Getting from Accra to The Gambia by bus is a serious overland journey. No, there is no direct bus . You will need to change vehicles at least once, perhaps twice. The good news is that several bus operators connect this route in stages. The journey covers roughly 2,700 kilometres and will take over two days of solid travel . It is tiring and requires patience, but it is a practical way to travel across West Africa by road.
Can You Travel from Accra to The Gambia by Bus?
Yes, you can. There are two main bus routes. One goes via Kumasi, and the other goes via Lomé, Togo, and Bamako, Mali . The Kumasi route is often cited as the cheaper option . The Lomé route, while slightly longer, is a common path used by long-haul bus operators .
The following table breaks down the two options :
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| Route | Journey Stages | Estimated Travel Time | Transport Operators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Via Kumasi | Accra → Kumasi → Avenue de l’O.U.A → Banjul | 2 days, 6 hours | STC, Africa Tours Trans |
| Via Lomé | Accra → Lomé → Bamako → Banjul | 2 days, 5 hours | STM Voyageurs, Billet Express, Africa Tours Trans |
Which Countries Will You Cross?
The route you choose determines the countries you will pass through .
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Via Kumasi Route: You will travel through Ghana and then enter The Gambia directly. This route does not cross into other West African countries.
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Via Lomé Route: You will cross the borders of Togo and Mali before entering The Gambia.
Where to Start the Journey in Accra
Your starting point depends on the route you choose .
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For the Lomé route: Depart from the Circle Bus Station in Accra. The primary operator is STM Voyageurs .
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For the Kumasi route: You can depart from Tema with STC .
Practical Tips:
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Booking: It is highly advisable to book tickets for the long-haul legs in advance.
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Arrival: Arrive at the station at least one hour before departure.
Bus Fares and Estimated Transport Costs
Transport fares are typically quoted in US dollars or CFA francs. Here is the estimated breakdown based on current information . Please note that these are estimates and can change.
| Journey Stage | Estimated Fare (USD) | Transport Operator |
|---|---|---|
| Accra to Lomé | $19 – $27 | STM Voyageurs |
| Lomé to Bamako | $85 – $130 | Billet Express or similar |
| Bamako to Banjul | $40 – $80 | Africa Tours Trans |
| Total (via Lomé) | $144 – $237 | |
| Accra to Kumasi | $10 – $15 | STC |
| Kumasi to Banjul | $80 – $100 | Africa Tours Trans |
| Total (via Kumasi) | $90 – $115 |
Note: Transport fares can change due to fuel prices, exchange rates, season, demand, road conditions and decisions by transport operators. Travellers should confirm current prices before departure.
How Long Does the Journey Take?
The actual bus travel time is about 50 hours spread across two days. However, border crossings can be slow and unpredictable. Including layovers, you should plan for at least two to three days for the entire journey .
| Journey Stage | Estimated Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Accra to Lomé | ~3.5 hours |
| Lomé to Bamako | ~26 hours |
| Bamako to Banjul | ~21 hours |
Visa and Entry Requirements for Ghanaian Travellers
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The Gambia: Ghanaian citizens do not need a visa to travel to The Gambia. This is because Ghana is a member of ECOWAS, and ECOWAS nationals are exempt from entry visa requirements . You can stay for up to 90 days .
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Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months on your intended date of leaving The Gambia .
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Yellow Fever Certificate: This is required for entry into many West African countries. You must carry your international yellow fever vaccination certificate.
Note: Visa and immigration rules can change. Always verify the current requirements before your trip.
What About Visa Requirements for Transit Countries?
| Country | Ghanaian Traveller Requirement | Important Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Togo | ECOWAS – Visa-free | Free movement for up to 90 days . |
| Mali | ECOWAS – Visa-free (likely) | Free movement for up to 90 days. Check for any recent changes. |
| The Gambia | ECOWAS – Visa-free | Free movement for up to 90 days . |
Travellers should confirm the current entry or transit requirements with the relevant embassy, immigration authority or official government source before travelling.
What to Expect at the Border
Border crossings on this route are often slow. You will typically leave the bus, go through passport control for an exit stamp, walk to the other country’s immigration post, and get your entry stamp. Officials may ask for your yellow fever certificate . Keep your documents handy and be patient.
How Much Money Should You Budget for the Entire Journey?
A realistic budget must account for more than just bus fares.
| Expense | Budget Range (USD) |
|---|---|
| Total Bus Fare (Accra – Banjul) | $90 – $237 |
| Accommodation (Layovers) | $20 – $40 |
| Food & Water | $30 – $60 |
| Local Transport & Emergencies | $50 – $100 |
| Total Estimated Budget | $190 – $437 |
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Low-budget estimate: $190 – $250.
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More comfortable estimate: $350 – $450.
Currency and Money Matters
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The Gambia: The currency is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD) .
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Transit Countries: The West African CFA franc (XOF) is used in Togo and Mali.
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Cash is King: US dollars are widely exchangeable. Ghana cedis (GH₵) will not be useful outside Ghana. Exchange your cedis for US dollars or CFA francs before you leave.
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ATMs/Cards: ATMs are available in major cities but are not always reliable. Card acceptance is limited.
Language and Communication
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Official Language (The Gambia): English .
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Widely Spoken: Mandinka, Wolof, Fula.
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Transit Countries: French is the official language in Togo and Mali.
What Should You Pack?
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Passport & Visa: Valid passport, visa printout if required.
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Copies: Photocopies of your passport (keep separate from originals).
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Vaccination Certificate: International Yellow Fever Certificate.
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Cash & Cards: US dollars, CFA francs, and a backup card.
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Phone & Chargers: Power bank is essential.
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Water & Snacks: Carry your own water and non-perishable snacks.
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Medication: Personal prescription medication.
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Clothing: Modest and comfortable clothing suitable for a long journey.
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Toiletries: Include hand sanitizer and toilet paper.
Where Will You Arrive?
The final bus terminates at the main bus station in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia. You may need to take a taxi to your hotel. Taxis are widely available; negotiate the fare before you get in.
Final Thoughts on Travelling from Accra to The Gambia by Bus
Travelling from Accra to Banjul by bus is a long journey across West Africa. There is no direct bus, and border crossings can be unpredictable. The main advantage for Ghanaian travellers is that you won’t need a visa for The Gambia or Togo. Success depends on preparation—having enough cash, patience, and understanding that delays are part of the experience.
For more destinations, transport options and road travel guides, explore our Complete Travel Guide from Accra.
Source: Accra Street Journal
Last Updated on September 5, 2026 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.
