Location
Ghana is located on the west coast of Africa, along the Gulf of Guinea and is bordered by Côte d'Ivoire, Togo and Burkina Faso. The Country covers an area of 238,000km².


Capital
The capital of Ghana is Accra; the population is estimated at 19,271.744 as of 2000.


Climate
Northern Ghana has a rainy reason from about April to October. The rest of the year is hot and dry with temperatures up to 38°C.


Time
Ghana is on GMT.


Airport
Kotoka International Airport is situated 12km from Accra city centre. Hotel shuttle buses and taxis are available.


Airport Tax
A departure tax of ¢22,000 is payable by departing passengers on international flights and ¢500 on domestic flights. Rates are subject to change without notice.


Visas
A valid passport is required by all visitors, and a visa except for citizens of ECOWAS states. These can be obtained from the nearest Ghanaian diplomatic missions and consulates.


Health
Visitors must be in possession of a current medical certificate showing vaccination against Yellow Fever. Malaria is also prevalent in certain parts of the country at certain times of the year and usual precautions should be taken.


Customs
Tourists can bring in personal items duty free, but for details of trade goods and specialist equipment please contact the Customs Excise and Preventative Service, or the nearest Ghanaian diplomatic mission.


Currency
The currency of Ghana is the Cedi. Rates of exchange are posted daily by banks and forex bureaux. There are no restrictions on the amount of foreign currency that can be brought into Ghana, but all should be noted on a customs declaration form on arrival. All exchange transaction receipts should be kept for inspection on departure.


Banking
Banks and forex bureaux are available at the airport, and in all main towns.
Banking hours
Monday - Friday 08:30 - 14:00
Commercial hours
Monday - Friday 08:30 - 13:00 and 14:00 - 17:00


Photography
Ghana is a photographer's paradise, with so many spectacular sights. Film is available in the main towns. However, photography is not permitted at the airport or at military and strategic sites. Also please do not photograph local people without their express consent. Photographic equipment should be declared to customs on arrival.

Language
The official language of Ghana is English, although we have many other languages based on ethnic groups. The main vernacular languages are Akan, Ga, Ewe, Hausa and Dagbani.

Religion
There are three main religious groups in Ghana. These are Christian, Muslim and those who follow traditional faiths. Places of worship are found all over the Country.


Medical facilities
Good medical facilities are found in all main towns, although visitors are recommended to bring with them any drugs they need regularly.

Electricity
Electrical supply is normally 220 volts. 120 volt appliance will require an adaptor.


Communications
The IDD code for Ghana is +233. Telephone, fax and telex services are found in all main towns and in the main hotels.


Transport
Good roads reach most parts of Ghana and long distance buses, tro-tros (local minibuses) and taxis are widely available. There is a rail service between Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi. The Volta Lake Transport Company have a lake service from Akosombo to Buipe Port.


Shopping
Ghana is a great place to shop. Local Ghanaian fashion is world-renowned and Ghana is the home of the Kente cloth. Shops in the main towns are filled with jewellery, leather goods and basket ware. The markets are the place to buy excellent handicrafts such as Asante stools, traditional masks and drums, and souvenirs of every description. A great opportunity to practice your bargaining skills.


Exportation of handicrafts
Anybody wishing to export handicrafts or antiques not exempt must obtain a certificate from the Museums and Monuments Board. This is provided at the main crafts centres or the National Museum.


Driving
Ghana drives on the right, and a current international driving licence is required. Drivers bringing vehicles into Ghana require a carnet de passage and international insurance.

What to wear
Light cotton clothing is preferable. A jacket and tie may be required for business meeting, and in the main hotels in the evening.


Traditional courtesies
Ghanaians are a conservative people and respect traditional courtesies. Handshakes, using the right hand only are the common greeting. Visitors to remote villages or shrines should visit the local elder, taking a small gift such as a bottle of local Schnapps.