ghana travel advisories

Update April 12, 2024

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Ghana Travel Advisory

Travel advisory november 20, 2023, ghana - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect threats against LGBTQI+ travelers.

Exercise increased caution in Ghana due to crime and violence against members of the LGBTQI+ community . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Exercise increased caution in:

• Parts of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions due to civil unrest.

Country summary:  Violent crimes, such as carjacking and street mugging, do occur. These crimes often happen at night and in isolated locations. Exercise increased caution specifically due to crime:

• In urban areas and crowded markets
• When traveling by private or public transportation after dark as criminal elements may use blockades to slow down and restrict movement of vehicles
• In areas near the northern border in the Upper East and Upper West regions

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to more serious crimes.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: Ghanaian law contains prohibitions on “unlawful carnal knowledge” – generally interpreted as any kind of sexual intimacy – between persons of the same sex. Punishments can include fines and/or incarceration. Anti-LGBTQI+ rhetoric and violence have increased in recent years. Members of the LGBTQI+ community have reported safety incidents that include targeted assault, rape, mob attacks, and harassment due to their identity.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Ghana.

If you decide to travel to Ghana:

• See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights Report for further details.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the Country Security Report for Ghana.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .
• Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

Areas Near the Northern Border in the Upper East and Upper West Regions – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

U.S. citizens traveling in Ghana should exercise caution while visiting border areas, in particular the northern border, and be sure to read Security Alerts affecting those areas. Due to security concerns over criminal activity in remote areas, travel of U.S. government personnel to the northern and northwestern border is currently limited.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Travel Advisory Levels

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Ghana Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in Ghana. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

There is no longer active cholera transmission and vaccine is not recommended.

Cholera - CDC Yellow Book

Hepatitis A

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to Ghana.

Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers of all ages traveling to Ghana.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

CDC recommends that travelers going to Ghana take prescription medicine to prevent malaria. Depending on the medicine you take, you will need to start taking this medicine multiple days before your trip, as well as during and after your trip. Talk to your doctor about which malaria medication you should take.

Find  country-specific information  about malaria.

Malaria - CDC Yellow Book

Considerations when choosing a drug for malaria prophylaxis (CDC Yellow Book)

Malaria information for Ghana.

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to  CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel .

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis (Meningococcal disease)

Recommended for travelers 2 months old or older traveling to  areas of Ghana  that are part of the meningitis belt during the dry season.

Meningococcal disease - CDC Yellow Book

Meningitis Belt Map

In Ghana poliovirus has been identified in the past year.

Travelers to Ghana are at increased risk of exposure to poliovirus.

Vaccine recommendations : Adults traveling to Ghana who received a complete polio vaccination series as children may receive a single lifetime booster dose of inactivated polio vaccine; travelers who are unvaccinated or not fully vaccinated should receive a complete polio vaccination series before travel. Children who are not fully vaccinated will be considered for an  accelerated vaccination schedule .

Polio - CDC Yellow Book

Polio: For Travelers

Rabid dogs are commonly found in Ghana. If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in Ghana, there may be limited or no rabies treatment available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to Ghana. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for all arriving travelers ≥9 months old.

Recommended for all travelers ≥9 months old.

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

• Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Schistosomiasis

• Wading, swimming, bathing, or washing in contaminated freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, lakes, or untreated pools.

Avoid bug bites

African tick-bite fever.

• Avoid Bug Bites

African Tick-bite fever

Chikungunya

• Mosquito bite
• Mosquito bite

Leishmaniasis

• Sand fly bite

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Lassa Fever

• Breathe in air or eat food contaminated with the urine or droppings of infected rats
• Touch the body fluids of a person infected with Lassa virus or objects contaminated with infected body fluids

Lassa fever

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in Ghana, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the Department of State Country Information Pages for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in Ghana. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Some diseases in Ghana—such as dengue, leishmaniasis, and African sleeping sickness—are spread by bugs and cannot be prevented with a vaccine. Follow the insect avoidance measures described above to prevent these and other illnesses.

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in Ghana include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in Ghana. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call Ghana’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Malaria is a risk in Ghana. Fill your malaria prescription before you leave and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of Ghana may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in Ghana, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

For information traffic safety and road conditions in Ghana, see Travel and Transportation on US Department of State's country-specific information for Ghana .

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

To call for emergency services while in Ghana, dial 193 for an ambulance, 192 for the fire department, and 191 for the police. Write these numbers down to carry with you during your trip.

Learn as much as you can about Ghana before you travel there. A good place to start is the country-specific information on Ghana from the US Department of State.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for Ghana for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.

Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

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GHANA TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Individuals traveling to Ghana are required to strictly adhere to the following new directives as stated by Ghana’s President during his 16 th address to the Nation on Measures Taken Against the Spread of the Coronavirus:

• All passengers arriving in Ghana must be in possession of a negative COVID-19 PCR test result from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin and the test must have been done not more than seventy-two (72) hours before the scheduled arrival in the country. All airlines have been instructed to ensure compliance with this directive for all passengers traveling to Ghana;
• All passengers would be required to undergo a mandatory COVID-19 test at the airport terminal upon arrival in Ghana at a fee of one hundred and fifty dollars ($150.00) to be borne by the passenger. The test result will be available within thirty (30) minutes;
• Children under the age of five (5) will not be required to undergo testing at the airport;
• Passengers who test positive for COVID-19 will be handled by the health authorities for further clinical assessment and management; and
• Passengers who test negative will be admitted into the country and will be advised to continue to observe COVID-19 safety precautions during their stay in Ghana.

