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About this guide
Dubbed Africa's ‘Capital of Cool’ by the New York Times, Accra offers a safe and inviting atmosphere abundant in tradition and contemporary customs. The city’s history as a colonial battleground fortifies its modern status as Ghana's economic and cultural hub. Accra beckons travelers to experience the colorful textiles, diverse art, traditional cuisine, and lively nightlife. Accra's vibrant streets pulse with energy, welcoming visitors to explore its markets, museums, and iconic landmarks. Whether strolling along the relaxing coast of Labadi Beach or dancing to the rhythms of Ghanaian Highlife music, Accra promises an enriching journey for Black travelers.
- Best time to travel: June to September, December (peak season) January to April (off-season), October through November (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT)
- Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS or GH₵)
- Language: Twi, English
- Noteworthy: Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August), AfroFuture Fest (December), Afro Nation (December), Detty December (December)
- Best for: African History Buffs, Beach Getaway, Outdoor Adventures, Ghanaian Cuisine
Parlé: Key Phrases
- Ɛte sɛn? — How are you?
- Medaase — Thank you
- Akwaaba — Welcome
- Chale — Friend / buddy (informal, widely used in Accra)
- Wo ho te sɛn? — How is your body/health? (common greeting)
- Yɛbɛhyia bio— See you again
Get Away: Getting To and Around Accra, Ghana
By Air
Fly into Accra, Ghana by booking a trip through Kotoka International Airport. Major carriers with routes from the U.S. to Accra include Delta, United, Emirates, Tap Air Portugal, Ethiopian, Turkish, Air France, and Egypt Air. March and September are the most affordable months for air travel to Ghana, so book a flight at least four weeks in advance to avoid higher fares.
By Car
Accra’s growing infrastructure means travelers can enjoy the comforts of home when getting around Accra by using Uber and Lyft. A preferred app called DiDi Rider has affordable transportation rates and taxis available throughout the city. Car rentals are available; however, with no street signs in certain areas and cultural differences, this method requires caution.
Public Transit
For a more affordable form of transit, travel like the locals using the State Transportation Corporation bus system or privately owned mini-buses known as tro-tros. Keep in mind both options, though budget-friendly, require patience and planning for fixed routes and times of service.
Explore Accra, Ghana On Foot
Skip Accra’s notoriously congested traffic altogether by carefully exploring the city on foot. Although Accra lacks sidewalks in certain areas, walking is normal for local Ghanaians. Accra may be one of Africa’s safest cities; however, when deciding to move around the city, always remain aware and keep personal safety the top priority.
Quick facts
Good For
West African History
Beach Getaway
Outdoor Adventures
Ghanaian Cuisine
Keep in mind
- Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August)
- AfroFuture Fest (December)
- Afro Nation (December)
- Detty December (December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In Accra, Ghana
The Gold Coast Restaurant and Cocktail Bar highlights Ghanaian gastronomy with an elevated twist. The menu includes traditional recipes including spicy kelewele, waakye with fish stew, chargrilled king prawns, and more.
This Asian fusion restaurant has a dreamy outdoor atmosphere inspired by modern and tropical Asian minimalism in Accra’s city center. Kōzo Restaurant is a popular place to share a farm-to-table meal that supports local African farmers with the freshest ingredients.
Ranked among the top places to dine, Jamrock Restaurant and Grill brings Jamaican and Caribbean cuisine to Accra. Serving authentic dishes and mixologist-approved cocktails, the menu offers traditional recipes like curry chicken, brown stew fish, and oxtails.
As one of the newest fine-dining restaurants in Accra, NsuoNam is the brainchild of Edwina Akufo-Addo, daughter of President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. The special Pan-African menu includes dishes like lamb shank with smashed cassava and mango gravy and a 3-course dinner specially crafted for vegans.
Reserve a seat and sit pretty in pink at the Instagram-worthy outdoor Rosé Garden restaurant. The menu includes all-day breakfast, sandwiches, salads, desserts, and their famous boozy towers with mimosas, sangria, and more.
The Tunnel Lounge in Accra redefines culinary and beverage experiences in Ghana with a warm and inclusive atmosphere. The menu features continental dishes like American chicken fingers, Thai fish cakes, and Jollof seafood paella.
Play
Play: Things To Do In Accra, Ghana
Dedicated to Ghana’s first president and Pan-Africanist Movement founder, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and Mausoleum is located in downtown Accra. With rare artifacts relating to Ghana’s independence, guests learn about the Sub-Saharan struggle for independence.
Also known as Independence Square, Black Star Square contains several monuments commissioned by Nkrumah to celebrate Ghana’s independence. Locals celebrate major national public gatherings, festivals, and parades at the Independence Arch and the Liberation Day Monument.
The W.E.B. DuBois Memorial Center For Pan-African Culture includes the Marcus Garvey Guest House Bed & Breakfast and the tomb of DuBois and his wife Shirley Graham DuBois. Visitors can explore DuBois’ curated library, his Pan-African collection, and other personal items.
Cape Coast Castle offers guided tours of historical features like Dalzel Tower and a dining area with a captivating backdrop. The West African Historical Museum exhibits cultural artifacts like ceremonial drums and slave trade relics.
Indulge in an authentic Ghanaian culinary experience by joining Home Cooking Class By Auntie K to learn how to make traditional dishes like Jollof rice and flavorful stews. Guests will prepare and savor these delicacies while learning the culture behind the food with engaging conversations.
Book a memorable day at Boti Waterfalls, Aburi Botanical Gardens, And Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm for amazing photos. Visitors learn about local medicinal plants and cocoa cultivation alongside the seasonal spectacle of the Twin Falls.
The Ancestral Naming Ceremony And Homecoming Experience gives guests a profound sense of connection and identity. Guests receive a meaningful African name, participate in village activities, and witness heartfelt reunions.
The Sandbox Beach Club offers travelers food, music, art, fashion, and culture in one sophisticated experience. The Sandbox caters to every foodie’s palate on a gorgeous backdrop of poolside relaxation, spa indulgence, and lively parties.
