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ne of my absolute favorite things to do when I’m in Ghana? Getting my hair braided.
It’s not just about the look (although, trust me, the styles are fire 🔥) — it’s about embracing the culture, connecting with the talented women behind the magic, and just enjoying the whole experience from start to finish. Trying local hairstyles in Ghana is a must for your beauty and cultural bucket list.
From Roadside Braiding to Home Service Luxury
Back in the days, I used to get my hair braided at the roadside in the Airport area. There was a talented woman who ran her little setup there, and it was super quick, cause she had a lot of helping hands, so it became part of my Ghana routine every time I was in town.
But things changed. She moved her salon elsewhere, and ever since, I’ve been loving the home service option. And honestly? Game-changer. No more waiting for other clients, no rush, no distractions. I can sit comfortably in my apartment, in the AC (a big yes in Ghana’s heat), watch a movie, scroll through Instagram — and just vibe while getting my hair done. It’s personal, peaceful, and perfect.
“To truly understand a people, play their games.” – African Proverb
Popular African Hairstyles You Can Try in Ghana
Ghanaian hairstylists are incredibly skilled, and the style options are endless. Here are some trending African hairstyles you’ll see on the streets of Accra and across the country:
Knotless Braids – lightweight, scalp-friendly, and super natural-looking
Feed-in Cornrows – sleek and elegant, often styled with beautiful patterns
Fulani Braids – stylish side braids with beads and decorative center parts
Boho Braids – a new fave with curly ends and a carefree, romantic vibe
Ghana Weaving (Ghana Braids) – thick, bold cornrows raised from the scalp
Twist Extensions – like braids but twisted; Senegalese or Passion twists are super popular
You can also add accessories like gold cuffs, shells, beads, or colored extensions to make your style pop!
Facts About African Hairstyles:
Hair is history. In many African cultures, hairstyles once symbolized tribe, age, marital status, wealth, and even religion.
It’s a form of resistance. During slavery, cornrows were used to map escape routes and hide seeds for survival.
Each style tells a story. From the curves of a braid to the parting design, every detail can have meaning.
Hair is a bonding ritual. In Ghana, girls often braid each other’s hair as a way to connect, share stories, and pass down tradition
Final Opinion
Getting your hair braided in Ghana is more than just a beauty service — it’s a full-on cultural immersion. You’ll leave not just looking cute, but feeling connected. Whether you’re going for classic cornrows or bold goddess braids, it’s a chance to support local women, appreciate African artistry, and walk away with a piece of Ghana woven into every strand.
Ask your Airbnb host, hotel, or a local friend for a trusted braider who offers home service — you’ll get great prices, personal attention, and the comfort of your own space.
Have you tried getting your hair braided abroad? Ghana is calling! Share your experience with us.
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