Keep valuables close
- Watch phones and bags in crowded markets such as Makola and Kejetia, and at bus stations.
- Don't hold your phone out of a car window in traffic.
- Use the hotel safe and carry a copy of your passport.
Is Ghana safe? An honest guide
Ghana is one of West Africa's most peaceful and stable countries, and most visits are trouble-free. Here's the context, and the sensible precautions.
Why Ghana feels safe
Ghana has been a multi-party democracy since 1992. It has held nine general elections since then, with power passing peacefully between rival parties several times, and it has never had a civil war. The Global Peace Index regularly places it among the more peaceful countries in sub-Saharan Africa.
Just as important is the culture. Communities are close-knit, respect matters, and Ghanaians tend to look out for visitors: people will walk you to the right bus or warn you off a bad taxi deal.
The short version
What to actually watch for
- Violent crime against visitors is uncommon.
- The real risks are petty theft, road accidents, strong sea currents and malaria.
- All of them are manageable with the precautions below.
Practical precautions
Travel smart
Common sense goes a long way. These are the tips we give our own friends and family.
Roads are the main risk
- Avoid long drives after dark, when accidents are more likely.
- Use a trusted driver or ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt in Accra and Kumasi.
- Always wear a seat belt, and agree taxi fares before you set off.
Respect the Atlantic
- Strong currents and rip tides are common along the coast.
- Swim only where locals or lifeguards say it's safe.
- Don't swim after drinking or alone.
Prepare before you fly
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required to enter Ghana.
- Malaria is present all year: take antimalarials, use repellent and sleep under a net.
- Drink bottled or sealed sachet water, and take insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Avoid scams
- Be wary of "gold deals", investment offers and online romance approaches.
- Change money at banks or licensed forex bureaus, not on the street.
- Mobile money and cards are widely used; carry some cash for markets.
Good hospitals in the cities
- Accra: Nyaho Medical Centre, Lister Hospital, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, University of Ghana Medical Centre.
- Kumasi: Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital.
- Facilities are more basic in rural areas.
Before you go
Good to know
A few honest points every visitor should read, alongside your government's latest travel advice.
Check before going north
Bawku and the northern border
Most of Ghana is calm, but several governments advise against travel to Bawku in the Upper East Region, because of a long-running local conflict, and urge caution near the border with Burkina Faso. Check the latest advice before you travel north.
Laws and customs
Know the rules
Same-sex relations are illegal in Ghana and attitudes are conservative, so LGBTQ+ travellers should read their government's advice and be discreet. Drug penalties are severe. Don't photograph military sites, airports or government buildings.
Solo and women travellers
Generally relaxed
Women travelling alone are usually comfortable in Ghana. Expect friendly attention and the odd marriage proposal; a firm, polite no is respected. Dress modestly away from the beach, especially in the north.
In an emergency
Numbers to save
Save these in your phone before you arrive, along with your embassy's number and your insurer's helpline.
112National emergency number
191Police
192Fire service
193Ambulance
Travel with people who know the ground
We'll plan your trip with trusted drivers, guides and places to stay, so you can relax and enjoy Ghana.
More practical advice: plan your trip