Best Time to Visit Ghana- Travel Tips for Every Season
Ghana is an all year-round destination. But overall, late March to early June, and September to November are the best times to visit, as you’ll avoid the busier period and prices of hotels and flights tend to be cheaper.
Some factors to consider when planning your trip are the weather, peak periods and dates when specific events or festivals you are interested in are happening. In this blog, I will share all the factors you should consider when picking a date to visit Ghana.
What is the Weather like in Ghana?
Ghana's climate is tropical with two major seasons; the rainy season and the dry season. April to June experiences the heaviest of the rain while light rain falls around September and October. The dry season also happens around November to March. August often experiences a brief dry spell, known as the “minor dry season.” Understanding these patterns is crucial for planning your trip.
1. Visiting During the Rainy Season
Major Rainy Season (April to June)
Characterized by frequent, heavy rainfalls
Higher humidity levels
Lush, green landscapes
Minor Rainy Season (September to October)
Less intense rainfall compared to the major season
Brief, occasional showers rather than prolonged downpours
Weather
Coastal areas typically experience more rainfall than the northern regions. While the rainy season can make travel more challenging, it also offers unique experiences like vibrant green scenery and fewer tourists.
If you visit during this time of the year, the scenery is lush and green, and the temperature is slightly lower. Waterfalls like Boti Falls tend to flow fully around this time of the year making it more beautiful to experience. If you would like to see more lush vegetation, and waterfalls or enjoy activities such as bird watching, you may prefer visiting during the rainy season when the landscape is greener. Just make sure you always have an umbrella or a raincoat as it can rain unexpectedly, especially in rainforests. You may also want to keep your eye on the weather forecast so you can plan your activities accordingly.
The downside to visiting this time of the year is that prolonged periods of rain can sometimes result in flooding and make some roads muddy and sometimes difficult to navigate.
Pros of traveling in the rainy season
Lush, green landscapes
Fewer tourists and potentially lower prices
Ideal for experiencing Ghana's waterfalls at their fullest
Cons of traveling in the rainy season
Potential travel disruptions due to heavy rains
Some outdoor activities may be limited
Higher humidity levels can be uncomfortable for some travelers
Tips for Traveling During the Rainy Season
Pack: Waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, insect repellent, and a raincoat. Be prepared for humid conditions.
Activities: Embrace the green landscapes and take part in cultural festivals. Be flexible with your itinerary, as some activities may be affected by rain.
2. Visiting During the Dry Season
Temperature: Daytime temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities.
Rainfall: Precipitation is minimal, allowing for easier travel and outdoor exploration.
Harmattan: From December to February, the Harmattan (a dry, dusty wind from the Sahara) affects northern Ghana more significantly than the south. While it can reduce visibility and cause dry skin, it also brings cooler temperatures, especially at night.
Weather
During this season, it is much simpler to travel around the nation with no interruptions from the rain because of the higher temperatures and drier scenery. This season is great for outdoor activities like safaris, hiking, picnics and outdoor walking tours.
The downside to visiting this time of the year is that, during the dry season, harmattan winds, which originate from the Sahara desert, can make the air dry and sometimes dusty. If you are going to be in the South, then you shouldn’t have many issues with the weather as it is less severe in the South compared to the North.
Pros of traveling in the dry season
Ideal weather for outdoor activities and beach visits
Easier travel conditions, especially for road trips
Perfect for wildlife viewing in national parks
Cons of traveling in the dry season
Peak tourist season with higher prices
Popular attractions can be crowded
Harmattan can affect air quality, especially in the north
Tips for Traveling During the Dry Season
Pack: Lightweight, breathable clothing, sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Don’t forget a light jacket for the cooler Harmattan mornings and evenings.
Activities: This is the best time for outdoor activities, including safaris, hiking, and beach visits. Plan ahead for popular tourist sites, as they can be crowded during peak season.
Various Tourism Periods in Ghana
Understanding Ghana's peak tourism periods can help you plan a trip that aligns with your preferences for crowd levels and availability:
December to January
This is the most popular time for tourists, coinciding with Christmas and New Year celebrations. The weather is pleasant, and the festive atmosphere is vibrant. Attractions are usually busier and accommodation and flights tend to be higher.
Some Events happening in December
Afrofuture (formerly Afrochella)
When: Late December
Where: Accra
Overview: A vibrant festival celebrating African culture, music, art, and fashion. It features performances by top African artists, art installations, and culinary experiences.
Detty Rave
When: Late December
Where: Accra
Overview: Organized by Ghanaian artist Mr Eazi, this music festival showcases performances from some of Africa’s biggest music stars, offering an electrifying nightlife experience.
Polo Beach Club Festival
When: Late December
Where: Accra
Overview: A beach festival featuring music, dance, and entertainment, providing a lively beachside experience for locals and tourists.
Easter Season
Easter is another peak period, with many Ghanaians and visitors participating in religious and cultural festivities.
