Accra

Accra is an exhilarating, though sometimes pricey, gateway to West Africa for budget travelers. The current vibe is electric, especially as the city gears up for Independence Day celebrations in March. For the budget-conscious, the 'tro-tro' (shared minibus) system is your lifeline; it's chaotic but incredibly cheap. While traditional hostels aren't as abundant as in SE Asia, spots like somewhere in Kokrobite or guesthouses in Osu provide a social base. Street food is where you save your Cedi—look for 'Chichinga' (kebabs) or the famous Jollof rice at roadside stalls for a few dollars. Free activities include wandering the Makola Market—a sensory overload of commerce—and visiting the Jamestown area to see the lighthouse and colonial architecture. Most backpackers congregate in Osu for the nightlife or head 45 minutes west to Kokrobite for a beach-shack vibe. A daily budget of $35 covers a basic guesthouse fan room, two street meals, one local beer, and multiple tro-tro rides. Pro tip: Always carry small denominations of cash, as change is perpetually 'unavailable' for larger notes.