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W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, Ghana - Things to Do in W.E.B. Du Bois Centre

W.E.B. Du Bois Centre

W.E.B. Du Bois Centre, Ghana - Complete Travel Guide

The W.E.B. Du Bois Centre is located in Accra, Ghana's busy capital city that serves as the country's political, economic, and cultural heart. This bustling metropolis of over 2 million people sits along the Atlantic coast, offering visitors a compelling blend of colonial history, modern African urban life, and significant cultural landmarks. The city is particularly renowned for its role in the African diaspora experience and pan-African movement, with the Du Bois Centre standing as a testament to the intellectual legacy of one of America's most influential civil rights leaders who spent his final years in Ghana. Accra presents travelers with an authentic West African experience, from its colorful markets and lively neighborhoods to its beautiful beaches and historic sites. The city's warm, welcoming atmosphere reflects Ghana's reputation as one of Africa's most stable and friendly nations. Beyond the Du Bois Centre, visitors can explore colonial-era forts, busy art scenes, traditional crafts markets, and experience the rhythmic pulse of highlife music that originated here. The city serves as an excellent base for exploring Ghana's rich cultural heritage and understanding the profound connections between Africa and its diaspora communities worldwide.

Top W.E.B. Du Bois Centre

the W.E.B. Du Bois Centre and Memorial

Explore the former home and final resting place of the legendary African-American scholar, activist, and pan-Africanist W.E.B. Du Bois. The centre houses his personal library, manuscripts, and exhibits detailing his life's work and his contributions to the civil rights movement and African independence. The peaceful gardens and memorial provide a contemplative space to reflect on his legacy and the connections between African and African-American experiences.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically around 10-20 GHS for adults. Visit during weekday mornings for a quieter experience and better photo opportunities. Guided tours are available and highly recommended to fully understand the historical significance.

Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle

Take a powerful day trip to these UNESCO World Heritage Sites that served as major departure points during the transatlantic slave trade. These haunting fortresses offer crucial historical context and emotional insight into one of humanity's darkest chapters. The dungeons, this destination, and museum exhibits provide an unforgettable educational experience about the African diaspora's origins.

Booking Tip: Full day tours cost $80-150 per person including transportation and guide. Book with reputable operators who provide historical context and handle the emotional weight appropriately. Bring water and prepare mentally for an intense but important experience.

Makola Market and Local Culture

spend time in one of West Africa's largest and most busy markets, where thousands of vendors sell everything from colorful textiles and traditional crafts to fresh produce and spices. The market offers an authentic glimpse into daily Ghanaian life and provides excellent opportunities to purchase traditional kente cloth, wooden sculptures, and local artwork. The sensory experience of sounds, smells, and colors creates lasting memories of African market culture.

Booking Tip: Visit with a local guide for $20-30 to navigate safely and get better prices. Go early morning (8-10 AM) to avoid crowds and heat. Bring small bills for purchases and keep valuables secure. Bargaining is expected and part of the cultural experience.

Jamestown and Colonial Architecture

Wander through Accra's historic Jamestown district, home to colonial-era architecture, the iconic lighthouse, and busy street art. This area showcases the intersection of Ghana's colonial past and contemporary urban culture, with fishing communities, art galleries, and cultural centers. The neighborhood offers excellent photography opportunities and insights into how historical communities have evolved in modern Ghana.

Booking Tip: Walking tours cost $15-25 per person and last 2-3 hours. Best visited in late afternoon for golden hour photography. Choose tours that include local community interactions and support local guides. Comfortable walking shoes essential due to uneven surfaces.

Traditional Ghanaian Cuisine

start a culinary journey through Ghana's rich food culture, sampling dishes like jollof rice, banku with grilled tilapia, kelewele (spiced plantains), and fufu with various soups. Food tours often include visits to local restaurants, street food vendors, and sometimes cooking classes where you can learn to prepare traditional dishes. This experience provides insight into Ghanaian culture through its most beloved traditions.

Booking Tip: Food tours range from $30-60 per person for 3-4 hours including multiple tastings. Choose tours that visit both restaurants and street vendors for variety. Inform guides of any dietary restrictions in advance. Bring appetite and adventurous spirit for authentic flavors.

Getting There

Kotoka International Airport (ACC) serves as Ghana's main international gateway, located just 10 kilometers from central Accra. The airport receives direct flights from major cities including United Kingdom, Netherlands, New United Kingdom, and Uae, with several African airlines providing regional connections. From the airport, taxis cost around $15-25 to reach the city center, while ride-sharing apps like Uber and Bolt offer convenient alternatives. Many hotels provide airport transfer services, and car rental agencies operate from the terminal for those preferring independent transportation.

Getting Around

Accra offers various transportation options, with taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt) being most convenient for tourists, typically costing $2-8 for city trips. Tro-tros (shared minibuses) provide authentic local transport for under $1 but can be crowded and confusing for first-time visitors. Car rentals are available but traffic can be challenging, especially during rush hours. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other in central areas, though the tropical heat makes air-conditioned transport preferable during midday hours.

Where to Stay

Osu (Oxford Street area)
Airport Residential Area
East Legon
Cantonments
Labone
Dzorwulu

Food & Dining

Accra's dining scene ranges from street food vendors serving authentic local dishes for $2-5 to upscale restaurants offering both Ghanaian and international cuisine for $15-30 per meal. The Osu area concentrates many restaurants, cafes, and bars popular with both locals and visitors. Don't miss trying traditional dishes like jollof rice, banku with grilled fish, red-red (bean stew), and fresh tropical fruits from roadside vendors. Local chop bars (informal restaurants) provide real feels, while hotel restaurants offer familiar international options for more cautious palates.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Accra

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Polo Club Restaurant & Lounge

4.5 /5
(2211 reviews) 3
bar night_club

Santoku

4.5 /5
(1265 reviews) 3

POMONA

4.5 /5
(1257 reviews) 3

Tunnel Lounge

4.6 /5
(928 reviews)
bar night_club

Tomato

4.7 /5
(878 reviews)
meal_delivery

Le Petit Oiseau

4.8 /5
(576 reviews)

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The best time to visit Accra is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures are more comfortable (75-85°F) and rainfall is minimal. This period coincides with many cultural festivals and events, making it ideal for cultural exploration. The harmattan winds from December to February bring cooler, drier air from the Sahara, though they can create hazy conditions. Avoid the heavy rainy season (April-June and September-October) when flooding can disrupt transportation, though brief afternoon showers during other months are manageable and help cool the tropical heat.

Insider Tips

Learn basic Twi greetings like 'Akwaaba' (welcome) and 'Medaase' (thank you) - locals appreciate the effort and it often leads to warmer interactions and better experiences.
Always carry small denomination bills (1, 5, 10 GHS notes) for market purchases, tro-tro fares, and tips, as vendors rarely have change for larger bills.
Respect photography etiquette by asking permission before photographing people, especially in markets and local neighborhoods - many are happy to pose but appreciate being asked first.

Activities in W.E.B. Du Bois Centre