Ghana is one of our absolute favorite countries! I (Carae) lived there for two years while working at an International School and became completely obsessed with the culture, vibes and people.

From the afro beats pumping out of every corner to the shoulder-to-shoulder markets, Ghana is a destination that will captivate you with its energy and beauty. With a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes, this West African country needs to be high on your list of places to visit.

This 10 day Ghana itinerary is the perfect way to visit the highlights of Ghana and get a taste of everything this amazing country has to offer—and keep you coming back for more!

Ghana Overview

Before we dive into the details, let me introduce you to the amazing Ghana! Tucked into the curve of West Africa, Ghana is often called the “Gateway to Africa” because of its central spot on the continent. It shares borders with Togo, Burkina Faso, and Côte d’Ivoire, and trust me, it’s a country full of life and culture.

With over 30 million people and more than 100 ethnic groups, Ghana is a mix of unique traditions and customs. While English is the official language, you’ll also hear locals speaking a variety of rich, lively dialects that bring so much character to the culture.

Ghana’s history is fascinating—once a key hub during the transatlantic slave trade, it became the first sub-Saharan African country to gain independence from British rule in 1957.

Today, it’s one of Africa’s most welcoming destinations, known for its thriving tourism scene, incredible natural beauty, and, of course, the warmest, friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

You’re going to fall in love with Ghana, I guarantee it!

Do I need a Visa for Ghana?

Yes, you will need a visa to enter Ghana. And it’s not the cheapest, so make sure you factor in the cost when planning your trip.

I recommend applying at your Ghanaian embassy or consulate before your trip. However, if you’re a citizen of an ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) country, you can enter Ghana without a visa.

Ghana recently introduced a Visa on Arrival for their December celebrations, but this is only for a limited time and may not be available when you’re planning your trip.

So it’s best to get your visa sorted out in advance at your local embassy to avoid any complications at the airport.

Best time to Visit Ghana

Personally, December is my favorite time to visit Ghana. It’s when everyone comes home for Christmas and all the major festivals take place. But it’s also the most expensive and busiest time to visit.

If you’re not a fan of crowds or high temperatures, then it’s best to avoid this peak season.

Instead, consider visiting Ghana during its dry season from November to March, where you can still enjoy warm weather without the humidity and rain.

If you’re interested in wildlife and nature, then visiting during the rainy season (April to October) may be your best bet as many animals are more active during this time.

Is Visiting Ghana Safe?

Absolutely, Ghana is safe for tourists! The people are incredibly warm and friendly, always willing to help and make visitors feel at home.

However, like any other country, it’s important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking alone at night in certain areas and always keep an eye on your belongings.

But overall, Ghana is a peaceful country with low crime rates, making it a safe destination for travelers. Just use common sense and take the necessary precautions as you would when traveling anywhere else.

How to Get Around Ghana

Traveling around Ghana is relatively easy. While in the major cities like Accra and Kumasi, you can use taxis or ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also hop on a trotro (minivan) which is the most popular form of transportation for locals. But during the day, prepare for it to be hot and crowded.

For longer distances, buses are the best option. They are affordable and provide comfortable air-conditioned rides to popular destinations within the country.

You can also opt to fly between major cities, which can save you time and make your trip more efficient.

Best Hotels in Ghana

Kempinski Hotel

The Kempinski Hotel in Ghana offers luxury with stunning city views, top-notch amenities, and elegant modern rooms. Relax by the pool on hot days and enjoy fine dining at the hotel’s restaurants.

Labadi Beach Hotel

Looking for a beach getaway? Labadi Beach Hotel is the perfect choice. Located on one of Accra’s top beaches, it offers a relaxing, luxurious stay. Lounge by the pool or stroll along the sandy beach with stunning ocean views.

Zaina Lodge

The best place for a safari in Ghana is Zaina Lodge in Mole National Park. This eco-friendly lodge combines luxury with up-close wildlife experiences on safari tours. Enjoy stunning park views from your private balcony or unwind in the infinity pool after a day of adventure.

Lou Moon Resort

If you love surfing, Lou Moon Resort in the Western Region is the place to be. With ocean views, a private beach, and eco-friendly vibes, it’s the perfect escape. Take surf lessons from local pros or relax on white sand beaches while enjoying delicious local cuisine at the resort’s restaurant.

