Getting Around Ghana: A Complete Transport Guide

Getting around Ghana

Ghana is one of West Africa's easiest countries to travel, but its transport runs on local logic. Here is how to navigate cities like Accra and Kumasi, and how to cover the long routes between them.

Trains and metro

Ghana has no metro system. The railway network is largely defunct, though a commuter line runs between Accra and Tema, and a short Accra-Nsawam service operates intermittently. Do not plan trips around trains, treat any working line as a bonus rather than a backbone.

Tro-tros and city buses

Tro-tros are converted minivans and the backbone of everyday travel. They follow set routes, leave when full, and cost a few cedis. A conductor (the mate) hangs out the door calling destinations and collects fares. They are cheap and authentic but cramped and slow.

In Accra, the Aayalolo bus rapid transit links the Amasaman corridor to the centre with proper stops and cards.

Shared taxis and ride apps

Shared (line) taxis run fixed routes for fixed fares. Dropping taxis take you door to door, but always agree the price before getting in.

For predictable fares, use ride apps:

• Bolt and Uber operate in Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi
• Yango is also active in Accra
• Okada (motorbike taxis) are common but technically restricted, use with care

Car rental and driving

Rentals usually come with a driver, which is the norm and worth it given chaotic traffic and unsigned roads. Self-drive is possible but demanding. Ghana drives on the right. Major routes like the Accra-Kumasi and Accra-Cape Coast roads are mostly paved but congested.

Intercity travel

• STC (Intercity STC Coaches) runs the most reliable long-distance buses, with air conditioning and assigned seats, book ahead
• VIP and VVIP buses serve Kumasi, Tamale, and the north
• Domestic flights (Africa World Airlines, Passion Air) connect Accra with Kumasi, Tamale, Takoradi, and Wa, a huge time saver for the north

Tips: carry small cedi notes, travel by day on rural routes, and build in buffer time, schedules are loose everywhere.

Stay connected in Ghana

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online for maps, ride apps, translation, and bookings the moment you land, with no roaming bills or hunting for a local SIM.