For many tourists, the purpose of travelling is not just about ticking off some destination on a travel bucket list, but a way of experiencing new life that goes beyond sightseeing. While some people may plan their holidays around the idea of having unique memories, others are more so longing to understand many cultures of the world and immersing themselves in it. 

You too can want more from your travel to Ghana. This holiday season explore the country more slowly, speaking with the local Ghanaian people and reflecting on the country’s way of living.

Key Insights:

Ghana’s international tourism has grown over the years, with slightly over 1 million tourists (2019 – 2023) from all over the world, especially the USA, coming to experience the country mostly for the beyond the return festivities and December in Ghana parties. 

In this post, we share 6 ways tourists can experience Ghana like a local:

1. Use a Tour Guide

Using a certified tour guide in your travel to Ghana is not necessarily how locals live but it’s a way of keeping you safe during your travels and ensuring you explore the best places as much as you want. Local tour guides, living in Ghana will introduce you to the authentic Ghanaian way.

2. Learn some Basic Phrases 

Knowing a little language goes a long way in your experience of Ghana. Picking up basic Twi, Ewe or Hausa depending on where you are can get the people excited and you will be praised for the effort. Speaking something as easy as “Akwaaba”, “Medaase” will open up a conversation with many people, you’ll learn so much more and even get to make some unexpected friends. 

3. Take Public Transport 

Forget fancy tours – you have a tour guide anyways! To get a proper feel of how Ghanaians commute you can opt out of bolts and taxis and try out local transports like the Tro-tros (Shared minivans). If you are looking for buzzing conversation and a cheaper way of sightseeing then this is your best choice – you’ll rub shoulders with everyday Ghanaians, feel the harsh heat and hear more local languages. Just be prepared for some chaos every now and then. 

4. Dine with a Local Host 

Ghana has some of the most delicious food in all of West Africa. Rather than spend a fortune on chain restaurants, why not share a meal with a Ghanaian family. Imagine your first taste of some smoky jollof rice, waakye or fufu is prepared by a local, after all they hold the best recipes. But that aside, you’ll learn to eat with your hands, get to hear more family stories, learn the various traditions (Ga’s, Akans, Northerners etc.) and experience the warmth of the Ghanaian community.

5. Shop at the Open Markets 

Open markets like Katamanto, Makola, Kejetia and the market circle at Takoradi are the best possible way to experience the country. From the loud noises, shouts from tro-tro conductors and price haggling with traders, you will see the beautiful fabrics of the country, the fresh produce and even some locally made ornaments if you get lucky. Open markets in Ghana are chaotic but not to worry just bring your cash, bargaining skills and open mind.

6. Go to the Local Events 

Ghanaians love to party even outside of the club scene. Crash a local wedding, naming ceremony, traditional festival like Homowo, Odwira, or the Ankos masquerade festival in Takoradi. Go, hear the local music, dance, laugh and immerse yourself in the vibrant lifestyle of Ghanaians. 

Travelling outside of your country requires a higher level of diligence. It’s important to research more about the country, popular scams that are targeted at foreigners and the areas that can be dangerous to explore. although its great to keep an open mind for any culture shocks, doing simple things like knowing the tourism laws of the state, having the correct security number and even following the right travel influencers.

Happy Travel