMongolia71
Togo FlagTogo69
South Sudan FlagSouth Sudan10
Romania FlagRomania80
Latvia FlagLatvia80

Useful Information

Visas

Visas

Most travelers need a visa to enter Ghana, and you’ll want to apply before your trip. E-visas aren’t an option yet, so expect to mail in your passport or visit an embassy. Don’t forget proof of the yellow fever vaccination. Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your departure date.

Currency

Currency

Ghana uses the Ghanaian cedi (GHS), and you'll want to carry cash with you. Credit cards work at major hotels and some restaurants, but don’t count on them for everyday purchases. ATMs are common in cities, but they can run out of cash. Exchange money at banks or official bureaus, not random guys on the street.

Weather

Weather

Ghana is hot year-round, with high humidity in the south. Expect two rainy seasons: April to June and September to November. Northern regions have a longer wet season. The dry harmattan winds blow from December to February, cooling things off but coating everything in dust. Pack light clothing and don’t skip the sunscreen.

Airports

Airports

Kotoka International Airport in Accra is the main entry point, and it's fairly modern and easy to navigate. Immigration lines can move slowly. Domestic flights are available if you’re heading north, but most travelers rely on buses or drivers.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance

You'll want travel insurance for a trip to Ghana. Medical care can be limited outside of cities, and evacuation costs aren't cheap. Look for a plan that includes medical coverage, theft, and delays. If you're planning outdoor adventures or road travel, check that you're covered. Peace of mind goes a long way here.

Click here to get an offer for travel insurance

Ghana Weather Averages (Temperatures)

Jan 82° F
Feb 84° F
Mar 84° F
Apr 84° F
May 82° F
Jun 79° F
Jul 79° F
Aug 77° F
Sep 79° F
Oct 81° F
Nov 82° F
Dec 82° F
Choose Temperature Unit

Average High/Low Temperature

Temperature / Month Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec
High
°C
32 33 33 32 31 29 28 27 28 30 31 32
Low
°C
23 24 25 25 24 23 23 22 23 24 24 23
High
°F
90 91 91 90 88 84 82 81 82 86 88 90
Low
°F
73 75 77 77 75 73 73 72 73 75 75 73

Where to Next?

62 Reviews on Ghana

  1. A
    Anonymous says:

    Absolutely not a safe place my daughter was attack

    1. T
      Travel Enthusiasts says:

      Anonymous that very unfortunate but 1 attack dosent rule out the whole country. Ghana is totally safe

      1. A
        Anonymous says:

        👍🏾🇬🇭

    2. A
      Anonymous says:

      Are there no prisons in your country? Which people are kept there? Criminals! You can be attacked in your home country. We read of serious crimes in USA and other countries. Ghana is relatively safe.

    3. a
      anonymous says:

      do not assume ghana is not a safe place. You are just trying to bring negativity into people’s heads about the safety in Africa. You can say that about South Africa, Libya, Somalia, Kenya, Eritrea and Nigeria, but do not start saying lies about countries you have not lived in/Temporarily stayed in.

    4. N
      Nana Yaw Quayson Anthony Hon. says:

      Citizen

      We are sorry about that…. Ghana is like any other country in the world that crimes can totally be killed, I know USA,UK,CHINA etc that boast of high security system but crimes grows high day by day….. you only have to be careful and friendly to the people of Ghana.
      Ask your daughter what really happened because GHANA IS PEACE AND PEACE IS GHANA

      1. I want to go to Ghana one day

        1. A
          Anonymous says:

          Im planning to visit it also, just want to know about the protocol now because of the covid-19

          1. I loved Ghana

            I’m from the United States and lived in Ghana for 3 months. I never felt I was in danger. I went everywhere from between Accra and Hohoe/Jasikan. The people were great

          2. K
            Kobby Pink says:

            I’m a Ghanaian and it is safe out here

          3. I would like to visit Ghana in January 2023, a little nervous. Accra is one of the places and going south as well

            Can any one tell me about their experience staying there. Is it safe??? I live in Canada Thanks.

