Things To Do
in Diari

Diari is a coastal town in Ghana situated near the edge of the Accra metropolitan area, offering a blend of bustling markets and laid-back waterfront views. The town thrives on trade, fishing, and crafts, giving visitors a glimpse of everyday life on the Gulf of Guinea. Visitors will find vibrant street scenes, warm hospitality, and a growing scene of cafes and small eateries.

With easy access to Accra and surrounding nature pockets, Diari makes a convenient base for exploring southern Ghana.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Cultural Immersion
morning
:

Arrive in Diari and head straight to your accommodation, settling in to the warm hospitality of the locals. After unpacking, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, soaking in the rich culture and lively atmosphere. Engage with local vendors, sampling traditional snacks and beverages that are a staple of Diari.

afternoon
:

Visit the Diari Cultural Center, where you can witness intricate dance performances and explore local crafts. This afternoon is perfect for a guided tour, which will highlight the history and traditions of the area. Don't miss the interactive workshops where you can try your hand at craft-making.

evening
:

As the sun sets, indulge in a dinner at a local eatery, savoring authentic Ghanaian dishes. Enjoy the vibrant night market, where the sounds of laughter and music fill the air, providing an immersive cultural experience. End your evening by attending a traditional storytelling session that captures the essence of Ghanaian folklore.

day 2
Exploration of Natural Wonders
morning
:

Begin your day with a nature hike in the nearby hills, breathing in the fresh air and marveling at the diverse flora and fauna. A local guide will share insights about the ecosystem and the cultural significance of the landmarks. Capture the stunning views and vibrant landscapes with photos that will last a lifetime.

afternoon
:

After the hike, enjoy a packed lunch beside a serene river, surrounded by the natural beauty of the area. Later, visit a nearby village to witness local agricultural practices and possibly engage in farming activities. This immersive experience allows you to connect more with the local way of life.

evening
:

Return to Diari and unwind with a relaxing session at a local spa or wellness center. Savor a comforting dinner featuring fresh, locally sourced produce. Join in on a community game night, where laughter and camaraderie abound among participants.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🚕Local transport (short ride)$1-4
🧺Groceries (weekly)$25-60
🏨Mid-range hotel per night$40-90
Coffee or cafe drink$2-5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Warm hospitality and friendly locals
  • Accessible base for exploring Accra and coastal nature
  • Rich street food culture and markets
  • Growing selection of cafes and local eateries
  • Crowded markets can be overwhelming
  • Some areas have limited public transport beyond town
  • Occasional heat and humidity require sun protection
  • Fewer high-end dining options compared to larger cities
  • "Maakye" - Good morning
  • "Ɛte sɛn?" - How are you?
  • "Meda wo ase" - Thank you
  • "Wo din de sɛn?" - What is your name?
  • "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
  • "Ɛyɛ me dɛ" - I like it
  • "Dabi" - No
  • "Sɛ wokɔpɛ aduan no" - Would you like to see the menu?

Places to Visit in Diari

Visit one of these nice places.

Diari Waterfront Sunsets

Golden-hour coastline views with silhouettes of palm trees and fishing boats; ideal for silhouettes and wide-seascape shots.

Market Dawn Colors

Early morning market scenes with colorful fabrics, produce, and vendors; dynamic street photography opportunities.

Cultural Craft Lane

Narrow lanes where artisans work; close-up portraits of artisans with their handmade wares.

Beach Promenade Vista

Wide-angle shots of the shoreline with boats and distant hills on the horizon.

Culinary Guide

Food in Diari

Ghanaian cuisine in Diari centers on bold flavors, starches, and fresh seafood, with Ghanaian staples like jollof rice, banku, and waakye appearing at many eateries. Expect frequent use of tomatoes, onions, peppers, palm oil, and local spices, with dishes often served with meat, fish, or legumes. Street food offers quick, affordable bites, while informal eateries provide hearty, shareable meals. Hydration is easy with bottled water and fruit juices readily available at markets and cafes.

Diari Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jollof Rice with Fried Plantain

A flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked in tomato sauce, often served with fried plantain and meat or fish.

Must-Try!

Banku and Tilapia

Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and pepper sauce, a quintessential coastal Ghanaian pairing.

Waakye

A rice and beans dish typically topped with sides like gari, salad, eggs, or fish; commonly enjoyed at markets and street stalls.

