Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip Itinerary
The Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip is an amazing journey that starts in Accra, the capital of Ghana, and ends in Cotonou, Benin. This 1253 km journey will take about 12 days and the best time of the year to do it is during the dry season, between November and March.
Along the way, there are some amazing historical sites, UNESCO World Heritage monuments, and beautiful coastal views. The roads are generally in good condition, although some parts are curvy and narrow. It is important to be aware of border crossings and other potential delays.
This road trip is suitable for every driver and can be managed with a fair budget. It is an experience that will provide you with an incredible level of memories and experiences that you will never forget.
12
number of days
1,250 km
route length
moderate
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Accra
Distance 1,250 km
Driving time 27.2 h
Pace: modest
325.1 kWh
Airports
ACC
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Accra, the capital of Ghana, is a great place to begin the "Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip". This bustling city is full of life and offers something for everyone. You can explore the vibrant markets, visit the National Museum of Ghana, or take a stroll along the beach. For a unique experience, visit the Makola Market, a bustling market that is home to a variety of goods.
The closest international airport to Accra is Kotoka International Airport (IATA: ACC). From here, you can rent a car and begin your road trip. There are a number of car rental companies to choose from, including Hertz, Avis, and Budget.
Accra is also a great launching point for your road trip. From here, you can explore the nearby towns of Aburi and Akosombo, take a boat ride on Lake Volta, or visit the Kakum National Park. Further down the coast, you can explore the towns of Elmina and Cape Coast and their stunning colonial architecture.
No matter what your plans are, Accra is a great place to start your "Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip". With its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and easy access to the rest of the country, you can be sure that your journey will be an unforgettable one.
1
Accra
- Kumasi
Distance 249 km
Driving time 5.4 h
Pace: modest
64.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a 249 km road trip from Accra to Kumasi, a journey that will take you less than 5 hours. You will pass through some of the most fascinating regions of Ghana. As you drive, take time to explore the historical sites, such as the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, or the old colonial buildings in Accra. Enjoy the stunning views of the lush, green countryside and winding roads. Be aware that some sections of the road will be narrow and very winding. Make sure you take frequent rest stops to enjoy the beauty of the area. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning landscapes and landmarks. When you reach Kumasi, visit the Kejetia Market, a vibrant and bustling market with an array of colors and cultures. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the way, take a look at the Itinerary of this stage. Have a great time on your journey!
Kumasi - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - Millennium Cities Initiative - Columbia University
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2
Kumasi
- Elmina
Distance 227 km
Driving time 4.7 h
Pace: modest
58.9 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Kumasi to Elmina, a 227km journey with driving time of fewer than 5 hours. Along the way you will discover some of Ghana’s most fascinating historical sites, including the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Manhyia Palace and Fort St. Jago. You will enjoy the scenic drive, with winding roads and narrow sections. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the rainforest and the Atlantic Ocean. Be sure to make the most of your road trip and explore the unique cultural and historical attractions of these two cities. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to take a look at the Itinerary of this stage. With careful planning, this road trip will be an unforgettable experience!
Elmina - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - The Conversation
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3
Elmina
- Accra
Distance 153 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: modest
39.8 kWh
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If you're looking for an exciting road trip, then start your journey in Elmina, Ghana and drive through the 153 km to Accra. You will get to experience the beauty of the coast of Ghana and explore some of its historical sites, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Along the way, you can stop and explore the small towns of Cape Coast and Elmina. These towns offer a variety of attractions, including a variety of museums, historical sites, and beautiful beaches. You can also take in the beautiful scenery as you drive. The drive will take less than four hours, so it's the perfect way to spend a day. Be sure to look out for interesting attractions and local points of interest along the way. For more detailed information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along this route, please check the Itinerary of this stage.
Accra - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - pixabay.com
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4
Accra
- Lomé
Distance 196 km
Driving time 4.0 h
Pace: modest
51.1 kWh
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Are you looking to take a road trip from Accra, Ghana to Lomé, Togo? Look no further! This 196km journey is sure to be enjoyable, taking less than 4 hours to complete. Along the way, you'll cross the border between Ghana and Togo, so make sure you have all the proper documentation. Keep your eyes open for interesting sites, from historical landmarks to incredible natural scenery. You can find more information about this stage of the trip in the "Itinerary" section, including attractions, accommodation options, restaurants, and campsites. So what are you waiting for? Start your engine and get ready for an unforgettable journey from Accra to Lomé!
