For travelers seeking more than just sightseeing, a traditional Ghanaian homestay offers an authentic window into daily life, culture, and community. It’s not about luxury—it’s about immersion. From shared meals around a fire to conversations under the stars and waking up to the sounds of roosters and sweeping brooms, staying with a Ghanaian family introduces you to the rhythms, values, and warmth that define the country’s heart.
Here’s what you can expect during a night (or several) in a Ghanaian homestay, and how to make the most of this unforgettable experience.
What Is a Ghanaian Homestay?
A homestay involves staying in a local family’s home—either in a village or peri-urban area—where you eat, sleep, and engage as part of their household. Unlike hotels or guesthouses, homestays are intimate, communal, and informal. You might be hosted by a family affiliated with a cultural center, a local NGO, or a tourism cooperative.
Where You Might Find Them:
- Rural villages (e.g., Sirigu in Upper East, Tafi Atome in Volta)
- Peri-urban towns (e.g., Aburi, Cape Coast, Ada Foah)
- Community-based tourism hubs (e.g., Mole National Park surrounds)
Arrival: First Impressions and Warm Welcomes
Ghanaians are known for their hospitality, or akwaaba—a warm welcome that often involves:
- Friendly handshakes or hugs
- Being introduced to extended family or elders
- A tour of the compound, farm, or home
You might arrive to a meal already being prepared, or even a small welcome ceremony, especially in communities that regularly host travelers.
Tip: Bring a small gift like tea, soap, school supplies, or fruit. It’s not required, but highly appreciated.
Accommodation: Simple, Clean, and Comfortable
Don’t expect luxury, but do expect care.
Sleeping Arrangements:
- A private or shared room, sometimes with a mosquito net
- Beds may be basic but clean; mattresses can be thin
- In some rural areas, sleeping mats may be offered instead
Bathroom Facilities:
- Bucket showers are common (with warm water if you request in advance)
- Pit latrines or basic toilets are often shared
- In more developed areas, you may find running water and flush toilets
Electricity and Wi-Fi:
- May be intermittent in rural areas
- Bring a torchlight or headlamp and a power bank
- Don’t expect Wi-Fi—consider it a digital detox opportunity
Food: Home-Cooked and Shared Communally
One of the best parts of a homestay is the food—fresh, local, and made with love.
Meals Often Include:
- Breakfast: Hausa koko (spiced millet porridge), bread, tea, or roasted groundnuts
- Lunch or Dinner: Fufu with soup, banku and okra stew, jollof rice, yam with palava sauce, or kenkey with fish
- Snacks: Fresh fruits (mangoes, bananas, oranges), roasted maize, or kelewele
Dining Style:
- You may eat together from a shared bowl or on individual plates, depending on the household
- Meals are typically eaten with the right hand (utensils are available on request)
- Offer to help cook—it’s a bonding opportunity and learning experience
Tip: Let your hosts know in advance if you’re vegetarian or have dietary restrictions. Many meals can be adapted.
Evening Activities: Stories, Music, and Community
Ghanaian nights in homestays are rarely quiet in spirit. After dinner, you might experience:
- Drumming and dancing sessions—especially in Ewe, Ashanti, or Dagomba communities
- Fireside storytelling, often in local languages with translation by a host or child
- Church choir practice or community meetings
- Casual conversations about politics, farming, or local traditions
Tip: Be open and engaged. Asking questions respectfully is a great way to connect.
What You’ll Learn and Experience
Cultural Insight
You’ll gain firsthand knowledge of customs, roles, and values:
- Respect for elders
- Extended family structures
- Local naming systems and greetings
- Gender roles in work and decision-making
Daily Chores
You may be invited (not required) to join:
- Fetching water or firewood
- Cooking with the women
- Playing with children or helping with homework
- Visiting the farm or market
Tip: Participation is appreciated, but honesty is best—if you’re tired or unsure, it’s okay to observe.
Language and Communication
While English is Ghana’s official language, many households speak local dialects like Twi, Ewe, Ga, or Dagbani. Don’t let the language barrier deter you—gestures, smiles, and effort go a long way.
Helpful Phrases:
- Akwaaba – Welcome
- Medaase – Thank you (Twi)
- Ɛte sɛn? – How are you? (Twi)
- Yoo – Okay / I understand
Costs and How to Book a Homestay
Prices vary by region and comfort level, but range from GHS 60–150/night ($5–$13 USD), often including meals.
How to Book:
- Through community-based tourism groups (e.g., Ghana Tourism Authority)
- NGOs like Ghana Permaculture Institute
- Word-of-mouth or referrals from local tour guides or guesthouses
- Cultural heritage sites (e.g., Tafi Atome Monkey Sanctuary, Sirigu Women’s Organization)
How to Be a Good Guest
- Respect household rules: Ask before photographing people or religious items.
- Be modest in dress: Especially around elders or in religious communities.
- Keep an open mind: You’ll encounter different beliefs and routines.
- Give, but don’t over-give: Gifts are welcome, but avoid creating dependency.
Final Thoughts
A traditional Ghanaian homestay offers far more than just a place to sleep—it’s an invitation into the living history, culture, and generosity of the Ghanaian people. Whether you’re pounding fufu under moonlight, learning to greet an elder with a handshake and bow, or falling asleep to the sound of distant drums, it’s an experience that stays with you. For travelers who value connection over comfort, a homestay in Ghana can be the highlight of your entire journey.
