Ghana Discover a completely different side of Africa
West Africa’s rising star may be blessed with gorgeous golden beaches but Ghana is so much more than just a sunbathing destination. Shop for beautiful batik fabrics and Ashanti sandals in the sprawling Kejetia market in Kumasi. Then head north to Mole National Park for encounters with African elephants and kob antelopes. On the Atlantic coast, the country’s coastal forts – once the last stop for captured Africans before they were forced onto ships – serve as a haunting reminder of the transatlantic slave trade.
Where it is
Western Africa
When to go
October to March
Why go there
Accessible wildlife
Pristine beaches
Fascinating history
What to see
Cape Three Points
Mole National Park
Cape Coast Castle
Beach bliss
Ghana is famed for its sun-drenched beaches that you’ll find hard to leave. One of our favourites is Cape Three Points, where you’ll share the sand with nesting turtles.
Haunting history
The slave trade is long gone but it lives on at Cape Coast Castle, a Unesco heritage site. Overlooking the sea, this whitewashed castle tells the sobering tale.
Market trading
You haven’t really experienced Ghana until you’ve gone deep into throbbing Kejetia market, and Cosa can arrange a local guide to take you to the very best stalls.
Wildlife watching
Ghana has more wildlife than you might imagine, with Mole National Park home to the likes of elephants, buffalo, antelope and baboons. And, you’re likely to have them all to yourself.
Travel in Ghana
Getting around Ghana is easy. Whether you choose to fly, and so avoid long overground journeys, or opt for trotros (small vans) for an authentic Ghanaian experience, you’ll be greeted with a welcome as warm as the sun from affable locals. And wherever you want to visit in this West African gem, Cosa can create a tailor-made tour that’s right for you. Flights from Switzerland to Accra, the Ghanaian capital, are usually not direct so can take a bit longer.
Ghana facts
Sandwiched between Cote d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) and Togo, Ghana – which means ‘warrior king’ – was once called the Gold Coast, thanks to the trade in that precious metal. The West African nation is about the same size as the UK, its erstwhile colonial ruler until independence in 1957. It’s home to around 33 million people across more than 50 different ethnic groups, each with their own customs and languages. Chances are you’ll see many Ghanaians wearing the kente, the bright colourful woven material that’s become the defining national symbol, on special occasions.
Time zone
UTC
Flight time
12 hours from Switzerland
Local currency
Ghanaian cedi
Dialling code
+233
