Accra in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Accra

29°C (85°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

43 mm (1.7 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

September marks the end of the major rainy season - you'll catch the tail end of green, lush landscapes while experiencing fewer heavy downpours than July-August
Tourist crowds are significantly lighter as September falls between peak summer holidays and December high season, meaning shorter lines at attractions like Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park and better availability at popular restaurants
Hotel rates drop 20-30% compared to December peak season, with mid-range accommodations in East Legon and Airport Residential Area offering excellent value
The harmattan winds haven't started yet, so visibility remains excellent for photography and sightseeing, unlike the dusty haze that arrives in December-February

Considerations

September still experiences occasional heavy afternoon downpours that can last 1-2 hours, potentially disrupting outdoor market visits or beach trips to Labadi
Humidity levels around 70% make midday activities uncomfortable - you'll find yourself seeking air-conditioned spaces between 12pm-3pm
Some road conditions in areas like Nima and Old Fadama can be challenging after rains, requiring extra travel time and potentially limiting access to certain neighborhoods

Best Activities in September

Elmina Castle and Cape Coast Historical Tours

September's cooler mornings (23°C/74°F) make the emotionally intensive castle visits more comfortable before midday heat peaks. The reduced tourist crowds mean more intimate experiences and better photo opportunities. The castle grounds are less crowded, allowing for reflection time that's often impossible during peak season.

Booking Tip: Book full-day tours 7-10 days ahead through licensed heritage tour operators. Typical cost ranges from $45-65 USD per person including transport from Accra. Start early (7am departure) to avoid afternoon heat and potential rain. Look for operators certified by Ghana Tourism Authority.

Accra Street Food and Market Tours

September's variable weather creates perfect conditions for covered market exploration. Makola Market and Kaneshie Market are most comfortable in early morning hours (7am-10am) when temperatures are cooler. Local seasonal fruits like mangoes and oranges are at their best, and vendors are more willing to chat with fewer tourist crowds.

Booking Tip: Book walking food tours for early morning slots (8am-11am) to avoid both midday heat and afternoon showers. Expect to pay $25-40 USD for 3-4 hour guided experiences. Choose tours that include multiple markets and neighborhoods like Jamestown and Osu for variety.

Aburi Botanical Gardens and Mountains Excursions

The higher elevation of Aburi (460m/1,509ft) provides natural cooling, making September ideal for hiking and botanical exploration. Post-rainy season vegetation is lush and busy. The 1-2 hour drive from central Accra offers scenic highland views without the dust that characterizes dry season visits.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours typically cost $35-50 USD including transport and guide. Book through operators offering small group experiences (6-8 people maximum). Allow 5-6 hours total including travel time. Combine with visits to traditional bead-making workshops in nearby villages.

Contemporary Art Gallery and Cultural Center Tours

September's indoor-friendly weather makes it perfect for exploring Accra's thriving art scene. The cooler mornings are ideal for visiting Nubuke Foundation, Gallery 1957, and Artists Alliance Gallery before seeking air-conditioned comfort during peak afternoon heat. September often coincides with new exhibition openings after the summer break.

Booking Tip: Most galleries are free or charge minimal entry ($2-5 USD). Book private cultural tours for $40-60 USD per day that include multiple venues plus artist studio visits. Tuesday-Saturday are best for gallery hopping as many are closed Sundays and Mondays.

Kakum National Park Canopy Walk Day Trips

September's reduced rainfall makes the 2.5-hour drive to Kakum more reliable, while post-rainy season forest is at its most busy. The famous canopy walkway (40m/131ft above ground) offers better wildlife spotting opportunities as animals are more active. Cooler morning temperatures make the forest hiking more comfortable.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours range from $65-85 USD per person including park fees, transport, and guide. Book 10-14 days ahead as daily visitor numbers are limited. Tours typically run 6am-6pm. Choose operators that include both canopy walk and forest floor nature trails.

Lake Volta and Ada Foah River Delta Adventures

September's calmer weather patterns make boat trips on Lake Volta more predictable and comfortable. The Volta River delta near Ada offers excellent birdwatching as migratory patterns begin. Water levels are optimal for both motorboat excursions and traditional canoe experiences through mangrove channels.

Booking Tip: Day trips to Ada Foah cost $50-70 USD including boat rides and beach time. Multi-day Lake Volta houseboat experiences range from $120-180 USD per person per day. Book through operators based in Ada or Akosombo. Weekend trips require 2-3 weeks advance booking.

September Events & Festivals

Mid September

Accra Restaurant Week

Local restaurants across East Legon, Osu, and Airport City offer special menus showcasing Ghanaian fusion cuisine. This relatively new initiative (started 2023) provides excellent opportunities to experience upscale local dining at reduced prices.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight merino wool or moisture-wicking synthetic shirts - cotton becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity and takes forever to dry

Packable rain jacket or umbrella - afternoon showers are brief (20-30 minutes) but intense, occurring about 10 days during the month

SPF 50+ broad spectrum sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days due to proximity to equator

Breathable walking shoes with good grip - roads and pathways can be slippery after rain, especially in markets and around beaches

Quick-dry pants or lightweight long pants - essential for mosquito protection during early morning and evening hours

Portable phone charger/power bank - humidity can affect battery life, and power outages occasionally occur during storms

Insect repellent with DEET - September's humidity creates ideal mosquito breeding conditions, particularly around dawn and dusk

Light scarf or shawl - useful for covering shoulders in religious sites and protection from air conditioning in malls and restaurants

Waterproof phone case - protect your device during unexpected downpours and humid market visits

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts - easy to become dehydrated in warm, humid conditions combined with increased walking

Insider Knowledge

Local 'tro-tro' shared minibuses become unreliable during afternoon rains - use ride-hailing apps like Bolt or Uber between 2pm-5pm when weather looks threatening

Many Ghanaians use September for 'outdooring' ceremonies (baby naming celebrations) - if invited by locals you meet, these provide authentic cultural experiences usually off-limits to tourists

The new Accra Sky Train (opened 2024) offers excellent views and air conditioning during hot afternoons - use it to travel between Circle, Lapaz, and Achimota stations

September is when local universities resume classes - areas like Legon become livelier with students returning, offering better nightlife options but also increased traffic around campuses

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 12pm-3pm when heat and humidity peak - locals retreat indoors during these hours for good reason

Not bringing backup indoor plans - even brief afternoon showers can last 1-2 hours and completely disrupt market visits or walking tours

Wearing white or light colors to dusty areas like Agbogbloshie Market - September's mix of dust and rain creates muddy conditions that stain clothing easily