The Republic of Ghana was created in 1957 The name Ghana was chosen to reflect the ancient Empire of Ghana, which once extended through much of west Africa. The country has a population of around 30 million (2018) and its capital, Accra, has around 2.25 million inhabitants, the Accra agglomeration around 4 million. Accra has developed from its former role as the capital of the British-ruled Gold Coast from 1877 into a modern metropolis with a mix of British colonial buildings and skyscrapers. The city is now a cultural and tourist hub with hotels, restaurants and nightclubs. #travel #ghana

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Ghana has a tropical climate and is hot and humid, especially near the south coast. The ‘dry season’ is December to April, but that is also the hottest time of year, with temperatures in the 30˚s C. The best time to go is probably July/August, which is usually when there is no rain in the south but temperatures are a little cooler. #travel #ghana #tropical #summer

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Accra and the Coast: the south coast of Ghana is more or less a 500 mile long beach fringed with palm trees, and most visitors go to there for a beach holiday. In Accra Bojo Beach is a popular destination, as it is a bit out of the way and unspoiled – so far. You pay a fee to spend the day there, which includes a boat trip, as the beach is only accessible from the sea. However there is a restaurant and they organise parties. #travel #beach #accra

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Other destinations: Mole National Park in the north is the place to see the widest range of animals, including elephant and lions. You are not allowed out of the hotel complex on foot unless accompanied by a ranger. Cape Coast is a city a 3-hour bus ride from Accra, with a number of forts which supported the slave trade. Cape Coast Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage slavery site – a guided tour takes 40 minutes. The beach is good and local fishermen provide some extra interest. #travel #entertainment #castle #nationalpark

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Ghana requires you to have a Yellow Fever immunisation, and as West Africa is a malarial area, you should consider whether to take a prophylactic, especially if you are travelling around. Tap water should never be drunk in Ghana, and avoid uncooked street food – fruit is OK if you peel it yourself. Not all taxi drivers are licensed and you need to agree the price before getting in–assume the driver is asking about double the real rate because you are a tourist! #warnings #travel #ghana #africa

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