Navigating December in Accra Like a Local

There’s something magical about December in Accra. The streets come alive with lights and sounds, the festive energy fills the air, and the city becomes a melting pot of culture, tradition, and excitement. But for those unfamiliar with its unique rhythms, Accra during the holiday season can be a maze of bustling markets, lively events, and chaotic traffic. That’s why it’s important to navigate the city with a touch of local know-how to truly experience its charm.

Staying Safe in the City

Ghana is widely known for its warm hospitality, and Accra, its capital, is no exception. While the city is generally safe, particularly in prime areas, it’s always wise to exercise caution.

• Stay Alert: As you move around, keep your valuables secure. Avoid making calls with your phone near car windows, especially when stuck in traffic, as opportunistic snatchers may strike. 

  
  

• Car Safety: Rolling up your car windows just enough to deter any quick grabs is a small but effective measure. And if you’re exploring the city on foot, stay alert and avoid unnecessary distractions.

  
  

• Ride-Hailing Awareness: Verify the license plate and driver’s details when using Uber or Bolt. Use Google Maps to monitor your route and share your live location with loved ones.

  
  

• Street Smarts: When walking around, keep your phone secure and avoid distractions.

Remember, safety isn’t about paranoia—it’s about being prepared while still embracing the adventure.

Getting Around Accra

Accra during the festive season can be as thrilling as it is chaotic. The traffic swells, and the demand for transportation surges.

Private Transportation

For maximum convenience, private transportation is the way to go.

If you’ve booked accommodations with 22 Eleven Realty, our trusted local agents can connect you with reliable chauffeur services to make your journey seamless. 

Ride Hailing Apps

 While private transportation is the most convenient way to navigate the city, it’s not your only option.

Uber is ranked as the safest ride-hailing app in Accra. While price surges and wait times are common during the festive season, it’s a reliable way to get around. Bolt and Yango are good alternatives if Uber is unavailable.

The key is to plan, particularly during peak hours when everyone else is on the move too.

Public Transportation

For the adventurous at heart, public transportation like trotros (shared minibuses) offers a glimpse into the daily life of locals. However, it can be overwhelming for those unfamiliar with their routes or customs. 

If you’re not ready for this level of immersion, sticking to private options might be your best bet.

A Taste of Accra’s Culinary Diversity

Accra’s culinary scene is as diverse as its people, offering a variety of cuisines to satisfy every craving. The city’s food scene is a celebration of its diverse population, offering everything from hearty Ghanaian dishes to international cuisines.

Fine Dining

Due to its diverse multicultural population, Accra boasts of several world class fine dining locations. A quick google search for 'Fine Dining Accra' should pull up a plethora of options to choose from. Always check out the restaurant's reviews before making a booking. Remember it is the festive season and most restaurants can get filled quickly— do make sure you call well ahead to make a reservation to avoid any disappointment.

Local Food

For a truly local experience, visit Living Room Restaurant in East Legon or Gold Coast Restaurant in Cantonments, where you can savour Ghanaian favourites like Fufu, Banku, and Red-Red.

If street food excites you, the vibrant night markets in Osu and Legon are a must-visit. The smoky aroma of grilled meat, the sizzling of frying plantains, and the cheerful banter of vendors will draw you in. Ensure you are hygiene conscious when selecting a street food vendor and only eat your food HOT!

Food Delivery

Craving convenience? Apps like Bolt Food and Hubtel make it easy to have your favourite meals delivered. For restaurants that aren’t on these apps, you can order directly from restaurants and use apps like Yango 'Delivery Option' or Uber 'Package option' to pick it up for you. It’s a simple, efficient system that feels almost like a life hack.

Shopping in Accra: Where Tradition Meets Modernity

Christmas shopping in Accra is a delightful mix of the old and the new.

Traditional Markets

Traditional markets are large open air market places that offer a wide variety of consumer goods, sold in retail and wholesale set ups. Prices in these markets are normally the lowest in the city, and most marketers go there to purchase goods in bulk. There are several traditional markets in Accra but the big ones include Makola, Agbogbloshie, Nima and Kaneshie Markets , which all offer an authentic shopping experiences, bustling with colour, sound, and an endless variety of goods. 

Shopping Malls

If you prefer a more relaxed shopping experience, the malls are your sanctuary. Accra Mall, Marina Mall, and West Hills Mall house everything from groceries to high-end boutiques, ensuring you find exactly what you’re looking for without breaking a sweat.

Online Shopping

For those who love online shopping, a quick google search can always give you some good recommendations. Whether it’s cosmetics from Urban Makes, home and Christmas décor from ORCA, Melcom, or  Palace, chic outfits from The Lola Woman, Fashion Reduxe or Shop Your Style, Men’s Clothes from Boulevard, or  Groceries from NokNok, you’re sure to find something special to commemorate your trip.

Instagram is also a treasure trove of local businesses. Make sure your are dealing with legitimate vendors before making a purchase decision, especially on instagram. You can ask to pay for the goods on delivery, or pick them up from a fixed location to avoid getting scammed.

A December Full of Events and Entertainment

December in Accra wouldn’t be complete without its vibrant events and buzzing nightlife. From concerts and festivals to intimate art exhibitions, there’s always something happening in the city.

Timing Tips

In true Ghanaian fashion, many events operate on Ghana Man Time—a cheeky nod to the tendency for things to start later than advertised. Unless it’s a church or corporate event, arriving an hour or two late, might just ensure you’re right on time.

Reliable Sources

To stay in the loop, follow trusted nightlife blogs like BLACVOLTA, which provide up-to-date information on what’s hot and happening. Whether you’re dancing to Afrobeats under the stars or enjoying a laid-back evening with friends, Accra’s nightlife has something for every mood.

Planning

Plan by securing tickets early, as many popular events sell out quickly during the festive season. Remember to ask about entrance fees and dress codes to nightclubs, and pubs, as you will find a lot of places charging entrance fees as an attempt to crowd control

In Conclusion

December in Accra is not just a time for festivities—it’s a vibrant experience, a celebration of life, with an unforgettable atmosphere. The city pulses with energy, its culture is rich, and its people are incredibly welcoming. By embracing the local spirit, you’ll create lasting memories that go beyond the holiday season.

If you're still looking for the perfect place to stay, 22 Eleven Realty is here to ensure your journey is smooth and memorable. During this festive time, we'll not only help you find a comfortable home but also recommend hidden gems and connect you with the best local experiences throughout your stay.

Welcome to Accra this December—immerse yourself, indulge, and enjoy every moment!