In Ghana, drinking tap water is not recommended—it may contain contaminants.
While urban areas in Ghana may have basic water treatment, poor sanitation and storage conditions often compromise water quality before it reaches the tap. Outbreaks of waterborne illness are not uncommon.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Source: CDC Travelers’ Health, WHO water safety reports, and regional public health agencies.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
We get a lot of questions from travelers wondering if a filter bottle is worth it—and the answer is almost always yes. It’s one of the simplest ways to avoid waterborne illness, stay hydrated without contributing to plastic pollution, and avoid the daily cost of buying bottled water. We’ve reviewed the most effective options based on trusted travel brands, and you’ll find them just below.
Health Risks for Travelers
Even if the tap water is safe for residents, foreign travelers often face higher health risks due to exposure to unfamiliar organisms and differing hygiene standards.
You may be exposed to:
- Bacteria like E. coli, causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites such as Giardia or Cryptosporidium, from untreated or contaminated water sources
- Viruses like norovirus and hepatitis A, spread through unclean water systems
- In some countries, chemical toxins from old pipes or agricultural runoff
Contamination is most common in:
- Regions without consistent municipal treatment
- Areas impacted by seasonal flooding or unreliable sanitation
- Buildings with aging infrastructure or poorly maintained tanks
Remember: clear water isn’t always safe water. Invisible contaminants can still cause serious issues, from mild digestive discomfort to prolonged illness.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Ghana, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Ghana
About 12.7% of households in Ghana don’t have access to safe drinking water, and more than 80% use unimproved sanitation. In the northern regions, around 32% of the 2.5 million residents rely on untreated water sources, which raises the risk of waterborne illness. To address this, rural communities are using low-cost purification methods like LifeStraw® and ceramic filters. There are also projects like Join the Pipe, which installs public water taps in places like bus stations to improve access to clean water.
FAQs About Tap Water in Ghana
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Using tap water to brush your teeth could expose you to local bacteria your body isn’t used to—better to be cautious.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
For basic hygiene like washing your face, tap water is usually fine—just don’t rinse your mouth with it.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
In areas where tap water isn’t safe, it’s smart to avoid ice unless it’s clearly made from filtered or bottled water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
The water may not be drinkable, but it’s still safe enough for showers and basic hygiene.
Want to avoid unknown minerals or chlorine while you’re abroad? A travel-size shower filter might be worth it. It attaches in seconds—unless the showerhead’s built into the wall, which unfortunately means you’re out of luck. Many travelers swear by this one. Click here to view the latest deal.
Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Unless you’re going to peel or boil it, washing food in unsafe tap water could still carry a risk.
Is bottled water expensive in Ghana?
Local brands are often cheaper than imported ones, making bottled water a practical and safe daily choice.
West Africa itineraries often combine Ghana with neighboring Togo and Burkina Faso. Be sure to look into tap water conditions across the region if your trip spans multiple countries.