Jump to Section
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
South African citizens can visit Ghana visa-free for tourism or business for up to 90 days

VISA INFORMATION
WEATHER
Ghana experiences a tropical climate with high humidity, consistent warmth, and two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The coastal regions (like Accra) are humid but breezy, while the north is hotter and drier. Rainfall peaks in May–June and again in September. The Harmattan winds (dry and dusty) sweep in from the Sahara from November to March, bringing cooler mornings and hazy skies.
- Spring (March to May): Spring falls within Ghana’s long rainy season, especially in the south. Expect high humidity and frequent downpours, particularly in Accra, Kumasi, and the coastal areas. Temperatures stay consistently warm, ranging from 24°C to 32°C. Despite the rain, mornings are often clear, and the countryside is lush and green.
- Summer (June to August): This is the heart of the rainy season in southern Ghana, while the north starts to experience drier weather. Temperatures average between 23°C and 30°C. The Harmattan winds are absent during this period, and the air is more humid. Rainfall can be heavy but often comes in short bursts followed by sunshine.
- Autumn (September to November): Rain tapers off by mid-September, especially in the south, ushering in a drier and more pleasant period. Temperatures hover between 24°C and 32°C. This is an excellent time for visiting coastal forts, national parks, and cultural festivals like the Homowo and Damba.
- Winter (December to February): Ghana’s dry season begins, marked by the Harmattan—a dusty wind from the Sahara that brings dry air and hazy skies, especially in the north. Temperatures range from 22°C to 35°C. It’s the best time for wildlife viewing, beach visits, and exploring both the coast and inland areas in cooler, drier conditions.
- Best Time to Travel: The dry season from December to February is ideal for travel across the country. Autumn (September to early November) is also a great option, with fewer rains and vibrant local events.
GENERAL INFORMATION
| Country: | Ghana |
| Capital City: | Accra |
| International Airports: | Kotoka International Airport |
| Area: | 238,535 km² |
| Population: | 26 million (2016 est) |
| Time Zone: | Greenwich Meridian Time (GMT), UTC +0 |
| Religion: | 80% Christianity, 18% Muslim, 2% Traditional Religion |
| Language: | English Official Language – Over 70 Different other languages |
| Currency: | Ghanaian cedi |
| Exchange Rate: | Due to currency fluctuations please consult with your bank |
| Credit Card Payment Availability: | In Accra both MasterCard and Visa are accepted however you will find better facilities for Visa. Local currency is required in many places. |
| ATM Accessibility: | There are many ATM’s in Accra especially at banks |
| Dialling Code: | +233 |
TRAVEL TIPS
| Electricity: | 220 Volts |
| Water: | It is advisable to drink only bottled or distilled water. |
| Business Hours: | Mon – Fri – 08:00 – 17:00 |
| Banking Hours: | Mon – Fri – 08:30 – 16:00 |
| Photography Restrictions: | Allowed at tourist sites but prohibited at airport/military/police/security. |
| Tipping: | 10% to 15% |
| Vaccination Requirements: | Original + clear photocopy of Yellow Fever Immunization Card. Recommended Vaccinations: Typhoid, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Meningitis, Malaria. Please consult your medical practitioner or travel clinic. |
| Dress Code Restrictions: | Decent clothes are encouraged at public gatherings. |
| Peculiar Customs to Observe: | Use of only right hand to shake, greet, receive etc. |
FESTIVALS
- Adaakoya Bolgatanga and Zuarungu – January /February
- Ghana Paragliding Festival – Easter
- Aboakyir festival -May
- Panafest & Emancipation day – July/August
- Agbamevoza – August
- Ahwie Festival
The Bugum Chugu Fire Festival in Northern Ghana is one of the most important holidays among people of Dagbon, Gonja, Mamprusi and Nanumba. It is celebrated at the beginning of the Dagomba calendar “Bugum Goli” (month of fire). If you travel around Northern Ghana when the fire festival takes place, you should observe, or if you dare, join the crowd on the streets and experience how exciting this festival can be!
MAP
“I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy.”
– Ernest Hemingway