The Ghana tourism industry is growing fast, and it’s doing more than just boosting hotels and travel agencies. The industry is having a real impact on the country’s real estate market.
More visitors are coming in, and with them comes the need for vacation homes, short-term rentals, Airbnb, and investment properties. From the coastlines to the regional capitals, Ghana tourism is shaping where people build, buy, and invest.
Are you a real estate enthusiast or considering buying a second home in Ghana? Here’s what you should know about how tourism is changing the industry.
Why Tourism Matters to Real Estate
Tourism brings people together from all walks of life. And people need places to stay. When travellers love a destination, they often want more than just a hotel—they look for homes to rent or even buy. That’s what’s happening in Ghana.
In recent years, Ghana has become one of Africa’s top travel spots. Campaigns like “Year of Return” and “Beyond the Return” brought in thousands of visitors from the diaspora.
Many came for a visit and decided to stay longer, with a significant number visiting regularly. This rise in international interest is fuelling the country’s property market growth.
Vacation Homes are in High Demand
One clear result of Ghana’s tourism boom is the increase in vacation homes. Some people want a home they can stay in when they visit. Others buy one and rent it out when they’re not occupying the space.
Places like Accra, Cape Coast, Elmina, Ada, and Aburi are now hotspots for short-term rentals. These areas offer a mix of history, culture, beach life, and great weather—exactly what many tourists are looking for.
Airbnb listings in Accra, for example, have shot up significantly. And more property owners are furnishing homes specifically to appeal to visitors. Well-designed apartments, ocean-view villas, and private mountain villas with pools like this ONO Aburi project are developed for tourism-related income.
New opportunities for Ghana’s Tourism
For real estate investors, Ghana’s growing tourism industry is good news. More travellers mean more demand for rental units and vacation homes. And with the country’s relatively affordable property prices compared to other global destinations, it’s attracting attention.
People from the diaspora are especially active in this space. Many are buying homes to stay in during visits and renting them out the rest of the year.
These homes often come with hotel-like amenities—fast Wi-Fi, air conditioning, backup power, and security. The goal is to create a stay that feels comfortable and convenient for every visitor, no matter their nationality.
Some investors are even creating full-scale guesthouses, eco-lodges, or boutique accommodations to tap directly into the tourism economy.
Entertainment Venues
To enhance the tourist experience, developers are investing in cinemas, amusement parks, nightclubs, and cultural centres. These venues cater to tourists and serve the local population, thus increasing their commercial viability.
Infrastructure Improvements and Urban Development
Ghana’s tourism has encouraged the government and private sector to improve roads, airports, utilities, and public spaces. Improved infrastructure boosts real estate value and makes previously underdeveloped areas attractive for investment.
Aburi, for example, has seen increased interest due to its scenic appeal and proximity to Accra, combined with infrastructural enhancements.
Must-Read: Top Tips for Diasporans Buying Property
Locations Tourists Love—And Why it Matters
Location is always important in real estate. And when it comes to Ghana tourism, a few areas stand out:
- Osu & Labone (Accra)—These are vibrant areas with nightlife, restaurants, and culture. Tourists love them, and so do investors. Short-term rentals here are always in demand.
- Cape Coast & Elmina—Known for their historical castles and beaches. These towns are popular with both local and international visitors. They’re also seeing a rise in small resorts and vacation rentals.
- Ada Foah—River and beachfront properties. Ada has become a favourite getaway spot. Developers are building lodges and river-view homes to meet demand.
- Aburi—Quiet hill town with cooler weather and scenic views. It’s great for weekend retreats, and some are building guest homes for eco-tourism.
These areas are becoming more valuable. Thus, demand for land and property is rising as a result. For developers and buyers, it’s a clear sign that the property market growth is directly linked to where tourists want to be.
Quick Read: Top 5 Property Hotspots in Aburi
Ghana Tourism Boosts Local Economies
The impact of Ghana tourism goes beyond just housing. Tourism-driven real estate creates jobs and supports local businesses. When someone builds a vacation home, they hire builders, carpenters, electricians, and landscapers.
When tourists stay in that home, they buy food, hire drivers, visit attractions, and spend money in the local area.
This kind of spending spreads economic benefits far and wide. In some places, it has even helped revive towns or villages by attracting visitors who wouldn’t have come otherwise.
Ghana Tourism Challenges to Keep in Mind
Seasonal Demand for Apartments and Homes
While the connection between tourism and real estate is mostly positive, there are a few things to ponder. First is seasonal demand. Vacation homes are popular, but bookings can drop during the off-season. So, owners must plan for these quiet months.
Maintenance can be Costly
Maintenance costs are a real deal. Properties used for tourism need to stay in good shape. That means regular cleaning, repairs, and upgrades.
Be Mindful of Regulations.
Short-term rentals in Ghana are still growing, but new rules may come in the future to regulate the sector more closely. You’ll want to stay informed.
This is key for investors and developers: overdevelopment. In some areas, rapid building without proper planning can hurt the environment or strain local infrastructure. It’s important to ensure responsible development.
Market Volatility
Fluctuations in economic stability, inflation, and foreign exchange rates can impact investment decisions and real estate pricing. The Ghana tourism industry must navigate these economic dynamics to ensure sustainable growth.
Ghana Tourism Opportunities for Investors and Developers
Emerging Markets and Trends
As lesser-known tourist destinations gain popularity, they present new real estate opportunities. Regions such as the Volta Region and parts of the Northern Region are emerging as attractive spots for eco-tourism and investment.
Sustainable Tourism and Eco-Friendly Developments
Eco-conscious travellers are increasingly influencing real estate development. Sustainable building practices and eco-resorts are gaining traction, offering environmental and financial rewards.
Developers embracing green architecture and responsible land use can tap into a growing niche market.
The future of Ghana Tourism
The line between Ghana tourism and real estate isn’t going away. If anything, it’s just getting stronger. As more people discover Ghana’s culture, beaches, history, and hospitality, they’ll continue to visit—and many will look for places to stay long-term.
Ghana’s government is also working on better roads, airports, and tourism facilities. These upgrades will only increase the country’s appeal, especially to international travellers.
This means more chances for investors, developers, and homeowners to benefit from the property market growth.
Check out this guide on the benefits of investing in Aburi.
Conclusion
Tourism is opening new doors for Ghana’s real estate market. From building vacation homes to investing in rentals near tourist hotspots, there are so many opportunities. The key is understanding what travellers want, choosing the right location, and planning for the long term.
So, whether you’re a returning Ghanaian, a first-time visitor, or an investor looking to enter a growing market, now might be the right time to explore the real estate side of Ghana’s tourism boom.