Discover Ghana: heritage, nightlife and basketball culture.

This December, The Bitcoin Classic is set to make history with its first international tournaments in Kenya and Ghana, marking a bold step in its mission to use elite basketball as a vehicle for Bitcoin education and financial empowerment across the African continent.

Founded in 2021 in Springfield, Massachusetts by Yusuf Abdul-Ali, The Bitcoin Classic was created to use elite basketball as a gateway to introduce underserved communities to Bitcoin, blockchain technology and financial autonomy. The tournament quickly expanded to cities including New York, Chicago, Atlanta and Washington D.C., building a reputation for high-level competition, community engagement, and innovative educational programming. Through workshops, panels, and partnerships, the Classic has reached thousands of athletes, fans, and entrepreneurs..

Now the movement is going global.  In Accra, Ghana, The Bitcoin Classic tournament will be featured as part of the Africa Basketball Festival, a major annual event that attracts over 5,000 basketball enthusiasts from around the world. The festival combines domestic and international basketball matchups with music performances, fashion shows and a basketball seminar, creating a dynamic platform for cultural exchange and youth empowerment.

In Nairobi, Kenya, The Bitcoin Classic is partnering with Street League Africa (SLA) to host a tournament that blends sport, culture and financial literacy. The event will feature a 5-on-5 men’s competition, a high-flying slam dunk contest, a three-point shootout, interactive Bitcoin workshops and a youth basketball clinic led by The Bitcoin Classic founder Yusuf Abdul-Ali.

Backed by Block, Inc., the fintech company founded by Jack Dorsey and FAMBUL GLOBAL, a Pan-African travel and lifestyle brand, The Bitcoin Classic’s Africa expansion is about more than competition, it is about creating long-term impact. By uniting sport, education and technology, the initiative seeks to empower Africa’s next generation with the knowledge and tools to thrive in the digital economy.

The Bitcoin Classic Ghana is designed as a multi-faceted event that engages audiences on and off the court.

• Elite Basketball Tournament: A 5-on-5 men’s single-elimination tournament will bring together the top four local teams, competing for Bitcoin prizes. The competition will also feature high-energy skills challenges, including a three-point shootout and a slam dunk contest to showcase top talent.
  
• Education and Financial Inclusion: Interactive Bitcoin and blockchain workshops will introduce practical, real-world applications to participants and attendees.
  
• Youth Development and Community Engagement: A co-ed youth basketball clinic led by The Bitcoin Classic founder Yusuf Abdul-Ali will focus on skill-building, mentorship and empowerment.
  
• Strategic Partnerships and Institutional Engagement: Collaborations with leading universities, innovation hubs and tech accelerators will extend the reach of the event, advancing financial literacy and digital inclusion across the region.

Yes, unless you are exempt. All visitors to Ghana must possess a valid visa or entry permit issued by a Ghanaian diplomatic mission or consulate abroad, or another mandated visa-issuing authority. You cannot board your flight without it. It’s advisable to apply well in advance; normal processing takes about 5 working days, while express services can be as quick as 3 working days. Apply via the official Ghana High Commission website or your nearest Ghanaian Embassy/Consulate.

You’ll need:

• Passport valid 6+ months from your arrival date, with at least three blank pages
• 1 recent color passport size photograph
• Proof of accommodation (your hotel confirmation or invitation letter from a host in Ghana)
• A return or onward ticket
• Yellow Fever certificate (required for all travelers aged 9 months and above)
• Bank statement (some applications may require this)
• References in Ghana (full name, physical address, digital address, contact number)

Exemptions: Citizens of ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) countries (Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote D’Ivoire, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Togo) are generally exempt from visa requirements for stays up to 90 days. Holders of Diplomatic, Service, or Official Passports from certain countries (e.g., Brazil, Cuba, Germany, China, India, Hungary, UAE) are also exempt for stays not exceeding 90 days. Always check the official Ghana Immigration Service website or your nearest Ghanaian mission before you book to confirm your specific requirements.

