Name: December in Ghana | New Year's Eve & Afrochella
Start: 2021-12-27T00:00:00.000Z
End: 2022-01-03T00:00:00.000Z
Location: Accra, Ghana

Buoyant Travel

Email address verified

23 reviews

Dec 27, 2021 - Jan 3, 2022

Group size: 1 - 11

December in Ghana | New Year's Eve & Afrochella

Accra, Ghana

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Buoyant Travel

Email address verified

23 reviews

$2,750

Deposit: $250

Dec 27, 2021 - Jan 3, 2022

Group size: 1 - 11

BOOK OUR 2024 GROUP TRIPS HERE: buoyanttravel.com/grouptrips

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After a year like 2020, we’re ready to explore with our people again. If you’re looking to connect with your ancestral roots in West Africa, meet like-minded Black travelers, and authentically experience Ghanian culture, come through!

Join us on our annual NYE trip to Accra, Ghana, December 27, 2021 - January 3, 2022.

It’s been over 400 years since our ancestors were stolen from the shores of West Africa and brought to the Americas against their will. Now, we’re traveling back to the motherland to connect with our roots and turn up--it’s our birthright.

We've been curating trips to Ghana since 2019 and are well connected in Accra and beyond. From the best place to grab brunch (rooftop mimosas, anyone?) to hidden waterfalls, we're locked in with the locals.

When we're not hosting group trips, we curate personal travel experiences for Black travelers and host meet-ups worldwide.

Check out our past trips here: https://buoyanttravel.squarespace.com/trips/ghana2019

While we fully anticipate Afrochella 2021 (and other local events or tours) to take place on December 27, 2021, we are awaiting full details per Ghana's COVID-19 restrictions and regulations.

In the event that Afrochella 2021 (or other local events or tours) are canceled due to COVID-19, Buoyant reserves the right to replace the itinerary activities with applicable activities.

Terms and Conditions (Please Read In Full):

*Accommodations are based on single occupancy due to COVID-19. Rooms will feature one full bed. However, travelers who book together can request a shared room. Shared room choices cannot be changed after booking.

*Flights are not included. However, we can help you find the best flight options. Please plan to arrive in Accra by 4 PM on December 27, 201.

* Due to the nature of Buoyant trips, acts of nature, or other unforeseen interruptions, please note the itinerary schedule may change without notice.

* Travel Insurance is NOT included but is highly recommended. You agree that Buoyant is not responsible for any injuries, lost or stolen property, canceled or missed flights, or death by booking this trip.

* If you choose to opt-out of any scheduled itinerary activities, Buoyant will not provide refunds or trip credits.

* In the case of an emergency which requires trip cancellation, this will be handled on a case-by-case basis. $250 deposits are nonrefundable.

* You must be willing to provide us with a copy of the following by the requested deadline (TBA): yellow fever card, valid passport, valid Ghana visa, and emergency contact information.

* The trip activities, tours, and accommodations advertised by Buoyant are pre-planned. Occasionally, it may be necessary for us to make changes, and we reserve the right to do so at any time. We will notify travelers of any changes.

* Ghana is not a western country. They have a stable infrastructure and booming tourism industry but things will not operate as they would in a country like the US or UK. Please be flexible and open-minded in the case of delays or changes.

We will cross-check everything to ensure the smoothest trip possible. However, there are potential hiccups (holiday traffic, slow customer service, tardy events, etc.). If you lack patience, this trip will not be enjoyable for you, and we would love for you to join us for a different experience.

Cancellation By Buoyant:

Any traveler who books our December 2021 Ghana experience will be notified about cancellations no later than October 31, 2021. While we are almost sure that COVID-19 will not interfere with our December trip, we will continue monitoring and following all CDC recommendations.

If Buoyant cancels this trip, all registered attendees will receive a full refund of any trip payments made until Buoyant's point of trip cancellation. However, the $250 deposit remains non-refundable as it is an administrative fee for our small team.

Cancellation By Guest:

Buoyant will not honor any trip cancellation requests made after September 30, 2021, for non-COVID-19 related reasons.

Buoyant will honor trip cancellations due to COVID-19* up until December 13, 2021. Trip cancellation requests must be received in writing to hello@youmetravel.co by December 13, 2021, at 6 PM ET.

