Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra may not be one of the biggest airports in the world, but it’s definitely one of the busiest in Africa. Run by the Ghana Airports Company Limited (GACL), it’s the main gateway to Ghana, serving numerous destinations worldwide. If you’re heading that way, here’s the inside scoop on its facilities, getting around, and other travel tips to make your trip a breeze.
Airport overview
ACC serves as Ghana’s primary international gateway, connecting travelers to destinations across the globe. The airport has quite a history: it started as a military facility used by the British Royal Air Force during World War II, then got renamed to honor Lieutenant General Emmanuel Kwasi Kotoka. Since then, it’s undergone several expansions to keep pace with growing passenger numbers.
The airport has 2 main terminals in operation. Terminal 2 handles domestic flights while Terminal 3 serves international routes. Remove this sentence entirely, or rephrase to: The airport has 2 main terminals in operation, with Terminal 2 handling domestic flights and Terminal 3 serving international routes.
Transportation to and from ACC
ACC Airport is about 10 km (roughly six miles) from the city center, and you’ve got a few ways to get back and forth.
Renting a car at the airport
If you have an international driver’s permit and a license from home, you could rent a car from places like Avis and Hertz. But let me be straight with you: renting a car in Ghana can be challenging. The driving conditions can be tricky and the signage is sparse. If you’re up for the adventure, you can find rates and booking info at the car rental booths located outside the Arrivals hall at Car Park 2.
Rideshares and taxis
Rideshare companies like Uber and Bolt operate in Accra and offer a convenient, cost-effective way to reach the city center. Drivers often prefer cash, so grab some Ghanaian cedi from an airport ATM or currency exchange before you head out. You’ll find both metered taxis and pool taxis at Car Park 5, though I’ve got thoughts on which option works better.
You’ll also find metered taxis and public pool taxis at Car Park 5. Labour Enterprise Trust Co. Ltd. operates the metered taxis, and they’re usually pricier than rideshares. They charge GHS 10.00 for the first kilometer, then GHS 0.10 for each additional 100 meters.
While metered taxis have set rates, you can negotiate fares for pool taxis, so always agree on a price before you get in. You could also try the public buses or minibuses (locals call them “tro-tros”), but figuring out their routes is an art form. I wouldn’t recommend it for first-timers.
For convenience and safety, I reccomend Uber over traditional taxis. The prearranged fares and GPS tracking just make life easier. Another solid bet is booking a transfer through your hotel. It might cost a bit more, but some spots, like the Kempinski Hotel Gold Coast City Accra, even offer complimentary shared airport shuttle services (arranged via their Concierge).
Arriving at ACC
You can fly into ACC with many different airlines, including big names like Air France, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, British Airways, Qatar Airways, South African Airways, and United Airlines.
Here’s something you absolutely need to know: Ghana requires a valid Yellow Fever vaccination certificate for entry, no exceptions. If you show up without one, you won’t get into the country. The good news is you can get vaccinated at Terminal 3’s Port Health services if you’re in a bind, though I’d recommend handling this well before your trip.
After your certificate is checked, you’ll head to immigration where an officer will check your passport and visa. Then it’s off to baggage claim to grab your stuff before going through customs.
If you want to make things even easier, a few fast-track airport assistance services can help you out. They aren’t affiliated with the airport, but they offer perks like baggage handling and help with immigration to let you skip the lines for a quicker arrival.
Security lines at the airport
As a major hub in West Africa, ACC sees a lot of foot traffic, so security lines can be unpredictable depending on the time of day and year. The airport has multiple checkpoints that meet international standards.
My advice? GACL recommends checking in at least two hours before departure, though airline policies may vary, so I’d still get there with plenty of cushion for ticketing, security and any unexpected hold-ups.
Some airlines have self-check-in kiosks (currently available for KQ, SAA and KLM passengers), but the option is still a bit limited. Even with the potential for long lines, the security process here is generally well-organized.
Lounges
ACC has 4 private lounges, with the Akwaaba Lounge, Sanbra Priority Lounge, and Adinkra Lounge in Terminal 3, plus another Adinkra Lounge in Terminal 2. Premium cabin passengers can get in, and Priority Pass membership is accepted at all four lounges. Day passes are also available if you want to buy your way into some comfort.
The Sanbra Priority Lounge in Terminal 3 serves international passengers and is open 24/7, but it can get crowded. The Adinkra Lounge in Terminal 2 is just for domestic travelers, while its sister lounge in Terminal 3 is for international flights. If I had to pick a favorite, the Adinkra Lounge in Terminal 3 is my top pick.
Day pass rates are pretty reasonable, making the lounges a tempting option. Even when they’re busy, it’s usually comfortable and beats waiting at the gate. You can even pop out to shop or eat and come back, but just know that seating is limited, so you might lose your spot.
Dining venues
The terminals at ACC have a good mix of places to eat and shop. My favorite spot is Café Kwae, which serves up a nice selection of local and international food. If you’re in Terminal 2 and need a quick bite, dining options include Alf & Gina, Cafe Aleeno, La Tante Royale, Wok Inn, and Muttina Bacci.
Over in Terminal 3, there’s a food court on the level 4 mezzanine with vendors like Wafflemania, Seoul Grill, Cho!, The Pub, Café Mondo, and Beans & Creams. You’ll also find vending machines scattered around if you just need a snack.
Wi-Fi at Kotoka International Airport
ACC offers free Wi-Fi in Terminals 2 and 3. Just connect to the “KIA FREE WIFI” network and follow the prompts. The lounges have Wi-Fi too, included in their amenities, and there are plenty of outlets throughout the airport to charge your devices.
The internet works well inside the airport, but it gets spotty the second you step outside, and cell service isn’t always reliable. It’s a good idea to do all your important searches and make any calls while you’re still in the terminal.
Here’s a pro tip I live by when traveling in places like this: even though I love digital boarding passes, I always get a paper copy. Wi-Fi and cell signals can be fickle, so I also screenshot my boarding pass and save it to my phone’s gallery. That way, I know I can access it no matter what.
Special services at the airport
The airport has medical services available 24 hours - the Airport Clinic (about 500 meters from the terminal) offers comprehensive services including dental, physiotherapy, pediatric and gynecological care, while Port Health in Terminal 3 provides Yellow Fever vaccination and primary services. For a fee, you can get your luggage wrapped by Wraprite in Terminal 3. And here’s a nice little perk: luggage carts are free to use, which is a welcome touch you don’t always find at other airports.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