Must-Visit Places in Ghana

Ghana has a rich cultural heritage and is home to many historic sites, natural wonders, and bustling cities. Some must-visit places include:

1. Cape Coast Castle – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a prominent role in the transatlantic slave trade.
2. Mole National Park – one of the best places for a budget-friendly safari, I’m talking elephants right outside your doors!
3. Kokrobite Beach – a popular beach destination with Afro beats and parties all night long.
4. Kakum National Park – home to the famous canopy walkway and lush rainforests.
5. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park in Independence Square – a monument honoring Ghana’s first president and founding father.

The 10-Day Itinerary Outline

Alright, now that you’re a little more familiar with Ghana, let’s get into the best way to spend 10 days exploring this beautiful country.

Day 1: Arrival in Accra – Street Art, Markets, and Nightlife

As soon as you land you’ll be greeted with warm salty air and a big city. Accra is one of the best places to experience city life in Ghana. The capital city is everyone’s favorite party spot filled with food, art and nightlife.

You’ll also find some of the best street food here so don’t be afraid to try something new!

My favorites are:

• Keleweli – chopped up ripened plantain, fried with spices and peanuts
• Waakye – a breakfast dish of rice and beans, usually served with chicken or fish, a boiled egg, and avocado. I know it sounds weird but it’s delicious. Defintiley my favorite meal in ghana
• Fresh Mango – There is no mango in the world like a ripened mango in Ghana, it’s a must try!

Depending on what time you arrive, I recommend checking into your hotel and heading out to explore the city. You’ll also have tomorrow to explore so don’t feel like you have to see everything in one day.

I always start with a walk through Jamestown to admire the colorful street art and soak in the local culture—this is also where you’ll find the best coffee and after a long-haul flight, you’ll need it.

Some of the best cafes in Accra are Jamestown Coffee co. and Kwae Terrace.

Next, head to Makola Market for an authentic local experience—it’s lively and can be a bit overwhelming, but it’s a must-see!

Afterwards, visit locally owned boutiques like Elle Lokko and Shop Accra for unique finds.

And if you’re up for it, you’ll want to head to Osu for some nightlife and dancing to Afro beats all night long. We suggest starting at The Republic with live music in the streets and then following the crowd to the next spot.

Where to stay in Accra

$ Somewhere Nice // $$ La Villa Boutique Hotel // $$$ Mövenpick Ambassador Hotel Accra

Day 2: Discovering Accra – Historical Sites, Culture and Beaches

On your second day in Accra, it’s time to dive deeper into the city’s rich history and culture. Start your morning with a visit to the National Museum of Ghana where you can learn about the country’s past through various exhibitions and artifacts.

Next, take a trip to the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park where you’ll find the mausoleum of Ghana’s first president, as well as a museum dedicated to his life and legacy.

From there you can visit the Independence Arch, a symbol of the country’s independence from British colonial rule.

For lunch, head to the bustling Oxford Street in Osu for some delicious Ghanaian street food or check out Buka Restaurant for a sit-down meal with traditional dishes.

Afterwards, I recommend heading to the beach for some relaxation and fun. A popular option is Labadi Beach, where you can soak up the sun, swim in the ocean, and try some watersports like jet-skiing or banana boating.

Day 3: Kakum National Park, Cape Coast and Elmina Castle – A Journey to the Past

On your third day, take a day trip from Accra to Cape Coast. The drive is about 3 hours and offers beautiful views of both the city and the coast.

Your first stop will be at Kakum National Park, where you can walk along the famous canopy walkway suspended high above the rainforest. I honestly was a little scared at first, but the views and experience were well worth it.

Afterwards, continue on to Cape Coast and visit Elmina Castle, also known as St. George’s Castle. This is the oldest European-built structure in sub-Saharan Africa and played a significant role in the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade.

You will see the haunting door of no return, where enslaved Africans were loaded onto ships bound for the Americas. It’s a sobering reminder of Ghana’s past, but an important one to experience and learn from.

End your day at Cape Coast Castle, which also has a powerful connection to Ghana’s past. Explore the slave castle’s dungeons and visit the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history. You can also take a walk around Cape Coast Township, once Ghana’s first capital city.

How to get from Accra to Cape Coast

Getting to Cape Coast is rather easy from Accra. You will need to go to Kaneshie and get the Ford bus. The bus will leave once they are full and cost around 75 cedis. I recommend going early and prepare for a less than comfy ride.

However, if you plan to make all the stops instead of going straight to Cape Coast it can be extremely time-consuming and costly if you hire a private taxi.

I highly recommend taking a day tour. The local guides are very knowledgeable and provide transportation and entrance fees to all the sites. Plus, you can sit back and relax while taking in the beautiful scenery along the way.

