Accra is the capital city of Ghana. Accra has a mix of 19th-century colonial architecture, modern skyscrapers and apartment blocks, and dusty shanty towns.
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The Greater Accra region has an estimated population of 5.5 million in 2021. The City of Accra is a mix of rapid urbanization, informal settlements, and high-end, modern developments. The population of the Accra Metropolitan area is estimated to be over 2.7 million in 2025. However, the surrounding municipal districts are tightly connected to the Accra Metropolitan District. Usually the whole metropolitan area is referred to as "Accra". The local language is Ga; other widely spoken languages are English, Twi (pron. 'ch-wee'), Ewe (pron. ayvay), and Hausa. Accra was founded in the 17th century by the Ga people.
Accra's best attractions are scattered across a relatively wide area, so if you can afford the modest prices the best thing to do is hire a car and driver to take you around. Travel companies offer drivers who double as well-informed guides, which helps as interpretive exhibits and brochures (if you can find them) leave much to be desired. If you need an SUV or a sedan there are plenty of affordable options because even the best drivers earn only about US$15 a day in Accra. You can book directly from Avis and local rental companies at the larger hotels, such as the Golden Tulip, La Palm, or La Badi Beach.
1 National Museum, Barnes Rd. Daily 09:00-16:30. Having undergone a renovation, the National Museum offers visitors a look at Ghanaian history and culture from prehistory to the present. Cultural exhibits include clothing, thrones, carvings, pottery, and a variety of archaeological finds, all accompanied by concise and informative descriptions. There are also exhibits on traditional metalworking and cultural rites of passage. The focus on history is lesser, but the second floor includes displays of historical Ghanaian currencies, postage stamps, and football uniforms.
1 Bojo Beach (take N1 southwest out of Accra, then turn south on Atta Mills Road (road to Kokobrite)), ☏ +233 243756890. For about 20 cedis, you take a boat across the Densu Delta, a Ramsar site in itself, to the actual beach, where you can get food from a restaurant, watch fishermen, or just enjoy one of Accra's least spoiled beaches. Given its relative isolation from congested areas, you stand a lesser chance of stepping in any unexpected excreta. Watch out for your valuables though. (updated Aug 2020) 2 Labadi Beach (net to La Palm Royal Beach Resort southwest of airport).
Eat out at one of Osu's many trendy restaurants. Osu, a suburb of Accra, is known for its nightlife and a wide variety of eateries, hotels, and several options for entertainment. Located in Labone near the Metro TV building, "Maquis Tante Marie" is a restaurant serving a variety of African cuisines in a pleasant garden setting. Frankie's on Oxford Street in Osu is a popular oasis for tourists in Accra.
The biggest entertainment precinct in town is the Oxford Street area, in Osu. Home to over a dozen different night venues (most of them tucked up side-streets), there is no shortage of variety. Taxi drivers generally know the location of the following, but if not, just ask a young-looking person on Oxford Street. Tantra: A late-night (best from midnight to 05:00) club, with a 50:50 mix of expats and locals. Plays western style electronic and R&B music. Entry GH₵20, small beers GH₵5. You can usually negotiate for a discount on the entry charge. Duplex: Possibly the most popular venue as of early 2012, 50:50 expats and locals.
See Ghana#Stay safe for general information. Bywel's bar in Osu district is a frequent hangout of expats on Thursday nights, meaning that it is a target for muggings. Be sure to leave in a large group and enter a taxi immediately upon exiting the bar.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Aug, Accra typically sees ~27°C daytime highs and 22 rainy days.
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