Ghana tourism stakeholders warn of rising travel and visa costs

Travel and tourism stakeholders in Ghana are raising concerns over rising costs that may impact the country's competitiveness. Domestic air travel prices have seen significant increases, with return tickets between Accra and Kumasi reaching as high as GH¢5,000. While a GH¢100 Airport Infrastructure Development Charge was introduced in April, airlines attribute high fares to operational expenses such as fuel, maintenance, leasing, and insurance. Limited competition on major domestic routes is also a factor.

Simultaneously, the Ghana Tourism Federation (GHATOF) is calling for a review of the $260 e-Visa fee. GHATOF President Seth Ocran warned that the current fee is considerably higher than those in neighboring countries, potentially pricing Ghana out of the tourism market. The federation is urging the government to review visa and immigration policies to improve the country's attractiveness to international visitors and strengthen its position in the global tourism industry.