Welcome Home to Ghana 🇬🇭
You're not just taking a trip — you're coming home. This guide has everything you need to prepare for the experience of a lifetime. We're with you every step of the way, from packing your bags to walking through those castle doors, from tasting jollof for the first time to standing at the Door of No Return. This is your journey back to yourself, back to your roots, back to the family you didn't know you needed.
What to Expect: Ghana Awaits You
Ghana, once known as the Gold Coast, is more than a destination — it's a homecoming. Bordered by Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Togo, and the Atlantic Ocean, this vibrant West African nation pulses with history, culture, and joy.
Capital: Accra
Population: 30 million warm hearts ready to welcome you
Languages: English (official) and Twi (plus about 100 other languages!)
Climate: Tropical warmth — think 77°F to 86°F (25°C to 30°C)
Currency: Ghana Cedi (GH¢) | $1 USD ≈ 10.50 GH¢
Emergency Numbers: Police 191 | Fire 192/999 | Ambulance 193
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Ghana is December to February — this is the dry season with the best weather, less humidity, and plenty of sunshine. January is especially perfect as it avoids the last rains of November/December and the hotter temperatures of late February. However, Ghana is beautiful year-round, and each season has its own magic!
"I hope you have an experience that alters the course of your life because, after Africa, nothing has ever been the same." — Suzanne Evans
Preparing for Your Journey
📋 Your Essential Checklist
Before You Leave Home:
What to Pack:
Pro Tip: Pack light! You'll want room in your luggage for all the beautiful fabrics, art, and treasures you'll bring home. Less is truly more.
What to Wear in Ghana
Climate & Comfort
Ghana's tropical climate means warm temperatures and high humidity year-round. Here's how to stay comfortable and stylish:
Your Daily Wardrobe:
- Casual days: Lightweight tops, shorts, skirts, breathable pants
- Evening vibes: Resort wear, "going-out" attire — you know what to do!
- Cultural moments: Traditional Ghanaian attire — get a custom African outfit made by our seamstress or buy ready-made pieces from the market!
City vs. Countryside:
- Accra is contemporary — a beautiful blend of traditional and modern fashion
- Cape Coast and Kumasi lean more traditional; comfortable walking attire is perfect for exploring
Footwear Essentials:
- Comfortable walking shoes (you'll be doing the canopy walk!)
- Sandals for everyday
- Nicer shoes for dinners and nightlife
Accessories:
- Sun hats and sunglasses (that Ghana sun is glorious!)
- Lightweight scarves for sun protection and cultural respect
- Headwraps are stunning and practical
- Minimalist jewelry (considering both cultural significance and safety)
Power & Technology
The Technical Details:
- Ghana uses 230 volts and Type G power adapters (the UK-style three-prong plug)
- Most US devices are dual voltage — check yours!
- If not dual voltage, you'll need a power converter
- Bring portable chargers (power outages happen, and you'll want to keep your phone charged)
Important: Be prepared for occasional power outages. A portable power bank is your best friend for keeping devices charged during adventures!
Miscellaneous Must-Haves
- Sunscreen (protect that beautiful skin!)
- Snacks and entertainment for bus rides
- Reusable water bottle (stay hydrated!)
- Baby wipes (trust us on this)
- Small sock (to cover faucets as a reminder not to brush teeth with tap water)
- School supplies to donate to local children (pens, notebooks, bags, toiletries, sweets)
Immigration & Documentation
Your Visa
You'll need a B-2 Tourist Visa to enter Ghana. Here's what you need to know:
Visa Options:
- Single Entry: $60 (valid for 3 months)
- Multiple Entry: $100 (valid for 3 months to 2 years) — We recommend this option!
Note: New York Consulate offers expedited processing for additional fees. Express Service adds $100-$140, Priority Service adds $100-$160 depending on visa type.
Processing time: 7-14 business days
Where to Apply:
Ghana Embassy - Washington, DC
- Phone: (+1) 202-686-4520
- Email: info.washington@mfa.gov.gh
- Consular Hours: Monday - Friday, 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- Important: Visits to the Consular Section are by online appointment only
Ghana Consulate - New York (Alternate Location)
- Address: 19 East 47th Street, New York, NY 10017
- Email: nyconsular@mfa.gov.gh
- Processing Options:
- Standard Service: 10 working days
- Express Service: 4 working days
- Priority Service: 3 working days
- Payment Methods: Money Order/Bank Draft payable to "The Mission of Ghana" or Bank Card at counter (no personal checks accepted)
What to Submit:
- Completed visa application form
- Passport valid for at least 6 months
- Photocopy of flight information
- Letter from Certified Africa (we'll provide this!)
- Copy of your itinerary
- Yellow Fever vaccination certificate
- Self-addressed, stamped return envelope (if applying by mail)
Your lead Contact in Ghana:
Karlmarx Bonsu
Certified Africa LLC, Tour Manager
Accra, Ghana
contact@certifiedafrica.com
Health Requirements
Yellow Fever Vaccination is REQUIRED for entry into Ghana. You'll need to show your yellow card at immigration.
Additional Health Tips:
- Consult your healthcare provider about recommended vaccinations
- Consider malaria prophylaxis
- Pack a small medical kit with pain relievers, antidiarrheal medication, and antiseptic
- Bring all prescription medications in original containers
- Cannabis in ANY form is illegal in Ghana
Helpful Resources:
Cultural Etiquette: How to Be Family
Ghana welcomes you with open arms. Here's how to show respect and fit right in with your new family:
The Golden Rules
Always greet first. When you enter a room or space, offer a greeting. People are waiting to welcome you warmly — but they're waiting for you to say hello first!
