Ghana attracts 1.29 million foreign visitors in 2024 as GTA unveils annual report

Ghana welcomed 1,288,804 international visitors in 2024, marking a 12 percent year-on-year increase and reinforcing the country’s position as one of West Africa’s top travel destinations, according to the 2024 Tourism Report launched by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).

The report was unveiled on Thursday, July 3, at the Accra Tourist Information Centre under the theme “Growth and Sustainability.” It highlights business travel (22.43 percent) as the leading motivation for international arrivals, slightly ahead of visits to friends and relatives (22.29 percent), holidays and vacations (22.15 percent), and study or teaching (7.06 percent). Other reasons included conferences, cultural events, sports, and transit.

More than 1.13 million visitors entered Ghana through the Kotoka International Airport, while Aflao, Elubo, and Paga served as key land entry points.

The United States emerged as the leading source of inbound traffic with 137,862 visitors, followed by Nigeria with 111,581 and the United Kingdom with 52,845.

Acting CEO of the Ghana Tourism Authority, Maame Efua Houadjeto, commended the sector’s performance and emphasized the impact of deliberate promotional efforts.

“Tourism continues to serve as a powerful tool for economic transformation, social cohesion, and national branding,” she said.

“The 2024 Tourism Report is a product of diligent research, data collection, and stakeholder collaboration, and it captures the full breadth of our achievements, lessons learned, and the opportunities that lie ahead.”

She credited the growth to marketing campaigns, digital innovations, and partnerships, noting the contributions of the “See Ghana, Eat Ghana, Wear Ghana, Feel Ghana” campaign and enhanced collaboration with the private sector in areas such as training and regulatory compliance.

Visitor perceptions were largely positive, with 88 percent of respondents describing Ghana as an “ideal tourism destination.” Tourists cited Ghanaian hospitality (94 percent), cultural heritage (39 percent), safety (39 percent), and local cuisine (28 percent) as standout features of their experience.

Additionally, 78 percent of visitors rated their overall experience as excellent, praising tour services, restaurants, wildlife attractions, and historical sites.

Domestic tourism also saw a boost, with 1.68 million visits to tourist sites recorded, up 19 percent from 2023. The Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park remained the most visited location, with Kakum National Park and Bunso Arboretum drawing thousands of nature lovers.

Speaking at the launch, Deputy Minister of Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Yussif Issaka Jajah, highlighted the role of accurate data in shaping tourism strategy.

“The report is a mirror reflecting the sector’s progress, pinpointing challenges, and guiding strategic decisions,” he said.

He called on local authorities, traditional leaders, and the private sector to play their part as “custodians of Ghana’s culture and heritage.”

The report also acknowledged challenges such as poor access to some tourist sites, disparities in regional tourism development, and the need for improved customer service. To address these, the Ministry is reviewing the National Tourism Development Plan with a focus on inclusivity, sustainability, and innovation.

As global tourism rebounds post-COVID, the GTA believes these insights and policy directions will help solidify Ghana’s position as a preferred destination for both business and leisure travelers.

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