Tamale to Kumasi by road

Driving from Tamale to Kumasi

From Tamale the N10 runs south in a long, straight line across the savanna to Buipe, where it crosses the Black Volta, and on to Kintampo, often called the geographic centre of Ghana.

South of Kintampo the land becomes greener and the road reaches Techiman, a major market town in the Bono East Region, then Offinso and Kumasi as the forest thickens.

The northern half has 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

STC, VIP and other intercity coaches run between Tamale and Kumasi, and many Tamale–Accra buses also pass through Kumasi. Overnight buses are common.

Minibuses run in shorter hops — Tamale to Techiman, Techiman to Kumasi — if you want 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 Kumasi 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 Tamale before you leave and again in Kintampo or Techiman; fuel stations are further apart on the northern stretch.
• Avoid driving the northern section after dark if you can.
• Techiman is a good place to stop for food and to stretch your legs.