Ghana generated a record-breaking US$4.8 billion in tourism revenue from international visitors in 2024 — a 27% increase from the US$3.8 billion earned in 2023. The figures were revealed in the 2024 Ghana Tourism Report, officially launched by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA).
According to the report, 1.2 million international visitors entered the country in 2024, up from 1.1 million in 2023 — a 25% rise compared to 2022.
Data Collection and Reporting
Since 2019, the GTA has published its Annual Tourism Report, with 2019 serving as the baseline year. The 2024 edition highlights the sector’s steady recovery following the COVID-19 pandemic.
The report draws from a combination of primary and secondary data sources. Key data was gathered through:
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Interviews with incoming tourists at Kotoka International Airport (KIA)
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Surveys at tourism enterprises during the popular “December in GH” celebrations in Accra and Takoradi
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Immigration data provided by the Ghana Immigration Service
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Occupancy statistics from hospitality establishments and input from regional directors and site managers
Visitor Demographics and Purpose of Travel
The United States led as the top source of international visitors, with 137,000 arrivals, followed by Nigeria (111,000) and the United Kingdom (52,000). These three countries have consistently ranked as the top sources of tourist arrivals to Ghana in recent years.
Visitor motives varied, with:
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22.4% traveling for business
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22.2% coming to visit family and friends
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Vacation and conferences also ranking high among reasons for travel
Ports of Entry
The majority — 1.1 million visitors — arrived via Kotoka International Airport. Other key entry points included:
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Aflao Border: 77,000 entries
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Elubo Border: 53,000 entries
Outlook
The report expresses cautious optimism for future growth, citing stability across the tourism sector and a continued rise in visitor numbers. The GTA anticipates further gains as Ghana strengthens its position as a leading cultural and business travel destination in West Africa.
Story By: Afia Ohenewaa Akyerem