      2. W
        William says:

        Ghana

        My wife and I spent 10 days in Accra. Had a wonderful time.

    5. C
      Colin P. says:

      Overrated!

      Ghana is a nice place, but do not let your guard down. Though people are generally friendly, do not be deceived: you are still in a third world country where people can take advantage of you if given the opportunity. I consider myself relatively street smart, yet I was robbed at Aflao. So much for being a safe country!

    6. Well I guess then we should rule out all European countries as well as not being safe to travel. Unless there has never been an attack on tourist in Europe?

      If anyone finds a country where women can walk alone at night let me know and I will move my family there.

      1. D
        Deborah Luik says:

        Head for Rwanda now! I don’t know about the schools but it meets your first criteria. Alternatively you could move to Japan.

  2. A
    Anonymous says:

    I been to accra Ghana by myself many times I haven’t had no problems with the people there

  3. Wonderful place with wonderful people. One of the safest countries in Africa. Like any country anywhere else in the world, be vigilant and cautious.

    1. T
      The dim reaper says:

      Safe?

      Tell any country that is safe!!

  4. s
    sir emmanuel says:

    good

    i traveled from nigeria to ghana by road and i enjoy the stay there.

    ghana is safe enough.
    i love ghana currently am ghana

  5. Visa problem

    Problem with visas at Ghana Embassy. Do not apply for a single entry visa more than 3 months in advance, before you visit. They will process the visa and it expires 3 months from your APPLICATION date OR DATE THEY RECEIVE IT. Regardless of your itinerary travel date. Case in point visa was requested March 8, expired June 8th and travel date was June 29. The visas of $60 per person were worthless and they could not board their flight. Lesson here is, read the small print word for word. Therefore the visas were of no value with the date, stamp and signature when it left the Ghana Embassy!!!.

    1. K
      Kaitlin says:

      I’m planning on going to Ghana sometime in the new year. Do I have to get a visa if I’m only staying for 1 week?

      1. D
        Douglas, says:

        Yes you need a visa
        It’s one of the safest places on earth.
        You will love the place.

  6. A
    Anonymous says:

    My wife was attacked and robbed in ghana.
    She was scared for her life for a good portion of her time there. But she is home safe now – Thank God!!

    1. Alot of people not only your wife

      1. 🇩
        🇩🇪 Gigi 🇬🇭 says:

        I I was almost kidnapped in Gomoa Mpota (day 3 of Volunteering) –

        ⚠️
        In the moment – In this election year not safe at all!!! I am working with Ghana 🇬🇭 very close – too much violence since June 2020 – because of a Electoral Commission Registration (Presidency Election 07.12.2020)

        1. M
          Moses joohson says:

          Not safe.

          I was mugged and left did not feel safe at all.

        2. V
          Volunteer says:

          What organization did you volunteer for?

  7. W
    Wilfred Mejier says:

    Very safe and the people are friendly.

    What a great country. I can tell you if you go, you’re Ghana have a good time!

    1. My time in Ghana

      Just came back in April of this year 2022 had a wonderful time want to go back and stay a little longer.

  8. T
    Thinker says:

    Ghana is Mother Land so most of Ghanaians are kind and careing .
    We love to help and Welcome foreigners . We always show kindness and make sure our foreign Visitors feel Safe and at Home.
    It is much better if you know someone before you to the whole of Africa . You. Will. Feel Happy . Not Worry about the Native side of Africa IF you have some MONEY

  9. T
    Thinker says:

    Ghana is Mother Land so most of Ghanaians are kind and careing .
    We love to help and Welcome foreigners . We always show kindness and make sure our foreign Visitors feel Safe and at Home.
    It is much better if you know someone before you to the whole of Africa . You. Will. Feel Happy . Not Worry about the Native side .

