While South Africa and Morocco dominate African film location lists, Ghana quietly harbors some of the continent's most cinematic landscapes. From pristine beaches that rival the Caribbean to ancient forests that could double for Amazon rainforests, Ghana offers Hollywood-quality locations at a fraction of the cost—plus that game-changing 20% production rebate.
Here are the hidden gems that international filmmakers are just beginning to discover:
Perfect For: Historical dramas, cultural documentaries, period pieces
Why It Works: West Africa's oldest mosque (built in 1421) offers authentic Islamic architecture rarely seen in film. The surrounding Sudano-Sahelian landscape provides a unique African aesthetic distinct from East or Southern Africa.
Production Advantage: Remote location means minimal crowd control issues and authentic ambient sound.
Perfect For: Adventure films, romantic scenes, nature documentaries
Why It Works: Ghana's highest waterfall creates natural drama with mist effects and rainbow formations. The surrounding tropical forest provides lush, Amazon-like backdrops.
Production Advantage: Accessible by vehicle but feels completely remote on camera.
Perfect For: Historical dramas, powerful emotional scenes, documentaries
Why It Works: Authentic slave trade history provides unmatched emotional weight. The contrast between beautiful coastal views and dark historical significance creates compelling visual storytelling.
Production Advantage: UNESCO World Heritage site status adds international credibility to productions.
Perfect For: Water scenes, aerial shots, adventure films
Why It Works: One of the world's largest artificial lakes offers endless water scenes without ocean logistics. Islands and inlets provide diverse aquatic landscapes.
Production Advantage: Calm waters ideal for boat scenes and water stunts, plus local fishing communities for authentic background action.
Perfect For: Action sequences, nature films, adventure stories
Why It Works: 130-foot-high suspended bridges through rainforest canopy create unique aerial perspectives. Dense forest below offers classic jungle aesthetics.
Production Advantage: Established tourist infrastructure means easier equipment transport and crew accommodation.
Perfect For: Period pieces, maritime scenes, cultural dramas
Why It Works: Portugal's first permanent trading post in sub-Saharan Africa (1482) offers authentic colonial architecture. Active fishing harbor provides colorful, dynamic backgrounds.
Production Advantage: Coastal location allows for both land and sea filming opportunities.
Perfect For: Safari scenes, wildlife documentaries, epic landscapes
Why It Works: West Africa's largest game reserve offers authentic African savanna without the crowds of East African parks. Elephants, antelopes, and diverse wildlife provide natural action.
Production Advantage: Less touristy than Kenya/Tanzania parks means more filming flexibility and lower location fees.
Perfect For: Romantic scenes, garden parties, colonial-era films
Why It Works: Established in 1890, these gardens offer manicured landscapes with mountain backdrops. Colonial-era buildings provide period-appropriate architecture.
Production Advantage: Just 30 minutes from Accra means easy crew transport while feeling completely removed from urban environments.
Perfect For: Beach scenes, water sports, romantic comedies
Why It Works: Where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean creates unique dual-water landscapes. Pristine beaches rival Caribbean locations without the tourist infrastructure.
Production Advantage: Multiple landscape options (river, ocean, wetlands) within single location reduces transportation costs.
Perfect For: Action sequences, sci-fi films, dramatic landscapes
Why It Works: Ancient rock formations create otherworldly landscapes perfect for alien planets or fantasy realms. Caves and elevated positions offer diverse shooting angles.
Production Advantage: Only 45 minutes from Accra airport but looks like remote wilderness. Natural acoustic properties perfect for dialogue scenes.
Why These Locations Beat Traditional African Film Destinations:
Cost Advantage: Ghana's 20% production rebate combined with lower location fees can save productions 40-50% compared to South Africa or Morocco.
Authenticity: Unlike heavily filmed locations, these sites offer fresh perspectives on African landscapes without the "been there, seen that" factor.
Logistics: Ghana's stable political environment and English-speaking population eliminate common African filming challenges.
Diversity: From desert-like northern regions to tropical southern coasts, Ghana offers multiple African environments within a single country.
Through the BSE initiative, international productions get more than just locations:
Government Support: Streamlined permitting and location access
Local Expertise: Cultural consultants ensure authentic representation
Skilled Crews: Trained local professionals reduce imported crew costs
Infrastructure: Growing film support services and equipment availability
Ready to Explore Ghana's Hidden Filming Potential?
These ten locations represent just the beginning of Ghana's untapped filming potential. As the country builds toward its 2027 Cultural Capital vision, expect to see more international productions discovering what local filmmakers have known for years: Ghana offers world-class locations with African authenticity.
For location scouting assistance and production support, contact the Black Star Experience team at info@blackstarexperience.org