Ministry of Health / Ghana Health Service Guidelines

INTRODUCTION 

Following the declaration of the novel Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) as a global Public Health Emergency of International Concern on 30th January 2020, several countries instituted measures to curb the spread of the disease. In Ghana, similar measures were instituted in addition to the Executive Instrument (EI) 61 requiring some practices to be enforced.

As part of plans to reopen the Kotoka International Airport (KIA) on Tuesday, September 1, 2020, the Ghana Health Service/Ministry of Health has instituted measures to prevent and control the spread of COVID 19 in Ghana related to international travel. The outlined measures below are applicable to flight crew and passengers arriving and/or departing KIA within the period of reopening the airport to international travel until further advised.

The Ghana Health Service in collaboration with other partners will provide Port Health Services to ensure safety of flight crew, passengers and users of the airport. Port Health Services at the airport includes all health-related activities within the terminal including laboratory testing, inspection of relevant health documents, screening and triaging of passengers and the management of ill persons including transfer to appropriate health facilities; environmental inspections, supervision of cleaning and disinfection of aircraft and the entire airport terminal among others.

COVID-19 PROTOCOLS FOR DEPARTING AND ARRIVING PASSENGERS 

All passengers departing or arriving on international flights at KIA including those from the ECOWAS region will be required to meet the health requirements outlined below prior to admission into Ghana by the Ghana Immigration Service.

• Departing Passengers 

All passengers on international flights departing KIA will be required to adhere to COVID-19 testing requirements for the destination countries. All persons must be wearing a face mask appropriately (extending from the middle of the nasal bridge to halfway between the chin and the neck) and adhere to social distancing and hygiene protocols. Departing passengers will under g o COVID-19 screening including the checking of temperature.

• Arriving Passengers 

All arriving passengers must not have any symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 including body temperature >38°C. They must be in possession of a COVID-19 negative PCR test result from an accredited laboratory in the country of origin. The test should have been done not more than 72 hours before the scheduled departure time from the country of origin. For passengers who transit through other countries before arriving in Ghana, the first country of departure will be the reference point. For passengers who depart Ghana and return within one (1) week, the passengers will not be required to present a COVID-19 test result from the country of departure. A negative COVID-19 test from Ghana used on departure will serve as evidence of meeting the COVID-19 test criteria for arriving in Ghana. In addition, all persons must be wearing face masks appropriately upon arrival (extending from the middle of the nasal bridge to halfway between the chin and the neck). All passengers will be subjected to a mandatory COVID-19 test at the airport terminal at the cost to the passenger. All persons testing positive will receive further clinical assessment and treatment. All persons testing negative will be advised to continue to observe COVID-19 safety precautions following arrival in Ghana.

• 5 . Exemptions 

The following categories of passengers and crew are exempt from COVID-19 PCR test Testing:

• Children under-5 years of age will not be required to undergo testing at the airport;
• Persons who arrive under emergency circumstances such as diverted flights will not be required to undergo testing if they do not leave the airport or if they remain in transit such that they do not leave the hotel; and
• Airline crew are exempt from the pre-departure and arrival testing and should follow airline policy for testing.

MANAGEMENT OF CONFIRMED COVID-19 CASES

All persons testing positive will receive further clinical assessment and treatment. Confirmed COVID 19 positive will be handled by the Port Health Unit for the remainder of their arrival processes. Following completion of the arrival procedures, they will be sent to the Ga East Municipal Hospital for further clinical assessment and management. All persons testing negative will be advised to continue to observe COVID-19 safety precautions following arrival in Ghana.

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COVID 19 UPDATE AS AT 20TH MAY 2023

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Safety and security

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Ghana .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Ghana

Terrorist attacks in Ghana cannot be ruled out. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals, such as:

• northern border areas
• beach resorts
• hotels, cafes and restaurants
• places of worship

Stay aware of your surroundings, keep up to date with local media reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Political situation

Demonstrations in the capital Accra are normally well policed and peaceful, but sometimes they occur at short notice and can cause disruption.

Disputes can occur between local tribes. This can lead to inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest. Seek local advice and take precautions in areas where political tensions are heightened. See Regional risks .

Internet access

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) is aware of internet outages across Ghana. Services including airport, online payments and online booking may be affected. Voice calls and SMS are intermittently available.

Protecting yourself and your belongings

Cases of robbery, burglary and serious assault have become more common since 2021, and in some cases involve the use of weapons. Foreign nationals have been attacked and robbed at gunpoint. Street crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching is on the increase in Accra. To reduce your personal risk:

• avoid carrying large sums of money or valuables
• use a hotel safe to store passport and valuables whenever possible
• be alert when withdrawing cash from ATMs, and where possible go by pre-arranged transport
• be particularly careful after nightfall and avoid walking alone
• take care of your belongings when arriving at and leaving hotels
• keep a copy of your passport’s photo page and your visa or entry stamp in a separate place

Safety at beaches

Theft is the main problem at beaches, but there have been isolated incidents of violent crime and sexual assault in areas popular with tourists. Do not visit beaches alone and take care on public beaches.