  10. Ghana Is Very Nice And The People Are Welcoming

    Ghana Is Very Very Very Safe For Travelers It Is One Of The Safest Countries In Africa

    1. When did you visit. I would like to go in January for 3 months. Is it safe?? please give me ideas thanks

  11. A
    Anonymous says:

    Would never go

    Most Ghanians are scammers and liars

    1. A
      Anonymous says:

      Never go

      Ghanaians are definitely liars and scammers I have first hand experience

      1. You are so right with this, many years ago I dated a Ghanaian man, he was cheap and I must admit that he used me for free meal, I was a single Mom and thought that he was kind, but he wasn’t, so I packed up my apartment and moved to Florida to get away from him because he refused to leave me alone and the police in Chicago refused to do anything to help me with the problems that I was having with him. As it’s said that just how anyone acts at home they act the same way when they go to another house or country.

        1. G
          Great One says:

          yes that was your experience but I was married to a woman in US here o my God it was
          hell wow so we are all not the some in the world we live in.

      2. you just met the wrong people, do not generalise your experience with just a few citizens to the rest of the nation

    2. This is giving me Nigerian vibes. Especially “Ghanians” Shame on you lol

    3. P
      Penelope Pit-Stop says:

      Ghanians are the BEST

      Ghanians are known world-wide for being extremely friendly and kind. I have met dozens of Ghanians and they are lovely people. I didn’t become close to “all” of them – just like any other people – but I clicked with a few who have now been my friends for years. If you go anywhere and look like “a mark” yes – someone will rob you. They do it in the USA all the time especially in places like NYC, Boston, Philly, Chicago, LA and San Francisco. When you behave like an idiot, you are like a beacon of light to the one mugger in a 3 mile radius. In Florence, I watched idiot Americans get pick-pocketed – it was so obvious to me – watching street people work in pairs or small groups. They just weren’t that slick – but they were definitely looking for “easy pickings” If you don’t know how to travel – then stay home. Tourists are easy. They are often flashy and walk around gawking at things. I’m not saying anyone deserves to be robbed or mugged – but at 60 years old – it’s never happened to me. And I’ve got some stories that would make your toes curl.

  12. A
    Armand Belanger says:

    Not safe for tourist & women

    This country has changed, crime and fraud is taking over. Not safe for women traveling alone. Has friendly has the comments posted may seem to be one thing they all agree on is how going out on foot is not safe. That alone should give you an idea just how safe this country is to travel.

    1. A
      Anonymous says:

      What do you mean????

  13. F
    Flawsome says:

    We are all not perfect in this world

    Ghana is a nice place with good people as well as bad people and it’s the same with every country in this world. You won’t have it 100% smooth.
    Liars are everywhere in the world
    Scammers are everywhere in the world
    Just because of a bad experience doesn’t mean all the people are like that.
    We can’t be perfect beings.
    Before you say anything bad about a country,first check yours.

    1. G
      George Banson Graham. says:

      That is so true overall Ghana is Generally safe with very few pockets of Violent Crime.
      Night time is dangerous in most Nations.Stay home by 7 PM every night.
      Most of the Big Cities are quite safe but like any other Nation like even in the USA one ought to be careful where one ventures.

      Scammers are found in every Nation of the Globe and Ghana does not have a monopoly on that issue.
      Get Genuine Ghanaian Friends and of course do be weary of Fraudsters both offline and Online.

      I myself was a Victim of a Laptop Scam back in 2019 where I paid 1000 Ghana Cedis but didn’t get the machine I sought for.

      For Students Please be wary of People who approach you with unwanted favours and stay within thy Halls and Dorms away from Scums and Criminals.

      Romance and Gold Diamond and Diamond Scams should be avoided.

      Employment Scams from Ghana should also be avoided especially Online and Even Offline.

      If you are a victim of a crime call the Ghana Police at 00233 193.Toll Free

      The Ghana Police can handle most Reports of Crime in Ghana together with the CID.

      1. M
        Maria Addotey says:

        Safe in Ge eral but be wary at Tourist sites where pickpockets are quite active and Could cause your bags to be stolen.

        In Hospitals and labs be wary ones belongings can be stolen.

