This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Accra.
Accra is the capital and largest city of Ghana, a country on the west coast of Africa. The city sits on the Atlantic coast and extends north. Accra is a bustling metropolis with a lot of history. It was originally three distinct settlements: a British community near the Jamestown fort and harbour, and two Dutch settlements, Ussherstown and Osu, near the Ussher and Christianborg forts.
Budget hostel accommodation in Accra is found in the districts of Osu, in west Central Accra, which has emerged as the tourism hub, or in Kokomlemle, which is closer to the Ring Road that defines the city centre. Hostels in Accra tend to be well-kept, but don’t expect them to be spacious or private. Instead of “hostel,” an accommodation may call itself a “guest house,” which also has shared rooms or shared facilities.
The international airport, Kokota, is only 9.7km (6 miles) from the city centre; to get to your hostel you can either get into a trotro (shared minibus that leaves when full) or arrange a taxi. Be sure to negotiate your fee before getting in, as most taxis in Accra don’t have meters, and if they do they are more expensive. To get around town, you will find that the most popular mode of transport is the trotro; these travel fixed routes, just ask the driver where he is going.
The main attractions in Accra include the National Museum, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, Independence Square, and the National Theatre. The historic settlement of Jamestown is home to all three forts and the prime historic attraction. These are all in Central Accra. The beaches of Accra are also attractive destinations; the most popular is Labadi Beach, one suburb over from Osu. Osu is the place to be at night; this is the popular hangout for Ghanaians and tourists alike so here you will find all the best dining, nightlife, and shopping options.
Written by local enthusiast for Accra hostels
Jakob Lombardi
