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Accra - Facts and Information about Ghana's Capital City

Basic Facts about Accra

Accra is the capital city of Ghana in West Africa. Almost 2 million people live in Accra, making it Ghana's most populated city. Accra has been Ghana's capital since 1877 when the British ruled this part of West Africa. Before that, Accra was a collection of Ga villages established in the 17th Century.Accra is a sprawling city, with a mixture of modern buildings, shanty towns, occasional castle and lively markets.

The central commercial hub is around the Makola Market (pictured here). Just south of the market is the Atlantic ocean (Gulf of Guinea). Accra's shanty towns are mostly to the west of the city center. East of the city center and north towards the Kotoka international airport, is where you'll find most of the hotels, embassies and smarter residential areas.

The most common languages in Accra are English, and Ga.

Travel to Accra

Accra is one of Africa's safer capitals. It's easy to get around Accra by tro tro or private taxi. Most of the areas are quite walkable, but it is hot and humid, so stay hydrated with the readily available coconut stands and water baggies. At night it's best not to walk alone on the beach. You don't really need a private guide, but if you are traveling alone it's always nice to have company who knows where to go and what to see. Check out Jolinaiko Eco-Tours for exceptional rates and service, I had a flawless vacation thanks to them.Best Time to Visit Accra?
Accra gets very hot and humid, (check Accra average temperatures) so the best time of year to go is really during the dry season from November to April.

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It's still going to be hot, average temperatures range around 85F year round, but you'll avoid the humidity to a certain extent along with the bugs. As far as festivals and events, it feels like every weekend is festive in Accra, so there is no specific week or time of year that is essential not to miss