So you are visiting Ghana soon and wondering what to expect on your trip there. Below are a nine things you need to know before visiting.
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1. Your Uber Driver Will Most Likely Not Turn On Their AC.
Obviously your Uber driver will have an A.C in their car. An Uber driver actually told me that they have to pass some tests on their cars to be an Uber driver and having a working A.C is on the checklist.
Even if your Uber driver has A.C they will most likely pick you up with their windows rolled down instead of using it. This came as a shock because it is HOT but if you are nice, chat with them and ask nicely they sometimes put it on.
2. At Tourist Attractions You Will Most Likely Be Charged More
Many countries do this, and Ghana is among them. Foreigners are charged more at tourist sites. For example at Cape Coast Castle it costs 40 GHC for a foreigner but 5GHC for a Ghanaian. Make sure you double check prices for different tourist spots so that you budget accordingly.
3. You Need To Take The Yellow Fever Jab
This is a requirement. This will be checked on arrival and on departure. So make sure to get it done! They have a clinic in the airport where you can pay to get it done but obviously its more comforting to have already done it.
4.It’s Hot, Pack Your Sunscreen and Portable Fan
Pack sunscreen, it’s hot. Especially all my black people, protect that melanin because you can get sun burnt and skin cancer too. As for the portable fan, it is useful when your Uber driver decides to not put on the AC or you are wearing makeup in the heat.
The sunscreen I have been using and used in Ghana:
Rechargeable Portable Fan I used in Ghana:
6. Uber Drivers Tend To Prefer Cash
A lot of Ubers/Bolts prefer cash. I was told by an Uber driver that a lot of drivers will not pick a ride if it’s a card payment. Although I have used card before, it may take a bit longer to get a driver to pick you up.
7. People are Generally Friendly
You will enjoy your time in Ghana because people are friendly. You will be welcomed, so enjoy your time!
8. People May Automatically Speak To You In Twi
This goes along with the friendly part. If you are black and don’t speak first, a lot of the time, people will speak in Twi to you.
9. At Night Police Checks Happen
In certain major areas of Accra such as Spintex Road, East Legon, Airport Residential and Ridge; you will see quite a few a police points once it hits 10pm. The police are there to ensure public safety, they look inside of your car with a flashlight and sometimes ask for car documents. There is nothing to worry about, it’s all for safety.
Overall
Ghana is great place to visit in West Africa. Enjoy the sun, culture and food 🙂 I hope these points are useful and help with your plan on visiting Ghana. Now that you know what to expect how about checking what you need to pack with my essential packing list for Ghana.
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