International Bus Stations in Accra: Where to Travel to West Africa by Road

Travelling from Accra to other West African countries by bus is a practical and affordable way to explore the region. Unlike the more organised systems you might find in Europe or North America, Accra’s international bus network is centred around a few key terminals. Most international services originate from the Circle (Obetsebi-Lamptey Circle) area, which is the primary hub for long-distance travel in the capital . Here’s an ASJ guide to the main departure points and where they can take you.

The Main Hub: Circle Bus Station

Circle is the beating heart of Accra’s transport network and the main departure point for international buses . It’s more of an area with several terminals than a single station, so knowing which operator you’re travelling with is essential. The primary operators that depart from here for international destinations are STC and STM Voyageurs.

Major International Bus Operators and Destinations

Intercity STC Coaches Limited

STC is one of Ghana’s oldest and most reputable state-owned transport companies, offering a safe and comfortable option for international travel . While the company has faced challenges in recent years, it remains a key player in the region, and the government has pledged support to revamp its operations .

• Key Terminals: STC’s main terminal for international departures is located in the Circle area, near the Vodafone Head Office on Kwame Nkrumah Avenue .

• Destinations & Travel Times:

  • Lomé, Togo: A very popular and convenient short-haul route. The journey takes about 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on border clearance .

  • Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso: A longer journey, typically taking 24 to 28 hours .

  • Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire: Another frequent international route .

  • Cotonou, Benin: STC also serves this route .

• Approximate Fares:

  • Accra to Lomé: GH₵ 250 – 350 (~$18–25) .

  • Accra to Ouagadougou: GH₵ 800 – 1,200 (~$60–90) .

• Booking: It’s highly recommended to book tickets at least a day in advance, especially for long-haul trips . You can book at the STC terminal or via phone.

STM Voyageurs

STM Voyageurs is another major operator running frequent services to key West African destinations from the Circle Bus Station .

• Key Terminals: Departs from the Circle Bus Station in Accra .

• Destinations & Travel Times:

  • Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire: Buses run up to four times daily, with a journey time of roughly 8.5 to 11 hours .

  • Lomé, Togo: A direct and very regular service, with up to three departures daily . Travel time is similar to STC, around 3.5–5 hours.

• Booking: It is advisable to book in advance, especially for the longer trips to Abidjan.

Other Services (Including Connections)

While there are no direct buses from Accra to all West African capitals, connecting services exist.

• Nigeria: While the search results are slightly outdated, companies like ABC Transport operate buses from Accra to Lagos. The average journey time is about 8 hours and 30 minutes . For the most current schedule and pricing, you should contact operators directly or check at the Circle Bus Station.

• Longer Journeys (Multi-Stage):

  • Senegal (Dakar): There is no direct bus. The journey involves multiple changes, typically via Lomé (Togo), Bamako (Mali), and then on to Dakar. This is a multi-day expedition .

  • Niger (Niamey): Similarly, no direct service exists. Travel involves changes, often in Abidjan or Ouagadougou .

  • Guinea-Bissau (Bissau): This is a significant expedition with at least four bus legs, typically via Lomé, Bamako, and Banjul (The Gambia) .

What to Expect at Accra’s International Bus Terminals

Accra’s bus stations are bustling, lively, and can seem chaotic to a first-time visitor . Here’s what you should be prepared for:

• Arrival and Departure: Arrive early—at least an hour before your scheduled departure. This gives you time to find your bus, load your luggage, and secure a good seat. The “shadows” and “balabala” (station helpers) described in the search results are a real part of the ecosystem, so be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure .

• Border Crossings: The bus company will usually handle the logistics, but you’ll be required to get off the bus with your luggage for immigration and customs checks at the border. This process can be slow and time-consuming, so be patient . The main crossing to Togo is at Aflao .

• Fares and Currency: Fares are typically quoted in Ghana Cedis (GH₵). However, it’s wise to carry some US dollars or West African CFA francs (XOF) for expenses outside Ghana and in transit countries . Expect to need cash for meals, snacks, and small purchases.

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

Samuel Kwame Boadu

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.

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