Kumasi to Bolgatanga by road

Driving from Kumasi to Bolgatanga

The whole trip is one road. The N10 leaves Kumasi northwards through Offinso to Techiman, a major market town, then on to Kintampo, where the forest gives way to open savanna, and across the Black Volta at Buipe before the straight run into Tamale.

Tamale, about 375 km from Kumasi, is the natural halfway point. From there the N10 continues north through Savelugu, Pong-Tamale, Nasia and Walewale, then enters the Upper East Region for the last stretch to Bolgatanga.

It is a long day. The northern half is long and straight with few towns, so it is tempting to speed: watch for slow trucks, animals and cyclists on the shoulder, especially near villages.

By bus or trotro

Intercity coaches run from Kumasi to Tamale and on to Bolgatanga, and overnight buses are common. Many buses from Accra to Bolgatanga also pass through Kumasi.

You can also go in two legs, Kumasi to Tamale and then Tamale to Bolgatanga, which makes it easy to break the trip.

New to trotros? Read how to ride a trotro. Fares change often, so check at the station before you travel. For live directions — by car, bus, motorbike, bicycle or on foot — open Bolgatanga on the Lincoln Navigation map. It shows road hazards other drivers have reported and the weather along the way.

Tips for the trip

• Fill up in Techiman, Kintampo or Tamale: fuel stations are further apart on the northern stretch.
• Avoid driving the northern section after dark if you can.
• Bolgatanga is known for its woven straw baskets, and Paga's crocodile ponds are a short drive further north.