Safety at airports

There are reports of a small number of thefts of luggage and travel documents at Kotoka International Airport. Make sure your passport is always secure and do not leave your bags unattended. Be wary of offers of help except from uniformed porters or officials. All permanent staff at the airport wear an ID card showing their name and a photo. ID cards without a photo are not valid.

If you’re being collected at the airport, confirm the identity of your driver by asking for ID. British nationals have been robbed by impostors who have approached them around the main arrivals area pretending to be their driver.

Accommodation security

There have been cases of burglaries in areas used by the international community, including Airport Residential, Cantonments, Ridge and Kokrobite, with greater frequency over the Christmas period. Make sure doors and windows are locked and keep all valuables in a secure lockbox. Set the burglar alarm if your accommodation has one.

Vehicle crime 

Attacks on vehicles are increasing, sometimes involving the use of weapons. A British national died in one such attack in August 2021. Take particular care when your car or taxi is stationary in a busy area. Keep windows up and doors locked.

There have been isolated incidents of crime taking place in all types of taxis, including licensed taxis, minibuses (‘tro tros’) and app-based taxi services. Use licensed taxis and check driver ID and the vehicle’s condition before you travel. Some hotels will book transport to pick you up on arrival. Avoid travelling alone in taxis after dark.

Local police have highlighted the risk to vehicles on specific roads in Accra:

• Graphic Road
• George Walker Bush Highway
• Accra Mall Roundabout
• Awudome Cemetery Road
• Pokuase-Amasaman Road
• Teshie-Nungua Road
• Labadi beach area
• GIMPA road and surrounding areas
• Kokrobite beach area

For longer trips outside major cities:

• travel during daylight hours
• travel in a convoy of at least 2 vehicles
• get advice from local police
• do not stop your vehicle if people at the roadside try to flag you down

Criminal kidnap

There have been reports in the media of criminally motivated kidnapping in Accra, Takoradi and Kumasi, including the targeting of foreign nationals. Kidnaps can be for financial or political gain. If you’re kidnapped, the reason for your presence in Ghana is unlikely to serve as a protection or secure your safe release.

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners increases the risk of further hostage-taking.   

Scam artists target foreign visitors and residents. The scams come in many forms – romance and friendship, business ventures, work and employment opportunities – and can cause great financial loss. Warn your friends and family to be sceptical if they’re asked to transfer funds to you in Ghana. Tell them to contact you to check that you’ve made this request. 

Bank card fraud

Keep your card in sight when paying bills and look closely when you use an ATM in case a skimming device has been attached to it.

Laws and cultural differences

Ghana is a conservative and deeply religious country. Although attitudes are largely modern and progressive, you should show respect for traditional values and morals. 

Dress modestly in public. Shorts and t-shirts are acceptable for both males and females, but it is best not to wear anything too revealing.

Wearing military clothing including camouflage is illegal.

Personal ID

It is advisable to carry ID. A copy of your passport’s photo page is acceptable. Keep the original in a safe place such as a hotel safe.

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

Do not get involved with drugs of any kind. Penalties for drug-related offences are severe. Even possession of small amounts of marijuana can lead to a prison sentence of more than 5 years, usually after a long and expensive legal process. Bail is not normally granted.

Class A drugs like cocaine are likely to be laced with other substances. Foreign visitors, including British people, have died after taking these drugs.

Using cameras in secure areas

Photography near sensitive sites like military installations or the airport is illegal. Ask permission if you want to take a photograph of a building where there are guards on duty. Beware of self-appointed officials trying to charge fees to let you take pictures of well-known sites of interest.

LGBT+ travellers

Some same-sex sexual acts could lead to a prison sentence of between 3 and 25 years. Although there are no records of this being enforced, there were arrests at a gathering of the LGBT+ community in 2021. Ghanaian society is intolerant of people of the same sex showing affection in public. Many Ghanaians do not accept that such relationships exist. 

The Human Sexual Rights and Family Values Bill is not law, but its passage through Ghana’s Parliament could increase the risk of violence and other threats (such as blackmail and intimidation) to the LGBT+ community and their allies. Rhetoric by some politicians, religious leaders, and local media can incite violence and psychological abuse of the LGBT+ community. FCDO are aware of reported attacks against LGBT+ individuals.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Family law in Ghana

Ghanaian family law is very different from UK law, particularly when child custody becomes an issue. Ghana is not a signatory to the Hague Convention. This means:

• the custody process might not be as straightforward as in cases where both countries are signatories
• you might need to initiate legal proceedings in Ghana for custody or to have your child returned to the UK

While ATMs are common in large towns, they may not be available in rural areas. Many hotels, guesthouses and shops accept credit cards except for Mastercard, which is not widely accepted. Check ahead that you can make payment, and have back-up funds.

Contact your card issuer before you travel in case they put a block on your account.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourism

Swimming safety.

Swimming is dangerous on the beaches along the southern coast of Ghana due to rip tides and undertows. There are occasional reports of deaths of both adults and children.

See water safety on holiday from the Royal Life Saving Society. 

Transport risks

Road travel.

You can drive in Ghana using the 1949 version of the international driving permit ( IDP ) or a Ghanaian driving licence. Carry your driving documents with you. 

Driving standards

Roads can be in a poor condition, particularly in rural areas. Grass or leaves strewn in the road often mean there is an accident or other hazard ahead.

