Ghana Safety Tips: What Every Traveler Should Know

Is Ghana safe to visit?

Ghana is widely considered one of the safest and most welcoming countries in West Africa. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and Ghanaians are famous for their warmth. Most trips to Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast, and the beaches around Busua pass without incident. Still, petty theft, traffic, and a few well-worn scams are worth preparing for.

General safety

• Watch your belongings in crowded spots like Makola Market in Accra and Kejetia Market in Kumasi. Pickpocketing is the most common crime.
• Avoid walking alone on unlit streets and beaches after dark, especially in parts of Accra such as Jamestown.
• Traffic is the real hazard. Cross carefully, and prefer registered taxis or Bolt and Uber over flagging cars on the street.
• Tap water is not safe to drink. Stick to sealed bottled water (a 1.5L bottle costs around 8-12 cedis).
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and yellow fever certificate, which is required for entry.

Common scams to avoid

• Friendly strangers and "brother" greetings. Someone may claim to remember you from your hotel, then steer you toward a shop or a donation. Stay polite but firm.
• Fake charity and orphanage collectors, often near tourist sites in Cape Coast and Accra. Donate only through reputable organizations.
• Money changers offering rates that are too good. Change money at banks or licensed forex bureaus, and count notes before handing yours over.
• Taxi overcharging. Agree the fare before you get in, or use an app so the price is fixed.
• Romance and online "sakawa" scams. Be wary of anyone you met online asking for money.

Areas to take extra care

• Crowded markets and lorry stations (tro-tro stations) are pickpocket hotspots.
• Some Accra nightlife areas like Osu can attract opportunists late at night.
• Check official travel advisories before heading to the far north near the Burkina Faso border, where security can be uncertain.

Emergency numbers in Ghana

• Police: 191 (or 18555)
• Ambulance: 193
• Fire: 192
• National Emergency line: 112

Save these in your phone and note your hotel's address in the local area. Travel insurance with medical evacuation is strongly recommended.

Stay connected in Ghana

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online the moment you land, so you can use maps, translate, book a Bolt ride, and call for help without hunting for a local SIM or paying roaming fees.