Greater Accra Region Tourism & Accommodation Guide

1. Overview

The Greater Accra Region, home to Ghana’s capital city, is the nation’s smallest but most urbanized region. As the political, economic, and cultural heartbeat of the country, it offers an exciting blend of modern city life, historical landmarks, beaches, traditional Ga culture, and coastal fishing towns. From cosmopolitan Accra to quieter communities like Ada, Prampram, and Shai Hills, the region is a gateway for both international tourists and local explorers.

2. Accommodation Options

The region has the widest range of accommodation in Ghana, from five-star luxury hotels, boutique guesthouses, and eco-lodges, to budget hostels and beach resorts. Most accommodations are concentrated in Accra, with additional options available along the coast and inland towns.

Accra (Capital City)

• Luxury Hotels – Accra offers numerous upscale hotels catering to business travelers, diplomats, and high-end tourists. These often include pools, spas, gyms, conference rooms, and international restaurants.

• Mid-range Hotels & Boutique Lodges – Neighborhoods such as East Legon, Osu, Airport Residential, and Cantonments feature a variety of stylish, moderately priced hotels with modern amenities.

• Budget Hostels & Guesthouses – Areas like Adabraka, Labadi, and Spintex have several low-cost options ideal for students, backpackers, and short-term visitors.

• Beachfront Resorts – Located along Labadi Beach, Bojo Beach, and Kokrobite, these offer coastal relaxation just outside the city buzz.

Tema & Prampram

• Tema Hotels – Tema, the port city, has a selection of mid-range hotels catering to business travelers and port users.

• Prampram Resorts – Prampram is a quiet coastal town with a few charming beachfront lodges and resorts, perfect for weekend getaways and retreats.

Ada Foah & Estuary Area

• River Lodges – Ada is known for its riverside lodges along the Volta River estuary, offering boat rides, kayaking, and access to quiet beaches.

• Beach Cottages – A few eco-style accommodations provide scenic ocean views and intimate stays ideal for couples or solo travelers.

Shai Hills & Dodowa

• Nature Lodges & Guesthouses – Near the Shai Hills Resource Reserve and Dodowa Forest, a few lodges cater to eco-tourists and those seeking quiet escapes from the city.

3. Tourist Attractions in the Greater Accra Region

Greater Accra is a cultural and historical epicenter, with attractions that showcase colonial history, Ga traditions, vibrant markets, urban arts, and nature reserves. Whether you’re interested in heritage, shopping, nightlife, or natural wonders, there’s something for everyone.

Historical & Cultural Sites

• Independence Arch & Black Star Square – These landmarks symbolize Ghana’s independence and are located in central Accra, often used for national ceremonies and events.

• Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park – Dedicated to Ghana’s first president, the park features his mausoleum and museum narrating the country’s path to independence.

• Jamestown – One of Accra’s oldest districts, Jamestown is known for its colonial architecture, lighthouses, boxing gyms, street art, and vibrant Ga culture.

• Osu Castle (Christianborg Castle) – A historic colonial fort once used as a seat of government and involved in the trans-Atlantic slave trade.

• W.E.B. Du Bois Centre – A museum and mausoleum honoring the African-American scholar and civil rights activist who chose Ghana as his final home.

• Makola Market – Accra’s busiest market, filled with colorful fabrics, local food, accessories, and traditional crafts.

• Arts Centre for National Culture – Offers authentic Ghanaian crafts, textiles, drums, and carvings.

Beaches & Coastal Experiences

• Labadi Beach – The most popular city beach, known for horseback rides, beach games, and live drumming performances.

• Kokrobite Beach – A favorite for weekend travelers, with beachfront guesthouses, reggae music, and local seafood.

• Bojo Beach – A serene, well-kept beach separated by a lagoon, offering canoe access and calm surroundings.

• Ada Estuary – A peaceful junction of river and sea, great for boat rides, island visits, and birdwatching.

Nature & Adventure

• Shai Hills Resource Reserve – A short drive from Accra, this reserve features rocky hills, caves, antelopes, baboons, and historic caves used by the Shai people.

• Dodowa Forest & Tsenku Waterfalls – A lesser-known but refreshing nature escape, popular among hikers and eco-tourists.

• Sakumo Lagoon (Kpone-Katamanso) – A wetland area important for birdwatching and environmental conservation.

Festivals & Events

• Homowo Festival – Celebrated by the Ga people, especially in areas like Ga Mashie and Teshie, Homowo marks a historic famine and features food sprinkling, processions, and traditional music.

• Chale Wote Street Art Festival – Held in Jamestown, this is one of Ghana’s largest contemporary art festivals, attracting creatives from across Africa and beyond.

• Accra Fashion Week, Food Festivals, and Music Events – Accra's dynamic cultural calendar is full of modern and traditional events year-round.