How to Explore Ghana on a Budget- Everything You Need to Know
Several variables affect the cost of traveling to Ghana, including your preferred mode of transportation, length of stay, type of lodging, places you visit and activities you participate in. In this blog, we'll dive into the nitty-gritty of planning a budget-friendly trip to Ghana, covering everything from accommodation and food to transportation and activities.
What Is The Cheapest Time To Travel To Ghana?
Ghana has a tropical climate with two main seasons: dry (November to March) and wet (April to October). The dry season is generally more comfortable for travelers and ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the peak tourist season, which means higher prices. To balance good weather and budget-friendly rates, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of April or October.
December to March (Peak Season): This is the peak season of tourism in Ghana especially during the last two weeks of December and the first two weeks of January. This is the most popular time to visit Ghana due to the dry weather and festive activities, but it's also the most expensive. Prices of flights and accommodations can sometimes double or even triple. If you want to travel on a budget to Ghana, I will avoid traveling to the country during this period. Many people travel to Ghana during this period for the festive season and the many activities and events that happen around that time.
August to November (Shoulder Season): The shoulder season is a great time to visit Ghana if you want to balance lower costs with relatively favorable weather conditions. While prices may not be as low as during the off-peak wet season, they are still more affordable than during the peak tourist months. While August typically falls within the low season, it's worth noting that it can be busier and slightly more expensive than other low-season months. This is because it coincides with summer holidays in Europe and North America, leading to an influx of diaspora Ghanaians visiting family.
April to July (Off Peak Season): The off-peak season in Ghana generally falls during the wet season, from April to mid-July. While this period sees more rainfall, it also offers several advantages for budget travelers. You can save up to 10-30% on accommodation and flights compared to peak season rates. For example, a mid-range hotel that costs around $100 per night in the peak season might drop to about $70 per night. A round-trip flight from New York to Accra might cost around $1,800-$2,500 during the peak season but drop to $1,200-$1,500 in the off-peak season.
Budget-Friendly Accommodations in Ghana
Finding affordable places to stay in Ghana is relatively easy, with options to suit various budgets if you are looking at the right place. Here are some budget-friendly options you should look out for.
Hostels
Major cities like Accra, Kumasi, and Cape Coast have a growing number of hostels catering to budget travelers. Expect to pay around $8-$15 per night for a dorm bed. Some popular options include Somewhere Nice in Accra and The Meeting Point in Cape Coast.
Guesthouses
Local guest houses offer a more authentic experience and often cost less than hotels. Prices range from $15-$30 per night for basic rooms with shared or private bathrooms depending on the option you go for. Some guest houses you can check out include Ma’vero Guest House in Accra and GRA Guest House in Kumasi.
University Guesthouses
During school holidays, some universities open their guesthouses to the public at very reasonable rates. The University of Ghana Guest Centre in Accra offers some guest houses which go for about $30 to $40 a night.
Budget Hotels
For those who prefer more privacy, budget hotels are available in most towns, with prices starting from $20-$40 per night for a basic room with a private bathroom. Some budget-friendly hotels include Hunters Royal Hotel in Accra, Homey Lodge in Kumasi and Hans Cottage Botel in Cape Coast.
Airbnb
In larger cities, Airbnb can offer good value, especially for longer stays or groups. Prices for entire apartments start from around $20-$30 per night.
Camping
If you are more of an adventurous traveler, some national parks and beaches offer camping facilities. I will recommend Camping at the Kakum National Park if you are in Cape Coast. The park offers a tree house which guests can stay in overnight and costs about $10 to $20 dollars a night.
Tips for Finding Budget Accommodation in Ghana
Book in advance during peak seasons to secure better rates.
Consider staying in less touristy neighborhoods for lower prices.
Negotiate rates for longer stays, especially in guesthouses.
Use comparison sites to find the best deals, but also check the property's direct website for potential discounts.
Read recent reviews to ensure the quality matches the price.
If you're comfortable, try negotiating rates directly with guesthouses or small hotels, especially during the low season.
Look for accommodations that offer free breakfast or kitchen facilities to save on food costs.
Remember that while budget accommodations in Ghana may not always offer luxury, they often compensate with warm hospitality and a more authentic local experience. Always prioritize safety and cleanliness when choosing your accommodation, and be prepared for occasional power outages or water shortages, which can happen even in more expensive establishments.
Budget-Friendly Flight Options to Consider When Traveling to Ghana
Finding affordable flights to Ghana is key to keeping your travel expenses low. Several airlines offer budget-friendly options for travelers, especially if you're flexible with your travel dates and book in advance. Here’s a look at some airlines that provide economical flight options to Ghana.
1. Ethiopian Airlines
Ethiopian Airlines is known for its extensive network across Africa and offers competitive prices for flights to Accra, Ghana's capital. The airline frequently runs promotions, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
2. Turkish Airlines
Turkish Airlines offers flights to Accra with layovers in Istanbul. The airline provides good service and competitive pricing, often making it a cost-effective option for travelers from Europe and North America.
3. Kenya Airways
Kenya Airways offers connections to Accra from various destinations, often with a layover in Nairobi. The airline is known for its reasonable prices and good service.
