by George Offei & Sofeeyah Lloyd
Accra is a city bursting with rich history, culture, and character. A metropolis that blends new and old, laid back and vibrant, coastal vibes with fast-paced hustle.
Hosting an event here is an opportunity to immerse in one of West Africa’s most exciting cities.
As a center of Pan-African culture and trade – not to mention a growing global status – Ghana’s capital is emerging as a top event and conference destination on the Continent.
If you’re planning an international event or conference here, let us take you on a journey through the city and everything it offers.
And when you’re ready, book a call with our Ghana events team. They’ve been organizing international conferences here for years. They can help you navigate the city with ease.
Quick Guide: 6 Reasons to Host in Accra
- Connectivity: Accra is a well-connected hub with direct flights from many major global cities.
- Easy Visa Process: Ghana is simplifying its visa process, with visa-on-arrival for African nationals and an expanding e-visa system.
- Excellent Venues: Accra boasts modern event venues suited to massive international conferences and more intimate corporate get-togethers.
- Historic Sights: The city is rich in history, with plenty of opportunities for your participants to explore and sightsee throughout the city.
- Natural Beauty: Accra offers access to stunning natural attractions that make excellent additions to a post-event itinerary.
- Vibrant Social Life: Accra’s social scene is legendary, with plenty of opportunities to unwind at the end of a busy day, or incorporate some nightlife into your event.
1. Connectivity
Let’s get the most practical consideration out of the way first.
Accra is a well-connected hub in West Africa, with multiple airlines offering direct flights to and from major global cities. Longer trips will require a stopover, but overall, you won’t struggle to find routes for international participants to join your event.
Africa
- Ethiopian Airlines: Regular flights to Addis Ababa, and lots of connections.
- Kenya Airways: Direct flights to Accra from Nairobi, with connections to other major cities.
- Air Côte d’Ivoire: Connecting flights from various West African cities.
- Egyptair: Flights link Accra to Cairo directly.
- Africa World Airlines: Regional flights within West Africa.
Europe
- KLM: Direct flights from Amsterdam to Accra.
- Air France: Direct flights from Paris to Accra.
- Turkish Airlines: Offering flights from Istanbul to Accra.
Middle East
- Qatar Airways: Connecting Accra with Doha and other international destinations.
North America
- United Airlines: Connecting Accra to major U.S. cities.
2. Easy Visa Process
The Ghanaian government is currently overhauling its visa policy, making entry more streamlined for many countries.
All African nationals can obtain an extendable 30-day visa upon arrival, with plans to offer visa-free travel to all African countries by the end of 2024.
- E-Visa System: Ghana is gradually rolling out an e-visa system to certain countries, including the US and India. However, at the time of writing, there is no central e-visa website.
- Visa Exemption: Citizens of select countries, primarily within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), do not require a visa to enter Ghana.
- Embassy Applications: Nationals from countries not eligible for visas on arrival or e-visas must apply for a visa at their nearest Ghanaian embassy or consulate.
For more detailed information, read our Ghana visa guide.
3. Excellent Event Venues
Accra boasts plenty of modern event and conference venues to fit your needs. From intimate beachfront properties to massive exhibition halls, you’ll be spoiled for choice.
And while each venue offers something unique, they all share modern amenities, dedicated support staff, catering, and anything else you need for a successful event.
Our favorites include:
- Accra International Conference Centre: Ghana premier venue offers multiple meeting rooms and exhibition spaces, including a 1,600pax main hall – ideal for large conferences and trade shows.
- Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City: Known for its luxurious setting and sophisticated atmosphere, the hotel has several versatile meeting rooms, a grand ballroom, and a fine art gallery.
- Movenpick Ambassador Hotel: A striking hotel in the city center, with expansive outdoor areas and plenty of elegant indoors spaces.
- Labadi Beach Hotel: In the heart of Accra’s most popular beachfront, the hotel combines business and leisure with a cool coastal breeze.