Street lighting is poor or non-existent. Avoid travelling by road outside the main towns after dark, when the risk of serious road accidents is much greater, and there is a heightened risk of attacks on vehicles (see the crime section). If you choose to drive at night be aware of impromptu police checkpoints. Do not give cash to the police as this can be perceived as a bribe.

Safety standards of taxi services in Ghana are low. Driver training and vehicle standards will vary from providers in the UK. Drivers of ‘tro-tros’ and popular app-based taxi services are not centrally licensed. There is no responsible body that is accountable for your safety.

Outside major towns and cities it’s safer to use pre-booked vehicles from reputable taxi companies. 

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards .

Flooding is common in the Upper West, North East, Northern and Savannah regions during the rainy season, from March to November. Monitor local weather reports and expect difficulties when travelling to affected areas.

Earthquakes

Earthquakes and tremors are a risk in Ghana. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency website has advice about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Related content

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Travel Advisories

Updated from the U.S Department of State — Bureau of Consular Affairs  ( Website )

October 04, 2022 Ghana - Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Reconsider travel to Ghana due to  COVID-19 . 

Ghana has resumed most transportation options (including airport operations and re-opening of borders), and business operations. Visit the  Embassy's COVID-19 page  for more information on COVID-19 in Ghana.

Exercise increased caution in:

Urban areas due to  crime .

• Intercity highways after dark due to  crime .
• Areas near the northern border in the Upper East and Upper West regions due to  crime .
• Parts of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East regions due to  civil unrest .

Read the  country information page .

If you decide to travel to Ghana:

Individuals arriving in Ghana by air must present a negative COVID-19 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test conducted by an accredited laboratory in the country of origin not more than 48 to 72 hours prior to departure

Upon arrival, each traveler age five and over must undergo a temperature screening and COVID-19 test conducted at the airport

The wearing of a mask in public is required. Non compliance will result in a fine of 12,000 to 60,000 Ghanaian cedis or in US dollars ($2,060.09 to $10,300.43) and/or a prison sentence of four to ten years

• See the  U.S. Embassy's web page regarding COVID-19 . 
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  ( STEP ) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Review the  Crime and Safety Report  for Ghana.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations.  Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Urban Areas – Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime, such as street mugging, is more frequent in urban areas as compared to their surrounding suburbs. These crimes are also more prevalent at night and in isolated locations.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens. Local police may lack the resources to respond effectively to more serious crimes.

Intercity Highways After Dark – Exercise Increased Caution

Armed assaults on private vehicles and public transports occur more frequently after dark, often by criminal elements using blockades to slow down and restrict movement of vehicles.

Areas Near the Northern Border in the Upper East and Upper West Regions – Exercise Increased Caution

U.S. citizens traveling in Ghana should exercise caution while visiting border areas, in particular the northern border, and be sure to stay abreast of any regional Travel Advisory updates or Security Alerts affecting those areas.

Parts of the Bono East, Bono, Savannah, Northern, North East, and Upper East Regions – Exercise Increased Caution

Civil unrest due to tribal disputes can occur at any time.  While such disputes are typically non-violent, the likelihood for violence developing from a tribal dispute is greater in parts of these regions.

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Ghana overall due to the threat of crime.

Higher levels apply in some areas.

Ghana (PDF 253.16 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.68 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 193 or go to the hospital.

Call 191 or go to the nearest police station.

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Ghana overall.

Do not travel to the northern border with Burkina Faso.

Do not travel to the northern border with Burkina Faso due to the threat of attacks and kidnapping from terrorists and other groups active in Burkina Faso.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel to the Upper East and Upper West regions.

Reconsider your need to travel to the Upper East and Upper West regions due to the heightened risk of terrorist attacks in Ghana’s northern border areas and the ongoing chieftaincy conflict in Bawku.

• There's been an increase in reported incidents of banditry involving passenger buses travelling in the Upper West and Upper East regions resulting in injuries and deaths. In July 2023, a passenger bus travelling from Kumasi to Bawku was attacked at a fuel station in Walewale resulting in several injuries.
• If you're travelling to Ghana, you could be a target for crime, including kidnapping and robbery. There are increased security risks if you're a woman travelling alone. Take particular care in and around Accra.
• Avoid demonstrations and protests. Large public events and intercommunity disputes can turn violent. Be cautious around large crowds, like football matches.
• Internet scams often originate in West African countries. Criminals may ask for details of safe bank accounts to transfer large amounts of money. Criminals often meet their victims through internet dating sites or chat rooms. Be wary of online contact from people you don't know. Don't send money until you've checked who you're sending it to. Don't travel to Ghana to get your money back or to get revenge.

Power outages may occur after dark. This often leads to more crime, especially if street and traffic lights fail.

• Officials or people posing as officials may try to extort money from foreigners, including at the airport. Legitimate airport staff wear a current ID card with their name and photograph.

Full travel advice: Safety

• Yellow fever, malaria and other insect-borne diseases are common, as are waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases, such as cholera, hepatitis , lassa fever, meningococcal meningitis, bilharzia and tuberculosis. Avoid insect bites, ice cubes, and raw or undercooked food. Drink boiled or bottled water. Consider what vaccinations and medicine you need.
• Lassa fever may be  a risk when you have contact with rodents or with food or household items contaminated with rodent droppings. 
• HIV/AIDS is common in Ghana. Take precautions if you're engaging in high-risk activities.
• If there is a serious outbreak of infectious disease, follow the advice of local authorities.
• Medical and emergency services are very limited. You may need to pay cash up front, even in an emergency. Make sure you have the right insurance and enough money to cover all your costs. 

