Driving in Ghana: What Visitors Should Know

Driving in Ghana: What Visitors Should Know

Driving can be one of the most flexible ways to explore Ghana.

Having your own vehicle allows you to move at your own pace, make stops along the way and reach places that may be less convenient by public transport.

However, driving conditions can vary considerably between Accra, major highways, smaller towns and rural areas.

> Travel note: Road conditions, traffic patterns and local requirements can change. Always follow current road signs, official instructions and the conditions of your rental agreement.

Driving on Ghana's Roads

Ghana drives on the right-hand side of the road.

In Accra and other major cities, drivers should expect busy traffic, especially during morning and evening rush hours.

Outside the major cities, traffic may reduce significantly, but road quality can also vary.

Some main highways are in good condition, while smaller roads may have potholes, uneven surfaces, limited lighting or roadworks.

Yello Tip

Allow more time than your navigation app suggests, especially when travelling through Accra or other busy towns.

Driving Licence Requirements

Visitors should make sure they have the correct documents before driving.

Ghana's Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority manages driver licensing and vehicle documentation in the country.

International visitors may need an International Driving Permit or another recognised driving document depending on their circumstances.

Always carry the required driving documents with you when using a vehicle.

Yello Tip

Before renting a self-drive vehicle, confirm your licence eligibility with the rental company rather than assuming your home-country licence is automatically accepted.

Traffic in Accra

Accra traffic can be unpredictable.

A journey that takes a short time during quieter periods may take much longer during rush hour, on weekends, during major events or when there is heavy rain.

Some of the busiest periods are generally:

• Early mornings when people are travelling to work and school
• Late afternoons and evenings
• Friday evenings
• Holiday periods
• Times when major events are taking place

Yello Tip

If you have an airport departure, meeting or tour booked for a particular time, leave additional time for traffic.

Road Conditions

Road conditions vary throughout Ghana.

Main roads connecting major cities are generally easier to navigate, but conditions can change as you travel into smaller towns, rural areas or developing communities.

Drivers may encounter:

• Potholes
• Unmarked speed humps
• Road construction
• Pedestrians near the roadside
• Motorcycles and bicycles
• Animals crossing the road
• Vehicles stopping unexpectedly
• Limited street lighting outside major urban areas

The National Road Safety Authority advises drivers to respect posted speed limits and drive according to the road and traffic conditions.

Driving at Night

Night driving deserves extra caution.

Some roads outside major towns have little or no street lighting, making it harder to see pedestrians, animals, potholes or stationary vehicles.

Current travel guidance also advises additional caution with road travel outside major towns after dark because of both road-safety and security risks.

Yello Tip

For longer journeys, plan your departure so that most of your driving is completed during daylight hours whenever practical.

Speed and Road Signs

Always follow the speed limit shown on the road.

Speed limits can change depending on the type of road and location, so rely on posted signs rather than assuming one speed applies everywhere.

Extra care should be taken around:

• Schools
• Markets
• Residential communities
• Roadworks
• Pedestrian crossings
• Busy junctions

The National Road Safety Authority specifically advises drivers to remain within posted speed limits, particularly in areas with high pedestrian activity.

Fuel Stations

Fuel stations are widely available in Accra and along many major routes.

However, when travelling longer distances or heading into less populated areas, it is sensible to refuel before your tank becomes too low.

Yello Tip

If you are unfamiliar with your route, start longer journeys with enough fuel rather than planning to search for a station later.

Navigation

Google Maps and other navigation apps can be useful in Ghana, particularly around Accra and on major routes.

However, navigation apps should be treated as a guide rather than a guarantee.

They may sometimes suggest:

• Narrow residential roads
• Unpaved shortcuts
• Roads affected by construction
• Routes that are difficult during heavy rain

If a suggested road looks unsuitable, use a safer alternative rather than following the app blindly.

Police and Security Checkpoints

Drivers may encounter police or security checkpoints while travelling.

Slow down as you approach, follow instructions and keep your driving and vehicle documents accessible.

Remain polite and avoid sudden movements or unnecessary arguments.

Parking

Parking arrangements vary significantly depending on where you are.

Hotels, shopping centres, restaurants and major attractions often have designated parking areas, while parking in busy parts of Accra may be more limited.

Where possible:

• Use designated parking spaces
• Avoid blocking entrances or other vehicles
• Do not leave valuables clearly visible inside the vehicle
• Lock the vehicle whenever you leave it

Drinking and Driving

Do not drink and drive.

Ghana's National Road Safety Authority warns motorists against driving after consuming alcohol and publishes a legal blood-alcohol limit of 0.08%.

If you plan to drink, arrange for someone else to drive or use a chauffeured transport option.

Long-Distance Driving

Driving from Accra to destinations such as Cape Coast, Kumasi, Akosombo, Ho or Takoradi requires more planning than driving within the city.

Before leaving:

• Check your route
• Check fuel level
• Make sure your phone is charged
• Carry drinking water
• Allow extra time for delays
• Take breaks on longer journeys
• Avoid driving when tired

The National Road Safety Authority advises drivers to take rest breaks on very long journeys and warns against driving while tired.

Self-Drive or Chauffeured?

Both options can work well depending on your experience and travel plans.

Choose self-drive if:

• You are comfortable driving in Ghana
• You want maximum flexibility
• You prefer travelling at your own pace
• You are familiar with your destination or comfortable using navigation
• You want the freedom to make additional stops

Choose a chauffeured vehicle if:

• You are unfamiliar with Ghana's roads
• You prefer not to deal with traffic and navigation
• You have a long journey planned
• You are travelling for business
• You want to relax during the trip
• You plan to attend an event where you may not want to drive afterwards

Choosing the Right Vehicle

The vehicle you choose should match your route and number of passengers.

Sedan

A sedan can work well for:

• Accra driving
• Airport trips
• Major paved routes
• Couples and small groups

SUV

An SUV may be more suitable for:

• Longer journeys
• Additional luggage
• Families
• Routes where road conditions may vary

Larger vehicles

Vans and larger passenger vehicles may be better for:

• Families
• Tour groups
• Corporate travel
• Larger amounts of luggage

Before Starting Your Journey

Before driving away, check:

1. Your driving documents 2. Fuel level 3. Tyres 4. Mirrors 5. Seat belts 6. Lights 7. Navigation 8. Your planned route 9. Your expected arrival time 10. Emergency contact information

Need a Vehicle in Ghana?

Yello Automotive provides self-drive rentals and chauffeured vehicles for travel within Accra and to destinations across Ghana.

Whether you want the independence of driving yourself or would rather have a professional driver handle the journey, you can choose a vehicle based on your destination, group size and travel plans.

Explore available vehicles or book a chauffeured trip with Yello Automotive.

*Driving requirements, road conditions and regulations can change. Visitors should confirm current requirements with the relevant authorities and follow all posted road signs and official instructions.*