We have all the information you need to know for your trip, from helping with visa queries to walking you through a placement induction on your first day in Ghana. Our hassle-free approach means you can concentrate on what really matters, making a difference at your placement.
Arrival airport and pickup in Ghana
You will arrive in Ghana at Accra Airport (ACC).
Most volunteers fly into Ghana in the evening. As you disembark, the first thing that you’ll notice is the humidity. You will walk across the tarmac to the arrivals building and pass through immigration control to the baggage reclaim area. Once you have your luggage, you need to go through customs. Be ready to have your bags opened by security staff as this is done routinely even when you go through the "nothing to declare" channel.
As you walk out of the airport building, you will be met by a wall of people on the other side of a barrier. It might seem overwhelming at first, but one of our staff members will be there to meet you with a Projects Abroad sign. Seeing a friendly face there to welcome you and take you to your accommodation will immediately put you at ease.
If your placement is in Accra, you will be taken from the airport straight to your host family. If you are going to a placement in Akuapem Hills, you will usually stay overnight in Accra before travelling to your region the following morning.
Booking your flights to Ghana
Searching for flights online is easier than ever, but it can still be a time-consuming, overwhelming, and frustrating process. If you need support, our staff have in-depth knowledge of all our destinations. We’ll let you know which airport you’ll be flying to and recommend the best way to get there.
We can advise you on booking the best return flights, ensuring you have the safest, most convenient, and most cost-effective flight options, no matter how complex your travel plans are. Find out more about the flight booking process.
Visas requirements for your volunteer project or internship in Ghana
One of the perks of volunteering with us is the visa guidance we give you. We have a dedicated visa team who have up-to-date information on visa requirements for all of our destinations around the world. You can get in touch with us if you have any visa queries, big or small, and we will talk you through the process. Once you apply, you’ll also get a link to your own MyProjectsAbroad webpage, which will include all the necessary visa information.
Your induction and orientation in Ghana
The next working day after your arrival, you will be met at your accommodation by one of our local staff. You will spend the day getting a comprehensive induction and orientation. You’ll get to see the city, and where internet cafes, banks, and the post office are located. You will also enjoy a traditional Ghanaian lunch.
You’ll visit our offices and hear more about the different projects we run in Ghana. Our staff are always close and on-hand. You’ll also receive an induction pack. This contains all the information you need, like a map of the town with important places highlighted.
Your primary contact is the Projects Abroad Regional Coordinator for your area, who is the full-time member of our local staff. They have a detailed knowledge of all the projects and host families in the region. They are available 24 hours a day by phone if you have any questions or concerns.
In preparation for your first day at your placement the following day, a staff member will show you the best route to and from your placement. They’ll also show you how to navigate public transport, usually a minibus taxi known locally as a tro-tro. Projects Abroad covers all necessary work-related transport costs.
Your first day at your volunteer or internship placement in Ghana
On your first day at your placement, you’ll spend time getting a feel for the work you’ll be doing in the coming weeks. Your supervisor will show you around the placement and you’ll get to see some of the work we do there. They’ll also explain your role and where you fit into the running of the placement.
We’ve set aside the whole of your first day for learning to make sure you feel confident and comfortable. You’ll start your project work on your second day.
Support, safety, and backup
Your safety and security is our prime concern. We have many procedures and systems to ensure you have the support you need to enjoy your trip with peace of mind. Our Projects Abroad staff are available 24 hours a day to help, and will be on-hand to make sure you settle in well at your accommodation and placement. If you encounter any problems, they will be available to help at any time.
Find out more about safety and backup.