Full travel advice: Health

• Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include mandatory jail terms.

The death penalty can apply for serious offences, such as murder.

• Same-sex activity is illegal and could lead to prison sentences. LGBTI relationships and identities are interpreted as illegal by society. Violence, threats, extortion, eviction and arbitrary arrest of LGBTI people occur, and the debate around an anti-LGBTI bill has increased these risks to the LGBTI community. LGBTI travellers should consider travel plans and personal security carefully.
• Other activities that are legal in Australia are illegal in Ghana.
• Ghana recognises dual nationality. Always travel on your Australian passport.

Full travel advice: Local laws

• You need a visa to travel to Ghana. If you're staying for more than 90 days in 12 months, you must register for a  National Identification Authority Non-citizen Ghana card . Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of Ghana for the latest details.
• You need to show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate and proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 to enter Ghana. You may also need to show it when you leave.
• There's increased reporting of incidents involving passenger buses travelling in the Upper West and Upper East regions resulting in injuries and deaths. In July a passenger bus travelling from Kumasi to Bawku was attacked at a fuel station in Walewale resulting in several injuries.
• Road safety and driving in Ghana can be dangerous. Police roadblocks are common. Carry photo ID, vehicle registration and ownership papers. Be alert to hazards, especially at night. Only use registered taxis and limousines. Arrange these through your hotel. Due to safety and security concerns, don't use public transport or taxis hailed on the street.

Full travel advice: Travel

Local contacts

• The Consular Services Charter tells you what the Australian government can and can't do to help when you're overseas.
• For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission, Accra .
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice: Local contacts

Full advice

If you're travelling to Ghana, you could be a target for:

• bag snatching
• petty theft
• pickpocketing

Your risk increases if you're a woman travelling alone. Take particular care in and around Accra.

Some taxi passengers have been robbed by drivers.

Attacks on passengers in vehicles are also on the increase. Take particular care when stationary. Keep windows up and doors locked. Some of these attacks on vehicles also involve the use of weapons.

Criminals may also target you in:

• house invasions
• armed robbery (including in a taxi)
• other violent crimes

Officials or people posing as officials may try to detain foreigners or extort money from them, including at the airport. 

Legitimate airport staff wear a current ID card with their name and photograph.

To protect yourself from crime:

• only use registered taxis or limousines, arrange these through your hotel.
• don't use taxis hailed on the street or other public transport
• don't walk alone, particularly in the evening and at night
• avoid travelling alone, especially if you're a woman
• keep your car windows up and doors locked, even when moving
• be alert when approaching traffic lights
• lock your accommodation, including when you're inside

Scams and fraud

Internet scams  come in many forms, including romance, friendship, business and employment opportunities. These scams often originate in West African countries.

If you travel to West Africa as a scam victim, you're at risk of:

• financial loss

This includes travelling to meet a friend or love interest, as well as looking for compensation or revenge.

Common fraud schemes fall into two main categories — commercial and relationship scams.

In commercial scams, criminals ask for details of 'safe' bank accounts to transfer large amounts of money. They may: 

• promise a percentage of this amount to you
• send fake cashier cheques for urgent goods shipments
• request large fees for a fake government contract
• extort money from you for a bogus business opportunity

In relationship scams, criminals often meet their victims through internet dating sites, chat rooms or social media. Once they've made a connection with you, they may:

• ask you to send money so they can come to Australia
• ask you to come to Africa to meet them

Once you transfer money, the relationship often ends. If you travel to Africa to meet the criminals, you may be in danger.

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked details about them

If you suspect a scam, get legal advice.

Don't travel to Ghana to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth.

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media.

More information:

Cyber security when travelling overseas

Civil unrest and political tension

Chieftaincy conflicts, land disputes and political tension can lead to localised inter-ethnic violence and civil unrest throughout Ghana, especially in Upper West and Upper East Regions.  

Due to the ongoing chieftaincy conflict in Bawku, there's an increased risk of politically motivated attacks in the Upper West and Upper East Regions. 

There's been an increase in reported incidents of banditry involving passenger buses travelling in the Upper West and Upper East regions resulting in injuries and deaths.  

In July 2023, a passenger bus travelling from Kumasi to Bawku was attacked at a fuel station in Walewale, resulting in several injuries.

Pay attention to your personal safety and surroundings.

Be cautious around large public gatherings like football matches.

Disputes involving local ethnic groups can also turn violent. 

Demonstrations and protests

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. 

When you're in Ghana: 

• avoid protests, rallies and demonstrations
• if you encounter a protest or unrest, leave if it's safe to do so
• monitor the media for reports of unrest, and avoid those areas
• follow the advice of local authorities

Demonstrations and civil unrest

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. This includes in Ghana.  There's a heightened risk of terrorist attacks in the northern areas of Ghana bordering Côte d’Ivoire, Togo and particularly Burkina Faso, where terrorists, other armed groups and militias are active.

To protect yourself from being involved in a terrorist attack:

• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• monitor the media for possible threats
• take official warnings seriously

Criminals increasingly target Westerners, especially women, for violent crime. This includes kidnapping .