► Click here to Book a Day Tour to Cape Coast

Day 4: Volta Region – Wli Waterfalls & Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary

After a couple of days exploring the history and culture of Ghana, it’s time to head to the beautiful Volta Region. Known for its stunning landscapes, waterfalls, and national parks, this region is a must-visit for any nature lover. I recommend spending two days here as it’s a bit of a trek to get to

On your first day, make your way to Wli Waterfalls. Located in the heart of Agumatsa Wildlife Sanctuary, Wli Waterfalls is the highest waterfall in West Africa at over 1,000 feet tall. It’s a moderate hike through lush rainforest to reach the falls, and wow, is it gorgeous! Reaching the falls is something special—the cool mist on your skin and the sheer power of the water make it an experience that stays with you.

Afterwards, head to Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. This community-based ecotourism project is home to over 600 mona monkeys that live freely in their natural habitat. Visitors can take guided tours through the forest, learn about the monkeys’ behavior and conservation efforts, and even interact with them if they’re lucky.

Where to Stay in the Volta Region

$ Wli Waterfalls Inn // $$ Bridge View Resort // $$$ The Royal Senchi Resort

Day 5: Volta Region – Mount Afadjato & Lake Volta

On your second day in the Volta Region, start by visiting Mount Afadjato. This is the highest mountain in Ghana at 2,905 feet and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. You’ll be able to see the winding paths of the Wli Waterfalls, as well as Lake Volta in the distance.

After your hike, cool off with a boat tour around Lake Volta. As one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, it’s a peaceful and scenic experience. You can also visit some of the small islands on the lake, which are home to fishing villages and local communities.

The Volta Region is one of the greenest and most scenic regions in Ghana, making it the perfect destination for nature lovers. With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and unique experiences, a trip to the Volta Region should definitely be on your list when visiting Ghana.

How to get to the Volta Region from Accra

From Accra, I recommend taking a VIP bus (Not an actual VIP bus, it’s just the name of the company) to Ho, the capital of the Volta Region. The journey takes around 3-4 hours and will cost approximately 25 cedis. Once in Ho, you can arrange for a private taxi or join a group tour to explore the region.

You can also join a 2 day tour from Accra that will explore Wli Waterfalls, Mountain Afadjato & Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary. This is the best way to experience the area from a locals perspective. And while the tour is pricey it’s worth it for not having to deal with busses and booking separate taxis.

Day 6: Kumasi – Traditional Ashanti Culture

When I lived in Ghana, Kumasi in the Central Region was my home and it’s where I fell in love with the culture of Ghana. While the city is the second largest in the country, it still feels like a village with its colorful markets, present culture and friendly people. (It’s also the best place to get local food—people will come all the way from Accra just to have some traditional Banku and Okro stew.)

You will likely arrive mid-day and can head to your hotel to drop off your bags and freshen up. Then, I recommend starting with a visit to the Manhyia Palace Museum, which is the official residence of the Ashanti King. Here you can learn about the history and traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom.

Afterwards, head on over the largest open-air market in West Africa, Kejetia Market. Here you can find everything from local produce to traditional crafts and souvenirs. Seriously, get ready to see goat meat being sold alongside colorful fabrics and handmade jewelery. Don’t be afraid to barter for the best price!

You can buy some local food, grab a fresh coconut or purchase some traditional Ashanti Kente cloth. The vendors aren’t too pushy and are always happy to teach you about their products.

In the evening, I recommend just soaking up the atmosphere. Once the sun goes down and the heat of the day starts to subside everyone comes out to socialize and enjoy the cooler temperatures. Head to one of the many outdoor bars or restaurants for some live music, drinking and eating. You’ll quickly see why Ghana is known for its friendliness and hospitality.

Here are three of my favorite places to spend an evening at:

• Bar Naas– My favorite place to grab a club beer and fufu with light soup. Bar Naas is located outside and in the evening they have music pumping and locals dancing. It’s a great spot to experience the vibrant nightlife of Ghana.
• Ikes Cafe and Grill– If you aren’t too big on street food but still want to try traditional Ghanaian cuisine, head to Ikes Cafe and Grill. They serve up delicious grilled meats and fish, along with tasty sides like jollof rice and plantains.
• Cici’s Chop Bar – Now we are really getting local. Cici’s Chop Bar is a traditional Ghanaian restaurant that serves up some of the best banku and tilapia in town. It’s always busy, but the food is worth the wait.