Some Events happening during Easter
Kwahu Easter Paragliding Festival
When: During Easter Holidays
Where: Kwahu
Overview: Held in the Eastern Region’s Kwahu Mountains, this event combines paragliding with traditional celebrations, making it a unique attraction. This is a busy time for both international and domestic tourists leading to crowded destinations especially in Kwaku where most Easter festivities take place.
July to August
This period coincides with summer holidays with an increase in domestic tourism due to school holidays.
Some Events happening July to August
PANAFEST
When: Around 25th July to 2nd August
Where: Cape Coast
Overview: The Pan-African Historical Theatre Festival, held biennially, celebrates African culture and heritage, focusing on the African diaspora's connection to the continent. This period is popular among diaspora visitors who are looking to participate in the emancipation celebrations.
Chale Wote Street Art Festival
When: August
Where: Accra
Overview: Chale Wote is an annual street art festival that features street art, music, dance, and theater. This week-long event transforms the historic district of Jamestown into a vibrant open-air gallery and performance space.
Major Festivals in Ghana
Ghana's calendar is filled with colorful festivals and events that can add a unique dimension to your trip. Planning your trip around these events can provide a deeper cultural experience and insight into Ghanaian traditions. Here are some notable ones:
Aboakyir Festival
When: First Saturday in May
Where: Winneba
Overview: Also known as the Deer Hunting Festival, Aboakyir is celebrated by the Effutu people. It involves a traditional deer hunt, followed by a colorful procession and various cultural performances. The festival is rooted in history and offers a unique glimpse into the community’s heritage.
Bakatue Festival
When: First Tuesday in July
Where: Elmina
Overview: Bakatue marks the beginning of the fishing season for the people of Elmina. The festival includes a grand durbar of chiefs, boat races, and traditional drumming and dancing. It’s a lively event that showcases the importance of fishing to the local economy and culture.
Homowo Festival
When: August
Where: Accra
Overview: Celebrated by the Ga people, Homowo means “hooted at hunger.” The festival commemorates the end of a famine and the successful harvest that followed. It features traditional rituals, feasting, and vibrant parades.
Akwasidae Festival
When: Determined by the Ashanti calendar (every 42 days)
Where: Kumasi
Overview: Celebrated by the Ashanti people, Adae Kese is a grand royal festival honoring the Asantehene (King of the Ashanti). It includes traditional ceremonies, drumming, dancing, and a display of the royal regalia. The festival is celebrated at the Manhyia Palace and offers a glimpse into Ashanti Royal Traditions.
Damba Festival
When: 3rd Month of the Dagomba calendar
Where: Northern Region
Overview: This festival celebrates the rich heritage, history and chieftency of Dagbon. It also commemorates the birth of Prophet Muhammad who was the Holy prophet of Islam. It features horseback riding, drumming, and dancing.
General Tips for Timing Your Visit to Ghana
If traveling during peak seasons or for major events, book accommodations and tours well in advance.
Consider shoulder seasons (April-May or September-October) for a balance between good weather and fewer crowds.
Pack Appropriately and bring lightweight, breathable clothing for the dry season and rain gear for the wet season.
Take required and appropirate precautionary health measures regardless of when you visit.
If you're interested in specific festivals, plan your trip around these dates, but be prepared for increased tourism during some of these times.
Tailor your itinerary based on regional weather patterns. For example, you might visit the north during the dry season and the Volta Region during the rainy season.
For the best wildlife experiences, particularly in Mole National Park, visit during the dry season when animals gather around water sources.
The dry season is ideal for beach activities along the coast. However, be prepared for larger crowds at popular coastal spots especially on weekends.
Participate in the festivities and engage with locals to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and its significance.
Be respectful of local customs and traditions, and ask for permission before taking photos, especially during sacred rituals.
Conclusion
The best time to travel to Ghana ultimately depends on your personal preferences and travel goals. The dry season from November to March offers the most comfortable weather and is ideal for general sightseeing and outdoor activities. However, the rainy season has its own charm, with lush landscapes and unique cultural experiences.
For those seeking cultural immersion, planning your trip around major festivals like Afrochella, Chale Wote, or traditional events like the Akwasidae Festival can provide unforgettable experiences. Consider your priorities – whether it's ideal weather, cultural events, budget considerations, or specific regional experiences – and plan accordingly.
Related
What to Wear in Ghana: A Complete Guide for Travelers
25 Local Customs and Etiquette you should know when traveling to Ghana
Download my free travel guide to navigating Accra- Ghana from hotels to stay at, restaurants to try out, how to stay safe when visiting and nightlife recommendations for my fellow night owls who would love to go dancing.
Hello, fellow adventurers! I'm Rashida, your not-so-typical travel guide. Join me for laughs, mishaps, and perhaps a questionable decision or two (because let's face it, those always make for the best stories). Learn More
