Ghana international visitors growth reached more than 900,000 between October 2022 and September 2023. The Ghana Statistical Service (GSS) reported that travellers spent GH¢15.42 billion, showing the sector’s strong impact on the economy.
The survey counted 901,448 visitors. Out of this number, 888,584 stayed overnight, spending GH¢15.18 billion. Another 12,864 made same-day trips, contributing about GH¢24 million. Both long-stay and short-stay tourists boosted Ghana’s economy.
Government Statistician Dr Alhassan Iddrisu said the results will guide evidence-based policies to grow tourism. He highlighted that same-day visitors, though fewer, still play an important role in revenue generation.
Men outnumbered women across all age groups, with the largest group between 36 and 64 years old. Most overnight visitors travelled to see family, except in late 2022 when business trips led with 46.9%. Many same-day visitors were in transit, reflecting strong regional movement.
Popular destinations varied. Same-day visitors often went to the Bisa Abrewa Museum, Cape Coast Castle, and the National Museum. Overnight visitors favoured Independence Square, the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and Cape Coast Castle.
Most travellers came from West Africa, especially Côte d’Ivoire, Nigeria, and Liberia. The GSS suggested introducing a “Visit Ghana in a Day” campaign and improving border facilities to make travel easier.
The survey also set the stage for Ghana’s first Tourism Satellite Account (TSA). This tool will track how tourism adds to the country’s GDP.
