Africa’s tourism is the second fastest growing industry in the world after the Asia Pacific. Per the World Travel and Tourism Council research shows that in 2018:
Travel & Tourism contributed $194.2 billion to the region’s economy, representing 8.5% of the continent’s GDP
The sector contributed 24.3 million African jobs, or 6.7% of total employment
71% of tourism spending across Africa was leisure-driven and 29% business
Domestic spending accounted for 56% of the tourism economy versus 44% for international
International tourism spending comprised 9.6% of the region’s total exports, worth $58.5bn
The statistics above is important to highlight as tourism continues to pick up momentum in Africa. Notably, Ethiopia has been found to be the fastest growing travel economy, growing by 48.6% last year to be worth $7.4bn due to Ethiopia’s improved connectivity as a regional transport hub and due to recent visa relaxation policies. However, it is Ghana who made waves last year with the Year of the Return campaign.
While in Washington, D.C. in September 2018, President of Ghana Nana Akufo-Addo formally declared 2019 as the Year of Return for all African Americans and Africans in the diaspora marking the 400th anniversary of the arrival of the first enslaved African to Jamestown, VA in 1619. The objective of this declaration is to:
To make Ghana a key travel destination for African Americans and the rest of the African diaspora.
To rebuild the lost past of these 400 years.
To promote investment in Ghana and foster relationships with African Americans and the African diaspora.
With great attention worldwide through various channels as celebrity endorsement and influence, successful marketing and branding campaigns through social media outlets and event promoters; 2019 proved to be successful for the Year of Return. It was estimated that over 750,000 visas were issued to visit Ghana in 2019 compared to the ~80,000 issued in 2018. While the revenue generated from the initiative is to be confirmed, one cannot deny that a light has shined on Ghana as a safe and growing travel destination. So why travel to Ghana?
Ghana, also called the “Gold Coast” for its gold reserves, is known for being peaceful with one of the longest stable democracies and a healthy economy in Africa. Additionally, you can learn about the rich history and culture of Ghana through landmarks including the Cape Coast Castle, museums, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial and various festivals. Ghana is also known for its traditional music with drumming and dance as a key element to its culture, and most recently the sounds of afrobeats influence many global sounds. Ghana also brings great food, beaches, and national parks. If you are interested in visiting Ghana, below please find a list of favorite places to visit in the capital Accra along with a packing list that will keep you returning back to Ghana.
Places to Visit
Independence Square
Cape Coast and Elmina Castle
Kwame Nkrumah Masoleum
W.E.B. Du Bois Center
Gallery 1957
Aburi Gardens
Kankum National Park
Jamestown Lighthouse
Mhoseenu Design Studio
Labadi Beach
Bojo Beach
Accra Mall
Restaurants/Bar and Lounge
Buka Restaurant
Azmera Restaurant
Coco Lounge
Polo Club Restaurant and Lounge
Soho Restaurant
Afrikiko Leisure Center
Urban Grill
Big Fish
Vine Lounge
Midunu (Private Dining)
Pitch Lounge
Lunar Rooftop
Skybar 25
Events and Festivals
Afrochella
Detty Rave
AfroNation
T.I.N.A Festival
Brands to Shop in Ghana
Viva Boutique
Hotel
Packing List (Including Travel Requirements)
In Ghana, the climate is tropical, with a dry season in winter and a rainy season in summer due to the African monsoon. Therefore it is important to pack and dress accordingly.
Important Documents:
PassportVisa (to be obtained in advance for non-ciitizens)
Documentation of yellow fever vaccination on yellow card
Review the CDC for additional vaccination requirements
Clothing/Footwear Recommendations
Pants, jeans, or capris
Skirts (for ladies)
Sleepwear
T-shirts/tank tops
Long-sleeved shirt
Eveningwear should you go to an event
Swimsuit
Hat
Belt (if needed)
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sandals
Flip flops
Toiletries (check if some items will be provided at your Lodging Location)
Shampoo&Conditioner
Soap/BodyWash
Facewash
Sunscreen
ShavingSupplies
Brush/Comb
Deodorant
Hairdryer
Contacts/Lens Solution and/orGlasses/Glasses Case
Insect Repellant
Toothbrush/Toothpaste/DentalFloss
Washcloths,Facecloths,orLoofahs
Lip Balm
Feminine hygiene products (ladies only)
Miscellaneous
Umbrella or rain jacket
Sunglasses (a cheap pair will do)
Medications
Luggage lock
Money belt (optional)
Purse, Cross-body or drawstring bag
Converters and adaptors
Camera Chargers
Phone
Cash
Ear buds/Headphones