4. EgyptAir
EgyptAir provides flights to Accra with a stopover in Cairo. The airline often offers budget-friendly rates, especially if you book well in advance.
5. Royal Air Maroc
Royal Air Maroc offers flights to Accra with a layover in Casablanca. The airline frequently provides affordable fares and is a good option for travelers from Europe and North America.
6. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
KLM offers direct flights to Accra from Amsterdam and provides competitive pricing, especially during sales or promotional periods.
7. Brussels Airlines
Brussels Airlines connects to Accra with flights often having a layover in Brussels. The airline provides good service and competitive prices, especially for travelers from Europe.
Tips for Finding Budget Flights to Ghana
Be flexible with dates: Prices can vary significantly depending on the day of the week. Use fare comparison sites that show prices across a range of dates.
Consider indirect flights: Flights with layovers are often cheaper. For example, flying from the US to Ghana via Europe can be less expensive than a direct flight.
Book in advance: Aim to book at least 2-3 months ahead for the best prices, especially for peak season travel.
Use flight comparison websites: Sites like Skyscanner, Momondo, or Google Flights can help you find the best deals across multiple airlines.
Sign up for airline newsletters: Airlines often send their best deals and error fares to subscribers first.
Check multiple departure airports: Sometimes, flying from a nearby airport can result in significant savings.
Look for student and youth discounts: Some airlines offer discounted fares for students and young people.
Consider budget airlines for part of your journey: You might find it cheaper to book a budget flight to a major European hub, then a separate flight to Accra.
Use airline miles or credit card points: If you have them, this can significantly reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Watch for sales around major holidays: Airlines often have sales around Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other major shopping events.
Additional Factors to consider when booking your flights
Remember to factor in additional costs like baggage fees, seat selection, and transit visas (if required for layovers) when comparing flight options. The cheapest base fare isn't always the best deal when all costs are considered.
Also, while budget options can save you money, they may involve longer travel times, multiple stops, or less convenient arrival times. Balance the cost savings against your time and comfort preferences when making your choice.
Lastly, flight prices to Ghana can vary significantly depending on your departure location. Flights from Europe are generally cheaper than those from North America or Asia. If you're coming from further afield, it might be worth considering breaking your journey into two bookings – one to a major European hub, and another from there to Accra.
Budget-Friendly Local Transportation Options to Consider When Traveling to Ghana
Getting around Ghana can be an adventure in itself. Keep in mind that prices can vary based on factors like distance, season, and local economic conditions.
Tro-Tros
Tro-tros are privately-owned minibuses that operate on set routes. They're the cheapest form of public transportation to travel both within cities and between towns and are widely used by locals. These buses typically cost around 5-7 GHS ($0.50-$0.70) for short distances within Accra.
Pros
Very cheap
Authentic local experience
Extensive network covering most areas
Cons
Can be crowded and uncomfortable
No fixed schedules but this shouldn’t really be a problem
May not be suitable for large luggage
Difficult to navigate if it is your first time so always feel free to ask locals for help if needed.
Shared Taxis
In cities, shared taxis operate on set routes like tro-tros but are slightly more comfortable. Negotiate the fare before getting in, especially for longer trips or private hires. Short trips usually cost around 7-15 GHS ($0.60-$1) per person.
Pros
More comfortable than tro-tros
Faster than tro-tros for short distances
Cons
Slightly more expensive than tro-tros
Limited to set routes within cities
Inter-City Buses
For longer journeys, companies like STC and VIP offer more comfortable bus services. A trip from Accra to Kumasi (about 4-5 hours) costs around $10-$15 per person. I personally prefer traveling with STC as I find them much safer to travel with.
Pros
More comfortable for long journeys
Air-conditioned (usually)
Fixed schedules
Cons
Much difficult to get tickets during peak periods around Christmas
May need to book in advance for popular routes
Rental car
If you're comfortable driving in Ghana, renting a car can be cost-effective for groups or for exploring remote areas. Expect to pay around $40-$60 per day for a basic car. If you are a budget traveler, I will only recommend renting a vehicle if you are traveling as a group. This can help you save money as rental fee will be split amongst the members of the group.
Pros
Flexibility to explore at your own pace
Cost-effective for groups
Convenient for reaching remote areas
Cons
Driving in Ghana can be challenging for foreigners
Additional costs for fuel and parking
May require international driving permit if you choose self drive option
Motorbikes and Motor Tricycles
In some areas, especially smaller towns and rural regions, you can rent a motorbike or a motor tricycle to get around within the town. This is one of the most convenient and cheapest ways I will recommend getting about when you find yourself in smaller towns and villages. The typically cost around 10- 30 GHC ($0.6-$2)for a private ride.
Pros
Cheap and flexible
Good for exploring local areas
Cons
Limited availability especially in bigger cities
May not be suitable for long distances or in big cities
Tips for Budget-Friendly Transportation in Ghana
Use tro-tros and shared taxis for short to medium distances to save money.
For intercity travel, compare bus companies for the best rates and schedules.
