Africa
Is Ghana safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Ghana safe?
One of West Africa's safer countries. Petty theft, road crashes and scams are the main risks; the far north near Burkina Faso and Togo has banditry and spillover militancy.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2026-07-06.
- Homicide rate: 1.8 per 100,000 people (2022, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 25.7 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 191 · Ambulance 193 · Fire 192 · All emergencies 112.
- Solo women: Generally manageable for solo women; expect attention and persistent marriage proposals. Use ride apps after dark, not street taxis.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Road crashes on intercity highways, especially at night
- Bag snatching and phone theft in Accra crowds
- Northern border areas: militant spillover and local conflict
- Malaria year-round; mosquito protection needed
Common scams
- Fake gold, diamond or investment deals offered by new online friends
- Taxi drivers quoting inflated fares to foreigners
- Romance and advance-fee fraud arranged online
Laws visitors break by accident
- Same-sex relations are criminal; an expanded anti-LGBTQ+ bill has been before parliament since 2024
- Drug offences, including cannabis, are prosecuted
- Photographing military sites, police and government buildings can lead to detention
Safety by place in Ghana
| Place | Safety |
|---|---|
| Accra | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Cape Coast | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
| Kumasi | 4/5 · Safe with normal care |
Quick answers
Is Ghana safe for tourists?
One of West Africa's safer countries. Petty theft, road crashes and scams are the main risks; the far north near Burkina Faso and Togo has banditry and spillover militancy.
Is Ghana safe for solo female travelers?
Generally manageable for solo women; expect attention and persistent marriage proposals. Use ride apps after dark, not street taxis.
What is the emergency number in Ghana?
Police 191 · Ambulance 193 · Fire 192 · All emergencies 112.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- Ghana Ministry of Foreign Affairs
- Ghana Tourism Authority
- Speedtest Global Index: Ghana
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.