Thinking of taking a road trip from Nigeria to Ghana by road? You’re not alone. Whether you’re heading to Accra for business, exploring West African culture, or relocating, the journey by road offers a scenic and exciting experience. But how long does it take, and what should you expect on the way?
This guide breaks down routes, travel time, documents needed, safety tips, and other essential travel info so you’re fully prepared.
Nigeria to Ghana by Road—Quick Overview
| Route | Distance | Estimated Travel Time | Countries Crossed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lagos to Accra (via Seme & Aflao) | ~463 km (287 miles) | 9–10 hours | Nigeria → Benin → Togo → Ghana |
| Lagos to Accra (via coastal highway) | ~470 km | 10–12 hours | Nigeria → Benin → Togo → Ghana |
Distance & Travel Time
- Driving Distance: ~462.9 km from Lagos to Accra
- Average Duration: 9 to 10 hours (without long delays)
- Reality Check: Travel time can increase due to:
- Border delays
- Road conditions
- Weather or holiday traffic
- Customs checks
Common Road Routes
1. Via Seme Border & Aflao Border
- Route: Lagos → Seme (Nigeria/Benin) → Cotonou → Lomé → Aflao (Togo/Ghana) → Accra
- Estimated Time: ~9–10 hours
- Why It’s Popular:
- More direct route
- Paved highways throughout
- You pass through three capital cities: Cotonou, Lomé, and Accra
- Aflao is Ghana’s main border crossing
2. Via Coastal Highway (Benin & Togo)
- Route: Lagos → Porto-Novo → Cotonou → Lomé → Accra
- Estimated Time: ~10–12 hours
- Highlights:
- More scenic
- Slower traffic due to more local towns
- Great if you want to stop and explore coastal markets or beaches
READ MORE: Full List of NECO Offices in Nigeria (Addresses & Contact Info by State – 2025 Guide)
Border Requirements: What You’ll Need
Personal Documents:
- Valid Passport (at least 6 months left before expiry)
- ECOWAS Travel Certificate (for Nigerian citizens – alternative to passport)
- Ghana Visa (Not needed for Nigerians due to ECOWAS agreement)
- Yellow Fever Card (highly recommended)
Vehicle Documents (if driving your own car):
- Vehicle Registration
- International Driver’s Permit
- ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance (covers cross-border liability)
- Customs Papers or Vehicle Entry Permit
Health Guidelines:
- Check current COVID-19 or vaccination requirements.
- Some borders may require hand sanitizers or masks (2025 update: most protocols relaxed).
Bus Travel from Nigeria to Ghana
If you prefer not to drive, several transport companies offer luxury bus services from Lagos to Accra:
Trusted Bus Operators:
- ABC Transport
- Chisco Transport
- GUO Transport
- Efex Executive Travel
Cost:
- ₦35,000 – ₦50,000 (2025 estimates depending on class)
Duration:
- 10–12 hours, depending on boarding time and traffic
Flights: A Faster Option
If you’re in a hurry, direct flights are available from Lagos to Accra.
- Airlines: Air Peace, Africa World Airlines, Ibom Air
- Flight Time: ~1 hour 15 minutes
- Cost: ₦100,000 – ₦200,000 (depending on date and booking platform)
Travel Tips
- Start early – Leave Lagos by 6:00 AM to avoid traffic.
- Keep cash in local currencies – You’ll need Naira, CFA (Benin & Togo), and Ghanaian Cedis.
- Avoid border touts – Politely decline unsolicited help.
- Plan stopovers – Consider breaks at Cotonou or Lomé to stretch and refresh.
- Fuel up – Get a full tank in Lagos or Cotonou. Petrol may be pricier in Togo/Ghana.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How many hours is Nigeria to Ghana by road?
9–12 hours, depending on the exact route, traffic conditions, and how long you spend at border crossings.
- If you’re traveling through Seme Border (Nigeria–Benin), then Aflao Border (Togo–Ghana), the trip is more straightforward and can take around 9 to 10 hours under smooth conditions.
- However, heavy traffic in Lagos, unexpected border delays, bad weather, or multiple customs checks can easily stretch the journey to 12 hours or more.
Do I need a visa to enter Ghana from Nigeria?
No. If you are a Nigerian citizen, you do not need a visa to enter Ghana.
- Both countries are members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), which allows for visa-free travel between member states.
- However, you still need a valid passport or ECOWAS Travel Certificate, and a Yellow Fever vaccination card is often requested at the Ghanaian border.
Is it safe to travel from Lagos to Accra by road?
Yes, it is generally safe—but with some precautions.
- Stick to daytime travel; avoid night driving due to poor road lighting and safety concerns.
- Travel with reputable bus companies like ABC Transport, GUO, or Chisco, or with experienced private drivers.
- Keep your documents (passport, travel certificate, yellow card, vehicle papers) in a secure and accessible place.
- Avoid accepting help from touts at the border, and only interact with uniformed immigration officials.
- Keep emergency cash (in local currencies: Naira, CFA Francs, and Ghanaian Cedis) on hand.
What’s the fastest way to get to Ghana from Nigeria?
By air.
- The quickest and most convenient way to travel from Lagos to Accra is via a direct flight, which takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Airlines operating this route include Air Peace, Africa World Airlines, Ibom Air, and sometimes Arik Air.
- While more expensive than road travel, flying is ideal for those with limited time or who prefer to skip the stress of border checks.
Can I drive a Nigerian-registered car into Ghana?
Yes, you can, but be prepared with all required documents.
- Vehicle Registration Certificate
- International Driver’s License (or a valid Nigerian license if accepted)
- ECOWAS Brown Card Insurance – mandatory for cross-border driving
- Customs permit or Temporary Vehicle Importation permit (obtained at the border)
- Be ready to pay a border entry fee, and your car may be inspected.
- Also note: road rules and fuel prices may vary in Benin, Togo, and Ghana.
How many borders will I cross from Nigeria to Ghana?
Three international borders:
- Nigeria–Benin via the Seme Border
- Benin–Togo border (commonly near Hilacondji)
- Togo–Ghana via the Aflao Border
At each border:
Border wait times can range from 15 minutes to over 2 hours, depending on the time of day and traffic volume.
You’ll go through exit and entry immigration processes, including document checks and sometimes luggage inspection.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re road-tripping for leisure, business, or relocation, the journey from Nigeria to Ghana by road offers a window into West Africa’s rich diversity. With proper planning, the right documents, and a sense of adventure, you’ll find the trip both rewarding and memorable.
