Ghana records over 1.28 million international arrivals in 2024
The increase in international arrivals represents a 12% growth compared to 2023, reinforcing Ghana’s steady post-pandemic recovery. Notably, visitors from Nigeria surged by 25%, making it the second-largest source market after the United States, with the United Kingdom following closely
With over 1.28 million international arrivals in 2024, Ghana’s tourism sector has marked a remarkable milestone, raking in a record-breaking US$4.8 billion in revenue and reaffirming the country’s growing global appeal as a hub for culture, heritage, and adventure.
These figures, captured in the Ghana Tourism Authority’s (GTA) newly launched annual report themed “Growth and Stability,” highlight Ghana’s growing reputation as a prime destination for culture, heritage, and adventure.
The increase in international arrivals represents a 12% growth compared to 2023, reinforcing Ghana’s steady post-pandemic recovery. Notably, visitors from Nigeria surged by 25%, making it the second-largest source market after the United States, with the United Kingdom following closely.
Beyond the numbers, the report showed that international visitors came for a wide range of reasons—22% arrived for business, another 22% to visit family and friends, and about 22% for holidays and leisure. Conference attendance accounted for 12%, while cultural and sporting events continued to draw significant interest.
On the home front, domestic tourism recorded a strong performance, with nearly 1.7 million visits to major attractions across the country—a 19% increase from the previous year.
The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park maintained its position as Ghana’s most visited site, attracting over 333,000 visitors. Kakum National Park, famed for its canopy walkway, and Bunso Arboretum also featured prominently among the top destinations.
Cruise tourism saw a significant surge in 2024, with 14 cruise ships docking at Tema and Takoradi ports, bringing in over 12,600 passengers, marking a 38% rise compared to 2023. Interestingly, 53% of cruise passengers were Americans, and 88% described Ghana as an “ideal tourism destination.”
Speaking at the official launch of the 2024 Tourism Report in Accra, CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, described tourism as a vital pillar for economic transformation, job creation, and cultural diplomacy.
“Thanks to targeted campaigns like ‘See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Feel Ghana,’ and major events such as December in GH and PANAFEST, Ghana has reaffirmed its place as the Gateway to Africa,” she said.
Houadjeto emphasised the Authority’s commitment to enhancing service quality, deepening sustainability efforts, and ensuring tourism directly benefits local communities.
Deputy Minister for Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Yussif Issaka Jajah, also underscored the importance of data-driven decision-making in shaping the future of Ghana’s tourism landscape.
“This annual report is more than a compilation of facts and figures. It is a mural that reflects our progress. Tourism creates jobs, promotes investment, strengthens cultural identity, and fosters understanding among people,” he stated.
He outlined key plans for 2025 and beyond, including the renovation of forts and castles, the development of regional tourism clusters, expanded support for youth- and women-led enterprises, and increased investment in digital technology and artificial intelligence to modernise the sector.
A shared responsibility
Both leaders stressed the need for collective effort to make Ghana Africa’s leading tourism, cultural, and creative arts hub. They urged traditional authorities, local governments, and Ghanaians at large to serve as custodians of the country’s heritage and as global ambassadors.
As Ghana looks ahead, the sector’s momentum provides a strong foundation to further unlock economic opportunities, celebrate cultural pride, and put Ghana firmly on the world tourism map.
Read the report in full below:
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