Tourist Scams in Ghana

At the Makola Market and craft stalls in Osu, vendors quote tourist prices that are 5–10× what locals pay, and haggling sessions can be extremely aggressive and wearing.

How to avoid: Research approximate fair prices online before visiting markets. Start negotiations at 20–25% of the asking price and expect to settle around 40–50%.

The Makola Market in central Accra is one of West Africa's busiest open-air markets and a prime environment for coordinated pickpocket teams. A common tactic involves one person spilling liquid on the victim or staging a small argument to attract their attention while an accomplice lifts valuables from pockets or bags. Other variants involve a "helper" who insists on guiding visitors through the market, keeping them distracted while a third person steals.

How to avoid: Keep valuables in a front-zipped bag and avoid carrying more cash than you need for the day. Decline unsolicited help from market guides. If something spills on you, step into a fixed shop doorway to clean up rather than stopping in the middle of a crowd.

Unofficial taxis waiting outside Kotoka International Airport charge tourists far above the standard fare. Some circle the terminal multiple times charging for each pass.

How to avoid: Pre-book your hotel's airport transfer. Use the official Uber service or the airport taxi service with posted rates inside the terminal.

A friendly local or online contact builds a relationship then asks for money to help with a business opportunity, release of funds, or emergency. This classic advance fee fraud originates extensively from West Africa.

How to avoid: Never send money to anyone you have met recently, whether in person or online. Legitimate business opportunities do not require upfront payments from new acquaintances.

The craft market at the Arts Centre in Accra has a two-tier pricing system — locals and experienced bargainers pay 20–30% of the initial price asked from tourists. Items presented as "handmade" may be machine-produced.

How to avoid: Expect prices quoted to tourists to be 5–10x what the seller will accept. Start negotiations at 10–15% of the asking price. Ask if items are handmade and by whom. Visiting the Aburi Craft Market provides better quality at fairer starting prices.

Skimming devices are fitted to ATMs in busy commercial areas of Accra, capturing card data and PINs from unsuspecting tourists and locals alike. Machines in poorly lit or isolated spots — including some near Makola Market and along Ring Road — are most frequently targeted. Victims typically only discover the fraud days later when unauthorized withdrawals appear on statements. Card data is often sold on and used for overseas transactions, making recovery difficult.

How to avoid: Use ATMs inside bank branches or hotel lobbies during staffed hours rather than standalone street machines. Shield the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN, and inspect the card slot for any loose or unusual attachments before inserting your card. Notify your bank immediately if anything looks off, and prefer withdrawing larger sums less frequently to minimize exposure.

Street-level money changers near high-tourist areas in Osu and the central market offer competitive rates but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists when counting large amounts of cedis.

How to avoid: Exchange money only at Forex bureaus licensed by the Bank of Ghana. Count all notes before leaving the counter.

Individuals claiming to run orphanages or schools for street children collect cash donations from tourists. Many such organisations are not registered charities and the money does not reach children in need.

How to avoid: Donate only to internationally verified charities. Ask for a registration number and verify it independently before donating.