Clearly, if you’re going to head across to Ghana, a good map is essential; unless you’re going to be really adventurous and just see where you end up- however this practise is highly discouraged.  Hugged by the Atlantic Ocean on its southern coast, and landlocked by Burkina Faso, Togo and the Cote D’Ivoire on its other three sides, Ghana is an explorer’s paradise. Even if you plan to simply stay in Accra, getting hold of a good street map will be essential for making the most of your visit. A recognised brand such as Michelin, Rough Guide or Lonely Planet would ensure the information you were trusting was up to date and reliable; taking a wrong turn in Ghana could lead to slightly more trouble and confusion than it would back home!  Getting hold of a road-specific map will be vital if you plan to venture outside of Accra (See the Transport section of this website for more information on this). 

If you’re visiting Ghana and Accra for the first time then it is probably best to get hold of a tourist map. They are much more user friendly than regular geographical maps and will help locate such necessities as hotels and entertainment facilities, as well as pointing you in the direction of police stations and embassies should you encounter any trouble whilst you are away.

As well as a simple map, a good travel guide is essential reading.  As well as optimising your time by showing you the best and worst places to stay and visit, travel guides can go beyond the sort of information which maps provide.  Descriptions and advice on local customs, taboos and social etiquette are vital when visiting any foreign country, especially one as deeply rooted in tradition as Ghana is.  You can pick up a good one for around £10-£15 and it really is worth the extra cash; being able to assimilate with the locals and even perhaps gaining a deeper understanding of their customs and celebrations will ultimately lead to a much more rewarding holiday.

It is advisable to always carry a spare map as well, wrapped in waterproof plastic, just in case you lose the other one or it gets destroyed (especially if you’re braving Ghana during the rainy season.) Knowing the country and your routes well before you go will lead to a much more relaxed holiday once you arrive there.