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Bean in Ho marketplace, Ghana

© iStockphoto / Thinkstock

Ghana Travel Guide

Key Facts

Geography

Area: 

238,537 sq km (92,100 sq miles).

Population: 

21.8 million (2009).

Population density: 

91.39 per sq km.

Capital: 

Accra.

Government: 

Republic. Gained independence from the UK in 1957.

Head of state: 

President John Dramani Mahama since 2012.

Electricity: 

220 volts AC, 50Hz; usually three-pin plugs. Single phase three-pin plugs are used in larger buildings.

From rolling grassy plains to dense rainforests and nature parks, Ghana is the dream destination for ecologically-minded tourists.

Although Ghana's national parks and game reserves are relatively small compared to other African countries, species of antelope, monkeys, lions and elephants can be seen here. Birds and butterflies are particularly numerous in Ghana's forestsn and the coastline is dotted with sandy palm-fringed beaches and lagoons - perfect for watersports.

For history buffs, Ghana still boasts 42 European forts and castles including Elmina and Cape Coast Castles, which are all recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Monuments. Colourful traditional festivals full of pomp and pageantry with chiefs and queen mothers riding on lushly gilded palanquins can still be seen throughout the country while traditional open markets provide the sounds and sights of the African bazaar.