Ghana’s tourism industry is exploding, and there are no signs of slowing down. The West African country, hailed as “The Gateway to Africa,” is making good on its reputation. For starters, it’s one of the best destinations in Africa to travel to. Ghanaian tourism leaders have also worked tirelessly to highlight Ghana’s strength as a place where the African diaspora can “come home” and explore their history — similar to a birthright or heritage trip.
As a result, Ghana has seen a significant increase in tourism, particularly Black Americans and travelers of African descent. Many want to explore Ghana’s rich culture and history while contributing to the local economy.
As tourism evolves, so do the accommodations. There aren’t many just yet, but there is a way to support Black-owned hotels in Ghana that offer everything, including upscale hotels and accommodations immersed in nature.
Ahanta Eco Lodge
Located on Busua Beach, Ahanta Eco Lodge is where sustainability meets luxury. The lodge was built with the environment in mind. It has renewable backup power on-site, energy-efficient lighting, handmade toiletries, non-toxic cleaning supplies, no single-use plastic, and more.
What’s excellent about Ahanta is its eco-luxury — it’s still comfortable and offers incredible views along the beautiful Busua Beach. The lodge, located on Ahanta Waves Surf School & Camp, has eight comfortable rooms designed with air conditioning, fans, and hot showers.
- Location: Dixcove, Ghana (Busua Beach)
- Owners: Peter Ansah, Julia Overas
- Before you go: This is also a famous surf club in Ghana where guests can take surf classes.
Koko Palm Inn
Officially launched in 2019, Koko Palm Inn is family-owned and operated in Accra. The inn offers an intimate stay with 11 rooms, an indoor bar, a lounge, and a balcony patio on the second floor. If proximity is important, Koko Palm is in the middle of where the fun is. It’s only 15 minutes from Kotoka International Airport and 17 minutes from the famous Labadi Beach and Osu neighborhood, where people hang out in the evening and night. Koko Palm is 10 minutes from the Accra Mall and 7 minutes from Palace Mall and Melcom.
- Location: Accra
- Owner: Jeff Adiyiah
- Before you go: Advanced reservations are required.
Rock City Hotel
In the Eastern Region of Ghana, in the Kwahu-Nkwatia mountains, sits Rock City — a luxury haven with over 600 rooms. The owner is working to make it one of the largest hotel resorts in Africa and the world. Rock City is expected to become Africa’s largest resort when its expansion is complete. As Travel Noire previously reported, the complete vision for Rock City will include 2,700 rooms, a world-class aquarium and water park, a zoo, an 18- and nine-hole course, and more. Rock City is an elevated luxury resort at the most glamorous mountaintop location. Early check-in and late check-out are available. There’s a pool on-site, three restaurants, and more.
- Location: Rock City
- Owner: Bryan Acheampong
- Before you go: Acheampong recruited a team of Black women architects to design the property.
Villa Monticello
Villa Monticello is Ghana’s premier boutique hotel, offering Junior, Executive, and Presidential Suites. Each of the more than a dozen rooms is uniquely themed. The inside of the Presidential Suite, Mandela, is equipped with traditional African designs embodying Nelson Mandela’s spirit. The suite sleeps two people and comes with a king-size bed. Some of the executive suite rooms have a kitchenette, an en suite bath and shower, and a lounge area. For example, the Nzulezu Executive Plus Suite is an oasis of calm where people can happily spend their time recharging.
- Location: Accra
- Owner: Women-founded
- Before you go: Villa Monticello is solely Ghanaian-owned. It was founded by women and is mostly women-run.
Black-owned hotels and resorts in Ghana offer a perfect blend of city life and nature. Visitors can experience the vibrant capital city, enjoying shopping, nightlife, local markets, beaches, and excellent restaurants. For a change of pace, they can escape to the country’s breathtaking natural wonders, immersing themselves in the beauty of the Motherland. This unique combination is rare in Africa. Ghanaian leaders are actively encouraging the African diaspora to return, further investing in and expanding these growing global communities.