In short
- Foreign adults pay approximately 80 GHS.
- Ghanaian adults pay approximately 20 GHS.
- Professional camera permits cost 50 to 100 GHS.
In this article
Getting into Elmina Castle requires purchasing a ticket at the gate. You must pay in cash using Ghanaian Cedis (GHS). The fee grants you access to the castle grounds, the St. George's Castle Museum, and the mandatory guided tour of the dungeons and upper levels.
How much does it cost to enter Elmina Castle?
Foreign adults pay approximately 80 GHS, while Ghanaian adults pay roughly 20 GHS.
Pricing is tiered to make the site accessible. Students and children receive discounted rates on these base prices. Ensure you bring physical cash in GHS, as electronic payments are generally not accepted at the gate.
| Visitor Category | Approximate Fee |
|---|---|
| Non-Ghanaian Adults | ~80 GHS |
| Ghanaian Adults | ~20 GHS |
| Students & Children | Discounted rates apply |
Do I need to pay extra for a guide?
No, the mandatory guided tour is included in your standard entrance fee.
All visitors must join this 60 to 90-minute tour to access the interior rooms and dungeons. You cannot explore the main structures independently. While the guide is included, bringing extra cash to tip your guide is standard practice.
How much is the professional camera fee?
Using a professional camera or video equipment requires a permit costing 50 to 100 GHS.
If you bring a large camera, expect to pay this additional charge at the ticket gate. Smartphones do not usually require a separate permit. Ask the staff at the entrance to verify the current camera rate before you begin the tour.
Does the entrance fee cover the museum?
Yes, your ticket includes access to the St. George's Castle Museum.
The museum opened in 1996 and sits on the upper levels. It provides deeper context on regional history and the transatlantic slave trade. You can walk through the exhibits at your own pace after the guided portion finishes.
Are guided day trips from Accra included in the entry price?
No, transportation and guided day trips from Accra are booked and paid for separately.
If you book a full-day guided tour departing from Accra, check if the provider covers the 80 GHS admission fee. Many packages include the entry cost, but verify this in the tour description. These day trips typically cost from $90 to $280.
Do entrance fees change?
Yes, prices at Elmina Castle can change without prior notice.
Always verify the current opening hours and fees upon arrival. Budget slightly more cash than the listed 80 GHS just in case rates have shifted recently. Dress Code Guide
Questions travellers ask
What are the opening hours of Elmina Castle?
The castle operates from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM daily. Verify times upon arrival as they can change.
Can I pay the entrance fee with a credit card?
No, you need to bring cash in Ghanaian Cedis (GHS) to pay for entry, camera permits, and guide tips.
Can you visit Elmina Castle without a guide?
No. You must join a mandatory guided tour to enter the interior dungeons and rooms.