        At Folleges and Dorms be very wary of petty theft of money and other items especially Tvs and Computers.
        Petty theft is the numbre one Problem throughout Ghana and the rest of West Africa.
        Also Credit and Debit Card Fraud has become common in Hotels and Even Banking Halls.

        Get informed that is all.

    2. T
      Tiffany says:

      About countries

      I’m going to Ghana in the middle of December all places have crime and fraud why just say negative stuff about Ghana Nigeria and African countries my first time going there what u read and what u see are two different things

  14. C
    Clive Peters says:

    Definitely recommend

    The people are so warm it’s very admirable. Every time I went out I made a new friend watching sports in pubs and having a pint. The night life is vibrant and I enjoyed places like Laboni and Osu. Met some amazing gooners there as well.
    I LOVE GHANAIAN FOOD

  15. K
    Kwadjo Asante says:

    Ghana is safe to visit

    You could be stolen from and frauded in any part of the world!
    Ghanaians are very hospitable and affable. Of course, like every country in the world Ghana is not utopian; it has its share of petty crimes which I must emphasize, are very minimal and unlikely. With some caution and vigil, you’re less likely to encounter any problems in Ghana, even from pilferers and thieves. Thus, Ghana is undoubtedly one of the safest countries you could ever visit.

  16. J
    Jonathan Sarpong. says:

    All the big Cities are safe in General even th e Villages.Get Proper travel Books about Ghana.

    Like going to Israel or Saudi Arabia get informed.Get the right Information about the nations you visit.

    Awareness is the key unless you are blind in sight.Be totally aware of your Surroundings when travelling about.

    Criminals prey on unsuspecting Persons that travel inland or outland.

    Ghana has a lot to offer visitors so get the right info.
    Ghanaians are also victims of crime.in 2008 a Gh Businesswoman was scammed by a Malaysian Computer user in Kuala Lumpur losing about 9000 US Dollars.

  17. Ghana is great

    I was in Ghana for 2 weeks and I loved it….. super friendly people , no problems with Uber and taxi drivers…. I’ll be back soon….. even thinking of buying me a house there.. is fantastic…..if you never been to africa visit Ghana it’s is a very nice place

  18. b
    barbara says:

    it is the best you can find in Africa

    Ghana is not bad as people see it. its just the internet that sometimes make it look as such. its one of the best places in Africa one can visit. just be vigilant and cautious. there are equally bad people everywhere. Every country is dangerous so just get a guide who will show you around. people keep saying its not safe but a lot of foreigners were here during year of return and other festivals. i usually host foreigners and make sure they are very comfortable.

    1. J
      James Bedu Kodjo Eric Graham says:

      Well said.

  19. K
    Kelvin Kwesie says:

    Crime rate is increasing.

    Ghana is changing. Robberies are becoming more and more common especially in Accra. The good thing is they don’t kill you if you don’t challenge them. We sleep in fear every night.

  20. Enjoyed Ghana

    Being an Irishman, I visited Ghana 3 times and enjoyed each time.
    Went up north to Mole Park to see elephants in their natrual surrounding, Paga to see crocodiles. Tamale was very hot.
    But I didn’t have any real issue, I had a Ghanaian guy accompany me to guide me and had great craic.
    Visited Accra and Tema to see my guide’s home and his family members who made me feel at home.

  21. I was thinking about meeting my Nigerian husband there in the next few month I’m beginning to have second thoughts

  22. K
    Katelyn says:

    Amazing people

    Never felt I was in danger and I tend to panic from everything. The locals were all smiling and happy to be of help, no need to get a guide, look for places and things to do in the city you stay, you’ll find your way around it in a matter of minutes.

  23. Beautiful culture and friendly people

    Ghana is a safe place for the most part but it does have certain regions in some cities that are very dangerous. I wouldn’t give it a 73 on the safety index. Maybe a 60. You generally have to be careful and watch your belongings, especially your smartphone as that’s one of the first things thieves go after. There are pickpockets and thieves as I’ve seen them up close.