If a traveler tests positive for COVID-19, Buoyant will not issue a full refund. Partial refunds may be given on a case-by-case basis. If a traveler tests positive for COVID-19 and can no longer attend the trip, Buoyant needs to be notified in writing by December 24, 2021, at 6 PM ET.

If a traveler can no longer make it due to an emergency (death, serious injury, etc.), we would review on a case-by-case basis. We approach every situation with empathy because things happen!

We highly recommend purchasing personal travel insurance and self-isolating as much as possible within 14 days before arriving in Ghana.

*COVID-19 Cancellation Reasons include:

A Level 4, ‘Do Not Travel Global Advisory’ for the destination country (Ghana) is issued by the U.S. Department of State.
An extended quarantine requirement is issued by the government of the destination country (Ghana).
If the government of traveler’s residence or the destination country restricts all travel.
The restriction of international flights prohibits travelers from traveling to the destination country (Ghana).

RT Airport Transfers
Buoyant will pick up you up and drop you off at Koata International Airpot in Accra, Ghana.
Group Transportation
Buoyant will provide transportation to all group activities listed on our itinerary.
Afrochella VIP ticket
The trip price includes (1) VIP ticket to Afrochella Music Festival for each traveler.
Accra City Tour
We will visit Cape Coast, Elmina Castle and Kakum National Park.
Cape Coast Tour
We will visit Cape Cost and Elmina Castle and Kakum National Park
Makola Market Visit
We will visit Makola Market. Travelers are responsible for all personal shopping costs.
Eastern Region Trip
We will visit Hillburi Resort, Aburi Botanical Gardens and a secret waterfall.
Boutique Hotel Stay
7 Nights Stay in Boutique-style Accommodations such as La Villa Boutique Hotel or equivalent.
Welcome Dinner
Buoyant will provide a welcome group dinner to all guests that includes a buffet-style menu and (1) soft drink or beer.
Selected Meals
7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 1 dinner are included in the trip price. All other meal costs must be paid for by the traveler.
Snacks and Water
Some of our day trips include long bus rides. Buoyant will keep our van stocked with light snacks and water, when possible.
Professional Photography
Our photographer will photograph our group activities. You will receive a link to all of the group photos within 2 weeks of our departure from Ghana. Individual photoshoots can be added-on at booking.
Buoyant Travel Guide
All Buoyant travelers will receive a Accra Travel Guide with their welcome email upon booking. It includes information about the best restaurants, nightlife and experiences to have in Accra, Ghana.
Ghana Playlist
We will curate and share a Ghana-inspired playlist ahead of our trip to get you ready!
WhatsApp Group Message
At least two weeks prior to our December 2021 trip we will invite all Buoyant travelers to a private WhatsApp Group message as a way to connect before and during our trip.
Pre-Trip Support
Every Buoyant traveler receives weekly email support from our team to help answer any questions you have about the trip to Ghana. Additionally, a virtual Q&A session with our founder is rquired.

Flights
Travelers are responsible for the cost of booking roundtrip flights to/from Ghana.
Visa & Vaccination fees
All travelers must receive a travel visa from Ghana (if applicable to your home country) and a yellow fever vaccination. Buoyant will not cover any visa or vaccination fees.
COVID-19 Testing Fees
All travelers must test negative for COVID-19 (PCR Test) 72 hours before entering Ghana and prior to returning to the US. Buoyant will not cover any COVID-19 testing fees.
Meals Not Listed
Only the meals listed on our itinerary are included in the trip costs.
Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is not included or mandatory but is highly recommended. Buoyant is not responsible for any stolen, lost, or damaged property, injuries, or loss of life.
Opt-in activities
Sometimes our itineraries feature additional acitivies which are not included in the trip price. If a traveler opts in to these activities they are responsible for all associated costs.
Alcoholic Beverages
Alcoholic beverages are not included unless purchased and served by Buoyant. At our welcome dinner, one beer is included. All wine and cocktails must be paid for by the traveler.
Private Photoshoot
Private photography sessions are available for booking at an additional cost.
Personal Transport
Travelers are responsible for their own transportation to all non-itinerary activities including nightlife. Uber and Bolt are available in Accra.
Incidental Room Charges
Travelers are responsible for any damages to hotel rooms, hotel property or transportation property.
Service Tips
Travelers are welcome to tip our hospitality partners at their own expense.

