Accra City Guide

Local dishes like Jollof Rice and Banku with Tilapia are must-tries. International food is available in Osu and Airport areas. Street food is often open late.

Nightlife is lively in Osu, Labone, and East Legon, with bars, clubs, and live music.

Coffee scene is developing with a few specialty shops and local roasters growing in popularity.

Tipping is optional but appreciated in tourist areas. 5-10% in restaurants; round up taxi fares.

Buy SIMs at the airport or official stores. MTN offers the best coverage and speed. ID or passport needed.

Cleanliness varies by area. Waste collection exists but is inconsistent.

Some pharmacies have late hours, many minimarts run 24/7, and after-hours food options exist on weekends.

International products are in bigger supermarkets but can be pricey. Fresh markets offer local produce.

Card payments work in bigger hotels, supermarkets, and restaurants, but cash is usually preferred in local markets and small shops.

ATMs are common in urban areas at banks like Ecobank, Absa, and Stanbic. International withdrawals cost 1-3% plus your bank's fees.

International schools offer English instruction and various curricula. Spots fill up early.

A growing community with meetups, nomad-friendly cafes, and hubs like Impact Hub Accra.

Green spots include botanical gardens and community parks offering shade and running spaces.

Popular routes near Independence Square, botanical gardens, and coast. Safe during the day with some air quality concerns in dry season.

Multiple gyms and fitness centers are available around the city.

Tennis courts are available at clubs and hotels with coaching and equipment rentals.

Padel is not common yet.

Several yoga studios offer classes in English with options for drop-in or membership.

Boxing is popular. Some gyms offer Taekwondo, Karate, and BJJ with English-speaking instructors.

No skiing available.

Some kayaking and paddleboarding in resorts, but options are limited.

Surfing spots are about an hour away at Kokrobite for beginners and farther at Busua for all levels.

Diving options are limited and visibility is poor.

Private hospitals like Nyaho Medical Centre and Trust Hospital have English-speaking staff and better care. Public hospitals have longer waits.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water.

Playgrounds and family cafés are common. Attractions include Accra Zoo and Legon Botanical Gardens.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low and public displays are risky due to local laws and stigma.

Some pet-friendly places and veterinary clinics exist, but dedicated pet parks are rare. Policies vary widely.