In cities, use a mix of public transport and ride-hailing apps depending on your comfort and the specific journey.
If planning to explore a specific region extensively, consider renting a car for a few days.
For very long distances, weigh the cost of a flight against the time and comfort of bus travel. If you choose to travel long distances with a domestic flight, book them well in advance to secure the best rates.
Always negotiate fares for taxis before starting your journey if not using a meter or ride sharing app.
Consider purchasing a local SIM card for easy access to ride-hailing apps and online maps.
Consider overnight buses for long-distance travel to save on a night's accommodation.
Remember, while budget options like tro-tros are incredibly cheap, they may not always be the most comfortable or convenient. Balance your budget with your time constraints and comfort preferences when choosing transportation options in Ghana.
Budget-friendly Food Options to try when in Ghana
Eating in Ghana can be a delightful and budget-friendly experience if you know where to look. Here's how to enjoy Ghanaian cuisine without breaking the bank.
Street Food
Street food is not only the cheapest option but also a great way to experience authentic Ghanaian flavors.
Some street foods to try include
Kelewele (spiced fried plantains): 2-5 GHS ($0.20-$0.50)
Waakye (rice and beans): 5-10 GHS ($0.50-$1)
Jollof rice with chicken: 10-15 GHS ($1-$1.50)
Roasted plantain and peanuts: 3-5 GHS ($0.30-$0.50)
Tip: Look for busy stalls with high turnover for the freshest food.
Read more about local street foods to try in Ghana
Local "Chop Bars"
These informal eateries serve traditional Ghanaian dishes at reasonable prices.
Some of the most popular local dishes you will find in “Chop Bars” include
Fufu with light soup and meat: 15-25 GHS ($1.50-$2.50)
Banku with okra stew and fish: 15-20 GHS ($1.50-$2)
Markets and Self-Catering
You can also visit local markets to buy fresh fruits, vegetables, and snacks at low prices. If your accommodation has kitchen facilities, consider buying ingredients and cooking some meals yourself.
Restaurants
While generally more expensive, some restaurants offer affordable options. Check out some budget-friendly restaurants you can visit when in Ghana.
Check out these budget-friendly restaurants to try out in Accra
Budget-friendly activities to try when in Ghana
Ghana offers a variety of budget-friendly activities that allow travelers to experience the country's rich culture, history, and natural beauty on a budget. Here's a list of affordable activities I will recommend to travelers on a budget.
Beach Visits
Many of Ghana's beaches are free to visit or charge minimal fees. You can visit Labadi Beach ($1-$2), Kokrobite Beach (Free entry) and Cape Coast beaches which are mostly free entry.
Markets and Museums
You can explore local markets which are free and provide a glimpse into daily Ghanaian life. Here are some recommended markets and museums which are all free entry
Makola Market
Kejetia Market
Accra Arts Centre
Gallery 1957
Artist Alliance Gallery
Nubuke Foundation
Independence Square
Budget-friendly Tourist Destinations
WEB Dubois Center ($2)
Cape Coast Castle ($7)
Elmina Castle ($7)
National Museum of Ghana, Accra ($8)
Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, Accra ($8)
Aburi Botanical Garden ($4)
Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm ($4)
Here are some Top 10 Day Tours in Ghana.
Watch Local Sports Game
If you love sports, you can enjoy some local sports events like football (soccer) matches and boxing matches with the locals. This is an authentic way to connect with the people in the local communities and learn about the local culture.
Check out some unique activities and experiences you can try when in Ghana
Tips for Saving Money on Activities
Look for student discounts if applicable.
Combine self-guided tours with occasional guided experiences to balance costs.
Check with your accommodation for free or discounted local tours.
Use apps like Guide Your Guide or TripAdvisor to find highly-rated but affordable local experiences.
If you are a group, reach out to tour operators directly and see if they offer group discounts.
Remember, many of the most memorable experiences in Ghana come from simply wandering through local neighborhoods, interacting with friendly Ghanaians, and immersing yourself in the daily life of the country – all of which can be done for free. By balancing these free experiences with paid activities that align with your interests, you can create a rich and fulfilling itinerary without overspending.
Applying for your Visa
Most visitors to Ghana need a visa. The cost varies depending on your nationality, but budget around $60-$100 for a single-entry visa. ECOWAS Member States and some other countries do not require a visa to travel to Ghana. If your country happens to require a visa to enter Ghana, I strongly advise applying in advance through the Ghana Immigration Service website or at a Ghanaian embassy to avoid higher fees for visa-on-arrival. The best time to apply for your visa will be at least 8 to 6 weeks before your travel date.
Vaccinations and Health Precautions
Ghana requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all visitors which you will be mandated to show at the Ghana Airport before your entry into the country. Other recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis which are not mandatory to get. While these can add to your initial costs, they're essential for your health and safety. Check with your local travel clinic for the most up-to-date recommendations and potential cost-saving options.
d) Travel insurance: While it might seem like an unnecessary expense, travel insurance can save you from potential financial disaster in case of emergencies. Look for budget-friendly options that cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Please share with us in the comment section how you travel on a budget.
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