Full Country Name: Republic of Ghana

Area: 238,540 sq km (93,030 sq mi)

Population: 19.7 million

Capital City: Accra (pop 1.3 million)

People: Akan (44%), Mole-Dagbane (16%), Ewé (13%), Ga (8%), Guan, Gurma, Gonja, Dagomba

Languages:English (official language), Ewé, Ga, Twi

Religion: Christian (60%), Muslim (15%), traditional African religions (25%)

Government: Parliamentary democracy

Visas: All visitors are required to have a valid visa, except for citizens of countries belonging to the Economic Community of West African States ( ECOWAS ).

Time: Same as GMT/UTC.

Climate: There really is no 'best' time to visit Ghana, as the temperature is always Africa-hot and if rainfall doesn't soak you, then the humid air will. If you prefer your soaking tropical in nature, stick close to the beaches. Whatever the season, the weather gets more arid the farther inland you go. Village-specific festivals and events occur throughout the year.

Currency: The unit of currency is the Cedi (C).

Cities:Accra The best introduction to the city is a good browse in one of its main hawking grounds. Right at the heart of central Accra, the Makola Market brims with glass bead and batik sellers, while Kaneshie Market on the western side of the city is the one to hit for mouthwatering foods and spices. James Town, on a short peninsula south-west of the centre, is a handsome if dilapidated neighbourhood that's also worth a wander. Independence Square is to Accra what Red Square is to Moscow, minus any building of note. The square is just east of central Accra; while you practice your goose-stepping, notice Osu Castle - Accra's most historic structure - in the distance. Kumasi The ancient capital of the Ashanti kingdom, Kumasi is still the heart of Ashanti country and the site of West Africa's largest cultural centre, the palace of the Ashanti king. The city's major attraction is the National Cultural Centre, a 10 minute walk west of the market. If you're looking to escape the heat, one option is to head next door to the zoological gardens, with its lovely gardens and somewhat depressing zoo - picture caged chimps toying with broken beer bottles. Watch your step, as crocodiles and porcupines roam freely. Manhyia Palace, better known as Asantehene's Palace, is the palace of the highest Ashanti ruler. Aburi Botanical Gardens Just beyond the town of Aburi, the Aburi Botanical Gardens provide a welcome getaway from the bustle of Accra. Academy of African Music & ArtsWest of Accra in the town of Kokrobite, the AAMAL is the place to go for free concerts on weekends or to learn a few of those funky drum rhythms you keep grooving to. Dixcove & Busua The colourful communities of Dixcove and Busua have been 'in' spots for beach lovers and budget travellers for years. Swimmers prefer Busua, with its long white-sand beach, while surfers enjoy some of the coast's best waves on the beaches of Dixcove. Fort Metal Cross (1691) is another fortress-turned-slave storage barn, which - while not as haunting as some others - has its fair share of horror stories to pass on.

Restrictions: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is rarely checked at the airport, but is checked at the most borders.