Ghana’s First Int. Traveller Survey Reveals Tourism Spending of GH¢15.4bn

Ghana earned more than GH¢15.4 billion from international travellers between late 2022 and 2023, according to the country’s first International Traveller Survey released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS). The findings position tourism as a critical driver of foreign exchange and economic growth.

The survey, conducted between the fourth quarter of 2022 and the third quarter of 2023, interviewed departing travellers at six exit points, including Kotoka International Airport, Aflao, Paga, Elubo, and the ports of Tema and Takoradi. Using systematic sampling, every third traveller was interviewed face-to-face, covering both Ghanaians and non-Ghanaians who spent less than a year in the country.

The results show 888,584 overnight visitors accounted for GH¢15.2 billion of the total spend, while 12,864 same-day visitors contributed GH¢24 million. The combined figure marks the most comprehensive assessment of inbound tourism’s financial impact to date.

“Tourism is not just about sightseeing. It creates jobs, brings in foreign exchange, and drives inclusive growth,” the GSS presentation stated.

The survey highlighted that most overnight visitors came to visit friends and relatives, though business travel also featured strongly. West Africans and Americans showed particular interest in Ghana’s tourist attractions, with Independence Square, the Arts Centre, Cape Coast Castle, and the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park among the top destinations. Hotels were the most popular accommodation choice.

For same-day visitors, leisure and recreation drove demand, with favourites including the Bisa Abriwa Museum, Cape Coast Castle, and the National Museum. Most were men aged 36 to 64, with nearly three-quarters arriving by air.

The GSS said the survey not only quantifies tourism’s impact but also lays the groundwork for Ghana’s first tourism satellite account, which will measure the sector’s direct contribution to GDP in line with international standards.

“These numbers matter. Same-day visitors show potential for short-stay packages, while overnight visitors remind us of the power of family, businesses, and cultural ties,” the GSS noted, adding that both groups “underline the need to improve facilities, diversify tourism products, and market Ghana more effectively.”

Policy recommendations from the study include a “Visit Ghana in a Day” campaign targeting regional travellers, as well as diaspora and business-focused initiatives to attract high-spending overnight visitors. The report also identified private sector opportunities in shopping, dining, and accommodation, alongside proposals for innovations such as a national tourism app and multilingual help desks at major entry points.

The GSS called the survey “a game-changer,” arguing that the evidence equips government, businesses, and civil society to strengthen tourism, create jobs, and raise incomes. Additional reports on domestic and outbound tourism are expected in the coming weeks.

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