Need cash when I land, best place in Ghana? Airport or places in the city?
When I first landed in Accra, I exchanged $50 at the airport counter and immediately regretted it - the rate was poor. Since then, I use Ecobank or Stanbic ATMs right at the terminal. They give cedis at the official rate, and it saves hassle. In Osu, I found a forex bureau on Oxford Street with much better rates for my USD. I now land, grab a small withdrawal at the airport, then head into the city for bigger exchanges.
Airport exchange counters at Kotoka are fine for small amounts but don’t give competitive rates. If you’re carrying USD, use forex bureaus in town like those near Osu or Ridge for much better deals. ATMs from GCB, Ecobank, and Stanbic are widely available and safe for withdrawing cedis. Most travellers mix both: grab a small amount at the airport, then withdraw or exchange properly once settled in Accra. Taxis and food stalls won’t take cards, so cash is important.
I’ve landed in Accra a few times, and I’d recommend skipping the airport counters for big exchanges. Instead, withdraw from ATMs - Ecobank and Stanbic machines work well. In the city, forex bureaus in Osu, near Oxford Street, or Accra Mall usually offer stronger rates if you have USD. Taxis and restaurants expect cedis, but many hotels take cards. I always withdraw 500-1000 GHS at the airport to get started, then use bureaus in the city for better value.
Kotoka Airport in Accra has exchange booths, but the rates are weak. I usually just change $20-30 there for a taxi, then do the rest in the city. ATMs from Ecobank, Stanbic, and GCB are reliable and give fair rates. They’re right at the airport too if you need them. For better cash rates, forex bureaus in Osu or Accra Mall are your best bet. Always carry small bills - taxis, street food stalls, and tro-tros all prefer smaller cedis.