15 things to do in Accra in December, beyond the parties

The 15 best things to do in Accra in December

History and heritage

1. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: the mausoleum and museum of Ghana's first president, in central Accra.
2. Independence Square (Black Star Square): the huge parade ground and Independence Arch.
3. W.E.B. Du Bois Centre: the former home and resting place of the African American scholar who moved to Ghana. Essential for diaspora visitors.
4. Jamestown and the lighthouse: Old Accra's fishing district, with colonial-era buildings and street art. Go with a local guide.
5. Cape Coast and Elmina castles: a full-day trip. See our Cape Coast guide.

Art, craft and shopping

1. Arts Centre (Centre for National Culture): carvings, kente, beads and drums. Bargain politely.
2. Makola Market: Accra's biggest market for fabric and everyday goods.
3. Contemporary galleries: Accra's art scene is booming, with galleries and creative spaces across Osu, Labone and Airport Residential.
4. Kente and bead workshops: learn how kente is woven or make your own beads.

Nature and day trips

1. Aburi Botanical Gardens: cool hill air about 45 minutes from Accra.
2. Legon Botanical Gardens: a canopy walk and outdoor activities in the city.
3. Shai Hills Resource Reserve: baboons, antelope and caves, about an hour away.
4. Akosombo and the Volta: boat cruises on Lake Volta, an overnight trip.

Beaches and food

1. Labadi and Bojo beaches: see our Accra beaches guide.
2. A street-food crawl in Osu: kelewele, kebabs and waakye. See what to eat in Accra.

Best things to do in Accra by type of traveller

Tips for sightseeing in Accra in December

• Start early: heat and traffic both build after midday.
• Group sights by area: central Accra (Nkrumah Park, Independence Square, Makola, Jamestown) makes one good day.
• Carry cedi cash for entry fees, guides and markets.
• Hire a guide in Jamestown and at the castles. They make the history come alive.