Tro tros
Tro tros are private owned minivans that hold approximately 16 to 24 people and are designed to hold as much luggage as people. Tro tros are uncomfortable, and somewhat dangerous, but offer a very exciting adventure, therefore they are recommended for short journeys only.
You can hail a tro tro anywhere along the road or from outside the terminal. There is no timetable nor a map with a route. Tro tros wait until they are full and then it’s ready for departure.
The tro tro fares are very low since the rates are set by the government.
Taxis
The most efficient way to travel in the cities is probably taking a taxi and they are everywhere! Some taxis are metered and registered while other taxis are not registered and prices should negotiated.
All the taxis in Ghana have a yellow painted mudguard, so that makes it easy to distinguish them. The taxi driver picks and drops passengers along the road and expats should remember the taxi service is a shared serviced, so there is no chance you will be alone in the taxi!
Bear in mind that if a taxi driver believes you are a foreigner, he automatically believes that you are rich! Note that you should always settle a fare before departure. Often a taxi driver might try to overcharge you especially if you’re foreign, so don’t be shy about bargaining.
Taxi fares start from GHS2 (US$0.90) for the shortest journeys, up to GHS20 (US$ 9) for a trip to the airport. If you travel within the city limits, the fare will be between GHS2 (US$0.90) and GHS6 (US$2.60).
Airtravel
Flying between the major cities is the fastest way to travel. Citylink, Starbow, Africa World Airlines and Antrak Air are the major domestic airlines operating in Ghana and all have offices in Accra. Domestic flights are not that popular as they tend to be relatively expensive, and are therefore rarely full so there’s the possibility to book your flight at the airport.
All international flights are through Kotoka International Airport, located in Accra, that is served by both Western and African airlines. Kotoka airport is very central and lots of taxis and airport shuttles are available to take you to other parts of the city.
Other airports in Ghana are:
- Kumasi Airport (Kumasi)
- Takoradi Airport (Sekondi-Takoradi)
- Tamale Airport (Tamale)
Buses
Buses in Ghana are generally comfortable, fast and safe, however tickets cost between GHS14 (US$6) and GHS24 (US$10.50), depending on what type of bus you choose. Expats and travellers should remember buses in Ghana charge an extra fee for luggage.
There are several different bus companies such as Kingdom Transport Services, City Express, Metrobus and Ghana Private Road Transport Union (GPRTU). However, State Transport Company (STC) is the most comprehensive bus service.
State Transport Company (SCT) used to be wholly owned by the Ghanaian government, and is now partially privatised. It schedules bus services that run between most major cities.
It is recommended, where possible, to book your ticket days in advance because the air conditioned buses are much more comfortable and those tickets sell out faster.
The VIP bus company is comfortable and has more flexible timetables. Note that SCT and VIP only depart from the bus station that’s east of the Obetsebi Lamptey Circle in Accra.
Metro Mass Transit runs between cities and has much more flexible schedules. These buses are not fast because the pick up passengers along the road if seats are still available. Moreover, Metro mass is less expensive, however they provide the same level of comfort and safety as the STC service.