"Africa for beginners" is how the Lonely Planet travel guide describes the West African nation of Ghana, which shares its border with Burkina Faso, Togo and the Ivory Coast and has a coastline on the Gulf of Guinea. An important way station for African slaves sent to the Americas, its tragic past is commemorated at Cape Coast. Today, Ghana is relatively trouble free, stable and welcoming, but there are a few entry requirements all visitors should prepare for.
All visitors who are not residents of an Economic Community of West African States country need to obtain a visa for entry to Ghana. For Americans, this can be applied for via the Embassy of Ghana in Washington, DC. Application forms can be downloaded from the embassy's website, and the applications typically take two weeks to process. You will need to give the name, address and phone number of two references or places of residence in Ghana and details of your return or onward journey.
In addition to your visa, you will be required to have a passport and a certificate demonstrating that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever. Keep a photocopy of all documentation, including an insurance certificate, in case of any emergencies. The U.S. Department of State also recommends that all American citizens register with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. This can be done through the State Department's website.
Although a yellow fever vaccine is the only medical document required for entry to Ghana, it's highly recommended that you take precautions with other medications. Consult your doctor several weeks before you travel, as malaria suppression tablets may be prescribed. These will need to be started two weeks prior to your trip.
There is no limit to how much cash you can bring into Ghana, but you will be required to declare the amount at customs on arrival. Carrying large amounts is not recommended, but using credit cards should also be avoided, as there have been reports of credit card fraud. Notify your credit card company before you leave, and only use it at major tourist hotels. The best currencies to take are U.S. dollars, euros or U.K. pounds. You can also use traveler's checks in these currencies, but the exchange rate offered is often poor.
Although not a requirement, visitors to Ghana are advised to pack personal effects that will make their trip more comfortable. Take breathable clothing made from natural fibers like cotton or linen, as Ghana has a tropical equatorial climate with high year-round temperature, high humidity and tropical rainfall. Toiletries and sanitary items can be hard to buy once there, so take an extra supply.
