Ghana is generally considered safe for travelers. However, as with any foreign country, it is important to be aware of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded tourist areas. It is also advisable to take precautions when using ATMs or carrying valuables, and to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.

Option: Enrol in the Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP) (https://step.state.gov/step/) to receive alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.

The official Ghana currency is the Ghanaian cedi, with a symbol GH₵ and a code GHs. Expect to see banknotes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 GH₵. Cash is definitely the best option for you, whenever possible.

You’ll be able to exchange dollars for Cedi at many hotels – usually better rates are offered for larger bills. Only newly issued USD are accepted. Yet, your best bet for a good rate may be cash withdrawal from ATMs. You can freely use a Visa and MasterCard in Ghana. American Express and Discover cards are rarely, if ever, accepted. Research the fees you may need to pay for using your credit card, as they can mount up. Use that opportunity to notify your bank of your travel plans, so they don’t cut you off for fear of fraud.

Bargaining and tipping are both expected. Outside of more formal establishments and supermarkets, you’ll often be offered goods for a price 30-50% higher than the seller actually expects to earn. So feel free to work on driving prices down, though within reason and good taste. Negotiation is the Ghanaian way! For services rendered well, such as excellent service at a restaurant or hotel, tips are encouraged.

Yellow Fever vaccinations are required to enter Ghana. Yellow Fever shots are valid for 10 years once administered. Plan to get the vaccine at least 10 days before your travel since proof of vaccination is not valid until 10 days after getting the vaccine- the time needed to develop immunity to yellow fever virus. You must receive your vaccination no later than December 1st. Please note: Because one of the effects of the vaccination can be lowered immunity, it is suggested you receive your Yellow Fever vaccination 3 months prior to travel.

There are also a number of recommended vaccinations listed on https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/ghana. Be sure to consult your healthcare provider to consider what is best for you and your family and do your own research! We also love the idea of ensuring your immune system is at its peak and operating optimally while traveling. Take steps that feel right for you, under your healthcare provider’s guidance, to fortify and strengthen your system in ways you know works best for your body.

We also recommend you take malaria medicines before arrival to Ghana. Please consult your doctor or pharmacist as to which tablets to take.

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Trip insurance is therefore recommended. You can purchase travel insurance on your own.

• G1G insurance (Sorted Chale Recommended)
• https://www.travelexinsurance.com
• https://www.travelguard.com
• https://www.insuremytrip.com

Our payment provider paystack accepts debit and credit cards from all over the world, given that they are issued by MasterCard, Visa and Verve.

Ghana has a tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from 20-30°C (68-86°F) throughout the year. The rainy season is from April to October, while the dry season is from November to March. It is recommended to pack lightweight, breathable clothing, as well as rain gear for the rainy season. Good walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen and mosquito repellant are also recommended.

A dedicated host will be provided to you from December 14th through to December 20th to assist with anything you may need during your stay. This has been graciously provided by Morris & Nana Ama. Until then however, feel free to contact us on hello@sortedchale.com with any questions you may have about your travel to Ghana.

Yes! Sorted Chale has a scholarship fund which we give out to children who have the passion to further their education but due to financial constraints, they are faced with the possibility of dropping out.