Use your right hand when giving, receiving, or shaking hands. It's tradition and shows respect.
Shake hands with everyone when greeting a household, starting from right to left.
Never ask if someone is "crazy" or "mad." This is considered a major insult in Ghanaian culture.
Don't cross your legs when sitting in front of a chief.
Be mindful with thumbs! Raising your thumb improperly is like raising your middle finger in the US.
Accept water graciously. When visiting a Ghanaian home, you'll be offered water first. Even if you decline, appreciate the gesture. Then your host will ask about your visit — even if they already know why you're there. It's all part of the beautiful tradition of hospitality.
Money & Banking
Ghana is primarily a cash society. Here's what you need to know:
ATMs are widely available in cities and dispense Ghana Cedis (GH¢). Your international debit/credit cards will work at most ATMs.
Important ATM tips:
- Notify your bank before traveling so your card isn't blocked
- Withdraw in multiples of 10 (many ATMs don't dispense smaller denominations)
- Use ATMs at reputable banks during daylight hours
- Be aware of foreign transaction fees from your bank
Cash exchange: Larger bills ($50 and $100) get better exchange rates. Exchange at banks or official forex bureaus, not at airports or hotels where rates are marked up.
Mobile Money (MoMo) is very popular in Ghana, but requires a local phone number.
Credit cards work at upscale hotels and restaurants in major cities, but aren't widely accepted elsewhere. Always carry cash!
Navigating Daily Life
Come with an open mind. Ghana is a developing nation, and we all have a role in supporting its growth. This isn't America or Europe — it's Africa, and it's perfect in its own way. You're coming home as one of Africa's children.
Respect all religions and ethnicities. Ghana is beautifully diverse and deeply tolerant. Follow that lead.
Bargain with joy! Everything except mall prices is negotiable. Expect initial prices to be 30-50% higher than the final price. Bargain with a smile, never with annoyance. Your guide will help you get fair prices.
Determine taxi prices BEFORE getting in. Non-negotiable rule! Better yet, use Uber or Bolt ride-sharing apps in Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, and Takoradi — they show fixed prices, GPS tracking, and provide an extra layer of safety.
Secure your belongings in crowded places, especially in markets and on beaches.
No photos at airports, government buildings, or state facilities.
Learn a few words in the local language — it goes a long way and earns you warm smiles!
Travel with a guide (that's us!) to ensure honest interactions and fair prices.
Remember: Ghana is home, and you're going to love every moment of your stay. The warmth, the laughter, the unexpected moments of joy — this is what homecoming feels like.
Travel Insurance
While Certified Africa doesn't offer travel insurance directly, we strongly encourage you to protect your investment and your peace of mind. Find options at: certifiedafrica.com/travel-insurance
What Our Family Says
"Certified Africa provided more than a trip, it was the experience of a lifetime! We met wonderful people, every day was educational, inspirational and just plain fun. Nii, Kristin and their team were so professional but at the same time, they felt like family. I would travel with Certified Africa every vacation if I could. Thank you for showing us Ghana and making The Year of the Return an unforgettable experience."
— Kamara Cooper
"There are not even enough words to describe the amazing trip my Husband and I had with Certified Africa here in Ghana. They answered all our questions and concerns ahead of time and provided all the necessary information for travel to Africa. Once on the ground they gave us days full of culture and love from the Certified Africa staff and the local people of Ghana. If you want to experience Ghana not just Accra. Book with Certified Africa. Thank you again Nii and Kristin and Team for all your hard work. No detail was left out."
— Felicia Parsons
"This trip blew me away. I was excited to visit Africa for the first time and specifically Ghana but I never expected to be so inspired and moved. The Certified Africa founders were ingenious in curating a trip that addressed the many desires people of African-descent may have when journeying back to their homeland. From the traditional ceremonies to the tourism to the exceptional business investment event, I felt honored to be exposed to every facet of Ghanaian culture and welcomed fully. It was more than a trip but an experience that I will cherish for a lifetime."
— Shanel Adams
"AMAZING!!!! It exceeded all of my expectations. First class trip all the way…from the airplane to checking back in for the flight. All of the hosts were phenomenal and very helpful. The itinerary was very full of enriching activities and wonderful historical sites. I'll definitely recommend this trip and travel agency to any and everyone."
— Nancy Fooks
"Words can not express how wonderful my experience was. Certified Africa thought of everything! The staff is amazing and I encourage anyone who wants to visit our motherland, to do it with CA!"
— Tametra Tracy
"While on this trip it allowed me to experience and achieve milestones that I never thought to do on my own. Such as crossing the bridge at Kakum Park and hiking up a mountain. It allowed me to embrace my fears and to step out of my comfort zone which was very exhilarating. Thank you for this experience."
— Toya Parker
Ready to Come Home?
We're here for every question, every concern, every moment of excitement.
📞 Phone: +1 (727) 222-1637 / +233 53-551-4048
✉️ Email: contact@certifiedafrica.com
🌐 Website: www.certifiedafrica.com
📸 Instagram: @certifiedafrica
👥 Facebook: facebook.com/certifiedafrica
This isn't just a trip. This is your return. This is family. This is joy, connection, heritage, and memories that will live in your heart forever. We're going the extra mile to make sure you have the experience of a lifetime — and we'll be with you every single step of the way.
Welcome home, family. Ghana is waiting for you. 🇬🇭