Traveler tip: Print your visa approval and carry it with your passport, immigration may request a hard copy.

Ghana is generally considered one of the safest and most welcoming countries in West Africa, especially in destinations like Accra, Kumasi and coastal areas. The country has a stable political climate, friendly locals and a strong reputation for hospitality.  As with any major city, visitors should exercise caution in crowded markets and public spaces and avoid displaying valuables.  Some border areas, especially near Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire and Togo, may have increased security risks. Traveling with a trusted tour operator ensures a more secure experience, especially for guided excursions. Always carry a copy of your passport and entry stamp, keeping original documents in a secure location. Stay updated on travel advisories, follow local guidance and you’ll enjoy a rich and rewarding trip.

Travel insurance is MANDATORY for all FAMBUL GLOBAL TRIPS to protect against trip cancellations, medical emergencies, lost luggage and unexpected travel disruptions. While travel insurance is not a mandatory requirement for entry into Ghana by the Ghanaian government, it is mandatory for all our travelers.

Your policy should cover medical emergencies, evacuation and repatriation, trip cancellations or delays and lost or stolen baggage. If you plan to join adventure activities such as hiking or canopy walks, make sure these are included in your coverage. Carry both a digital and printed copy of your policy, as hospitals may require upfront payment before treatment.

Travelers Tip: Always carry a digital and printed copy of your policy and emergency contact numbers.

Yellow Fever Vaccination is MANDATORY for entry into Ghana.  You must present an official certificate on arrival. The certificate is valid for life, but if you are receiving the shot for the first time, it only becomes valid 10 days after vaccination.

Other vaccinations are not required for entry but are strongly advised. These include Hepatitis A and Typhoid, which protect against food and waterborne illness and Hepatitis B, particularly if you expect medical procedures, piercings, tattoos, or intimate contact. Meningococcal meningitis is relevant during the dry season (December to June) and rabies may be considered if you’ll be in rural areas with animals. Routine vaccinations such as tetanus, measles, polio and influenza should also be up to date.

Malaria is present year-round in Ghana. Prophylaxis is highly recommended, alongside protective measures such as insect repellent, long sleeves and mosquito nets.

Always consult a travel health specialist four to six weeks before departure to determine the right vaccinations and medication for your circumstances.

Traveler tip: Don’t leave this last minute — some vaccines need multiple doses or take time to work.

The most significant risk is malaria, especially outside major urban areas. Insect-borne illnesses like dengue, chikungunya and yellow fever are also present. Traveler’s diarrhea, hepatitis A and typhoid are common concerns, particularly if consuming street food or untreated water. Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled, filtered, or boiled water and use it for brushing teeth.

Medical facilities in Accra and Kumasi are available but can be limited and hospitals typically require upfront payment. Outside major cities, care is basic. Comprehensive travel insurance with emergency evacuation is critical in case advanced treatment abroad is needed.

Avoid swimming in freshwater lakes and rivers, as schistosomiasis is endemic in some regions. Take care around animals and seek immediate care if bitten to reduce the risk of rabies.

No, it’s generally not safe to drink tap water in Ghana. Tap water may contain bacteria, parasites, or other contaminants that could cause illness, especially for visitors not accustomed to local water sources. To stay healthy, drink only bottled, filtered, or boiled water. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth and avoid ice unless you’re sure it was made with purified water. Many hotels and restaurants catering to international travelers offer safe drinking water.

Ghana’s currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Cash is essential for most purchases, especially at local markets, small shops and for transportation like taxis or shared minibuses (tro-tros). While larger hotels, upscale restaurants and major supermarkets in Accra and other cities generally accept Visa and Mastercard, it’s advisable to always have some local cash on hand, as not all establishments or service providers, including rideshare drivers, may accept card payments.

It’s useful to carry a mix: some cash in small denominations and at least one international credit/debit card. U.S. dollars and euros are widely exchangeable, but avoid carrying large sums of any currency for safety.

