💱 Ghana’s Currency: The Cedi (GHS)
Coins: ₵0.10, ₵0.20, ₵0.50, ₵1.00
Notes: ₵1, ₵2, ₵5, ₵10, ₵20, ₵50, ₵100, ₵200
Current Exchange Rates (approximate):
- $1 USD ≈ 12.50 GHS
- €1 EUR ≈ 13.40 GHS
- £1 GBP ≈ 15.80 GHS
- $1 CAD ≈ 9.10 GHS
💵 What Currency to Bring
Best Options:
- US Dollars (USD) – most widely accepted
- Euros (EUR) – good alternative option
- Clean, crisp notes work best for exchange
Avoid Bringing:
- Canadian Dollars – not commonly accepted for exchange
- Costa Rican Colón – not commonly accepted for exchange
- Old, torn, or marked bills – often rejected
💡 Tip: Convert CAD/CRC to USD or EUR before traveling to Ghana.
🏧 Getting Cash in Ghana
Currency Exchange:
- Forex bureaus: Best exchange rates
- Banks: Secure but slightly lower rates
- Hotels: Convenient but lowest rates
- Avoid airports unless necessary (poor rates)
ATMs:
- Widely available in Kumasi near hotels and banks
- Visa cards accepted at most ATMs
- Mastercard accepted at some ATMs
- Notify your bank before travel to avoid blocked cards
Credit Cards:
- Limited acceptance – mainly at hotels and upscale restaurants
- Cash preferred at markets and small vendors
- Have backup cash for most purchases
💰 Budgeting Tips
Cash vs Cards Strategy:
- Bring mix of cash and cards for flexibility
- Keep cash for: Markets, street food, tips, small vendors
- Use cards for: Hotels, upscale restaurants, tourist attractions
Common Expenses:
- Meals: 20-100 GHS ($1.50-8) depending on venue
- Transportation: 10-50 GHS ($1-4) for short trips
- Souvenirs: 20-200 GHS ($1.50-16) at markets
🔒 Money Safety Tips
Carrying Cash:
- Don’t carry large amounts – spread money across pockets/bags
- Keep some hidden as emergency backup
- Use hotel safes when available
ATM Safety:
- Use ATMs at banks or hotels when possible
- Cover your PIN when entering
- Check for card skimmers before using