    Are there more than in other countries? Maybe, especially recently (in the past 2-3 years things have started going a bit downhill). And yes, I’ve also heard about people posing as taxi drivers and then just stopping somewhere and robbing you. Haven’t experienced it myself but it happens. Make sure to only use taxis from known companies. I have also seen and heard of people that pose as airport staff (among others) and try to take your bags or ask for bribes for who knows what. Be careful and use your judgment and don’t just give your things to anyone who asks.

    The people here are almost all very friendly which makes it a great place to visit. People are full of life and energy and will welcome you. The people and their culture is amazing and for some people, Ghana has become their second home. It’s only because of not having enough that some people (a small part) do bad things, just like anywhere else.

    I particularly liked Mole National Park, which is the biggest wildlife in Ghana. More than 250 species of birds live here amongst lions, buffalos, hyenas, elephants and others. Paga Crocodile Pond is a special place, where you can see crocodiles up close and personal and most are quite friendly believe it or not. Accra (the capital) is filled with interesting things to do and visit, from museums to markets. It’s a more crowded place, hosting 2 million residents and can show you a lot of Ghanian culture.

  24. M
    Meta F. says:

    Accra and Ghana

    I have been to Accra 3x. My most recent visa experience with the Washington DC Ghana embassy was frustrating.

    This time round I paid for ’10 year’ visa for each – $750 USD total for 3 people, expedited. Expedited still took 3 weeks to have passports back in hand.

    AND, the embassy gave us each 5 years, not 10 for which I’d paid.

    There is NO way to get hold of anyone at the embassy other than ‘live chat’ – and good luck with all the holidays they take, half days, time difference.

    You may have a 1 hour window to get hold of someone.

    Why does Ghana require a USA citizen to get a visa at all!? This ‘visa’ is road block #1 in getting more tourists from America – which they’d hoped to get in 2019 for the Year of the Return.

    Not many are willing to spend that kind of money on visas, and if you go the normal visa route, your passport could be held hostage for 2 months.

    But, nonetheless, we are visiting in December 2022.

    The economy is bad right now in Ghana, the president has destroyed the economy and the people are irritable, to say the least, and I don’t blame them.

    The Cedi has crashed, worth nothing now, and believe me, most want you to pay in USD anyway.

    Ghana has requested another bailout from the IMF, they simply cannot get their country running the way it should run.

    Bribery and thievery from government will never end on the continent, but these days with instant news and media the people are becoming less and less tolerant and much more educated.

    Don’t rule out anarchy and a coup in the near future.

  25. J
    Jahbruce Oyiborode says:

    I too love Ghana

    If no be because of serious poverty, the way things cost for nigeria, and financial hardship, I for done go Ghana by now. I want to spend my whole life in Ghana and I regret been borne in nigeria

  26. B
    BusinessAndPleasure says:

    Neither here nor there

    Accra is relatively calm. This did not fool me into going out at night unaccompanied, or being tourist-daft.
    The people are super friendly, but not very unreliable, in terms of punctuality and service etc.
    I did not feel safe going for walks, running etc, so I just used a gym. I used Uber several times but didn’t generally feel warm and fuzzy – the service runs efficiently but the cars were most beat up, with windows down because the air conditioning did not work. This can be problematic in traffic jams. The drivers also all held their phones in their hands while driving, to look at directions. Sometimes, seatbelts worked.
    Driving is horrendous.
    At the mall and supermarkets, there was no one hustling me like in Turkey or Nigeria.
    I stayed away from open markets and tourist spots.
    If you have business to do here, or really want to come visit, come. The crime rate is not prohibitive, but you do need to observe caution. In general, women should exercise greater caution, but that is the same in most places in the world. You are a target for what is between your legs. I would love a world where that is not the case, but for now? it’s just not.

  27. I have visited Ghana several times. Much safer than the United States. I have never heard of policemen shooting people as they do in the United States.

  28. J
    Juniper says:

    It’s fascinating how such a vibrant culture blends with its complex history, but I can’t help but wonder how travelers really navigate those challenges when visiting.

Ghana Rated 3.84 / 5 based on 61 user reviews.

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