One Day Accra City Tour with Indigenous Drumming Lessons

Discover Ghana’s Capital Through Culture, History, and Local Flavors

If you’re looking to get a genuine feel for Accra without rushing through it, a one-day city tour like this offers a balanced mix of iconic landmarks, bustling markets, and cultural insight. Though I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, I’ve researched extensively and can tell you it’s packed with authentic experiences, local stories, and a chance to connect with Ghana’s soul.

What I love about this experience is how it combines history with lively market visits, making it both educational and fun. The inclusion of indigenous drumming lessons adds a uniquely Ghanaian touch, bringing the rhythm and energy of the nation’s musical traditions to life. Plus, the chance to enjoy a delicious local lunch makes this a well-rounded value for $90. A potential downside? With so many highlights packed into one day, it’s a fairly full schedule, so be prepared for a busy but rewarding day.

This tour is perfect for travelers eager to see Accra’s main sights, learn about Ghanaian history, and experience its vibrant markets—all with the guidance of knowledgeable locals. It’s especially well-suited for first-time visitors or those short on time but wanting a comprehensive taste of the city.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Cultural Experience: Indigenous drumming lessons and local market visits bring Ghanaian traditions directly to you.
Historical Insight: Visits to Black Star Square, Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park, and W.E.B. DuBois Centre deepen your understanding of Ghana’s journey to independence and Pan-Africanism.
Vibrant Market Exploration: Makola Market and the Art and Craft Market showcase the lively trade and craftsmanship of Accra’s people.
Value for Money: At $90, this tour includes entry fees, lunch, and even airport drop-off, making it a convenient all-in-one package.
Flexible & Practical: The option to book now and pay later adds ease, and the tour caters to English speakers with a friendly, knowledgeable guide.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Accra City Tour Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Accra

Starting the Day: A Guided Introduction to Accra’s Landmarks

Most tours begin with a comfortable pickup from your accommodation or a designated meeting point. From there, transportation—likely a small group van or bus—gets you swiftly between attractions. The guide, often a local expert, sets the stage with stories behind each site, making history engaging rather than dry.

Black Star Square kicks off the tour. Known locally as Independence Square, this monument is more than just a photo op. It’s a symbol of Ghana’s fight for freedom, and your guide will share stories about how it played a role in Ghana’s history. The impressive size and the surrounding government buildings give a sense of national pride. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the square in person really hits differently—it’s a powerful symbol.”

Next is the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park. Here, you’ll find the mausoleum and statues dedicated to Ghana’s first president. The park is lush, with a peaceful ambiance that contrasts with the busy city outside. Your guide will explain Nkrumah’s pivotal role in Ghana’s independence and his vision for Pan-Africanism—a theme echoed later at the W.E.B DuBois Centre.

Markets That Buzz with Life and Creativity

After absorbing the history, it’s time for some sensory overload at Makola Market. Established in 1924, this sprawling space is run predominantly by women traders selling everything from fresh produce to imported goods, fabrics, and household items. As one reviewer put it, “The market is a chaotic but charming hive of activity, and the food stalls are tempting.” Expect to see vendors calling out, bargaining happening, and a lively atmosphere that captures the pulse of Accra.

A short walk takes you to the Art and Craft Market, where artisans display their colorful paintings, carved wooden sculptures, and handcrafted jewelry. Here, you’ll find a more curated version of Ghanaian creativity. It’s a fantastic opportunity to pick up authentic souvenirs and see local craftsmanship at its best.

Deepening Cultural Understanding: Museums and Pan-African Heritage

For a dose of history beyond the monuments, your guide will take you to the National Museum. While it’s the oldest in Ghana, it offers a curated glimpse into the country’s archaeological and cultural past. Exhibits include tribal artifacts, traditional clothing, and ancient relics, which help contextualize Ghana’s diverse heritage.

The W.E.B. DuBois Centre introduces you to a towering figure in Pan-Africanism. Located in a serene garden, this center houses artifacts and personal memorabilia of DuBois, who spent his final years in Ghana. Visitors often mention how inspiring it is to see his contributions recognized and to learn about the global Pan-African movement he championed.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Rhythms: Savoring Local Flavors

No tour of Ghana is complete without tasting its cuisine. A delicious lunch at a local restaurant offers traditional dishes like grilled tilapia, banku, or kebabs, with flavors that delight the palate. The tour’s inclusion of lunch is a practical touch—no need to hunt for places on your own, and it provides a chance to mingle with fellow travelers.

In the afternoon, the highlight is the indigenous drumming lessons. This hands-on activity allows you to pick up traditional Ghanaian rhythms, often led by talented local musicians. One guest remarked, “The drumming was lively and fun, and I loved how everyone got involved regardless of skill level.” It’s an engaging way to connect with Ghanaian culture on a personal level.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Accra

Custom Add-On & Flexibility

After completing the main itinerary, there’s an option to visit a place of your choice in the city—great for customizing your experience. The flexibility to reserve your spot in advance, pay later, and enjoy free airport drop-off enhances convenience, especially for travelers with changing plans.

Practical Details and Tips

Duration: The entire tour lasts about 8 hours, making it manageable for a day trip.
Price Point: At $90, including entry fees, lunch, and transport, it’s a solid value considering the depth of experiences.
What to Bring: Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, and your passport or ID are essentials.
Group Size: Likely small to medium, fostering a more personal experience.
Language: Conducted in English, which makes storytelling and explanations accessible.

Authenticity and Local Insights

Many reviewers appreciated the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. They often mentioned how guides shared personal anecdotes and cultural insights that enriched their understanding. For example, “Our guide, Kwame, was passionate and knew so much about each site, making history come alive.”

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This Accra city tour offers a comprehensive look at Ghana’s landmarks, culture, and history—all in one day. It’s ideal for first-timers wanting a balanced overview or travelers who prefer structured, guided experiences over wandering solo. The inclusion of markets and local cuisine ensures you get a taste of everyday life, while the cultural sites deepen your appreciation of Ghanaian identity.

If you’re someone eager to connect with local traditions, learn about Ghana’s fight for independence, and enjoy a bit of hands-on music, this tour suits you well. It also offers great value for the price, especially with the added convenience of transport and lunch included.

However, if you’re seeking a more relaxed pace or specialized interests, you might find the schedule a bit packed. Still, for a lively, educational, and authentic introduction to Accra, this tour checks many boxes.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for travelers with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves walking around markets and museums, it might not be ideal for those with mobility issues. It’s best to check with the provider about specific accessibility needs.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking quite a bit. Sunglasses and a hat can help shield you from the sun, especially in Ghana’s warm climate.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides a delicious local lunch, making it easier to enjoy authentic Ghanaian cuisine without searching for restaurants on your own.

Can I customize the visit?
Yes, there is an option to visit a place of your choice in the city after the main tour, allowing for some personalized exploration.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most parts are family-friendly, drumming lessons and some markets can be noisy and crowded. It’s best for older children or teenagers who can handle the busy environment.

How do I book?
You can reserve your spot online through the provided link, with the option to pay later. Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In essence, this well-rounded Accra city tour offers a lively, authentic, and educational experience that captures the heart of Ghana. With its mix of history, markets, culture, and fun activities, it’s a wonderful way to spend a day exploring the vibrant capital.