Ghana Shopping Guide 2025
Find the best markets, malls, and unique souvenirs in Ghana.
Ghana offers a rich tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty on West Africa's Gold Coast. From the historic slave castles of Cape Coast to the vibrant markets of Accra and the wildlife of Mole National Park, Ghana welcomes visitors with warm hospitality and diverse experiences. This English-speaking nation combines beaches, rainforests, and centuries of fascinating heritage.
What to Buy
Unique local products worth bringing home.
Kente Cloth
Iconic handwoven cloth with interlocking patterns in gold, green, and red, originating from the Ashanti region. Each pattern carries symbolic meaning related to proverbs, history, and royalty.
Ankara (Dutch Wax Print) Fabric
Vibrant printed cotton fabric sold by the yard, used for dresses, shirts, and accessories. Sold at markets throughout Accra and Kumasi in dozens of patterns.
Adinkra-Stamped Cloth
Cotton fabric hand-stamped with traditional Akan Adinkra symbols using calabash stamps and natural black dye. Each symbol carries spiritual and philosophical meaning.
Krobo Glass Beads
Colorful recycled-glass beads made by the Krobo people using ancient powder-glass technique. Used in necklaces, bracelets, and earrings with vivid geometric designs.
Carved Stools and Figurines
Hand-carved wooden Asante stools symbolizing power and ancestry, alongside fertility dolls (Akuaba) and abstract figurines. Master carvers work in Kumasi's craft village.
Ghanaian Chocolate
Single-origin dark chocolate made from Ghana's world-famous Forastero cocoa beans. Brands like Omanhene and '57 Chocolate use locally grown cacao for premium bars.
Bolgatanga Woven Baskets
Brightly colored hand-woven straw baskets and hats from the Upper East Region, crafted by the Frafra people using elephant grass in traditional geometric patterns.
Markets & Bazaars
Experience authentic local shopping culture.
Makola Market
Accra's largest and most vibrant open-air market selling everything from fresh produce and textiles to household goods and traditional medicines. A sensory overload of colors and sounds representing authentic Ghanaian commerce.
Kejetia Market
Claimed to be West Africa's largest market with over 10,000 stalls. The new multi-story structure houses organized sections while outdoor areas maintain traditional market energy. Best selection of kente cloth and crafts.
Accra Arts Centre
Purpose-built craft market showcasing Ghanaian artisans selling wood carvings, beads, textiles, masks, and jewelry. Bargaining expected but prices are reasonable for quality crafts. Tourist-friendly environment.
Koforidua Bead Market
Ghana's premier bead market where Krobo women trade handmade powder-glass beads in dazzling colors. Held every Saturday, it draws traders and collectors from across the region.
Kumasi Cultural Centre Market
Artisan market adjacent to the National Cultural Centre where you can watch weavers, woodcarvers, and kente weavers at work and purchase directly. Authentic crafts with demonstrations.
Complete Shopping Guide
Bargaining phrases, souvenir recommendations, and budget tips.
Shopping Districts
Where to find different types of shops.
Oxford Street (Osu)
Accra's most popular shopping and entertainment strip lined with restaurants, boutiques, craft shops, and pharmacies. Great for Ankara fashion boutiques, beauty products, and casual browsing in an upscale neighborhood.
East Legon
Accra's affluent suburb with modern malls, international brands, home décor stores, and gourmet supermarkets. A&C Mall anchors this area popular with expatriates and Accra's professional class.
Airport City
Modern commercial district near Kotoka Airport with offices, chain restaurants, and the Accra Mall. Convenient for last-minute shopping before departure with duty-free options.
Kumasi's Adum District
Kumasi's busy commercial heart surrounding Kejetia Market, packed with fabric shops, electronics vendors, and street food. Best for kente cloth and Ashanti cultural items at competitive prices.
Malls & Modern Stores
Air-conditioned shopping options.
Accra Mall
Accra's flagship shopping destination with over 60 stores including Shoprite, Game electronics, fashion brands, restaurants, and a cinema. Located in Airport City with reliable parking and AC throughout.
A&C Mall
Popular East Legon mall anchored by Shoprite grocery and featuring clothing stores, electronics, a food court, and banking. Convenient for residents of east Accra and expats.
West Hills Mall
Large mall in Weija on the western outskirts of Accra serving the growing western suburbs. Features Shoprite, Melcom department store, fast food chains, and family entertainment.
Kumasi City Mall
Kumasi's modern mall with anchor stores, fast food outlets, a cinema, and banking facilities. A popular gathering spot for Kumasi's middle class and contrast to the traditional Kejetia Market nearby.
Bargaining Tips
How to negotiate prices in local markets.
Always bargain in traditional markets like Makola, Kejetia, and Accra Arts Centre — it is expected and part of the experience
Start at 40-50% of the asking price and negotiate upward toward a fair middle ground
Prices in malls and supermarkets are fixed — bargaining is inappropriate there
Be respectful and friendly; aggressive bargaining offends and ends negotiations
Walk away slowly if the price doesn't suit you — vendors often call you back with a better offer
Buy multiple items from one vendor to negotiate a package price
Morning shopping often yields better deals as vendors want to make their first sale of the day (good luck sales)
When NOT to Bargain
- Fixed-price shops and malls
- Government emporiums
- Restaurants and hotels
- Supermarkets and pharmacies
Customs & Export Rules
What you need to know about taking purchases home.
Export Restrictions
Cultural artifacts and antiques over 50 years old require export permits — check with Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. Kente cloth and crafts are freely exported.
Tax Refunds
No formal VAT refund program for tourists currently available in Ghana
Duty-Free Limits
Duty-free allowances on departure include 200 cigarettes or 250g tobacco, 1 liter spirits, gifts up to $200 in value
Shipping
DHL and FedEx operate from Accra and Kumasi for international shipping of purchases. Allow 7-14 days. Wrap delicate crafts carefully.
Shop Smart in Ghana
Get our complete shopping guide with bargaining phrases, quality assessment tips, and budget planner.
Download Shopping Guide