Security travel advice for Ghana

How safe is Ghana?

Threat level: Low-Medium

COVID-19 Situation in Ghana
To curb the spread of the virus, Ghana has taken a series of measures: a ban on public events and private celebrations, the closure of entertainment venues such as pubs, night clubs and cinemas, the closure of beaches, the mandatory use of face masks in public both indoors and outdoors, as well as in a private vehicle when there is more than one passenger, and the recommendation to use a takeaway service rather than siting down in a restaurant. To prevent contamination from overseas, the following requirements are in effect for travellers: a health declaration form to be completed pre-departure, a self-declaration form to be completed by hand on the flight to confirm they are safe to travel, a temperature check on arrival, the obligation to present a negative PCR test result, taken no more than 72 hours before arrival and to undergo another test on arrival. See our healthcare section for advice.

Security in Ghana

hana is a relatively safe country and most visitors should have no trouble. There is currently a heightened global threat of terrorism that travellers from western countries should be particularly wary of. Crime and political unrest are currently present in Ghana in areas like Accra. The current travel advice for Ghana is that visitors should take the right precautions to stay safe during their visit.

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Recent Security Risk Events
Petty and violent crime are common in Ghana. Tourists aren’t thought to be directly targeted but do get mixed up in incidents on occasion. Theft is the main problem, pick pockets often operate in the Accra mall so be vigilant if you are in this area. There have been isolated incidents of sexual assault involving foreign nationals, avoid walking alone at night.

The George Walker Bush Highway has experienced some accounts of armed banditry. It is advised not to drive after dark and to keep doors and windows locked during travel. You should travel around by private car and avoid walking on the roads as this puts you at an increased risk of being either robbed or run over. Using a motor scooter or bicycle is also very dangerous.

Security Risks
Theft of luggage and travel documents are a regular occurrence at Kotoka International Airport. Be wary of offers of help with your bags at the airport as this might be a cover to steal your belongings. Keep sensitive travel documents on you in person and avoid carrying large sums of cash.

Foreign nationals in Tamale have recently been attacked and robbed by machete wielding locals. It is advised only to travel by foot in this area if you have a close protection officer. If you are working in Ghana and are required to travel in Tamale, this should be provided by your employer.

Ghana's International Relations

Ghana is a respected member of the United Nations and the Organisation of African Unity. It enjoys strong relationships with many of its neighbouring African countries and also many western nations. The United States is among Ghana's trading partners, the two countries have a strong diplomatic relationship. Ghana has also been a member state of the Commonwealth since independence in 1957.

Ghana is an active member in many peacekeeping operations for countries such as Rwanda, Afghanistan and Lebanon.

Travelling around Ghana

The Northern, Upper East and Volta Regions are susceptible areas to political unrest, travel advice for Ghana is that you should avoid travel to these areas if possible. You can only drive in Ghana using an International Driving Permit or a local driving licence. Roads are mainly in a poor condition, and standards of driving are also quite poor.

If you are driving in heavily congested areas, remain vigilant to the recent scam by many pedestrians who will bump into the car pretending you have hit them. They will then try and extort money from the drivers as compensation for being hit. Drive carefully and allow pedestrians plenty of room.

Extreme weather and natural disasters
Ghana is subject to periodic earthquakes, wildfires, floods and droughts, particularly in the Northern Savannah belt.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

Emergency services in The Gambia:

Police emergency: 191
Medical emergency: 192
Fire Service: 193

Ghana Overview

Capital: Accra
Official languages: English
Religion: Christianity and Islam
Currency: Ghana Cedi

Consular information for Ghana

U.S. Embassy
No. 24,
Fourth Circular Rd,
Accra,
Ghana
Telephone: +233 30 274 1000
Email: ACSaccra@state.gov

British High Commission Accra
Julius Nyerere Link,
PO Box 296,
Accra,
Ghana
Telephone: +233 30 221 3250
Email: High.Commission.Accra@fco.gov.uk

Visa requirements for Gambia

TMost foreign visitors including British and American nationals will need to apply for a visa in order to enter Ghana. You will be able to get more information on how to apply for such a visa from your closest Ghanaian Embassy or Consulate.

When you get to Ghana, your passport will be stamped upon entry. It is important that you note the number of days that the Ghanaian authorities have issued on that stamp. It is that which you should base your stay on rather than your visa.

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months beyond the length of your stay.

Healthcare and Immunisations

Cases of COVID-19 have been reported in Ghana. There is no vaccination against the disease, to avoid contracting the disease: self-isolate, wear a face mask in public, apply good hygiene practices, maintain social distancing, avoid unnecessary public gatherings and unnecessary travel.

It is advised that visitors to Ghana are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is essential that you get vaccinated against Yellow Fever as there is risk of the disease throughout the country. It is an entry requirement that you present a certificate proving your immunisation. This should be completed at least 10 days prior to departure.
It is further recommended that most travellers also get Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations. Check with your local health professional prior to travel if you are unsure.

Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance as medical evacuation to other countries is needed in most serious emergencies. Most medical facilities in Ghana are in very poor condition, particularly outside of the capital city, Accra. You may also be expected to pay for any necessary treatment before doctors will examine you, so ensure that your travel insurance will cover you.

Cholera and Malaria are both present in Ghana. It is highly advised that you take the necessary precautions to prevent contracting these diseases such as taking anti malarial medication and only drinking bottled water.