Where the rhythmic crash of Atlantic waves meets the pulse of West Africa's most busy capital, Accra unfolds like a tapestry woven from centuries of stories. This is a city where gleaming skyscrapers cast shadows over colonial-era fortresses, where the air thrums with highlife music spilling from roadside bars, and where the scent of grilled fish and kelewele mingles with sea salt breezes. In bustling Makola Market, merchants call out in Twi while fabrics burst with colors that seem to capture the very essence of the sun. Here, every street corner holds a tale—from the sobering history of slave castles to the joyous celebrations that erupt spontaneously in neighborhoods like Jamestown. Accra doesn't just welcome visitors; it embraces them with the warmth of 'akwaaba' and invites them to move to its unhurried yet energetic rhythm, where tradition and modernity dance together under the endless West African sky.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt for safe, affordable transport around the city. Shared taxis (trotros) cost 50 pesewas-2 cedis but can be crowded. Always negotiate taxi fares before entering, expecting 10-30 cedis for cross-city trips.

Money: Carry cash in Ghanaian cedis as many local vendors don't accept cards. Use ATMs at banks or malls rather than standalone machines. Mobile money (MTN or AirtelTigo) is widely accepted—consider setting up an account for convenient payments.

Cultural Respect: Use your right hand for greetings, eating, and giving/receiving items. Dress modestly when visiting traditional areas or religious sites. Learn basic Twi greetings like 'akwaaba' (welcome) and 'medaase' (thank you) to connect with locals genuinely.

Food Safety: Stick to busy street food stalls with high turnover and avoid raw vegetables. Try local favorites like jollof rice, banku, and fresh coconut water. Drink bottled or filtered water, and ensure meat is thoroughly cooked and served hot.

When to Visit

Accra enjoys a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. The dry season (November-March) offers the most comfortable weather, with temperatures ranging 24-32°C (75-90°F) and minimal rainfall (under 50mm monthly). This peak period sees hotel rates increase 30-40%, especially around Christmas and New Year. The wet season divides into two phases: the major rains (April-July) bring heavy downpours and humidity, with temperatures of 23-30°C (73-86°F) and rainfall reaching 200mm monthly, while the minor rains (September-October) are lighter and more manageable. During rainy months, accommodation costs drop 25-35%. Key festivals include Homowo (August-September) celebrating the Ga harvest, Chale Wote Street Art Festival (August), and Independence Day celebrations (March 6th). Budget travelers should visit May-July or September-October for the best deals, though expect afternoon showers. Families prefer the dry season for easier outdoor activities, while culture enthusiasts should time visits around August's busy festival season. Beach lovers will find December-February ideal, with calm seas and clear skies, though expect crowds and premium pricing.

Accra location map