"Domestic tourism generated GHS 6.6bn from 15 Million trips in 2023 — Gov't Statistician

Domestic tourism contributed an estimated GHS 6.6 billion to Ghana’s economy in 2023, driven by more than 15 million trips by residents across the country, according to findings from the Domestic Visitors’ Survey released by the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS).

Speaking to the media about the survey, the Government Statistician, Dr. Alhassan Iddrisu, said the data underscore the critical role domestic travel plays in sustaining local economies, beyond the focus on international tourism.

“This momentum is a powerful reminder that tourism is not only about international arrivals. It is also about Ghanaians discovering Ghana, investing in local experiences, and breathing economic life into the communities and sites they visit,” Dr. Iddrisu said.

The survey shows that domestic overnight trips accounted for the largest share of spending, contributing about GHS 4.8 billion, representing 73 per cent of total domestic tourism expenditure.

Same-day visitors spent an estimated GHS 1.8 billion, or 27 per cent, with most spending occurring during the trip itself.

Dr. Iddrisu noted that the survey provides detailed insights into travel behaviour, regional movement, and spending patterns, which are essential for effective tourism planning.

"The findings give us the clarity to identify the regions that attract the most movement, the activities that drive domestic trips, the socio-economic profile of travellers, and the value of spending that circulates within our borders,” he stated.

According to the report, domestic tourism is largely driven by working-age adults.

Individuals aged 25 to 44 years accounted for 41.1 per cent of same-day trips and 35.2 per cent of overnight travel, reflecting the mobility of Ghana’s economically active population.

Social reasons remain the dominant motivation for travel.

The survey found that more than 80 per cent of overnight trips and about 70 per cent of same-day trips were made to visit friends and relatives or to attend funerals, highlighting the importance of family, culture, and social networks in shaping domestic travel.

In terms of travel organisation, over 95 per cent of trips were self-arranged, with road transport—particularly buses and minivans—remaining the primary mode of travel.

Dr. Iddrisu said the Domestic Visitors’ Survey provides nationally representative evidence to guide tourism investment decisions and support the development of Ghana’s Tourism Satellite Account.

Story by: Joshua Kwabena Smith