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Getting There & Away

Getting There & Away

Ghana

Air Travel

International Flights to ACC

Direct flight options appear available from several major global hubs. Regional carriers also offer extensive links within West Africa, positioning Accra as a central hub for continental travel.

Airlines & Routes

  • From North America: Delta Air Lines (New York-JFK), United Airlines (Washington D.C.-Dulles).
  • From Europe: British Airways (London-Heathrow), KLM (Amsterdam), Turkish Airlines (Istanbul), Lufthansa (Frankfurt), Air France (Paris).
  • From Africa: Ethiopian Airlines, EgyptAir, Kenya Airways, South African Airways, Royal Air Maroc.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

Kotoka International Airport features modern facilities and a range of services designed for traveler convenience. ACC comprises two main terminals: Terminal 3 serves international flights, while Terminal 2 caters to domestic and regional flights. Free Wi-Fi exists, though its coverage or speed may be limited.

Transfer Options

  • Taxis appear readily available outside the arrival hall; registered airport taxis feature specific markings.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber and Bolt are available from ACC.
  • Many mid-range to luxury hotels extend complimentary airport pick-up services.

Flight Booking

Seasonal flight availability and price fluctuations occur commonly. Booking flights several months in advance secures better rates, especially during popular periods. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are options.

Price Fluctuations

Flight prices usually sit higher during the peak dry season (November to March) and around major holidays like Christmas and Easter.

Airport Services

Services available include duty-free shops, restaurants and cafes, currency exchange bureaus, ATMs, car rental desks, and airport lounges (some accessible with Priority Pass or business class tickets).

Navigating the Airport

Arrival Tips

  • Registered airport taxis or pre-arranged hotel pick-ups come recommended.
  • Fare negotiation before travel is useful, or confirm meter usage if applicable.
  • Request a ride via Uber/Bolt apps; designated pick-up points stand clearly marked.
  • Public transport (tro-tros) operates near the airport, but not practical for travelers with luggage.

Departure Tips

  • Arrival at ACC at least three hours before scheduled departure comes recommended for international flights.
  • Ample time exists for check-in, security screening, and immigration exit formalities.
  • All documents should be in order; potential traffic delays should be considered when planning your airport journey.
  • Departure taxes typically appear included in airline ticket prices; confirmation with your airline upon booking is wise.

Affiliate Travel Resources

Visa Services

For visa applications, explore IVisa (consumer service) or VisaHQ (direct service).

Flight Deals

Discover affordable flights via Dollar Flight Club for alerts, or general searches on Skyscanner.

Car Rentals

For car rental needs, check options at DiscoverCars.com.

Land Transportation

Border Crossings

Ghana shares land borders with Togo, Burkina Faso, and Côte d'Ivoire. Main crossings are Aflao (Togo), Paga (Burkina Faso), and Elubo/Noe (Côte d'Ivoire). Border crossing procedures usually involve exiting one country, traversing a no-man's land, and then entering the next.

Requirements & Tips

  • Valid visas for both countries (if applicable) and your Yellow Fever vaccination certificate are needed.
  • Border areas may be busy and prone to scams; remain vigilant and follow official procedures.
  • Passenger rail services are limited and generally not advised for tourist travel due to infrequency.

Inter-City Bus Travel

Most inter-city travel within Ghana utilizes road networks. Long-distance buses represent the most common and practical travel method between cities. Major bus companies include VIP Jeoun Transport, STC (State Transport Corporation), Intercity STC Coaches, and OA Travel & Tours.

Bus Companies & Terminals

  • These companies operate an extensive network linking Accra to major cities like Kumasi, Takoradi, Cape Coast, and Tamale.
  • Accra has several bus terminals, with specific terminals serving different destinations (e.g., Circle, Kaneshie, Accra New Town).
  • VIP Jeoun and STC generally present more comfortable, air-conditioned coaches, standing as preferred choices for longer journeys.

