The African continent is home to many amazing countries, boasting a wide range of cultures and landscapes, from desert dunes to mountains and jungles.
But few venture beyond Chefchaouen, Morocco's Blue City, Egypt's pyramids and South African safaris.
In fact, many countries in Africa are just as beautiful, with the added benefit of being far less crowded.
The West African country of Ghana is one such destination, with 341 miles of incredible white sand beaches along its Atlantic coastline.
Some of the best beaches in Ghana include Ladi Beach, a local favorite for its golden sands, lively music and lively atmosphere, and Koklovite Beach, a tranquil holiday destination with breathtaking sunsets.
The country is home to some incredible castles and ruins that were important in the transatlantic slave trade, and these are key to anyone wanting to learn more about this complex and devastating period.
For example, Cape Coast Castle, once a Portuguese trading post, served as the last stop for enslaved Africans before boarding ships for the Americas. Its museum offers guided tours and exhibits about the slave trade and is on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
All tourists have the opportunity to stroll through bustling markets like Makola Market, where they can buy clothes and food. Also, those who like to get out into nature can see rare animals and birds in national parks such as Kakum, Bia and Mole.
You can also visit some of Ghana's amazing waterfalls, such as Kintampo Falls and Tagbo Falls, the largest waterfall in West Africa, and explore Bosumtui Crater, a meteorite impact crater almost completely buried by Lake Bosumtui. It is one of the best preserved impact craters in the world.
Michael Edwards, managing director of Explore Worldwide, said: “Ghana is a truly fascinating and underrated destination, a very vibrant and culturally rich place, and a very warm and welcoming place.” spoke.
“Currently, there are very few carriers selling Ghana, but it is a country with great potential.”
In September, major airline Virgin Atlantic announced it would return to Ghana for the first time since 2013, with daily flights to Kotoka International Airport in the capital Accra from May 2025.
“Starting on May 1, 2025, this daily service will be operated on the airline's Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with Upper Class, Premium and Economy Delight, Classic and Light cabins, as well as an on-board bar.” the airline said in a statement.
To enter Ghana, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your date of arrival and you must obtain a visa through the online application form on the Ghana High Commission website. You will also need proof that you have been vaccinated against yellow fever. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs' travel advisory, you can bring up to the equivalent of $10,000 or £8,213 in Ghanaian cedi.
Clare Tobin, Managing Director of Wild Frontiers, said: “Ghana will welcome more international tourists with the launch of new daily direct flights to Accra from Virgin Airlines in May 2025. I'm ready.''
“This culturally proud country is a place where you can meet and interact with local Ghanaians, learn about the history of transatlantic slavery at Cape Coast Castle, meet chiefs at Elmina, and enjoy the Akwasidae Festival in Kumasi. The opportunities to tour the Ashanti Monarchy are plentiful and provide an unforgettable experience.
