Ghana, known for its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, had been on my bucket list for quite some time. Finally, the opportunity came when I had to attend a work meeting in Accra. This blog post shares my experiences during my short but unforgettable trip to this West African gem.
Visa Application and Arrival To Kotoka International Airport
The journey began with the application for a Ghanaian visa. The process was quite straightforward, thanks to the Ghana Immigration Service’s online portal. I filled out the necessary forms, submitted the required documents, and paid the visa fee online. Within a few days, I received my e-visa confirmation.
Flying with Emirates was a long but highly efficient experience. The airline’s renowned service and modern amenities helped make the extended flight more comfortable. With an array of in-flight entertainment options and delicious meals, the hours flew by. Plus, Emirates’ impeccable safety and hygiene measures during the ongoing global pandemic provided peace of mind.
You can take an alternative flight that is shorter like KLM and British airways.
Upon landing at Kotoka International Airport in Accra, I was pleasantly surprised by the smooth customs process. The immigration officers were friendly and efficient, making the entry experience hassle-free. However, I’d like to emphasize the importance of having a yellow fever vaccine certificate as it’s a mandatory requirement for entry into Ghana. It’s always wise to have your vaccination records in order.
Collecting my baggage was a breeze, as the airport staff ensured that luggage retrieval was swift and straightforward. The efficiency continued as I stepped out of the terminal, where I found plenty of taxis waiting. Taxi services are readily available at the airport, making transportation to your accommodation convenient.
What to do in Accra
- Visit the Beach: Ghana boasts stunning coastline and beautiful beaches.The beaches in Accra are popular choices and offer a serene escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.
- Savour Tropical Fruits: Ghana is known for its incredible variety of fresh tropical fruits. During my visit, I indulged in some of the juiciest mangoes, coconuts, and pineapples I’ve ever tasted. Don’t miss the chance to try these delectable treats from local vendors; they are a true delight for your taste buds.
- Local Markets – Africa is well known for its open air markets and you will come across these in many areas. Be sure to check it out and soak in the experience. The Makola market in Accra is the one we visited and would recommend.
There are many other places in Accra that you could visit like the museums and malls however we were not able to go to these due to a busy work schedule. If we visit Accra again we would definitely be checking out the museums.
Bringing Mangoes and Fruit back to England
The mangoes and pineapples in Ghana were so amazing that we wanted to bring them back to the UK. So we done some research to check UK guidelines and to see if there was any restrictions.
The UK government website had some clear guidelines where it had clearly stated that bringing in Mangoes and other fruits is totally fine. I am sure this guide is only if you are bringing it into the Uk for Personal use and not for resale.
Check out the guideline here: https://www.gov.uk/bringing-food-into-great-britain/fruit-vegetables-nuts-seeds
My visit to Ghana, though short, left a lasting impression. From the efficient travel arrangements with Emirates to the hassle-free entry and exit at Kotoka International Airport, the experience was smooth and enjoyable. I’m eager to return to this culturally rich country to explore more of its wonders and savor the flavors of its delicious tropical fruits. Ghana truly has a unique charm that beckons travelers to experience its beauty and warmth firsthand.
Checklist for Travelling to Ghana
- Visa before you travel
- Invitation letter or hotel booking will be needed for Visa application
- Long flight so prepare accordingly
- Yellow Fever certificate with you
- Print visa and take with you
- Print Hotel bookings