Ghana is a linguistically diverse nation with more than 80 languages spoken. English is the official language and is widely used in government, business, education and tourism, especially in urban centers. Most travelers will find English sufficient for communication, though in rural areas local languages are more common. The most widely spoken indigenous language is Akan, which includes dialects such as Twi, Fante and Asante, predominantly spoken in the southern and central regions. Other significant languages include Ewe in the east, Ga in the Accra region and Dagbani in the north. Hausa also serves as a trade and community language in many areas. Learning a few phrases in Twi, such as “Akwaaba” (welcome) or “Medaase” (thank you), is appreciated and shows respect for Ghanaian culture.

Ghana primarily uses Type G and Type D electrical plugs. Type G is identical to the UK standard with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Type D has three large, round pins in a triangular pattern. The electrical voltage is 230V at a frequency of 50Hz. Travelers from countries using different plug types or lower voltages (like 110V in the U.S.) should bring a suitable adapter (Type G and/or Type D). For most modern electronics like phones, tablets and laptops, which are typically dual-voltage rated (‘INPUT: 100-240V’), only a travel adapter is needed. However, high-voltage appliances like hairdryers that are not dual-voltage may need a voltage converter. A universal travel adapter with surge protection is a convenient travel companion.

Tipping is not traditionally expected in everyday Ghanaian life, but within the tourism sector it has become common and is always appreciated. At formal restaurants, a 5–10% tip is appropriate if a service charge isn’t already included. In local eateries it is less common, though rounding up a bill is seen as a kind gesture. Tour guides, drivers and porters often rely on tips as part of their income; GHS 20–50 per day for a guide and GHS 5–10 per bag for porters, is typical. Hotel staff may be tipped individually or through a communal tip box. Always use Ghanaian cedis where possible and carry small notes to make tipping easier.

Ghanaian food is bold, hearty and flavorful, built around staples like cassava, plantain, yam, maize, beans, millet and sorghum. Each region has its own variations, but across the country you’ll find iconic dishes. Fufu, a pounded mixture of cassava and plantain, is eaten with soups such as peanut, palm nut, or light tomato broth. Banku, a fermented corn and cassava dough, is often paired with grilled tilapia and shito, a spicy pepper sauce. Jollof rice is a national favorite, rich with tomato and spice and always the subject of friendly rivalries with neighboring countries. Waakye, a beloved street food, mixes rice and beans, usually served with gari, stew, spaghetti, or fried plantain. Red Red is a bean stew traditionally served with fried ripe plantain. Street snacks like kelewele, spiced fried plantain and kenkey with fish are also staples. Food can be fiery, but chili is usually served on the side, so you can adjust the heat.

Ghana places strong emphasis on respect, hospitality and community. Always greet people before beginning an interaction; a handshake is common and it is customary to use your right hand for greeting, giving, or receiving items. Elders are treated with high respect, so standing when an elder enters a room or addressing them with honorifics like “Nana,” “Maame,” or “Paapa” is appropriate.

Modesty in dress is valued in rural areas, religious sites and traditional communities, though urban Accra is more relaxed. Public displays of affection are accepted among younger people in cities, but in rural settings they are discouraged. Photography should never be taken without permission, especially in traditional or rural areas.

Ghanaians enjoy conversation and debate, including politics, but as a visitor it is best to listen more than lead, as politics can be passionately discussed. “Ghanaian time” reflects a more relaxed approach to punctuality, so don’t be surprised if events begin later than scheduled. Above all, showing courtesy, curiosity and respect will be warmly received.

Ghana follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT, UTC+0) year-round and does not observe daylight saving. This means Ghana shares the same time as London during the winter months, but in summer London moves one hour ahead. Ghana is five hours ahead of New York (EST) and eight hours ahead of Los Angeles (PST).

