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Ghana Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes

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From ancient forts to bustling markets, uncover the fascinating history of Ghana's past with our guide to the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

About Ghana

Whether for adventure or relaxation, Ghana is a popular travel destination in West Africa; offering beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and a diverse wildlife.

Countries neighbouring Ghana: Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Togo.

Travel Map Mapping Ghana

Map of Ghana

Map of Ghana

Ghana is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south.

The capital city of Ghana is Accra.

Ghana Overview

Formerly known as the Gold Coast, the West African country of Ghana has a rich history that dates back to ancient times.

With a population of over 31 million people, the Republic of Ghana is known for its diverse cultures, natural beauty, and historical significance.

Brief History

The region was inhabited by various ethnic groups and kingdoms, including the Ashanti Empire, which was known for its wealth and power.

The Ashanti migrated into the region from the Savanna and formed a lively trade with the sub-Saharan peoples to the north.

British West Africa

The ancient Kingdom of Ghana was actually further north; in the Sahelian region of Senegal, Mauritania, and Mali.

The country gained independence from British colonial rule on March 6th, 1957; becoming the first African colony to achieve this feat.

Since gaining independence from Britain, Ghana has been subjected to a series of coups; two of which were led by John Rawlings.

English is the official language of Ghana, one of only a handful of Anglo- speaking countries in the predominately French-speaking region of West Africa.

Many Ghanaians also speak local languages such as Twi, Ga, and Ewe.

Culture and Ethnicity

Ghana is home to over one hundred ethnic groups, each with its own distinct traditions, languages, and customs.

The major ethnic groups include the Akan, Ewe, Ga, and Hausa.

Ghanaian culture is characterized by vibrant festivals, traditional music and dance, colourful clothing (such as the Kente cloth), and a strong sense of community.

Economy

Ghana has one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, largely driven by agriculture, mining (particularly gold and cocoa production), oil and gas, and services sectors.

The country is a major exporter of cocoa beans, gold, oil, and other natural resources.

Ghana is also attracting investments in sectors such as telecommunications, manufacturing, and tourism.

Education and Literature

Ghana has made significant progress in expanding access to education.

The country has a strong emphasis on education, and it is known for its high literacy rate compared to many other African nations.

Ghana has produced prominent intellectuals, writers, and scholars, such as Kwame Nkrumah, Kofi Annan, and Wole Soyinka.

Natural Beauty

Ghana boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from the sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast to the lush rainforests in the south and the savannah plains in the north.

The country is also home to national parks and wildlife reserves, including Mole National Park, Kakum National Park, and the Wli Waterfalls, offering plenty of opportunities for wildlife viewing and eco-tourism.

Political Stability

Ghana is often regarded as one of the most stable democracies in Africa.

It has seen several peaceful transitions of power through elections, and the country has a reputation for respecting human rights and the rule of law.

Tourism

Ghana is becoming a popular tourist destination.

Visitors are drawn to its historical sites, such as the Cape Coast and Elmina Castle, which played significant roles in the transatlantic slave trade.

The country also offers opportunities for wildlife safaris, beach holidays, cultural immersion, and exploring traditional villages.

Ghana Tourism

Ghana is a beautiful country located in West Africa, known for its rich culture, history, and natural attractions.

Visiting Ghana

Attractions

Ghana is home to many attractions, including historic forts and castles, beautiful beaches, national parks, and wildlife reserves.

Some of the must-visit places in Ghana include Cape Coast Castle, Kakum National Park, Mole National Park, and the beaches of Busua and Kokrobite.

Ghanian Food

Ghanaian cuisine is diverse and delicious, with a wide range of dishes to try.

Some of the popular dishes include jollof rice, banku, fufu, and waakye.

You can sample these dishes at local restaurants and street food vendors.

Travel Safety

As with any travel, it is essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.

Be sure to research the safety of the areas you plan to visit, and follow local customs and laws.

When to Visit Ghana

The best time to visit Ghana is during the dry season, which runs from November to March.

This is when you can enjoy the most pleasant weather, and the country's many outdoor attractions are at their best.

Visa Requirements

Before traveling to Ghana, you will need to obtain a visa.

You can do this through the Ghanaian embassy in your home country or online.

Where to Stay in Ghana

Ghana has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses.

Accra - Capital of Ghana

Map of Accra

Map of Accra

Ghana Tours

Other major cities include Kumasi, Tamale, and Sekondi-Takoradi.

