How to Get to Tamale. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Tamale

Airports & Airlines

Tamale Airport (TML) serves as the main domestic airport for the Northern Region, handling flights mainly from Accra. Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra is Ghana's main international gateway.

Domestic Flight Options

African World Airlines (AWA) operates daily flights between Accra (ACC) and Tamale (TML).
PassionAir also offers daily flights connecting Accra (ACC) and Tamale (TML).
No direct international flights to Tamale. Every international flights arrive at Accra (ACC).

Flight Availability & Airport Facilities

Domestic flight prices between Accra and Tamale can vary based on demand, especially during peak travel seasons, holidays, and major festivals.

Airport Information

Prices generally increase closer to travel date; booking in advance is a good idea. Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for deals.
Tamale Airport (TML) has basic facilities; limited dining, shops, or lounges.
Accra's Kotoka International Airport (ACC) offers wider facilities, including currency exchange and restaurants.

Tamale Airport Transfers

Taxis are readily available outside Tamale Airport (TML) terminal. Discuss the fare with the driver before starting your journey. Some larger hotels may offer pre-arranged shuttles.

Accra Domestic Connection

The domestic terminal at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is a quick walk or shuttle ride from the worldwide terminal. Obey signs for domestic flights upon arrival.

Fair Taxi Fares

Consistently haggle taxi fares before getting into the car at Tamale Airport. This custom prevents misunderstandings and makes sure a fair price for your journey.

Land Transportation

Long-Distance Bus Options

Buses are a common and affordable inter-city travel mode to Tamale.
VIP Jeoun Transport, STC, OA Transport, and Metro Mass Transit are key companies.
Regular services connect Tamale to Accra (10-14 hours) and Kumasi (7-9 hours).
Book inter-city bus tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times.

Border Crossings & Trains

Ghana shares land borders with Togo, Burkina Faso, and The seaside of'Ivoire.
Paga border post for Burkina Faso access, requiring passport, visa, Yellow Fever certificate.
No active passenger train services connect Tamale to other key cities.
Sea/River arrivals are not applicable for tourist travel to inland Tamale.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-Driving Caution

Self-driving is not typically recommended for tourists as a result of demanding street conditions and unfamiliar driving customs. DiscoverCars.com for car rentals.

Driving Requirements

An International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driver's license are needed. Renting a car with a local driver is highly advised for safety and practicality.

Road Hazards

Highways have chuckholes. Rural roads are often unpaved and rough. Reckless driving, pedestrians, cyclists, and fauna share roads. Avoid night driving.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

Departure taxes for international flights from Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra are usually included in your airfare. No specific exit fees are generally billed for domestic flights setting off from Tamale Airport (TML).

Departure Tax Inclusion

International flight departure taxes are included in your ticket price.
Domestic flights from TML do not incur additional exit fees.
Verify the price inclusions when acquiring tickets.

Departure Procedures & Facilities

Plan your departure smoothly by understanding exit procedures and allocating sufficient time at the airport or bus station.

Departure Timing & Amenities

For domestic flights from Tamale, arrive 1-2 hours before departure for check-in and security.
For long-distance buses, get THERE 30-60 minutes before scheduled departure; delays are possible.
Tamale The airport has simple waiting areas, check-in, and security; limited retail/dining.

Bus Terminal Facilities

Coach terminals provide basic facilities, including waiting areas, places to buy tickets, and often informal food vendors where travelers can grab a snack before their journey.

Comfort at the Terminal

Waiting areas are available.
Box offices for purchase/inquiries.
Informal food vendors for quick meals.

Pre-Departure Check

Double-checking your flight or bus schedule on the eve of departure it's advisable to avoid surprises.

Final Departure Advice

Confirm your schedule 24 hours prior.
Be aware of the location of your departure point.
Consider possible traffic or unexpected delays.

Airport Facilities & Services

Tamale Airport TML

A relatively small domestic airport with basic facilities, including a terminal building, check-in counters, and baggage claim.

Limited Amenities

Do not expect extensive duty-free shops, luxury lounges, or a wide range of dining options at TML.

Accra Airport ACC

Accra's international the airport has a broader range of facilities, including currency exchange, ATMs, duty-free shops, restaurants, plus lounges.

Travel Flexibility

While direct international flights to Tamale are unavailable, the domestic connections from Accra are frequent.

How to Get to Tamale