Kelewele

Spiced fried plantains seasoned with a combination of ginger, pepper, and salt, a popular street snack.

Fufu with Light Soup

Starchy dumplings served with a tomato-based soup, often accompanied by meat or fish; a traditional staple in many households.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Diari Market

Main town market offering fresh produce, fish, spices, and ready-to-eat street foods, best explored in the morning.

Nungua and Adjacent Markets

Nearby markets with broader selections of seafood, vegetables, and casual eateries that reflect coastal Ghanaian flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Diari experiences a tropical climate with hot temperatures year-round. The dry season brings clear skies and lower humidity, while the rainy season features afternoon showers and higher humidity. Coastal areas enjoy sea breezes, while inland pockets can be warmer. Average highs range from the upper 80s to low 90s Fahrenheit (30s Celsius) with cooler mornings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Greet with a smile and a handshake; use polite titles and ask before engaging in conversations with elders.

Dress and Decorum

Modest dress in markets and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in many interiors.

Photograph Consent

Ask permission before photographing people, especially children; some vendors may request tips for being photographed.

Safety Guide

Safety

Take typical travel precautions: watch belongings in crowded markets, avoid poorly lit areas at night, use reputable transport, and stay hydrated. Malaria is present; use insect repellent, sleep under nets when advised, and seek medical care for fevers. Have travel insurance and keep emergency contact details handy.

Tipping in Diari

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is customary for good service; 5-10% in nicer restaurants, smaller tips for casual spots. It’s common to round up the bill for taxi drivers and porters.

Payment Methods

Cash (GHS) is widely accepted; mobile money and bank cards are increasingly common in larger establishments. Street vendors typically prefer cash; larger restaurants and hotels may accept cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season

Cooler mornings, hot afternoons; low humidity and sunny days are common, making it ideal for outdoor sightseeing and beach time. Dress in light, breathable clothing and carry sunscreen.

Wet Season

Frequent afternoon showers and humid conditions; plan indoor alternatives for rain-heavy days and carry a compact umbrella or rain jacket.

Harmattan (Dry, dusty air typically Nov–Feb)

Dustier skies with cooler mornings; protect eyes and lungs in dusty conditions and stay hydrated.

Nightlife Guide

Diari at Night

Diari’s nightlife centers on casual beach bars, riverside lounges, and small live-music venues. Expect Afrobeats and high-energy tunes, with late-night socializing and a relaxed vibe. Some venues host weekend events with local bands and DJs; dress is casual and comfortable for warm evenings.

Hiking in Diari

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aburi Hills

Pleasant hillside trails with vantage points over the plains and a cooler microclimate; popular for weekend hikes.

Shai Hills Nature Reserve

A short drive away; offers rocky outcrops, wildlife viewing, and scenic hiking routes.

Airports

How to reach Diari by plane.

Kotoka International Airport (ACC)

Main international airport serving Accra; about 25-40 kilometers from Diari by road, with domestic and international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Diari is reasonably walkable within the town center, with markets, beaches, and eateries close by. Sidewalks and pedestrian areas exist, but some streets can be busy with traffic. For longer trips or day trips to nearby sites, taxis or ride-hailing are convenient options.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ga-Daome People

Indigenous coastal community with strong cultural traditions and language presence in the region.

Akan Subgroups

Includes Fante and other Akan communities; English is widely spoken, with Twi being a common local language.

Ewe and Other Ethnic Groups

Diverse residents and traders, contributing to a cosmopolitan town atmosphere.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport; matches and local leagues draw large crowds and lively street celebrations.

Athletics

Common in schools and community events; local track and field activities occur during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic can be congested during peak hours in and around Accra and neighboring towns. Public transport options include tro-tro vans, minibuses, and taxis. Plan extra time for travel during rainy periods or major events.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Diari.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most Ghanaian stews are meat-based, but you can find or request bean stews (red-red,黑-eyed pea stew), bean cakes, and vegetable soups like light soup with added vegetables. Asking for dishes without fish or meat is common; many eateries will accommodate vegetarian requests if you specify no meat or fish stock.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare is available in the town through clinics and a district hospital; for more advanced care, visitors typically travel to Accra where larger hospitals and private clinics offer broader services. Travelers should have appropriate health insurance and carry any necessary medications, plus mosquito protection to prevent malaria.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide