THE SHORT VERSION / Detty December with family
Detty December works well for families if you plan around daytime. In Lagos, try the Lekki Conservation Centre, calm Tarkwa Bay and family-friendly festival sessions. In Accra, try Legon Botanical Gardens, Shai Hills, Bojo Beach and Cape Coast. Stay somewhere with reliable power and a pool, and see a travel clinic about malaria before you go.
- Best for families
- Accra (calmer)
- Lagos pick
- Lekki canopy walk
- Accra pick
- Shai Hills, Bojo
- Stay
- Pool + generator
- Health
- Travel clinic first
- Plan
- Days, not nights
Is Detty December good for families?
Yes, if you plan the trip around the daytime. Many families travel in December for Christmas with relatives, and both cities have plenty for children. Accra is generally easier with kids because it's calmer and has less traffic, but Lagos works well if you stay near your activities.
7 family-friendly things to do in Lagos
- Lekki Conservation Centre: nature trails and the canopy walkway (height and age rules may apply).
- Tarkwa Bay: sheltered water, reached by boat. Life jackets for everyone.
- Nike Art Gallery: colourful and inspiring for older kids.
- Family sessions at festivals: Detty December Fest 2026 includes family-oriented attractions. See the festival guide.
- Cinemas and malls in Lekki and Victoria Island.
- Landmark Beach during the day, with facilities and security.
- Christmas at home: time with relatives is the highlight for many kids.
7 family-friendly things to do in Accra
- Legon Botanical Gardens: canopy walk and outdoor activities.
- Shai Hills Resource Reserve: baboons, antelope and caves.
- Bojo Beach: calm water across a short boat crossing.
- Aburi Botanical Gardens: cool air and space to run.
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: history in a short visit.
- Cape Coast and Kakum: best for older children. See the Cape Coast guide.
- Accra malls and cinemas for hot afternoons.
Where families should stay
- Choose a gated property with 24-hour power (or a generator), air conditioning and a pool.
- Stay near your activities: Cantonments or Airport Residential in Accra, Ikoyi or Victoria Island in Lagos.
- A short-let with a kitchen helps with picky eaters and early bedtimes.
See where to stay in Accra and Lagos.
Health tips for children
- Visit a travel clinic 6 to 8 weeks before travel for vaccinations (yellow fever is required for Ghana and recommended for Nigeria) and malaria advice.
- Use insect repellent and nets in the evenings.
- Keep kids hydrated and out of the midday sun.
- Bring a basic medicine kit and any prescriptions.
- Get travel insurance that covers children. See our health guide.
A sample 7-day family itinerary (Accra)
| Day | Plan |
|---|---|
| 1 | Arrive, pool, early night |
| 2 | Legon Botanical Gardens |
| 3 | Bojo Beach |
| 4 | Christmas with family |
| 5 | Shai Hills |
| 6 | Nkrumah Park, mall, cinema |
| 7 | Aburi, then pack |
THE PRACTICAL DETAILS
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Frequently asked questions
Is Detty December suitable for children?
Yes, if you plan around daytime activities like beaches, parks, nature reserves and family gatherings, and stay somewhere comfortable with a pool and reliable power.
Is Lagos or Accra better for families?
Accra is generally easier for families because it's calmer and has lighter traffic. Lagos works well if you stay close to your activities.
What vaccinations do kids need for Ghana and Nigeria?
Yellow fever vaccination is required for Ghana and recommended for Nigeria. See a travel clinic 6 to 8 weeks before travel for other vaccines and malaria prevention.
