Why You Should Travel To Ghana

Masked Zaouli dancer performing for children

Festival of Masks in Côte d’Ivoire

December 5, 2023

Ghana has always been one of Africa’s go-to travel destinations for a plethora of reasons from visits from various American presidents, notable civil rights leaders, sport legends and more.

A pioneering country at the forefront for the fight for colonial freedom led by the visionary Kwame Nkrumah, Ghana has positioned itself as a country that is welcoming of diverse people and cultures and the campaign to boost local tourism is successful due to the following reasons

The Renowed Ghanaian Hospitality

Ghanaians are widely known for being extremely pleasant and welcoming, ensuring that all visitors are comfortable and feel at home.

Right from the ports of arrival, visitors are welcomed with an inviting smile and an ”Akwaaba” which means welcome in the local parlance.

The spirit of community is deeply ingrained in the Ghanaian way of life. Traditionally, visitors are not allowed to perform house chores and their meals are served first. This traditional custom is amplified in how non-Ghanaians are treated.

Caucasian woman helping African woman make shea butter

Peace and Security

Ghana is one of the safest countries on the African continent ranking 4th on the 2023 Global Peace Index.

Despite instability in other West African countries, Ghana’s people and security organisations ensure that the safety of all is unparalleled.

Foreigners can safely walk by themselves while exploring the country. As with any tourist destination, necessary caution should always be applied by carrying small amounts of money, reduced wearing of expensive jewelery and valuable items should be kept in a safe place such as a hotel safety deposit box.

Group at the summit of Mount Afadjato

Vast Natural Beauty and Wildlife

From the uppermost part of the country to the shores of the Atlantic Ocean, Ghana is blessed with an array of incredible wildlife, flora, and fauna.

Visitors can navigate the rugged terrains of the northern savannahs with an exciting safari through Mole National Park, hike through the Kakum National Forest, and traverse the seven bridges above the forest canopy.

They can also explore the awe-inspiring mountains in the Volta Region, cool down in the refreshing cascade of breathtaking waterfalls across the Eastern Region, or relax in the cool embrace of the ocean’s breeze.

Ghana is steeped in natural beauty that keeps tourists and locals returning for more.

Cultural Diversity

The culture of Ghana is vast and vibrant. With over 80 ethnic groups, the cultural diversity Ghana offers is unrivaled.

The expansive number of tribes offers visitors a host of traditional festivals, art, music and lifestyles. Ghana’s variety of culinary delights has been noted by Conde Nast Traveller and listed as one of the top global destinations to visit in 2024.

Recently, modern festivals like Chalewote Art Festival, Afrofuture Festival (formerly Afrochella), and Detty Rave have become staples among the younger Ghanaian generation.

Easy Accessibility

Travel to Ghana is hassle-free due to the availability of not only direct but also convenient transit flights, making it easier for visitors to connect from around the world.

Ghana’s intentional efforts to boost local tourism include strengthening bilateral relations with other countries and establishing strong partnerships with aviation companies to ensure smooth transfers into the country.

A trip to Ghana is now seamless and effortless, with various options available.

Year of the Return

The Year of the Return initiative in 2019 strategically aimed at encouraging people of African descent in the diaspora to return to Ghana as well as mark the 400th anniversary of the first recorded Africans in the state of Virginia in the US.

Following its resounding success, Ghana has become the go to destination in Africa especially in December where tourists of all race and generations converge in Ghana to visit sights with historic significance to the trans-atlantic slave trade.

Landmarks like the Cape Coast and Elmina castles in the Central region are visited and deliver a full-circle moment to descendants of victims of slave trade who returned home in place of their ancestors who could not.

Modern festivals like Afrofuture (formerly Afrochella) also offer a platform to celebrate African music, art and culture and showcase the immense talent that exist on the continent.

Historical Significance in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade

Once known at the Gold Coast, Ghana still contains significant remnants of a dark colonial past dotted across the country.

From the Salaga slave pits and baths, Assin-Manso Slave river to the forts and castles, these sites serve as a reminder of a painful history. People of African descent have the opportunity to learn about their heritage and culture they were violently torn from.

This experience serves as a chance to help heal wounds centuries old and embark on a journey of reconnection and re-birth.