Best Time to Visit Ghana

Two cities, one pattern

Ghana is hot all year, so timing is about rain and humidity. Accra and Kumasi both do best in December and January. Skies are drier, and the evenings are easier to enjoy.

The cities differ in a few ways. Accra sits on the coast, and its sea breeze keeps things a little cooler. Kumasi is inland, in the forest belt, and it feels stickier. February is the hottest month in both, at 30°C in Accra and 34°C in Kumasi. If you plan to walk around Kumasi's huge Kejetia market, you'll want a cooler month than that.

Wet seasons and dry seasons

Southern Ghana has two rainy seasons. Accra's big one peaks in June, with 207 mm. Kumasi's wettest month is October, with 260 mm. Rain often comes in heavy bursts, and Accra's streets can flood. A downpour can wreck a day of beach time at Labadi or a trip along the coast to Cape Coast and Elmina castles.

Dry months suit road trips best. Roads to places like Kakum National Park's canopy walkway are easier, and you won't be dodging mud. Travelling in the wet season? It's cheaper and greener, but allow extra time for journeys.

Holidays, events and crowds

High season runs from December to January. Many Ghanaians living abroad come home for Christmas, so flights and hotels fill up. Accra gets lively, with beach parties and concerts around the "Detty December" scene. If you like crowds and nightlife, it's a great time. If you don't, book early and expect busy roads.

Independence Day on 6 March and Republic Day on 1 July are public holidays, and some offices and shops close. Easter also brings a long weekend, and many people travel to the Kwahu plateau for its popular festival.

For the Ashanti culture around Kumasi, check the dates of the Akwasidae festival. It happens on a regular cycle at the Manhyia Palace.

The quieter months fall in the rainy seasons. You'll pay less and have more space, but you'll also get more wet days.