Private Photoshoot ($50 deposit)

Day 1 - Akwaaba!
Day 1 - Akwaaba!
Arrival & Welcome Dinner
We will pick you up from Kotoka International Airport and whisk you away to our cozy boutique accommodations in the Osu neighborhood of Accra.

A Buoyant gift will await you, and as you settle into your room, our team will be preparing for tonight's welcome dinner.

At dinner, you will get your first taste of Ghana with authentic local dishes. This is the perfect time to connect with the other travelers who you'll be exploring alongside over the next week.

Cheers!

Meals Included: Dinner
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Day 2 - Festvial Vibes
Day 2 - Festvial Vibes
Afrochella
Ever wanted to swag surf with ya’ people on the continent? Yeah, us too. Today we will celebrate our homecoming at Ghana's newest African music festival, Afrochella. It's like Coachella, only Blacker and better.

The festival features music, food (Jollof anyone?), and art installations. Afrochella is a celebration of African culture and the perfect place to celebrate your return to the gold coast.

We've got good news - VIP Afrochella tickets are included in your trip price because we know you're here for a good time, not a long time.

Meals Included: Breakfast
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Day 3 - Accra City Tour
Day 3 - Accra City Tour
Get To Know Accra
Today we will explore the best of Accra. Our city tour will take us to famous landmarks like the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial, Independence Square, and the W.E.B DuBois Center. We will learn the history of this beautiful country and its relationship with famous Pan-Africanists like Malcolm X.

After our tour, we'll head back home to change and prep for a fun night out. You came to tun up too, right?

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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Day 4 - Cape Coast
Day 4 - Cape Coast
Ancestral Connection
Have you recovered from the Afrochella festivities? We hope so!

Today is our official return home to Ghana and we'll celebrate with a transformative visit to Cape Coast, Elmina Castle, and Kakum National Park. We will walk through the 'Door Of No Return' and along the same path as our ancestors did during their last moments on the coast of West Africa.

This part of the trip will be powerful and emotional for many. Our expert guide will show us around the castles sharing touching stories of our ancestral past. After the tour, we'll have time to reflect with an oceanside lunch.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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Day 5 - Happy New Year!
Day 5 - Happy New Year!
Market Visit and New Year's Eve Celebration
You probably already know by now that Ghana in December is lit but tonight will prove it for sure.

During the day, join us on a morning stroll through Makola Market. We will end our visit at one of our favorite boutiques in Accra, The Shop, where you can enjoy a light lunch and shopping.

Tonight, we'll head out for a night on the town in celebration of the prosperous new year ahead. There are many NYE parties to attend in Accra and while we'd love for everyone to party together, we understand that you may have your own prearranged NYE plans. Feel free to drop a message in our private WhatsApp group with your NYE agenda so link-ups can happen.

*Our Makola Market visit is an opt-in activity. While we will provide transportation to & from the market and to The Shop, travelers are responsible for the costs associated with this activity including food, drinks and market purchases.*

Meals Included: Breakfast
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Day 6 - In The Hills
Day 6 - In The Hills
Beach Please
We partied and connected with our ancestors all week long, so it's time for some relaxing adventures today. We will head outside of Accra to the Eastern Region to experience some of the most scenic parts of this beautiful country.

Places we'll experience:

- Hillburi Resort

- Aburi Botanical Gardens

- Secret Waterfalls

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch
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Day 7 - Exploration Day
Day 7 - Exploration Day
Do you!
Today is a completely free day to explore Ghana! We recommend hitting up the markets, popping into a local chop bar, doing a batik-making workshop, or checking out a rooftop bar.

This is where your handy Buoyant neighborhood guide comes in handy!

Meals Included: Breakfast
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Day 8 - Until Next Time
Day 8 - Until Next Time
We are so glad that you joined us this week in Ghana!
Today, you'll say 'see ya' later' to your new travel buddies. Although our time in Ghana together has come to an end, the memories (and photos) will last for a lifetime.

Meals Included: Breakfast
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Day 1 - Akwaaba!

Arrival & Welcome Dinner

We will pick you up from Kotoka International Airport and whisk you away to our cozy boutique accommodations in the Osu neighborhood of Accra.

A Buoyant gift will await you, and as you settle into your room, our team will be preparing for tonight's welcome dinner.

At dinner, you will get your first taste of Ghana with authentic local dishes. This is the perfect time to connect with the other travelers who you'll be exploring alongside over the next week.