Where to stay in Kumasi

$ Tumi Hostel(My friend is the owner and it’s favorite place to stay in Kumasi) // $$ Four Villages Inn // $$$ Kumasi Luxury Apartments @ The Fairview

Day 7: Kumasi – Lake Bosomtwe & Kente Cloth Weaving

On your second day in Kumasi, start the morning off bright and early by taking a trip to Lake Bosomtwe. This beautiful crater lake is surrounded by lush green hills and is believed to be sacred by the Ashanti people. Take a boat ride around the lake and enjoy the peaceful scenery. You can also stop by one of the local villages and have a traditional Ashanti lunch.

Afterwards, head back to Kumasi and visit the Bonwire Kente Weaving Village. Kente cloth is a traditional Ghanaian fabric that is hand-woven by skilled artisans. Take a cultural tour of the village and watch as they create intricate patterns using vibrant colors. You can even purchase your own piece of kente cloth or have something made as a souvenir

Getting to sit down and watch the weavers at work is truly a unique experience that should not be missed.

As the day comes to a close, head back to Kumasi out to enjoy your last night here.

How to get from the Volta Region to Kumasi

Because of the large distances between destinations in Ghana, travel days can be long and tiring. There are two recommended ways to get from the Volta Region to Kumasi: flying or taking an early morning bus.

Flying from Volta Region to Kumasi

Flying is the more convenient and faster option, with a flight time of just over an hour. You’ll also have to take the 3 hour journey back to Accra for your international flight.

If you do choose to fly, I recommend booking in advance with either Africa World Airlines or PassionAir for the best deals.

Bus From Volta Region to Kumasi

Personally, I recommend taking the bus from the Volta Region to Kumasi as by the time you would have traveled back to Accra to take a flight, you could have reached Kumasi by bus and also saved some money. (Unless you do the two day tour from Acrra—in that case I recommend flying.)

STC, VIP and OA buses all offer comfortable and affordable travel options. The journey takes around 6-7 hours but you’ll get to see more of the country and experience Ghanaian road culture along the way.

Make sure to bring a jacket and snacks for the journey, as well as some small bills in case you want to buy food or drinks at rest stops.

You’ll head to the same terminal in Ho and take the 4 AM bus. (This time is not accurate, it could be 4, it could be 4:45, maybe even 5) I recommend asking around the day you arrive at the terminal to confirm the time of the first bus to Kumasi.

Day 8: Tamale – The Gateway to the Northern region

In the morning, you’ll head to your final stop in Northern Ghana, Tamale. It’s one of my favorite cities in the country. Tamale has a totally different vibe compared to Accra and Kumasi, with buzzing motorbikes and tuk-tuks (or “yellow yellow” as they’re called) zipping around everywhere.

You can either have a chill day wandering around the central market, checking out the local handicrafts and trying some delicious northern dishes like fufu and groundnut soup.

Or you can visit the famous Hamamat, a spa that uses techniques from their Ghanaian ancestors that highlight the country’s shea butter. You will learn how to make the shea butter and then experience all the rich nutrients of the butter with a luxurious spa experience.

After a day of being pampered and learning from the women in these villages end your night at Chucks Grill. I highly recommend the calzone and enjoying one of their brewed beers. This is where you’ll typically see all the foreigners hanging out, so it’s a great way to mix and mingle with other travelers.

How to get from Kumasi to Tamale

Same as the journey from Volta to Kumasi, the distance between these two cities is big. You have two different options to get to Tamale from Kumasi: by bus or an airplane.

Flying to Tamale from Kumasi

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from Kumasi to Tamale. You’ll have a stopover in Accra. But even with a layover, it will still cut your travel time in half. You can book your flights with domestic airlines such as Africa World Airlines or PassionAir.

I highly recommend this option. Although it feels like you’re backtracking, it’s definitely worth it when you save time and energy on a shorter journey. Take the earliest flight at 7 AM and arrive in Tamale by 10 to have the whole day ahead of you.

Taking the bus from Kumasi to Tamale

If you’re on a budget, taking a bus is the most affordable option. There are several bus companies that operate between Kumasi and Tamale, with varying prices depending on the type of bus and amenities offered. Some popular bus companies include Metro Mass Transit, STC Bus Company, and VIP Jeoun Transport Services.

The bus ride will take a minimum of 7 hours so if this is the option you choose I recommend taking the earliest bus possible out of Kumasi. The buses typically stop at least once or twice for bathroom breaks and food, so it’s also a good idea to bring some snacks with you on the journey.

Where to Stay in Tamale

$ Ruk’s Hotel // $ Jeyads Lodge

Day 9: Mole National Park – A Wildlife Adventure

In the morning, your driver will take you to Mole National Park, the largest wildlife reserve in Ghana. On the way you will stop and see termite mounds 20 ft high and the oldest mosque in all of West Africa. This area is considered to be the mecca of West Africa. 