If you're in northern Ghana, including the Upper West and Upper East regions, you may be targeted for kidnapping for ransom. You should exercise a high degree of caution in these regions.

To protect yourself from kidnapping:

• be particularly alert at night
• vary travel routes and times, particularly your usual running and walking routes

In June 2019, two foreigners were kidnapped in Kumasi.

Climate and natural disasters

Ghana experiences natural disasters and  severe weather , including flooding.

If there's a natural disaster or severe weather:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• keep in contact friends and family

Register with the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System for alerts.

The wet season is from May to October.

Flooding may happen in the:

• Northern region
• Upper East region
• Upper West region

Roads can shut quickly, stranding travellers.

If you travel during the wet season or after a natural disaster, check if services at your planned destination have been affected.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.  Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away.

Physical and mental health

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. 

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need.

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Ghana. Take enough legal medication for your trip.

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating:

• what the medication is, including its generic name
• your required dosage
• that it's for personal use.

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Yellow fever  is common in Ghana. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Malaria  and other insect-borne diseases are also common. 

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use treated mosquito nets
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

HIV/AIDS  is common in Ghana. Take precautions if taking part in activities that put you at risk of infection.

Lassa fever

Lassa fever  may be a risk when you have contact with rodents or with food or household items contaminated with rodent droppings.

• avoid contact with live or dead rodents, burrows or nests and their droppings
• ensure all foods are well-cooked and covered in rodent-proof containers
• keep your body, personal belongings, utensils and common contact surfaces (including door knobs and counters) clean
• avoid places where dust is raised, such as from sweeping and vacuuming rodent droppings
• avoid contact with infected people, body fluids and infected items

Get immediate medical help if you develop any symptoms of Lassa fever, including a fever, weakness in your body or unexplained pain.

Other health risks

Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases are common, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• bilharzia (schistosomiasis)
• meningococcal meningitis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Get medical attention straight away if an animal scratches or bites you.

Medical care

Medical facilities in urban areas are basic.

In rural areas, facilities are limited. The standard of care may be less than what you would expect in Australia.

You may need to pay cash upfront before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

If you're seriously ill or injured, you may need to be moved to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

Local health services may have difficulty responding to outbreaks of infectious disease.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. This includes mandatory jail terms.

Carrying or using drugs

LGBTI is not formally illegal in Ghana. Same-sex activity is illegal and could lead to prison sentences. LGBTI relationships and identities are interpreted as illegal by society.

Violence, threats, extortion, eviction and arbitrary arrest of LGBTI people occur, and the debate around an anti-LGBTI bill has increased these risks to the LBGTI community. LGBTI travellers should consider travel plans and personal security carefully.

It's also illegal to:

• carry pornographic material
• wear military style or camouflage clothes
• take photos near government buildings or infrastructure, such as oil fields
• import or export natural resources such as gold, diamonds and precious metals without a licence from the Precious Metals and Mining Commission

More information :

Advice for LGBTI travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual citizenship

Ghana recognises dual nationality.

Always travel on your Australian passport .

Travelling on your Ghanaian passport may affect your rights and responsibilities, including:

• civil service
• military service
• access to Australian consular services if you're arrested or detained.

Check with the High Commission of Ghana before you travel.

You can get a dual nationality card from the Ghana Ministry of Interior.

Dual nationals

Local customs

Standards of dress and behaviour are conservative.

Check with locals. Take care to not offend.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa conditions

You'll need a visa to travel to Ghana.

Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact an embassy or high commission of Ghana for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Border measures

You need to show a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.  You may need to provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 when you arrive. 

Measures are frequently reviewed and may change at short notice. Check the Kotoka International Airport website for details.

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You need to carry a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Ghana. You may be asked to show your certificate when arrive and when you leave by airport officials. See ' Health '.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to travel to other countries after visiting Ghana.

Find out about returning to Australia after exposure to yellow fever (Department of Health).

Countries with a risk of yellow fever

If you'll stay in Ghana for more than 90 days in a year, you must register for a National Identification Authority Non-citizen Ghanacard . You'll need this for ID checks on some transactions.

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers.

• LGBTI travellers

Money facilities

The local currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS).

Declare all GHS or other currency when you arrive in Ghana. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.

You can't exchange Australian dollars in Ghana. However, you can easily exchange US dollars and euros for GHS at commercial banks and exchange services.

Larger towns have ATMs. Banks and businesses may not accept credit cards other than Visa.

Credit card fraud is common.

To ensure your access to money:

• always keep an eye on your credit card, even when you're using it
• contact your bank to make sure your cards will work

Local travel

Border areas often see higher criminal activity and violence. 

Chieftaincy disputes and political tension can sometimes lead to localized violence and unrest across Ghana.

There have been an increasing number of reported incidents of banditry involving passenger buses travelling in the Upper West and Upper East regions resulting in injuries and deaths. 

In July 2023, a passenger bus travelling from Kumasi to Bawku was attacked at a fuel station in Walewale resulting in several injuries.

There are security risks with using  public transport . See  Safety

Driving permits

You can drive in Ghana for 12 months with:

• a valid Australian driver's licence
• an International Driving Permit (IDP)

You must be over 18 years old.

After 12 months, you'll need a local licence.

