Street food is the lifeblood of Ghanaian culture, with vibrant markets and bustling stalls offering a variety of local dishes that won’t break your budget. In Accra, you can indulge in flavorful meals for as little as 5 GHS ($0.50), ensuring that your taste buds and wallet stay satisfied.
Getting around Accra is straightforward and inexpensive, especially if you opt for public transportation. The easiest way to travel is via the trotro, which are shared minibuses that operate on fixed routes. For instance, from the bustling Osu neighborhood, take the Number 15 trotro to Kwame Nkrumah Circle for about 2 GHS ($0.20). Just look for the colorful signs and hop on; they run frequently.
Another option is the Uber service, which is available throughout the city. While trotro rides are cheaper, Uber can be a more comfortable choice, especially at night. A typical 15-minute ride in the city might cost you around 15 GHS ($1.50). If you’re an adventurous backpacker, consider renting a bike from Bike Accra for around 20 GHS ($2) per day to explore the city at your own pace and discover hidden gems.
The food scene in Accra is a delightful mix of flavors, reflecting the country’s diverse cultures. Start your culinary journey at Buka Restaurant in the Osu area, where you can feast on a delicious bowl of Jollof rice with chicken for about 35 GHS ($3.50). This popular dish is a must-try, made with perfectly cooked rice and a spicy tomato base.
If you’re looking for a quick bite, street vendors serve up waakye (rice and beans) for as little as 5 GHS ($0.50) in neighborhoods like Madina. A typical serving comes with fried plantains, boiled eggs, and spicy pepper sauce. Don’t forget to stop by the Kaneshie Market for fresh kelewele (spicy fried plantains) sold by vendors for around 10 GHS ($1). The aroma of spices fills the air, making it hard to resist this local favorite.
Ghanaian cuisine is rich and varied, with dishes that you shouldn't miss. One standout is fufu, a starchy dish typically served with light soup or groundnut soup. Check out the famous Buka Restaurant or the Fufu Joint in the 37 Military Hospital area, where you can enjoy a bowl for around 30 GHS ($3). The texture is unique and can be eaten with your hands, making it an interactive dining experience.
Another popular dish is banku and tilapia, often served at local joints like the Labadi Beach area, where fresh fish is grilled over open flames. You can enjoy this meal for about 40 GHS ($4). Pair it with a cold Club Beer for a refreshing finish; a bottle costs about 5 GHS ($0.50). Don’t forget to try the sweet and spicy chinchinga (kebabs) from street vendors around the Osu area, typically costing around 10 GHS ($1).
To fully enjoy the culinary delights of Ghana, keep a few tips in mind:
| Item | Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Jollof Rice and Chicken | 35 GHS | Buka Restaurant, Osu |
| Waakye | 5 GHS | Street vendors, Madina |
| Kelewele (Spicy Fried Plantains) | 10 GHS | Kaneshie Market |
| Fufu with Light Soup | 30 GHS | Buka Restaurant, 37 Military Hospital |
| Banku and Grilled Tilapia | 40 GHS | Local joints, Labadi Beach |
| Chinchinga (Kebabs) | 10 GHS | Street vendors, Osu |
| Club Beer | 5 GHS | Most bars and restaurants |
Some must-try street foods include waakye, kelewele, and chinchinga. Waakye, a rice and beans dish, is typically served at breakfast or lunch with several accompaniments. Kelewele, spicy fried plantains, is a popular snack, and chinchinga, or kebabs, is ideal for a quick but filling meal, often enjoyed in the evenings.
Yes, eating street food in Ghana is generally safe, provided you choose vendors with high food turnover, ensuring freshness. Popular stalls with local patrons are usually a good sign. Always wash your hands before eating or carry hand sanitizer as a precaution.
Traveler comments
Add a route note, correction, timing tip or question for this guide.