Wheelchair Accessible Adventure Travel

Ghana

Many of Ghana's highlights - such as the coastal forts and the Kakum rainforest canopy walkway - are going to present a challenge to people with mobility problems, but don't let this exclude the country from your travel wish list. Depending on your ability and sense of adventure, most obstacles are surmountable and Ghanaians are well known for their friendliness and hospitality. If you need help, you will receive it.

PLANNING AND BOOKING

There are, as yet, no operators who run specialised trips to Ghana for disabled traveller. Having said that, most travel companies will listen to your needs and try to create an itinerary suitable for you. For the independent traveller, it is possible to limit potential surprises by contacting local operators and establishments by email in advance.

ACCOMMODATION

In general, it is not easy to find disabled-friendly accommodation in Ghana. Only top of the range lodges and hotels have 'accessible' rooms, and even here, I've yet to hear of anywhere with grab-handles, roll-under sinks and a roll-in shower. Occasionally (more by accident than through design), bathrooms are wheelchair accessible, but where this is not the case, you should be prepared to be lifted, or do your ablutions in the bedroom.

TRANSPORT

Air travel - Accra's Kotoka international airport has assistance and wheelchairs available for those who need help entering or leaving the aircraft. Smaller provincial terminals are not as well equipped, so unless you are at least partially ambulant, you will need to be prepared to compromise.
Buses and trains - There is no effective legislation in Ghana to facilitate disabled travellers' journeys by public transport, therefore, if you cannot walk at all then both of these options are going to be difficult. You will need to ask for help from fellow passengers to lift you to your seat, it will often be crowded and it is unlikely that there will be an accessible toilet.
By car - Distances are great and roads are often bumpy, so if you are prone to skin damage you need to take extra care. Place your own pressure-relieving cushion on top of (or instead of) the original car seat and if necessary, pad around knees and elbows.
It is possible to hire self-drive vehicles, but I know of no company providing cars that are adapted for disabled drivers. If you're not sticking to the main roads, you will need to use a 4x4 vehicle, which will be higher than a normal car making transfers more difficult. Drivers/guides are normally happy to help, but are not trained in this skill, so you must thoroughly explain your needs and always stay in control of the situation.

HEALTH

Doctors will know about 'everyday' illnesses, but you must understand and be able to explain your own particular medical requirements. Rural Ghanaian hospitals and pharmacies are often basic, so it is wise to take as much essential medication and equipment as possible with you, and it is advisable to pack this in your hand luggage during flights in case your main luggage gets lost. Ghana can be hot; if this is a problem for you then try to book accommodation with fans or air-conditioning, and a useful cooling aid is a plant-spray bottle.

SECURITY

The usual security precautions apply, but it is also worthwhile remembering that, as a disabled person, you are even more vulnerable. Stay aware of who is around you and where your bags are, especially during car transfers and similar. In Africa, these activities often attract onlookers and the confusion creates easy pickings for an opportunist thief.