Practical information
Where to rent a car in Ghana?
Located in West Africa, Ghana's capital city is Accra, while the country's currency is the Ghanaian cedi. Overlooking the Gulf of Guinea, Ghana boasts beaches, history and culture aplenty. Its principle airport is Kotoka International Airport, which serves Accra and the surrounding areas, and welcomes arrivals from countries such as Belgium, South Africa and the USA. Kumasi International Airport is another international airport in Ghana, welcoming arrivals from around the world. There is a very limited rail network in Ghana, operating within a small area of the country; renting a car allows travelers the opportunity to explore more of the country on a much more flexible timetable. Car rental is available from a number of destinations, including Kotoka International Airport; companies offering car rental services include Avis and Europcar.
What are the driving rules in Ghana?
Ghana features a combination of road types: generally, city roads are better maintained than those in the countryside. To rent a car in Ghana, visitors will need an International Driving Permit as well as a valid driver's license. Driving is on the right-hand side of the road. Drivers are prohibited from using cell phones while driving, and seat belts must be worn at all times. Ghana operates a zero tolerance policy to drink driving, with a blood alcohol limit of 0.0‰. Care must be taken when driving in Ghana due to a combination of varying road conditions and unpredictable traffic; if possible, avoid driving after dark. When parking your car in Ghana, pay attention to street signs and be sure to keep car doors locked both while driving and while parked.
Road trips in Ghana
With a limited rail network yet lots to explore, renting a car in Ghana is a good way of seeing as much of the country as possible.
Accra
Ghana's capital city of Accra is located on the Atlantic Coast, and is home to Ghana's principle international airport – Kotoka International Airport. A cultural and artistic hub, the city is home to beaches, nightlife, museums and history, all of which make it a popular tourist destination. Must see sights in Accra include Elmina Castle, the National Museum of Ghana, and beaches such as Labadi Beach. From Accra, road trip destinations can be found along Ghana's coast. Around 95 miles away, Cape Coast is home to Cape Coast Castle, a former slave castle with a dark past.
Kakum National Park
Home to an area of protected rainforest as well as wildlife including hornbills, forest elephants and Diana monkeys, the Kakum National Park also features a 30m high canopy walk, which allows visitors to enjoy treetop views. Once you've experienced all the National Park has to offer, a number of sites can be found a short drive away. These include the Domana Rock Shrine and the nearby Monkey Forest Resort.
Kumasi
Competing with Accra for the title of Ghana's largest city, Kumasi is the capital of the country's Ashanti region and a bustling metropolis. Home to attractions such as the Manhyia Palace, the National Cultural Center, and the large Kejetia Market, it's a hub of Ashanti culture and tradition. Accra is around 160 miles away by road, making this a good road trip option from the Ghanaian capital (or vice versa).