Yes, Accra is very safe for tourists and tourism in Ghana. Just like many holiday destinations the main crimes that take place are opportunistic crimes such as muggings, bag snatching, petty theft and pick pocketing. So its advice-able to keep an eye on your belongings as you would do normally especially in in busy markets or tourist attractions.
Can women travel alone in Accra in Ghana?
If you are a woman travelling alone in Accra be mindful that if you are a foreigner you will attract attention. Most of the attention will be curiosity from people and those wanting to help. Secondly dependent on where you go especially on the beaches unwanted attention should be expected. If you are travelling out at night alone it is advisable to take a taxi and not the local transport. In Accra its very easy to hail an Uber.
Has there been any serious incidents of crime or violence against foreign nationals in Ghana?
Overall violent crime and crime involving foreign nationals is practically none existent in Ghana. The majority of all violent crime, robberies and house invasions are mainly aimed at locals.
What are the laws on drugs in Accra and Ghana?
Hardcore drugs such as cocaine and heroin are not as commonly used by Ghanaian. However, since the mid 2000s West Africa is growing as the transit point for international illicit drugs which is resulting in West African countries such as Ghana and Nigeria being exposed to class A drugs such as Heroin and Cocaine.
Marijuana is by far the most popular illegal drug in Ghana and its regions. Ghana is apparently reported to be the 3rd highest ranking country in the world for Cannabis use. Due to its association with young people involved in Rastafarian culture, and also with students who believed cannabis smoking would improve their ability to study. In Ghana marijuana/ Cannabis is to referred to as “Wee” and not “Weed”
How safe is it to drive Accra?
Accra is relatively easy to city to drive in. Remember in Ghana they drive on the right like most of Europe. So the cars are left hand drive. The roads in Accra can be very busy so you are bound to get stuck in traffic. If driving in Accra or Ghana please take caution when driving at night. Preferably if you have a local driver who can take you out at night it would be advisable. As on some roads there are limited street lights and its at night when there is a more drink driving.
How should you drive in Ghana?
Driving in Ghana is about confidence, due to the people being stuck in traffic most of the time and having to rush everywhere. If you are going to drive in Ghana, European or Western road rage will not cut it. The style of driving is very aggressive but not confrontational where people get out of the car to argue. Most arguments are in the form of gestures and the kissing of teeth at others. Be prepared for taxi drivers under taking you and do not be put off by the beeping of horns. As the car horn has many uses from saying hello, getting someones attention or telling some one to get out the way.
Author: The editor
Working with off site teams to create content and providing insights on all things Ghana related. Always keen to hear from people traveling to Ghana or living in Ghana. As there is so much to see and do and write about