Visitors are held in very high esteem in Ghana. Following a few simple guidelines will endear you to the locals and make your stay even more enjoyable.

Handshake

A handshake is a popular greeting in Ghana, especially among men. When you shake hands, apply the same hand pressure as the other person. When you are shaking hands with a number of people, start from the right and proceed towards the left.

Use of the Left Hand

The left hand is not used frequently in Ghana. In fact, the use of the left hand for certain activities is taboo. That is one reason why Ghanaian men throw the fabric over the left hand when wearing traditional clothing. In particular, avoid receiving or giving, gesturing, waving at a person or pointing things out with the left hand.

If you are naturally left handed, one way to train yourself to use your right hand is by keeping something (e.g. your guide book, camera, souvenir etc.) in your left hand.

Dress Code

Ghanaians consider it disrespectful to attend social functions, especially visits to the palaces, in casual or unkempt clothing.

It's preferred that women do not wear shorts or pants, especially by the older generation. Skirts should be worn knee length or longer. When sitting in the presence of eminent people or elders, avoid sitting cross-legged.

If you are wearing a hat, remove it when speaking with an elderly person as a show of respect.

Palace Etiquette

Ghanaian chiefs enjoy receiving foreigners and interacting with them. When you are invited to greet a chief or the king, stop and bow a few feet in front of him. He may then invite you to come and shake his hand.

Communication at the royal court is a three-way affair through a spokesman (linguist) called Okyeame. The visitor faces the Okyeame and delivers his message to the chief. The chief gives his reply or response to the Okyeame who delivers it to the visitor. This has been the practice in Ghana for generations.

Resources:

Ghana Tourist Board