Cheers!

Meals Included: Dinner

This trip offered a chance to experience a new home away from home, with ease and organisation before, during, and after the journey. Most of all, it provided quality time with an amazing group of women! This was all thanks to Buoyant and its incredible Black female founder, who works tirelessly behind the scenes and on the ground—seemingly at the speed of light—to curate a thoughtful and culturally rich experience. I could not recommend this ENOUGH. You’ll just have to experience it for yourself to truly feel the magic! In the lead-up to the trip, information was shared openly, and assistance was readily available for any questions during the visa process. Timelines were shared well in advance, with clear date markers indicating what to prepare and when. Closer to departure, a WhatsApp group was created, fostering an easy rapport amongst the group and providing a wealth of additional resources—from packing lists to detailed breakdowns of each day. There was never any confusion about what to expect. We even received guidance on navigating the airport upon arrival and handling transfers on the ground. Arriving in Ghana was seamless. As expected, a transfer was waiting, and I was whisked away to the hotel. Upon arrival, I was greeted by the ever-helpful and exceptional front-of-house team, who took my bags and directed me straight to my room. Like magic, they had been pre-advised of my arrival, ensuring no time was wasted in getting me settled. In my room, I discovered a curated selection of local Ghanaian products, beautifully presented in a Buoyant tote bag—something I used throughout the trip and continue to use in my day-to-day life. On the ground, the scheduled activities were rich and varied. The tour group was a well-balanced mix of women, making every group activity full of fun and laughter! The itinerary ensured a rich cultural immersion, allowing us to explore different parts of Accra and beyond, all while being catered to through Buoyant’s network of local suppliers. Their goodwill and strong relationships translated into the care shown to each of us, ensuring that our money was invested back into the community. I especially enjoyed the photography organised by Buoyant that was provided by David. I will remember the kindness offered by his team member Ruth. Beyond the planned activities, independence was encouraged. We were equipped with food delivery apps, Uber, and a Buoyant map packed with a wealth of recommended locations, making exploration effortless. Buoyant had also recommended travel insurance before the trip. When I had a bad fall, they ensured I knew which hospital to visit for care. I was met by friendly doctors and nurses who treated me tenderly and even remembered me when I returned for a follow-up. What was an unpleasant experience was softened by the kindness of the people of Accra, who noticed my bandages and readily offered help—whether by holding doors open or assisting with my bags. Truly, I can’t recommend visiting Ghana enough. As a Zambian, I found an ease in experiencing a sense of home in Ghana. Every person I encountered was kind and openly generous. It was truly wonderful. I left with a new group of friends, an unexpected, but welcome, haul from Shoprite, and memories I’ll cherish forever. ABONTENNNN! Big thanks to Buoyant!

By Emma M for Bri's Ghana Be 30 on Mar 14, 2025

A First-Time Traveler’s Dream – My Unforgettable Trip with Buoyant Travel! As a first time traveler venturing outside the country, I can confidently say that Buoyant Travel has been an absolute blessing. All of my worries leading up to the trip were instantly put to rest the moment my feet touched the soil of Accra, Ghana. From the very beginning, Briona’s attention to detail made preparing for this trip effortless. She guided me through every step of the pre-travel process—from securing my visa and vaccines to booking my flight—so seamlessly that I felt like I had done this a dozen times before! Once I arrived in Ghana, Briona’s deep knowledge and genuine connections with the locals made me feel less like a visitor and more like I belonged. Each excursion was thoughtfully curated and an absolute joy, making every moment feel special and effortless. Briona’s passion and dedication to connecting first time and seasoned travelers with incredible, often-overlooked destinations truly shine through. Thanks to her, I had countless eye opening and healing experiences during my time in Ghana. Leaving was bittersweet, but I know this is just the first of many trips I’ll be booking with Buoyant Travel. Ghana 2025 was the highlight of my year, and I have Briona to thank for that! 🇬🇭💗🙏🏽 If you’re thinking about exploring a new country but don’t know where to start, take this as your sign—Buoyant Travel will take care of you every step of the way!

