Intro & Overview
Traveling from Accra to Bolgatanga, the capital of Ghana’s Upper East Region, is one of the longest intercity bus journeys in Ghana. At over 800 km, this trip takes travelers from the southern coast of Accra through Kumasi, Tamale, and the Northern corridor before reaching Bolgatanga, near the Burkina Faso border. The route by Accra Street Journal is a lifeline for traders, students, and families traveling between southern Ghana and the far north.
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Distance: ~820 km
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Average Duration: 15–18 hours (depending on stops and road conditions)
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Main Route: Accra → Kumasi → Tamale → Walewale → Bolgatanga
Transport Options
Bus Operators & Stations
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STC Intercity (State Transport Company)
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Premium long-distance coaches with air conditioning and scheduled rest stops.
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Accra Terminal: Circle (Kwame Nkrumah Interchange)
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Arrival: Bolgatanga STC Yard (near central market)
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Fare: GHS 400 – GHS 500
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Comfortable, widely used by traders and long-distance travelers.
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Accra Terminal: Circle (Neoplan Station)
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Arrival: Bolgatanga VIP Terminal
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Fare: GHS 380 – GHS 480
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OA Travel & Tour
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Executive coaches with overnight and early-morning departures.
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Arrival: Bolgatanga OA Station (near Bolga main park)
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Fare: GHS 350 – GHS 450
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Metro Mass Transit (MMT)
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Most affordable option, though slower and less frequent.
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Accra Terminal: Kaneshie Station
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Arrival: Bolgatanga Lorry Park
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Fare: GHS 300 – GHS 350
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Travel Tips
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Safety: Use major operators like STC, VIP, or OA for reliability on this long route.
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Luggage: Pack light but securely. Label bags as they may be moved during rest stops.
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Rest Stops: Buses usually stop in Kumasi, Tamale, and Walewale. Carry snacks, water, and a power bank.
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Overnight Travel: Some operators run evening trips. Carry light bedding (shawl/blanket) for comfort.
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Border Notes: Not a cross-border trip, but Bolgatanga is close to Burkina Faso. If continuing to Ouagadougou, travelers may connect via Paga border.
Practical Info
Contact Numbers & Booking
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STC Intercity: +233 302 229 383 | stc.com.gh
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VIP Jeoun Transport: +233 302 228 601 | Booking at terminals
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OA Travel & Tour: +233 302 225 600 | Reservations by phone
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Metro Mass Transit: +233 302 229 920 | Tickets sold at stations
Booking Options
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STC: Online booking (Visa, MasterCard, Mobile Money).
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VIP & OA: Tickets mainly at terminals, some mobile money reservations available.
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Metro Mass: Cash-only at lorry parks.
FAQs – Accra to Bolgatanga Bus Travel
Q1: How long does the trip take?
Between 15–18 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
Q2: What is the cheapest option?
Metro Mass buses, with fares between GHS 300–350.
Q3: Can I travel overnight?
Yes. OA and STC operate overnight coaches for passengers who prefer evening departures.
Q4: Are there rest stops?
Yes, typically in Kumasi (meal stop), Tamale (midway break), and Walewale (final stretch stop).
Q5: Can I book online?
Yes, with STC. VIP and OA usually require in-person ticket purchases.
Q6: Is the road safe?
Generally yes, though fatigue is a risk on long trips. Reputable operators schedule driver breaks.
Q7: Can I continue to Burkina Faso from Bolgatanga?
Yes. Travelers can connect via the Paga border to Ouagadougou using local buses or taxis.
Source: Accra Street Journal
Last Updated on September 27, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
Disclaimer: Some content on Accra Street Journal may be aggregated, summarized, or edited from third-party sources for informational purposes. Images and media are used under fair use or royalty-free licenses. Accra Street Journal is a subsidiary of SamBoad Publishing Hub under SamBoad Business Group Ltd, registered in Ghana since 2014.
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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.