Mobile networks are reliable in Ghana’s cities and major towns, with MTN offering the broadest nationwide coverage, followed by Telecel (formerly Vodafone) and AirtelTigo. To save on roaming costs, it is easy to purchase a local SIM card, which requires your passport for registration under Ghanaian law. eSIM options are also available with some carriers. Data and call bundles are inexpensive and widely used. In remote areas, coverage can be patchy but most hotels, cafes and restaurants in Accra offer Wi-Fi.

ATMs are accessible across major cities such as Accra, Kumasi and Takoradi and they generally accept Visa and Mastercard.  Use machines located inside secure places like banks or malls.  Machines in rural towns are less reliable and may run out of cash, so it is wise to carry backup. Withdrawal limits are common, often capped at around 400–1,000 GHS per transaction. To avoid disruptions, bring at least one backup card, notify your bank of travel plans and keep some cash for places that don’t accept cards.

Yes. Bargaining is expected in markets and with street vendors and is part of the cultural rhythm of shopping. Start lower than the asking price and negotiate respectfully; humor and friendliness go a long way. Large supermarkets, malls and established shops use fixed prices and do not allow bargaining, but in Makola Market in Accra or Kejetia Market in Kumasi, bargaining is the norm.

Visitors can legally drive in Ghana with a valid foreign driver’s license accompanied by an International Driving Permit. Ghana drives on the right side of the road. While self-driving is possible, heavy traffic, erratic driving, frequent police checkpoints and road conditions can make it challenging. Most travelers prefer to hire a driver or use rideshare apps for safety and convenience. If you do drive, always carry your license, IDP, passport, proof of insurance and vehicle documents.

Not always, but it largely depends on your specific bank. While many larger institutions have advanced fraud-detection systems and no longer require formal travel notices, some banks—especially smaller or regional ones—still advise it. Furthermore, online banking and commerce from West Africa might trigger fraud detection systems.

The best strategy:

• Check your bank’s website or app for their current policy regarding international travel.
• If travel notices are still offered, set one up—it takes minutes and can prevent card blocks.
• Ensure your phone number and email are updated with your bank so they can reach you if unusual activity is detected.
• Enable transaction alerts for extra peace of mind.
• Always carry a backup card and some local currency or US dollars as a contingency.

Ghana offers a variety of transportation options, with different levels of comfort and safety:

• Rideshare apps: Uber and Bolt are widely available in major cities like Accra and Kumasi. They are generally considered safer and more reliable than hailing street taxis, offering transparent pricing.
• Tro-tros: These are privately owned mini-buses that serve as the primary form of public transport. They are very cheap and cover extensive routes but can be crowded, uncomfortable and sometimes driven erratically. They are generally not recommended for new visitors.
• Taxis: Readily available in urban areas. It’s advisable to negotiate the fare before starting your journey, or use rideshare apps for fixed pricing.
• Private drivers or organized transfers: The most reliable and comfortable option for airport pickups, city tours and longer inter-city journeys, especially if arranged through a reputable tour operator.
• Domestic flights: Connect Accra to regional capitals like Kumasi, Tamale and Takoradi, offering a quicker alternative for longer distances.
  Traffic in major cities, especially Accra, can be heavy, so always allow extra time for airport transfers and scheduled activities.

Pack light, breathable clothing suited to hot and humid weather, along with longer sleeves and trousers for evenings and mosquito protection. Neutral tones are useful for nature excursions, but avoid camouflage patterns, which are reserved for the military. Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential and a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen and insect repellent are must-haves. A universal adapter for Type G or Type D plugs will be required. A basic first-aid kit and refillable water bottle are also smart additions.

Ghana does not enforce a blanket ban on plastic bags, but the government and private sector are working toward reducing single-use plastics. Travelers are encouraged to bring reusable shopping bags and avoid plastic where possible. Transparent zip-lock bags for airport liquids are generally allowed. While you won’t face penalties for bringing plastic bags, choosing sustainable alternatives supports Ghana’s environmental efforts and aligns with local values around waste reduction.