Australian High Commission in Accra

Road travel

Road safety and driving  in Ghana can be dangerous, due to:

• poorly maintained roads and vehicles
• aggressive driving
• poor street lighting
• roaming animals
• pedestrians and cyclists

These risks increase at night and in rural areas.

Police roadblocks are common. You may need to show:

• identity documents
• vehicle registration
• ownership papers

During the wet season, flooding can make roads impassable.

Crowds can quickly gather at the scene of traffic accidents and become aggressive.

To stay safe on the road:

• understand local traffic laws and practices
• carry photo ID, vehicle registration and ownership papers
• be alert to hazards, especially at night
• get local advice on road conditions, especially during the wet season
• always keep car windows up, doors locked and valuables out of sight
• be wary of people who may try to stop your vehicle

If you're in an accident, go to the nearest police station.

Motorcycles

Your travel insurance policy may not cover you for accidents while driving a motorbike or quad bike. Check before you drive.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis and limousines. If you can, arrange these through your hotel.

There are security risks with using unregistered taxis and rideshare services.

Take care when travelling alone at night. See Safety

Public transport

Public transport is limited.

Safety and maintenance standards can be unreliable.

There are security risks with using public transport . See Safety

Ferry travel is risky due to generally low safety standards and adverse weather.

There may be too many passengers and not enough life jackets. Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

Pirates  operate in the coastal areas of Ghana. Check piracy reports with the International Maritime Bureau .

Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check Ghana's air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Other numbers for the police are:

• (0302) 77 36 95
• (0302) 77 39 06
• (0302) 78 73 73

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australian High Commission, Accra

2, Second Rangoon Close (cnr Josef Broz Tito Ave) Cantonments Accra, Ghana Phone: (+233) 302 216 400 Fax: (+233) 302 216 410 Email: [email protected] Website: ghana.highcommission.gov.au Facebook: Australian High Commission, Ghana Twitter: @AusAmbGHA

See the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 outside Australia
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

Travelling to Ghana?

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Travel Advisory

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All travellers should be aware of the virus, pay close attention to travel advisories and health guidance, steer clear of heavily impacted areas and exercise preventive measures. Travel advisories have been issued by countries around the world. Make sure that your destination has not restricted your arrival before embarking on an international trip.

Here is the travel advisory issued by the Government of Ghana.

• All travel to Ghana is strongly discouraged until further notice.
• Any traveller, except for Ghanaian citizens and persons with Ghana residence permits, who within the last 14 days, has been to a country that has recorded at least 200 cases of COVID-19, will not be admitted into the Ghanaian jurisdiction. Airlines are instructed not to allow such persons to embark. Border posts are instructed not to allow such persons into the jurisdiction.
• There will be a mandatory 14-day self-quarantine for persons who are otherwise allowed to enter the Ghanaian jurisdiction. Guidelines for self-quarantine will be available at the various Ghanaian ports of entry. Enforcement protocols are being deployed in collaboration with state security and health authorities. Persons determined to be unable to satisfactorily self-quarantine will be quarantined by the State.
• Any admissible traveller, who exhibits symptoms of COVID-19 will be quarantined and tested upon reaching Ghana.
• Item one of this statement takes immediate effect.
• Items 2,3 & 4 take effect at 1 pm on Tuesday, March 17th 2020. All travellers should be aware of the virus, pay close attention to travel advisories and health guidance, steer clear of heavily impacted areas and exercise preventive measures. Travel advisories have been issued by countries around the world. Make sure that your destination has not restricted your arrival before embarking on an international trip.

Items 2,3 & 4 take effect at 1 pm on Tuesday, March 17th 2020.

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Travel Advice for Ghana

Going to Ghana and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Ghana? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Ghana from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Ghana

The decision to take a trip to Ghana is your decision and you are accountable for your personal safety whilst in Ghana.

The web content on this page is given information only and collected from travel advice and warnings for Ghana by authorities all over the world to their citizens.

While we make every effort to provide you most recent travel advice details, it is given on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this website does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information offered.

Standard Cautions You Need to Bear In Mind Whilst Taking a Trip in Ghana

Crime – Petty criminal activities such as pick pocketing in a jampacked environment to sexual assault and muggings do take place in larger cities of Ghana. Ensure that all your personal possessions, such as passports and other traveling documents, are safe at all times.

Terrorism – Always be aware of your surroundings whenever in public locations. Be particularly vigilant if going to sporting occasions and throughout religious holidays and other public occasions, as terrorists frequently make use of such events to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations might occur. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transportation. It is in your interest of safety to stay away from locations where demonstrations and large gatherings are occurring and follow the instructions of local authorities. Monitor local media in Ghana for information on on-going demonstrations in Ghana.

Scams – Exercise care in crowded tourist areas in Ghana, where scammers target foreigners. If you’ve been scammed in Ghana, get to a safe area right away; make note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; alert the authorities in Ghana and get a report and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card provider to report the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the financial transaction.

Spiked Food and Drinks – Never ever leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of complete strangers when taking a trip in Ghana or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from unknown acquaintances. These items might have drugs that can put you at risk of sexual assault and mugging.

What is the entry/exit conditions for Ghana?

Every nation or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders, in the same manner Ghana chooses who enter its borders. The Government of your home country cannot step in on your behalf if you do not satisfy your Ghana’s entry or exit requirements.

For more information regarding the entry/exit requirement for Ghana go to visa requirements for Ghana or get the current info with the visa office at the Ghanaian embassy in your home country.