Driving in Ghana

Driving in Ghana may present significant challenges for foreign visitors. Roads outside major cities vary in condition, from well-maintained to heavily potholed. Traffic in Accra is heavy and often chaotic, with drivers frequently not adhering strictly to traffic laws. Road signage may be poor or non-existent.

Risks & Conditions

  • Night driving holds particular risk due to inadequate lighting and unlit vehicles and pedestrians on roads.
  • Accra's internal road conditions also vary; many smaller streets may be unpaved and rough.
  • Traffic congestion is severe, especially during rush hours; significant travel delays may result.

Road Safety & Rental Advice

Inter-city highways linking major cities usually hold fair to good condition, but rural roads may be unpaved and difficult, especially during the rainy season. High accident rates, aggressive driving, poorly maintained vehicles, and livestock on roads concern drivers.

Driver Considerations

  • Renting a car with a driver often comes recommended over self-driving.
  • This option also bypasses the need for an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Motorcycle and scooter rentals are generally not advised due to significant safety concerns.

Driving Regulations

  • Ghana operates on the right side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits vary by area and road type.
  • Parking may be difficult in busy areas; paid parking lots stand available in some commercial centers.
  • High accident rates and aggressive driving occur.
  • Poorly maintained vehicles and livestock on roads pose concerns.

Sea/River Arrivals & Departures

Tema Port Arrivals

Accra's main deepwater port is Tema Port, located a short drive east of Accra. This port mainly handles cargo, also acting as a port of call for some international cruise lines. Passenger ferry services do not are a common mode of international transport to Accra.

Port Procedures

  • For cruise passengers, immigration procedures are similar to those for air travel.
  • Valid passports, visas (if applicable), and Yellow Fever vaccination certificates are needed.
  • Upon disembarkation, visitors find taxis and private transfers available at Tema Port to Accra.

River & Specialized Transport

River transportation options generally limit to specific regions outside Accra, like Lake Volta, and hold no relevance for arriving in Accra itself. The city also contains no cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like those in some mountainous or highly developed tourist destinations.

Mobility Considerations

  • Accra’s infrastructure generally holds challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Pavements are often uneven or non-existent, and public transport remains inaccessible.
  • Specialized transport typically needs pre-arrangement with private providers capable of delivering accessible vehicles and assistance.

International Departures

When departing from Accra, most international travelers depart through Kotoka International Airport (ACC).

Departure Timing

Arrival at ACC at least three hours before scheduled departure comes recommended for international flights.

Important Reminders

Ample time exists for check-in, security screening, and immigration exit formalities. All documents should be in order.

Traffic & Road Conditions

Traffic Challenges

Traffic in Accra is heavy and often chaotic, with drivers frequently not adhering strictly to traffic laws. Road signage may be poor or non-existent. Night driving holds particular risk due to inadequate lighting and unlit vehicles and pedestrians on roads.

Rush Hour Impacts

  • Traffic congestion is severe, especially during rush hours.
  • Significant travel delays may result from congestion.
  • Reliance on GPS and local knowledge for navigation is common.

Road Quality

Road conditions within Accra itself also vary. Major roads generally appear paved, but many smaller streets may be unpaved and rough. Inter-city highways linking major cities usually hold fair to good condition, but rural roads may be unpaved and difficult, especially during the rainy season.

Navigating Variations

  • Main urban roads typically paved.
  • Smaller streets can be unpaved and rough.
  • Consider carrying a portable car jump starter, especially if self-driving outside city limits.

General Safety Reminders

Driver Conduct

High accident rates, aggressive driving, poorly maintained vehicles, and livestock on roads concern drivers. Vigilance is advised.

Night Driving

Avoid night driving when possible due to inadequate lighting and presence of unlit obstacles.

Parking

Parking may be difficult in busy areas; paid parking lots stand available in some commercial centers and malls.

Travel Planning Summary

For inter-city travel, choosing reputable bus companies like VIP Jeoun or STC for a more comfortable and reliable experience comes recommended. Book tickets in advance, especially during holidays.