THE SHORT VERSION / How to get around Accra
The easiest way to get around Accra during Detty December is ride-hailing with Uber, Bolt or Yango. Hire a driver for day trips like Cape Coast. Taxis work if you agree the fare first, and tro-tro minibuses are cheap but confusing for visitors. December traffic is heavy, especially around the airport and Tetteh Quarshie Interchange.
- Best for visitors
- Uber, Bolt, Yango
- Day trips
- Hire a driver
- Taxis
- Agree fare first
- Cheapest
- Tro-tro
- Traffic hotspot
- Tetteh Quarshie
- Airport
- Kotoka (ACC)
The 5 ways to get around Accra
- Ride-hailing (Uber, Bolt, Yango): reliable, cheap by international standards, and the best option for visitors.
- Hired driver: ideal for day trips (Cape Coast, Aburi, Kokrobite) and busy festival nights.
- Taxis: yellow-panelled taxis are everywhere. Agree the fare before you get in.
- Tro-tros: shared minibuses that follow set routes. The "mate" calls out destinations. Very cheap and very local.
- Walking: fine within Osu and parts of Labone during the day. Watch for open gutters.
Getting from Kotoka Airport
Kotoka International Airport (ACC) is close to the city. Osu, Cantonments and Airport Residential are usually 15 to 30 minutes away, longer in December traffic. Book ride-hailing from the pickup area or arrange a driver through your accommodation.
Accra traffic hotspots in December
| Area | Why it jams | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Tetteh Quarshie Interchange | Major junction linking the motorway and city | Avoid peak hours |
| Around the airport and Liberation Road | Airport traffic plus events | Leave early for flights |
| Spintex Road | Residential commuters | Travel off-peak |
| Oxford Street, Osu | December crowds | Get dropped off nearby and walk |
| Labadi Beach Road | Beach and event traffic | Arrive early on weekends |
Should I hire a driver in Accra?
For day trips and your biggest festival nights, yes. Drivers are affordable by international standards, and they save you from surge pricing and long waits after events. Agree the price, hours and fuel arrangements in advance.
5 tips for Accra transport
- Add extra time to every journey in late December.
- Share your ride with a friend using the in-app feature.
- Carry small cedi notes for taxis and tro-tros.
- Agree taxi fares first, and ask your accommodation what's fair.
- Book festival rides in advance or agree a pickup point. Surge pricing spikes at closing time.
THE PRACTICAL DETAILS
Book the essentials
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Frequently asked questions
Does Uber work in Accra?
Yes. Uber, Bolt and Yango all operate in Accra and are the easiest way for visitors to get around.
How far is Kotoka Airport from Osu?
Kotoka International Airport is usually 15 to 30 minutes from Osu, longer in December traffic.
What is a tro-tro?
A tro-tro is a shared minibus that runs on set routes around Accra and across Ghana. A conductor called the 'mate' calls out the destination and collects fares.