- Alisa Hotel: The hotel is surrounded by diplomatic missions and international headquarters, making it an ideal choice for events hosting local dignitaries.
- Sandbox Beach Club: Head to Accra’s hippest beachfront bar and rooftop terrace for informal, intimate gatherings.
Need help picking the right venue? Get in touch. Our local Accra events team will help you narrow your search and find the perfect fit.
4. Historic Sights
Accra is a city steeped in history, offering a wealth of historic sights that add depth and cultural richness to your event.
There are too many sights to list, so here’s a few favorites amongst the Hallpax team:
- Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum: This iconic monument honors Ghana’s first president and is surrounded by beautiful gardens. It provides a poignant glimpse into the country’s journey to independence.
- Independence Arch: A symbol of Ghana’s liberation from colonial rule, this arch is a testament to national pride and resilience.
- W.E.B. Du Bois Center: Dedicated to the African-American scholar and civil rights activist, this center houses a museum detailing his life and contributions.
- Jamestown Lighthouse: Offering panoramic views of the city, this colonial-era lighthouse is located in one of Accra’s oldest districts, rich in history and vibrant street art.
- Makola Market: Dive into the local culture at this bustling market, where you can experience the vibrancy of Accra’s daily life and its historical trading practices.
For a deeper dive into Accra’s best sites, check out our Accra City Guide.
5. Natural Beauty
Accra is also a gateway to some of Ghana’s most stunning natural attractions. The city’s surrounding areas make a perfect post-event day escape for participants to relax and rejuvenate.
Easy-to-access highlights include:
- Labadi Beach: At Accra’s most popular beach, visitors can enjoy the soft sand, gentle waves, and vibrant beach culture, including local music and food.
- Aburi Botanical Gardens: An hour from Accra, these lush gardens provide a serene environment filled with exotic plants and towering trees.
- Shai Hills Resource Reserve: This reserve combines savannah and woodland landscapes. Visitors can spot wildlife such as baboons and antelopes, explore historic caves, and enjoy panoramic views.
- Bojo Beach: Bojo Beach is a tranquil lagoon accessible by boat, adding a unique touch to the visit.
- Lake Volta: Although a bit further from Accra, visiting Lake Volta is worth the trip. It’s the largest artificial lake in the world, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and scenic cruises.
- Osu Castle Gardens: This historic site offers a glimpse into Ghana’s past and beautifully maintained gardens – perfect for a relaxing day trip.
6. Vibrant Social Life
Accra’s social scene is world famous – especially in “Detty” December, when the city comes alive with month-long parties ending in an extravagant NYE blowout.
Your international event attendees won’t have time to experience it all, so here’s a few not-to-be-missed experiences:
- Cuisine: Accra’s food scene is a delightful blend of traditional Ghanaian dishes and international flavors. Must-try local delicacies include jollof rice, fufu with light soup, and kelewele (spicy fried plantains). If you prefer international cuisine, places like Coco Lounge and Santoku offer upscale dining experiences.
- Nightlife: When the sun sets, Accra comes alive. From chic rooftop bars like Skybar 25 to energetic nightclubs like Carbon and Twist, there’s no shortage of places to unwind and socialize. Osu, the “Oxford Street of Accra,” is a hotspot – with many bars, clubs, and eateries.
- Cultural Experiences: For a more laid-back evening, enjoy traditional music and dance performances at venues like +233 Jazz Bar & Grill or catch a live band at Republic Bar & Grill. These cultural hubs provide a unique and authentic Ghanaian entertainment experience.
Host An Event in Accra in 2024
Accra is fast becoming the #1 events and conference destination in West Africa.
It’s easy to see why. No other city so perfectly blends modern event amenities with laidback coastal charm and vibrant city life. Not to mention the exuberance and warmth of Ghanaian culture.
Ready to see it for yourself? Book a call to start planning your event with our local team in Ghana. We’ll take care of the hard work for you.
