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Some scams

Western Africa

Tourist scams in Ghana

Ghana is generally safe, with relatively low crime levels, but visitors should watch for inflated taxi quotes and card fraud. Phone snatching, pickpocketing and muggings are also reported. Persistent beach sellers can be a nuisance, while people suspected to be gay or queer can face targeted extortion.
  1. 1 TaxisVery commonInflated taxi quotesDrivers often quote foreigners well above the local fare. In Accra, opening quotes can be three times the usual price or more. A driver may also assume you want to hire the whole taxi rather than share it. Most taxis have no meter, so agreeing on the price matters.Across Ghana, including Accra. Drivers in major cities often assume visitors want a private taxi. 2Read
  2. 2 Cards and ATMsVery commonCredit card fraudCredit card fraud is described as very common. The exact ways cards or card details are misused are not specified.Many places across Ghana. No specific business, ATM or method is identified. 2Read
  3. 3 Other tricksCommonTargeted extortionPeople suspected to be gay or queer can face targeting and demands for money. The exact threats, methods and people responsible are not specified.Across Ghana, targeting vulnerable people and anyone suspected to be gay or queer. 3Read
  4. 4 TheftOccasionalStreet phone snatchingThieves snatch mobile phones from people in the street. A phone used openly is exposed and easier to grab.Streets across Ghana. 2Read
  5. 5 TheftOccasionalPickpocketing at Kejetia MarketPickpockets take valuables without the owner noticing. No particular distraction or theft technique is specified.KumasiRead
  6. 6 TheftOccasionalMuggings outside Bywel's barThe bar attracts expats on Thursday nights and is identified as a target for muggings. People leaving the venue should take particular care.AccraRead
  7. 7 On the streetOccasionalPersistent beach sellingJewellery and T-shirt sellers may repeatedly approach foreign visitors. This is described as a nuisance, with no specific fraud or forced payment reported.Accra 2Read

Where to stay alert

  • Kejetia Market / Kumasi Central MarketPickpockets are specifically reported here.
  • Bywel's bar, Osu, AccraA target for muggings because of its Thursday-night expat crowd. Take care when leaving.
  • La Pleasure Beach / Labadi Beach, AccraJewellery and T-shirt sellers may persistently approach foreigners, including during Wednesday reggae nights.

Habits that keep you safe

Taxis

  • Ask a local person about the usual fare before negotiating.
  • Agree on the total price and whether the ride is private or shared before boarding.
  • Do not show urgency during bargaining. Try another driver if needed.
  • Have a clear landmark for your destination. Poor route knowledge alone does not prove a scam.

Money

  • Bargaining is expected in markets. Compare prices before buying.
  • Keep some cash or mobile money for small purchases, since many vendors do not accept cards.
  • In Cape Coast, compare gift prices on Commercial Road with those in the Castle's tourist stores.
  • If taking a bottled drink away, ask about the returnable bottle deposit. A deposit is a normal charge.

Cards and ATMs

  • Shield your PIN and do not share it.
  • Keep your card in sight and check payment amounts.
  • Enable payment alerts and review transactions regularly.
  • Keep your card issuer's contact details somewhere separate from your wallet.

Your belongings

  • Avoid using your phone openly in the street.
  • Keep bags closed and valuables in secure pockets.
  • Take extra care with your belongings at Kejetia Market.
  • Keep a separate copy of important documents and details needed to block your phone or cards.

Nights out

  • Plan your journey back before going out.
  • At Bywel's bar, leave in a large group and enter a taxi immediately.
  • Keep valuables out of sight while waiting for transport.
  • At La Pleasure Beach, give a clear, polite refusal to sellers if you do not want to shop.

What travellers say about Ghana

Discussions on other sites, summarised in our words. Open a link to read the full thread.

Questions

Is Ghana generally safe for a first-time visitor?

Ghana is generally safe and has relatively low crime levels. Still, agree on taxi fares, watch card payments and keep valuables secure. Some specific places need extra care.

How can I avoid paying too much for a taxi?

Ask a local person about the usual fare, then agree on the full price before boarding. Confirm whether the ride is private or shared. Try another taxi if the quote stays too high.

Are card payments safe?

Credit card fraud is described as very common. Keep your card in sight, check the amount and enable transaction alerts. Keep cash or mobile money for small purchases.

Can I use my phone while walking?

Phone snatching has been reported in the streets. Avoid using your phone openly. Step inside a suitable building to check directions or messages.

Where should I be especially careful about pickpockets?

Kejetia Market in Kumasi is specifically identified. Keep bags closed and in front of you, and keep your wallet and phone out of back pockets.

What should I know about leaving bars at night?

Bywel's bar in Osu is identified as a target for muggings, particularly around its Thursday-night expat gathering. Leave in a large group and get into a taxi immediately.

Will sellers bother me at the beach?

Jewellery and T-shirt sellers may persistently approach foreigners at La Pleasure Beach at Labadi Beach. Decline politely and clearly, then move away if needed. No specific fraud is described there.

Is market bargaining or a bottle deposit a scam?

Bargaining is normal in markets. Compare prices and agree before buying. Returnable drink bottles may also carry a normal deposit when taken away; ask how to get it back.

Is there a particular extortion risk for LGBTQ+ visitors?

People suspected to be gay or queer can face targeted extortion. If someone threatens you or demands money, focus on reaching safety. Save messages if safe and consider confidential embassy or consulate help.

What number should I call after a robbery?

Call 112 if you need urgent police, fire or ambulance help. Once safe, block stolen cards or your SIM and make a police report.

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