Ghana

These numbers may not be answered reliably or can take only a limited number of calls at a time. You may need to inquire with your own country’s embassy for instructions in case of a personal emergency in Ghana.

Ghana has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in Africa and most travellers have no safety or security problems in this country. However, street crime and violent crime do occur. With respect to your personal safety, be cautious and always be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. There have been reports of petty theft, pickpocketing, purse snatching, scams, etc. in tourist areas, markets, and beaches. If possible, travel in groups and avoid travelling at night. The usual travel precautions apply, such as keep two copies of your valuable documents in two separate places, avoid wearing expensive clothing or jewelry and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Luggage and travel documents have been stolen at the Kotoka International Airport. Keep your luggage and documents with you at all time. Be cautious about unsolicited help at the airport, as thefts have occurred by individuals posing as airport staff. Airport personnel wear identification cards showing their name and definitely a photograph. Some reports indicate individuals have posed as police officers and have stolen money from foreigners. Reports also indicate individuals will pose as the traveller’s driver or contact and then attempt to get money from the traveller. If you are being met at the airport, you should confirm the identity of the person sent to meet you.

Ghana cedis cannot be exported, and it is illegal to conduct currency transactions with private citizens.

Same-sex marriage is illegal in Ghana and homosexual activity could result in a prison sentence.

Taking photographs of what could be considered sensitive sites is prohibited, including military sites, bridges, Accra’s international airport and government buildings. To be safe, get permission to take pictures.

It is prohibited to wear military or camouflage-type clothing. Dress conservatively in respect for local customs.

Penalties for possession of illegal drugs and other drug offences are severe in this country. It is illegal to possess pornographic material and to smoke in public.

The incidence of road accidents is high in Ghana. Road travel may be dangerous due to poor road conditions, lack of road lighting and signage and reckless driving. Exercise extreme caution in rural areas where roads may be unpaved. Do not travel at night due to the high risk of robberies and carjackings. Avoid taking taxis or privately owned minibuses ('tro-tros').

Always stay with a guide when entering wildlife reserves. Seek the advise of local authorities if wanting to swim at a beach; strong currents may make swimming dangerous.

Traveller should note that electricity and water shortages could occur, especially during the dry season (November-March).

Travellers with respiratory concerns should note that from December to March, the Harmattan (sand and dust filled winds) blow from the Sahara and may present a risk to the traveller's health.

Flooding during the rainy season (March-November) can cause severe infrastructure damage and even loss of life.

Due to an unstable situation between local ethnic groups, there is a risk of violence in the following areas in northern Ghana: Bimbilla, Bawku, Yendi and Tamale municipality. Curfews may be imposed in these areas.

Exercise a high level of caution in Accra due to the risk of violent crime and the risk of theft from homes.

Protests and demonstrations do occur in major cities in Ghana. Sitata reminds travellers to minimize risk by avoiding large public gatherings and demonstrations due to unpredictability of these situations. Monitor local news for reports of roadblocks or curfews, etc.