Travel insurance coverage for Ghana

Travel health cover is one of the primary factors travellers get travel insurance. It will not stop you getting ill or injured, though it can stop you being affected financially. Medical aid overseas can be really expensive.

You must shell out for all healthcare you receive overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised treatment through your Ghana’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can not pay, local authorities can detain you. The government from your home country can’t pay you medical costs for you, loan you money or get you out of jail.

You need travel insurance coverage for travelling to Ghana . You also need to ensure you select a plan that is right for you.

Read through the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance provider upfront. If you don’t, you may void your travel insurance policy.

Inform your travel insurance company the activities you plan to do, prior to you go. Many common activities like skiing are left out in basic plans. You may need to pay added.

Check if you have free credit card travel insurance coverage. Some cards include travel insurance coverage cover. Nevertheless, they typically have different conditions than paid plans. Understand the differences.

If you’re visiting Ghana from a country that has a reciprocal healthcare arrangement, you still need travel medical insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable ailment, you may not be able to obtain standard travel insurance policy. Nevertheless you might be able to get a specialised insurance provider that covers you for health, accidents or property troubles unconnected to your illness. Speak with your insurer to find out.

Learn more about getting global travel insurance coverage for Ghana before you go.

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Ghana Updates Travel Advisory

Land borders to be reopened and changes made to air travel protocols

The following health screening protocols are in force in Ghana as of 28th March, 2022

Travellers with internet access, a. if vaccinated.

• Create an account on the AU-endorsed site: trustedtravel.panabios.org.
• Click on the “Trusted Vaccines” tab.
• Set your origin and destination.
• Fill the short form to provide details of your vaccination. The system may ask you to upload the pages of your vaccine card if needed for further forensic analysis.
• In a few minutes, the system will verify your vaccine records and issue you with a code and a pass. Either the vaccine code or the pass is adequate for travel.
• Immigration and Port Health Officers reserve the right to inspect the pass or code before allowing you to cross. Please comply if asked.

B. If Not Vaccinated

• On the  check-in page  at trustedtravel.panabios.org, you can check for accredited laboratories by entering your origin country.
• Only visit laboratories that have the Trusted Travel (TT) logo next to their name on the platform.
• At the laboratory, give the same email address and mobile number you entered when creating your PanaBIOS account. Once your result is ready, it will automatically appear in the account with the TT number issued by the lab that can be verified by Port Health. Look out for an email from  [email protected]  or an SMS message.

Travellers without Internet Access

• Whether using your vaccination record or a PCR test to cross the land border, you must speak to a trusted friend or relative to add you as a  Dependent  in their PanaBIOS account.
• Please give them your vaccination card to handle the verification process for you. After the process, they will give you a Vaccine Code or print out the pass for you. Please keep it safe as a Port Health or Immigration Officer has the right to demand to see either before allowing you to cross.
• If you are unvaccinated, your trusted relative or friend can guide you as to which laboratories can issue a PCR test certificate acceptable for crossing. The PCR test code shall appear in the PanaBIOS account of your trusted friend or relative when you give their mobile number or email address to the TT laboratory.

Travellers Exiting Ghana

• All previous health and safety protocols and announcements remain in force.

Airline Roles

Travellers Entering Ghana

• Enter your origin country and set the destination to Ghana on trustedtravel.panabios.org or on the UNDP-endorsed Global Haven site:  globalhaven.org .
• As much as possible try to visit a TT laboratory. If there are none close to you, take your test at another accredited lab on the PanaBIOS or Global Haven labs registry.
• If you take your test at a TT lab and give them the same email address used to open your account, the result will be automatically delivered to your account bearing a TT code. Ensure that the test was conducted within  48 hours of your arrival in Ghana .
• If you do not visit a TT lab, then you must upload your test result or certificate by choosing the “test taken at a non-TT lab option”. The result/certificate will be immediately analysed for authenticity by an algorithm and the result displayed in a few minutes. If accepted, you will be issued with a TC code in the form of both a QR code and alphanumeric number.
• You must also upload all pages of your vaccine card or certificate by accessing the Trusted Vaccines link in your PanaBIOS account. You will be issued a Vaccine Code after doing this.
• Vaccinated travellers will now only be tested on-arrival based on risk assessments.
• Ensure that their overseas airport station officers are fully trained on PanaBIOS and issued with the necessary accounts. PanaBIOS is also available to integrate the system directly into the DCS platforms of all airlines.
• Ensure that in all their communications to travellers, they include the above steps.
• Ensure that station officers pre-validate travellers before they board them using the PanaBIOS system.
• If travellers arrive at check-in without their TC codes or TC cards, they must upload their PCR certificates on behalf of the traveller to generate the TC code on their behalf.
• Travellers must show BOTH a Vaccine Code from PanaBIOS and their Vaccine Card before check-in.
• The Ghana Health Service will strictly monitor which airlines are observing the rules from their dashboard and pursue punitive actions against non-compliant airlines.

These measures are designed both for the national security of Ghana and the convenience of travellers. So, we urge all parties to kindly and strictly comply for the public good.

Additional information and guides can be accessed on the Ghana Health Service and Africa CDC websites ( www.africacdc.org/trusted-travel ). Customer service and technical support can be reached via  [email protected] .

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Trusted Travel Guide

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