Lomé - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Lomé
- Ouidah
Distance 115 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
30.0 kWh
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Embark on a 116 km road trip from Lomé, Togo to the city of Ouidah and explore the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads along the way. Drive through the enchanting countryside and cross the Togo-Benin state border. Along the way, you'll be able to visit the Sacred Python Temple in Ouidah, a historical monument that's been around since 1721. You'll also get to explore the Tofinu Sacred Grove and the Sacred Tree of Ouidah. In less than three hours, you'll have a chance to discover the wonders of this region and the cultures that have shaped it. Make sure to take advantage of the breath-taking views of the Atlantic Ocean as you drive along the coast. Don't forget to take plenty of photos to remember your journey! For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Ouidah - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
Ouidah
- Abomey
Distance 116 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
30.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Welcome to the Ouidah-Abomey road trip! This 116 km route takes you through some of the most exciting and beautiful sites of West Africa. The drive takes around 3 hours, and along the way you will encounter some of the most impressive UNESCO World Heritage sites. The road is narrow in some sections, so be sure to keep your eyes open for interesting sights! As you drive, you will pass through the former capital of the Dahomey kingdom, the Royal Palaces of Abomey, and the Sacred Forest of Ouidah. You will also have the chance to explore the Sacred Lake of Xwéda, the Temple of Pythons, and the Door of No Return. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along your route, be sure to check out the Itinerary section of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Abomey - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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7
Abomey
- Cotonou
Distance 194 km
Driving time 5.0 h
Pace: slow
44.7 kWh
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Starting in Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and ending in Cotonou, this 197 km road trip will take you through the fascinating cities of Benin. Along the way, you will pass through Porto-Novo, the political capital of the country, so be sure to take a moment to appreciate its beautiful colonial architecture. During your drive, you can also take a few detours to explore some of the historical sites in the region, as well as the scenic roads that will take you through the lush Beninese countryside. For those looking for a longer trip, this stage of the journey is only the beginning; more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites can be found in the Itinerary. With fewer than 5 hours of driving time, this is an excellent road trip to experience the incredible culture and landscapes of Benin.
Cotonou - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - Britannica
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Cotonou
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Cotonou is the bustling capital of Benin and the last stop on the "Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip". This vibrant city is a delightful mix of traditional West African culture and modern energy.
For travelers looking to explore the area, Cotonou has much to offer. The Grand Marché of Dantokpa is one of the largest markets in West Africa, where visitors can find local crafts, traditional clothing, and delicious street food. The Fidjrossè Lagoon is a picturesque spot for a day of sightseeing, and the nearby beaches are a great place to catch a sunset.
The History Museum of Cotonou is a must-see for those interested in learning about the city’s past. It contains artifacts and exhibits from the pre-colonial era through the present day. The nearby Ouidah Museum of History is also worth a visit. It is dedicated to the history of the slave trade in the area.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Cadjehoun Airport (COO) located about 10 kilometers from Cotonou.
The end of the "Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip" in Cotonou is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With its bustling markets, stunning scenery, and captivating history, this vibrant city is a must-visit destination.
Cotonou - Ghana - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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Along the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Accra
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End:
Cotonou
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Distance:
1,250 km
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Stay:
12 days
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Getting there:
Kotoka International Airport (ACC)
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When to drive:
January, February, March, April, September, October, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
The Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip is a captivating expedition stretching approximately 1,253 kilometers from the bustling city of Accra, Ghana to the vibrant streets of Cotonou, Benin. This scenic route is dotted with historical landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and breathtaking coastal vistas, offering travelers a unique blend of cultural enrichment and natural beauty.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
The adventure begins in Ghana's capital, Accra, where visitors can immerse themselves in the city's lively markets and rich cultural heritage. As you journey eastward, you'll have the opportunity to delve into the poignant history of the transatlantic slave trade with visits to the Cape Coast Castle and Elmina Castle, both recognized by UNESCO for their historical significance. Natural wonders such as the Wli Waterfalls, Ghana's highest waterfall, provide a refreshing contrast to the historical narrative. Along the route, travelers can also revel in the vibrant arts, music, and cuisine that are integral to West African culture.
Best Time to Go:
To make the most of your Road Trip, plan to travel between November and March. During these months, the region experiences its dry season, offering clear skies and temperate conditions that are ideal for both coastal drives and inland exploration.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should exercise caution on Roads that may be narrow or winding, especially in rural areas. Border crossings between countries can introduce delays, so it's important to stay updated on current regulations and carry all necessary documentation. Additionally, some areas may have less developed infrastructure, so it's wise to plan your route carefully.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
- The Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip is accessible to drivers of all skill levels and can be undertaken with a modest budget.
- The cities along the coast are melting pots of indigenous and colonial cultures, offering insights into the complex histories of these West African nations.
- The region is known for its diverse ecosystems, from lagoons and mangroves to forests and savannas, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
A good choice for:
Setting off on the Gulf of Guinea Coast Road Trip means embarking on a journey rich with historical resonance and natural splendor. This Road Trip promises an array of indelible experiences, allowing travelers to delve deep into the heart of West African life and landscapes. With careful preparation and an adventurous spirit, this route will lead you on a voyage through time, culture, and the stunning tableau of the West African coast.
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