WHAT SHOULD I PACK FOR MY TRIP TO GHANA?

• Clothing: Opt for comfortable and breathable attire suitable for warm weather. Leave formal attire such as high heels and suits behind.
• Recommended Items: Pack essentials like jeans, shorts, athletic wear, and two pairs of comfortable sneakers for walking excursions.
• Footwear: Sandals are ideal for casual outings, while sturdy shoes are recommended for hiking and exploring.
• Accessories: Bring shower shoes, water shoes, cotton shirts for breathability, and consider dressing in layers for varying temperatures.
• Medications: Ensure you have an ample supply of medications in a sealed container labeled with your name for ease of identification.

ARE THERE ANY CULTURAL NORMS OR CUSTOMS I SHOULD BE AWARE OF IN GHANA?

Yes, there are several cultural norms and customs in Ghana that visitors should be aware of to show respect and appreciation for the local culture. Here are a few key points:

Greetings: Ghanaians place importance on greetings as a sign of respect. Handshakes are common, and it's polite to use your right hand for greetings or when passing items to someone.

Dress Code: While Ghana is relatively liberal in terms of dress, it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in such contexts.

Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is deeply ingrained in Ghanaian culture. It's customary to show deference to older individuals through polite language and gestures.

Taboos: There are certain taboos in Ghana, such as pointing at someone with your finger, using your left hand for greetings or eating, and taking photos of individuals without their permission. Being mindful of these customs can help prevent unintentional offenses.

Food Etiquette: When sharing a meal with Ghanaians, it's common to eat with your right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Additionally, it's polite to try a bit of everything on your plate as a sign of appreciation for the meal.

By familiarizing yourself with these cultural norms and customs, you can enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for Ghanaian traditions during your visit.

WHAT TYPE OF TECHNOLOGY SHOULD I BRING ?

We recommend a few things. Be sure to bring the proper charger for ghana because your american charger wont work. Below are a few links to help you with that.

Also be sure to download the app called what's app this is a popular app people use there as well as when you travel across country.

https://a.co/d/9QTpdEy

https://a.co/d/dOUlMHf

WHAT IS THE CURRENCY USED IN GHANA, AND HOW CAN I HANDLE MONEY THERE?

The currency used in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi, denoted by the symbol "GH₵" or "GHS." When handling money in Ghana, it's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards. While major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger establishments, it's recommended to have cash on hand for smaller purchases and in more remote areas where card acceptance may be limited.

Currency exchange services are available at airports, banks, and exchange bureaus in major cities. It's important to exchange money at official and reputable locations to avoid counterfeit currency. Additionally, ATMs are widely available in urban areas for convenient access to cash. Keep in mind that some ATMs may charge withdrawal fees, so it's wise to check with your bank regarding international transaction fees before your trip.

Overall, being mindful of where you exchange currency and having a mix of payment methods can help you navigate financial transactions smoothly during your stay in Ghana.

ARE THERE ANY HEALTH AND SAFETY TIPS I SHOULD KEEP IN MIND WHILE IN GHANA?

When traveling to Ghana or any other destination, it's important to consider health and safety tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some general health and safety tips to keep in mind while in Ghana:

Vaccinations: Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Ghana. Additionally, consider vaccines for diseases such as yellow fever, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and meningitis.

Malaria Prevention: Ghana is a malaria-endemic country, so it's important to take preventive measures such as using insect repellent, sleeping under mosquito nets, and taking antimalarial medication as prescribed.

Food and Water Safety:** To prevent foodborne illnesses, drink bottled water, avoid consuming tap water, and stick to eating hot, freshly prepared foods. Fruits that can be peeled are generally safe to eat.

Sun Protection: Ghana's tropical climate means strong sun exposure. Remember to use sunscreen, wear protective clothing, and stay hydrated to prevent heat-related illnesses.

Personal Security: Stay vigilant of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist spots. Avoid displaying valuable items openly and be cautious of pickpockets.

Respect Local Customs : Be respectful of Ghanaian customs and traditions. Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photographs of individuals.

Communicate: Keep your accommodation and emergency contact information handy. Inform someone trustworthy about your whereabouts when venturing out alone.

By following these health and safety tips, you can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience while traveling in Ghana.

WHAT WILL THE FOOD BE LIKE ?

Ghana is known for its flavorful and diverse cuisine, offering a variety of traditional dishes that reflect the country's rich culinary heritage. Some popular Ghanaian dishes to try include:

Jollof Rice: A delicious one-pot dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a blend of spices. It is often served with chicken, fish, or vegetables.

Banku and Tilapia: Banku is a fermented corn and cassava dough, typically served with grilled tilapia fish and a spicy pepper sauce.

Waakye: A hearty dish made with rice and beans, typically served with fried plantains, spaghetti, stewed meat, and a boiled egg.

Kelewele: Spicy fried plantains seasoned with ginger, pepper, and other spices, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish.

Fufu and Light Soup: Fufu is a staple dish made from pounded cassava and plantains, served with a flavorful light soup typically made with fish, meat, or vegetables.

These dishes offer a taste of the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of Ghana. Don't miss the opportunity to sample these authentic Ghanaian delicacies during your visit!

WHAT DO I NEED TO APPLY FOR A VISA ?

More details to come from Sankofa US. They will address this