How much does a good trip to Ghana cost? - 2026 Guide

Is Ghana expensive for tourists?

Ghana can be as cheap or as lavish as you make it. Your daily spend depends entirely on whether you prefer street food and tro-tros or resorts and private drivers. If you're a budget traveler, expect to spend between $40 and $60 a day. You'll spend that mostly on:

• Budget hostels
• Local transportation
• Meals

High-end itineraries cost far more. Data from Trip.com suggests a 3-night budget trip for two people averages around $378, while exclusive luxury packages often surpass $8,000. Mid-range hotels offer a balance between these extremes. If you time your trip right—like aiming for the shoulder season—you can stretch your cedi a lot further.

What are the pre-trip costs for flights and visas?

Airfare is the single largest upfront expense, while the mandatory tourist visa also impacts the total budget. Don't forget to budget for medical essentials, too, including travel insurance and the required yellow fever vaccination.

How much do flights to Ghana cost?

Round-trip tickets to Kotoka International Airport in Accra generally cost between $500 and $2,000 for travelers departing from North America. Prices fluctuate based on when you book and the class of service. Business class tickets and bookings made during peak holiday periods drive up costs.

You can often secure better rates by flying during the shoulder season or booking several months in advance. Since most flights land in Accra, you'll likely start your spending there.

What are the fees for a Ghana tourist visa?

Most travelers need to get a tourist visa, with the price depending on how fast you need it and your entry type. A standard single-entry visa typically costs between $60 and $100 depending on the consulate. Applicants selecting a multiple-entry visa pay higher rates for multiple trips.

You can pay for expedited processing for urgent situations, but this often increases total fees to approximately $200. Including these expenses alongside the mandatory yellow fever vaccination helps you avoid surprises later on.

How much do vaccinations and travel insurance cost?

The yellow fever vaccination is a mandatory entry requirement and a critical part of your budget. Clinics typically charge between $150 and $200 for this immunization, and you must present the "Yellow Card" upon arrival.

Malaria pills are another essential expense, with a standard course costing $50 to $100 depending on the medication type and trip duration. I highly recommend getting comprehensive travel insurance to cover medical emergencies or trip cancellations. Basic policies for a standard vacation generally range from $40 to $100. Budgeting for these health essentials isn't just smart—it's mandatory for getting past immigration.

What are the accommodation prices in Ghana?

Accommodation in Ghana ranges from economical guesthouses to exclusive resorts. Where you stay matters—Accra is usually much pricier than the countryside. You'll find a mix of:

• Budget hostels
• Mid-range hotels
• Luxury hotels and premium resorts

Choosing the right hotel is the easiest way to keep your budget on track.

How much do luxury and mid-range hotels cost in Accra?

Accra has plenty of high-end spots within its upscale neighborhoods. Luxury hotels in the capital deliver international standards with rates typically ranging from $250 to $400 per night. You'll find most of these luxury stays in prime neighborhoods like Cantonments.

Mid-range hotels provide a practical balance, with stays generally costing between $100 and $250 per night. These prices often fluctuate based on the strength of the Ghanaian cedi and market demand. Booking during the shoulder season can sometimes get you a better deal compared to peak periods.

Are budget hostels and Airbnb rentals affordable?

Hostels are the cheapest choice for backpackers, with rates typically falling between $10 and $20 per night. Airbnb rentals offer value for money and often include kitchen facilities for self-catering.

These private stays generally range from $35 to $100 per night. Choosing these alternatives cuts down total vacation costs, so you can spend that money on local transportation or street food.

How does an eSIM save money and improve connectivity in Ghana?

Staying connected is huge, yet international roaming fees often inflate vacation costs. Digital eSIMs mean you don't have to fumble with physical SIM cards and provide immediate access to local networks. Pick up a dedicated eSIM card for Ghana to get online the second you land.

Switching to digital tech is much cheaper than standard roaming plans, with comprehensive data packages generally ranging from $15 to $30. I learned this the hard way after racking up a massive roaming bill on my first visit. Constant internet access is essential for booking affordable local transportation through apps like Uber and Bolt. Plus, having data on hand allows you to monitor the exchange rate of the Ghanaian cedi, so you don't get ripped off when changing money.

What is the cost of transportation in Ghana?

Getting around Ghana offers options for every budget. Public transport is your cheapest bet, though these vehicles often lack the comfort of private options. Travelers prioritizing convenience in cities like Accra frequently use ride-hailing apps. For maximum flexibility, you can also book private cars or domestic flights, while intercity buses provide a middle ground for long-distance travel.

How much are Uber and Bolt rides in cities?

Ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt are a secure, affordable way to navigate Accra. Typical fares within the city range from $4 to $7 per trip. These platforms offer fixed pricing, which prevents the overcharging that you often get with unmetered taxis.

Travelers find these rides much safer and more comfortable than local options like tro-tros. Drivers frequently prefer cash payments in Ghanaian cedi over card transactions. Set aside some cash for these rides—it's worth it for the comfort.

Is public transport like tro-tros affordable?

Tro-tros are the cheapest option for travelers on a tight budget. Trust me, riding one is a chaotic adventure you have to experience at least once. Fares for these shared minibuses typically range from $0.50 to $2 per trip depending on the distance. They cover extensive routes across Accra, offering an authentic but crowded experience.

Using tro-tros costs a fraction of private taxis. Passengers must pay conductors directly using small bills of Ghanaian cedi.

What is the cost of intercity travel and car rentals?

Intercity travel and private transport are expensive compared to local transportation. Private car rentals generally cost between $100 and $150 per day, a rate that typically includes a professional driver but excludes fuel expenses. Paying extra gives you the flexibility you need to visit landmarks like Cape Coast Castle or Kakum National Park without relying on rigid schedules.

For long-distance journeys from Accra to destinations such as Mole National Park, intercity buses save you a lot of money. Reliable bus services are substantially cheaper than domestic flights, which average $100 to $150 for a one-way ticket, though they take much longer. Most people mix and match to save money without being miserable.

How much should you budget for food and drink?

Daily food costs generally range from $5 to $50 per person. If you want to save cash, stick to local food, which is way cheaper than imported options.

On the other hand, Western restaurants charge prices similar to back home. To stretch your cedi further, balance one or two nice dinners with plenty of local street snacks.

What are the prices for local street food?

Local street food is delicious and keeps your spending low. Just be warned: the local shito pepper sauce packs a serious punch. Authentic meals typically range between $2 and $5, saving you a ton compared to formal dining. Vendors widely prepare popular staples like Jollof rice, Waakye, and Banku, which are delicious local staples you have to try.

Eating like this leaves you more cash for other expenses. You'll need to pay with cash at these stalls.

How much is dining at Western and upscale restaurants?

Dining at Western and upscale restaurants is a whole different ballgame compared to street food, with prices comparable to international standards. You'll mostly find these spots in Accra within luxury hotels or affluent neighborhoods. Costs for a single sit-down meal typically range from $10 to $50 per person, mostly because of imported ingredients and premium ambiance.

Travelers managing a strict budget often limit these visits to special occasions. You'll pay in cedi, though most places also accept credit cards.

What are the entrance fees for popular tourist attractions?

Sightseeing in Ghana is pretty cheap, with most entrance fees being relatively low compared to other international destinations. Historical landmarks such as Cape Coast Castle typically charge non-Ghanaians between $6 and $7 for admission, according to the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. In Accra, cultural sites like the Kwame Nkrumah Museum offer tickets for approximately $5. Nature enthusiasts visiting Kakum National Park generally pay between $10 and $15, a price that includes access to the famous canopy walkway.

Excursions to Boti Falls often cost around $20 when factoring in mandatory guide fees. Wildlife trips are a bit pricier, with walking safaris at Mole National Park averaging $25 per person. Plan on spending about $150 to $200 for a week of activities to cover these fees and associated local transportation.

How should you handle currency and payments?

You'll need a mix of cash and card to get by. The official currency is the Ghanaian cedi (GHS), which currently trades at approximately 16 GHS to 1 USD based on rates from Exchange-Rates.org. Cash is the main payment method for daily activities, including buying street food and paying for tro-tros.

Vendors at open-air markets rarely accept cards, so you'll definitely need cash for souvenir shopping where negotiation is standard. Here is a pro-tip: Always keep small bills on you, as many taxi drivers claim not to have change. ATMs are widely available in major cities like Accra and Kumasi. You can usually use credit cards at upscale hotels and supermarkets, but relying on them exclusively limits purchasing power in rural areas. Keep an eye on the exchange rate to get the best deal.

How much money do you need per day in Ghana?

Backpackers and economy travelers typically spend about $40 and $60. To stay within this range, you'll need to focus on:

• Staying in budget hostels
• Consuming local street food
• Using affordable local transportation like tro-tros

Mid-range tourists generally need $100 to $150 per day to cover private hotel rooms and frequent Uber rides. Luxury travelers often exceed $200 daily to enjoy the high life. These higher costs include staying at luxury hotels, hiring private drivers, and dining at international restaurants.

Sources

• https://www.trip.com/guide/info/trip-to-ghana-cost.html
• https://gmmb.gov.gh/cape-coast-castle-cape-coast-1653/
• https://www.exchange-rates.org/exchange-rate-history/usd-ghs-2025