Accra, the capital of Ghana, is a dynamic blend of cultures, where colonial architecture coexists with modern skyscrapers. Situated on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, Accra became the capital of the British Gold Coast colony in 1877. In 1957, Ghana, the first African country south of the Sahara, gained independence from colonial rule.
Today, Accra is a vibrant city known for its lively streets, colorful culture, and the unmistakable sight of locals carrying baskets on their heads. The city’s architecture is a blend of modern skyscrapers and 17th-century forts and castles. A day in Accra will take you through its rich history and bustling local culture.
Exploring Accra in a Day
Start your journey in Jamestown, one of the oldest, most historic, and poverty-stricken neighborhoods in Accra. Wander through its maze of streets and alleys to get a glimpse of local life—children playing alongside goats searching for food, laundry draped over rickety stools, and hairdressing salons set up on the sidewalks.
The air is thick with the scent of smoking fish, while music blasts from stereo players as young people practice boxing in a community ring, inspired by Ghana’s two-time world champion Azumah Nelson. This traditional Ga fishing area is known for its tight-knit community spirit. Here, you can explore Ussher Fort, originally a trading lodge, later turned into a fort in 1649 during the transatlantic slave trade. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the fort stands alongside other historical landmarks like Fort James and the Jamestown Lighthouse.
Jamestown is also the perfect place to sample traditional Ga cuisine, including corn dough served with fresh-ground hot pepper and okra soup. Being a coastal area, you’ll also find street vendors selling fresh seafood, such as shrimps, octopus, and fried fish.
A short drive away is the Flame of African Liberation, lit by Kwame Nkrumah in 1961, which is located in Independence Square. Visit the National Museum to learn about Ghana’s cultural history through its three main collections: archaeology, ethnography, and art.
Make sure to stop by the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, located at the former British Polo grounds. This peaceful site is the final resting place of Ghana’s first president and includes a mausoleum, a museum, and symbolic statues. The park’s unique design, representing an upside-down sword, symbolizes peace, and the interior is adorned with Italian marble, with a black star symbolizing unity.
Markets and Modern Accra
No trip to Accra is complete without a visit to Makola Market. This bustling and chaotic bazaar offers everything from traditional clothing and jewelry to herbal remedies, fresh produce, and electronics. It’s a colorful and lively market full of vendors eager to make a sale, with narrow alleys and crowded stalls creating a maze of goods.
In contrast, New Accra is home to modern buildings, reflecting the country’s rich natural resources and foreign investments. Here, you’ll find landmarks like the National Theatre, World Trade Centre, and the UN Memorial, alongside Oxford Street, a popular spot for expats. The street is lined with lively bars, fast food joints, and unique shops, with coconut trees providing shade to passersby.
Unique Experiences in Accra
For something truly unique, visit the Fantasy Coffins in Teshie. These custom-made coffins, designed to reflect the occupation or passion of the deceased, are more art than burial vessels. They range from coffins shaped like cars, beer bottles, and even cameras, representing the personal interests of those who will be laid to rest in them.
Accra offers a fascinating mix of history, culture, and modernity, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler.