There are only two different accommodations in Mole:

Luxury Hotel – Zaina Lodge 

One of my absolute favorite wildlife lodges in Ghana has to be Zaina Lodge. The luxury hotel offers incredible glamping-style tent accommodations that check all the boxes for an unforgettable safari experience. The property even has an outdoor swimming pool with breathtaking views of the national park, and you might just spot some elephants right from the lodge if you get lucky.

Budget Hotel – Mole Motel

Mole Hotel is a more budget-friendly and simple accommodation option. The rooms are clean, the beds are comfortable, and the hotel even features a pool—perfect for a relaxing afternoon after a day of exploring.

► Both places have a pool and have safari options. Personally, I would splurge and go to Zaina, it is a beautiful resort with an amazing view of the watering holes where you can watch elephants while enjoying breakfast. I may or may not have freaked out a little biiiiit.

You’ll arrive in time to enjoy an afternoon lunch by the pool and relax. As the hot African sun starts to go down, you will head out for your evening game drive. This is when you can see the elephants being playful as they are thankful for the cooler weather. Enjoy some champagne on the roof of your cart and celebrate the incredible time you’ve had thus far.

You will be welcomed back to the lodge with a delicious dinner and some nighttime entertainment before turning in for the night. 

Day 10: Back to Accra – Time to Relax and Reflect

For your last day, wake up at 6:30 am to the sounds of nature and if you are lucky maybe an elephant outside of your window to get ready for your morning game drive.

You will sit atop the safari car and go looking for the West African elephants and baboons that inhabit this land! You will stop for some coffee and cookies while trekking near one of the watering holes. After your drive, you can enjoy your breakfast next to the pool and spend some time relaxing, swimming and enjoying a local lunch. After all, you’ve been going nonstop since you arrived.

After lunch, it’s time to head back to Tamale to catch your flight to Accra. You will arrive in Accra to enjoy your last evening in the beautiful city or catch a night flight out.

2 Weeks in Ghana Itinerary

If you have more than 10 days in Ghana (Lucky you!) Here is how I would recommend spending the last 4 days of a two-week itinerary in Ghana!

I would add another Mole National Park day, spending two nights in Zaina Lodge to get the full safari Experience and then head down the coast for some full on fun in the sun!

Day 12-14: Busua Beach – Surf, Sun and Sand

I would still consider Busua, Ghana’s hidden gem, located on the Coast in Western Ghana. With rows and rows of palm trees, white sandy beaches, and great surfing waves, Busua is the perfect place to end your Ghanaian holiday.

You can spend your days enjoying some beach yoga, surfing lessons or just soaking up the sun. This time is all about enjoying the slow life of Ghana.

In the evenings, enjoy fresh seafood and live music at one of the many beachside restaurants. Spend your last few days in Ghana unwinding and reflecting on all of the amazing experiences you’ve had during your two weeks in this beautiful country.

If you’re on a budget or solo traveling, I recommend staying at Ahanta Eco Lodge. It’s the perfect place to meet other travelers and take some surfing lessons. But it books up FAST so make sure to make a reservation as soon as you know you’re going.

For something a little more upscale, check out Lou Moon Resort. This is one of my favorite places to stay on the Coast. With gorgeous views and beachfront access, it’s the perfect place to relax and indulge in some luxury.

How to get from Accra to Busua Beach

In the Western Region of Ghana, Busua Beach is about a 4-5 hour drive from Accra. You can take a private taxi or hire a driver for the day to take you there.

Another option is to take a bus from Accra to Takoradi and then hop on a shared taxi or tro-tro (local mini-bus) to get to Busua Beach. This will take about 7 hours.

You can also fly from Accra to Takoradi which takes 40 minutes and then an additional 1 hour drive by car.

10-Day: Ghana Itinerary – Final Words

In our opinion, Ghana is the perfect introduction to the African Continent. As many travelers seek out experiences in South America and Asia, we think African travel is about to take off and Ghana is the perfect place to start!

If you have 10 days to 2 weeks, it’s the ideal place to visit. There are so many incredible spots to explore, like Cape Coast Castle, Mole National Park, Kakum National Park, Lake Volta, and the busy city of Accra. Every day of our itinerary was packed with unforgettable experiences—there was never a dull moment!

I hope my 10-day Ghana itinerary helps highlight what an amazing destination Ghana is and inspires you to plan your own trip. Have a fantastic time in Ghana and happy traveling!