By Teyana W for Bri's Ghana Be 30 on Mar 13, 2025

Hey Teyana, Thank you so much for this beautiful review! I'm so happy that you got to experience Ghana in such a unique, local way. It was the first time, but it won't be the last, and I can't wait to connect you with more cool people, places, and experiences worldwide. Let's do it again soon! Cheers, Briona

By Buoyant Travel on Mar 14, 2025

Ghana with Buoyant was a no-brainer. The website covered every single detail from visa and vaccine requirements to a packing list. If that’s not streamlined enough, Briona was always available to address any questions or concerns. Buoyant’s rapport with the local community provided my group with experiences you cannot find with a Google search. This was a meticulously curated trip that illuminated the beauty of Accra’s people, cuisine, and culture. Try the waakye, try the fresh fish, add the shito…just trust me. Ghana was the trip of a lifetime and if you’re lucky like me you’ll also return with the best souvenir of all- the friendships made along the way.

By Mary Jo H for Bri's Ghana Be 30 on Mar 13, 2025

Hey Mary Jo, Thank you SO much for your kind words! I'm so happy that Ghana was the trip of a lifetime for you and that I could help connect you with unique local experiences. You made this experience so special! See you somewhere cool again soon! Cheers, Briona

By Buoyant Travel on Mar 14, 2025

Briona is an exceptionally thoughtful & empathetic trip organiser who helped to craft a truly beautiful and well balanced trip for our group of 6. From the pre-departure preparation, to the actual trip itself, we had a wealth of information, direct communication channels and any and all of our concerns answered with the perfectly managed whatsapp group chat! She really helped to create an unforgettable experience for everyone — from the first time international traveller in our group, to those who had been to Ghana before. Bri’s knowledge about Accra and Ghanaian culture & food is akin to that of a local. Briona works on the ground with local tour guides, service providers and restaurants to ensure every tourism dollar goes into the local economy. The itinerary included a mix of relaxing, partying, cultural activities, good food and educational experiences. No trip happens without its hiccups — when I unfortunately fell sick due to my allergies, Bri was right by my side at the local hospital until 4am with zero complaints. This is the absolute attention and care that not every organised trip host will provide. Last but certainly not least, the group was absolutely second to none - could not have asked for a more beautiful group of like-minded girlies. To sum up, I came on this trip with 3 friends, and left with 6 🥰

By Francesca C for Bri's Ghana Be 30 on Mar 07, 2025

Hey Fran, Thank you so much for this glowing review! I'm happy you got to experience Ghana and loved it. Hosting our group was a real treat, and it wouldn't have been the same without you. Can't wait to do it again! Cheers, Briona

By Buoyant Travel on Mar 14, 2025

Briona helped my group of 5 plan a trip for Detty December in Ghana 2024 and we had an amazing time! The host and driver whom Briona connected us with were absolutely amazing and very knowledgeable. I have already recommended some people to Buoyant Travel for their next adventures!

By Sandy L for Daphne's December Ghana Group Trip on Jan 16, 2025

Hey Sandy, Thank you so much for trusting us to plan and host your group's trip to Ghana! It was a pleasure to meet you all, and I'm happy you enjoyed your experience. We're looking forward to helping you connect with cool again elsewhere. Cheers, Briona

By Buoyant Travel on Mar 14, 2025

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I really enjoyed my time in Salvador , Brazil. Briana picked a great location and curated an amazing trip. The food and people we experienced were top tier. The help to navigate through the airport was so helpful. And she built in just enough free time for us to explore, shop, etc. I’ll definitely be recommending travel to Salvador and traveling with Bouyant.

By Lynette M on 27 Nov, 2024

I had an amazing time traveling to Ghana with Buoyant Travel. Each day brought a new experience (never a dull moment). This was my first trip to Africa and I wanted to not worry about planning a thing...traveling with Buoyant Travel did just that. All I had to do was bring myself! I met a wonderful group of women who love traveling and it was a pleasure getting to spend the new year with them. I highly recommend this travel group it was more than worth it <3

By Nia P on 02 Feb, 2023

I traveled with Buoyant Travel group December 2019 and it was such a monumental trip. This trip changed my life. Ghana will forever remain special to me and I have already returned twice. Briona is not only an amazing woman but she is an incredible tour guide. In my opinion, the purpose of booking with a tour group is for convenience, meeting like minded people, reduced stress, an organized trip, and great memories. Briona checked all of these boxes and was super organized. I have quickly referred her to others and I plan to join her group in Brazil!

By Amber C on 16 Dec, 2022

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