What can I do when I’m not volunteering?

Ghana is a beautiful and friendly country waiting to be explored. Volunteers generally have plenty of time to relax with their fellow volunteers or housemates in the evenings and on the weekends. Excursions to nearby beaches, historical attractions, waterfalls, markets, the capital city and more are always options on the weekends.

Can I volunteer with a friend or partner?

Point Hope welcomes friends and couples who wish to volunteer together.  We can ensure that you are placed on the same project as a friend or partner as long as notification is provided.  When applying, please make a note on the application form with your friend's name stating you wish to be placed together, or let the Point Hope Director know when you talk to the office. 

Will I have access to a phone and Internet?

A large variety of cellular phones are available for purchase in Ghana. Many volunteers opt to bring along their cellular phones from home and replace the SIM card with one from a local Ghanaian network (in our area, Vodafone seems to have the best coverage). The networks in Ghana work on a prepaid (scratch card) system and are fairly simple and relatively inexpensive. Internet cafes can be found in most developed towns across Ghana. The cost per hour range from approximately 50 cents - 1 USD. For volunteers bringing along their own laptop or tablet, portable modems are available for purchase (the majority of the expense is paying to load credit onto the network). A staff member can assist you in setting up access to both phone and internet service.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. All volunteers are required to have proof of Travel/Medical Insurance prior to arrival in Ghana. (The travel insurance carrier is just a suggestion, you are free to select the insurance plan of your own choosing.) 

What about flights, visas and vaccinations?

Flights to and from Ghana, the necessary visa documents and all required vaccinations (Yellow Fever) and recommended vaccinations (consult with your own physician) will be your sole responsibility. (Point Hope staff in the US will be available to assist with procedural and form questions via telephone or internet chat.) 

What is the climate like in Ghana?

The climate of Ghana is tropical, but temperatures vary with season and elevation.  There are two rainy seasons, usually from April to July and from September to November. In most areas, the highest temperatures occur during the "dry season", February to March, with the lowest temperature in August. The average annual temperature is about 79F (26C). The coolest time of year is during the "rainy season" between June and September when the main rainfall occurs. Variations in temperature both annually and daily are quite small. 

What languages are spoken?

English is the official business language of Ghana and dominates government and business affairs. It is also the standard language used in educational institutions. The most widely spoken local  (tribal) languages are Ga, Dagomba, Akan, and Ewe.  In Point Hope project areas, common languages spoken are Twi and Fante, in addition to English. 

What clothing is appropriate?

You should wear whatever is comfortable for you, keeping in mind that it is not customary in Ghanaian culture to expose too much flesh, unless you are a small child. (This means short dresses or shorts may not be appropriate for daily wear. Sundresses and surfer shorts are entirely appropriate.) Sturdy sandals, closed-toed shoes, tennis shoes, sunhats, visors, ball-caps, etc., are all valuable accessories, in addition to backpacks, for daily trekking to and from your work site. You should pack your swimsuit, Ghana has some very lovely beaches.