Where to Stay in Accra

Golden Tulip Accra

Golden Tulip Accra

Golden Tulip Accra: Liberation Road, Accra, Ghana.

This modern, four-star superior first class hotel has 234 rooms including suites, apartments and chalets decorated in modern African style and set in tropical gardens.

Guests at the Golden Tulip Accra enjoyed the fantastic bar, tasty breakfast and clean rooms.

Labadi Beach Hotel

Labadi Beach Hotel Accra

Labadi Beach Hotel: 1 Laby Pass, Accra, Ghana.

With its private beach and a  reputation for its charm and quality, the luxuries of a first-class hotel blend perfectly with a traditional African style throughout. Relax at the Cocktail Bar and Lounge or enjoy a meal at The Akwaaba Restorant.

Guests at the Labadi Beach Hotel loved the beach, the stunning pool and tasty breakfast.

Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra

Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra

Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra: Independence Avenue, Ridge, Accra, Ghana.

The Lobby Lounge is the place to meet and talk business over coffee while the Sankofa Restaurant offers international and Ghanaian dishes after a drink in the sophisticated atmosphere of the one2one Bar.

Guests at the Movenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra rated the stunning pool, comfortable rooms and good location for shopping.

Hotels in Accra.

The Gold Coast

The Portuguese were the first Europeans to visit the Gold Coast, and set up a trading post where Elmina stands today.

The Dutch replaced the Portuguese by 1642, while the Ashanti controlled the trade routes around Kumasi and expanded their Empire to become predominant among the native states by the middle of the 18th century.

The British also established forts on the coast, and although they lost an early war to the Dutch, they continued to expand their trading.

By 1874 the coast was entirely under English control and was designated a crown colony, not without sporadic bloodshed with the Ashanti.

The restored fort at Cape Coast is well worth a visit.

Elmina

Nearby Kotokraba Market and the Elmina Fishing Harbour provide visitors with excellent examples of commerce in present day Ghana.

Kakum National Park offers one of the world's three-rope bridges located in the canopy of the rainforest. The seven linked bridges are only 45 minutes from the hotel by road.

Elmina Beach Resort

Elmina Beach Resort

Elmina Beach Resort: 4 JJ Rawlings Street, Cape Coast, Ghana.

Overlooking a palm-fringed beach in Elmina; about ten minutes from the historic town of Cape Coast the hotel is close to the famous World Heritage sites of Elmina Castle, Cape Coast Castle and Fort St. Jago.

Guests at the Elmina Beach Resort liked the great staff, wonderful location and awesome views.

Ghanaian Embassies

Embassy of Ghana in The Hague:
Laan Copes van Cattenburch 70,
The Hague, The Netherlands.

Ghana Embassy in Tokyo:
1-5-21 Nishi Azabu, Minato-ku, Tokyo, 160-0031, Japan.

Ghana Embassy in Washington DC:
3512 International Drive NW, Washington DC, 20008.

Ghana High Commission in London:
The High Commission operates two offices at 13 Belgrave Square, London, SW1X 8PN and 104 Highgate Hill, London N6 5HE.

Embassies in Accra

Diplomatic Missions in Ghana:
List of addresses of diplomatic missions in Ghana.

Embassy of Switzerland in Ghana:
Accredited to Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone and Togo.

Kingdom of the Netherlands Embassy in Accra:
89, Liberation Road, corner of Ako Adjei Interchange, Accra.

The British High Commission in Ghana:
Julius Nyerere Link, off Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue,
PO Box 296, Accra, Ghana.

US Embassy in Ghana:
US Embassy, Ring Road East, P.O. Box 194, Accra, Ghana.

Ghana Travel

Ghanaian Festivals

Each region has its own major festivals and the way people respond to them is dependent entirely upon their mood.

Visiting Ghana:
Penni Wisner visits Ghana and offers a few tips in her rather long article.

Ghana Web

Ghana Web:
The Ghana Home page is a comprehensive resource about the country of Ghana with lots of news, information and entertaining stuff. It's also the ideal place to keep in touch with fellow Ghanaians.

The Republic of Ghana:
Official Ghana content with latest news updates from the Ministry of Information.

Ghana Maps and Travel Guides

Ghana (Bradt Travel Guides) Ghana Map by ITMB Publishing Ltd

Ghana Travel Guides - Ghana Maps.

Weather in Africa:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around Africa.

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