Things To Do
in Boankra

Boankra is a small inland town in the Ashanti Region near Kumasi, notable for its evolving transport links around the inland port project and lakeside scenery. The area blends agricultural villages with developing industrial zones and easy access to the richer cultural heritage of the region. Visitors can explore local markets, sample traditional Ghanaian dishes, and use Boankra as a gateway to Kumasi's historic sites.

The climate is tropical, with warm days, cooler evenings, and defined wet and dry seasons that shape daily life.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Traditional Markets
morning
:

Start your day by visiting the vibrant Boankra market, where local farmers and artisans showcase their fresh produce and handmade crafts. Engage with the friendly vendors to learn about the unique products of the Ashanti region. Enjoy a traditional breakfast of kelewele (spicy fried plantains) from a local stall as you soak in the lively atmosphere.

afternoon
:

After lunch, take a stroll through the market's winding paths, discovering textiles, jewelry, and other crafts that reflect the rich culture of Ghana. Make sure to bargain for a few souvenirs to take home, as this is a cherished local practice. Finish your afternoon by visiting a nearby cocoa farm to learn about the cocoa production process, a vital part of Ghana's economy.

evening
:

As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a local eatery where you can sample traditional Ghanaian dishes like jollof rice and grilled tilapia. Engage with locals and share stories about your experiences throughout the day. Conclude your evening by attending a cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance, immersing yourself in the local heritage.

day 2
Cultural Immersion at Ashanti Heritage Museum
morning
:

Visit the Ashanti Heritage Museum, where you’ll discover the rich history and traditions of the Ashanti people. Start your exploration with guided tours that delve into artifacts, royal regalia, and the significance of the Ashanti kingdom. Take your time to absorb the stories behind each exhibit and their cultural relevance.

afternoon
:

After lunch at a local restaurant, participate in a workshop where you can learn traditional crafts such as kente weaving or wood carving. This hands-on experience will give you a deeper appreciation for the skills and artistry of the Ashanti people. Spend the remainder of the afternoon taking pictures of the stunning artworks displayed throughout the museum grounds.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet evening at a nearby café, sipping on traditional Ghanaian drinks like sobolo (hibiscus tea) and savoring local pastries. Share your thoughts about the day's experiences with fellow travelers or locals you’ve met. As night falls, take a peaceful walk around the area, appreciating the calm and starry skies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant$20-40
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$3-6
🏨Budget hotel per night$25-50
🛒Groceries for a week$25-60

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close access to Kumasi and cultural attractions
  • Growing transport links and lakeside scenery
  • Boankra itself has limited amenities compared to Kumasi
  • Nightlife and dining options are more limited than larger cities
  • "Agoo" - Hello
  • "Mepa wo ky3w" - Please
  • "Medase" - Thank you
  • "Wo ho te sen?" - How are you?
  • "Aane" - Yes
  • "Daabi" - No
  • "Nante yie" - Goodbye
  • "Mepa ky3w" - Excuse me / Please

Places to Visit in Boankra

Visit one of these nice places.

Boankra Inland Port viewpoints

Elevated vantage points and shoreline reflections during sunrise and sunset.

Lake Bosomtwi shoreline at sunset

Golden light over the water with silhouettes of boats.

Kejetia Market observation deck

A colorful, bustling scene with traders and shoppers for wide-angle shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Boankra

Ghanaian cuisine in this region emphasizes starch bases, fresh fish from local waters, and flavorful soups and stews. You will encounter a mix of roadside stalls and chop bars offering tasty, affordable meals and a strong Ashanti culinary influence.

Boankra Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fufu and light soup

A staple dish of pounded cassava and plantain served with a light peppery soup.

Must-Try!

Banku and tilapia

Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled or fried tilapia and a pepper sauce.

Tuo Zaafi (TZ) with soup

Soft maize dough served with a hearty vegetable or palm-nut soup.

Kelewele

Spiced fried ripe plantains that are a popular street snack.

Red Red

Beans cooked in palm oil with fried plantains and avocado often as a hearty meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kejetia Market (Kumasi)

One of West Africa's largest markets with fresh produce, roasted plantains, and quick bites.

Abinkyi Street Food Corridor

A cluster of vendors offering snacks, grilled meats, and local beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

The region has a tropical climate with a warm, humid rainy season and a hot, dry season. Typical daily temperatures range from the mid 70s to the low 90s Fahrenheit (24-34 C). Humidity is high year-round, with rainfall concentrated in the two main rainy seasons.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings and Respect

Greet elders first, use polite phrases, and project calm body language; smiling is common and respectful.

Right hand rule

Use the right hand for giving and receiving items as a sign of respect.

Photography consent

Ask for permission before photographing people, especially elders or in intimate settings.

Safety Guide

Safety

Exercise usual travel precautions: keep valuables secure, travel with reliable transport, and avoid poorly lit areas at night. Petty theft and scams can occur around busy markets; use licensed taxis and keep friends informed of your plans. Water and road safety are important during the rainy seasons when surfaces can be slick.

Tipping in Boankra

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Consider 5-10% in restaurants and small tips for drivers and porters.

Payment Methods

Cash in Ghanaian cedi is widely accepted; mobile money (MTN, AirtelTigo) is common for small payments and transfers; credit cards are less commonly accepted outside larger hotels.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to March)

Warm days with cooler evenings; low rainfall makes outdoor activities and travel easier.

Rainy Season (April to June and September to October)

Afternoon downpours and lush greenery; plan for mud and occasional travel delays.

Harmattan Influence (December to February)

Mornings can be hazy and dustier; pack a light scarf and stay hydrated.

Nightlife Guide

Boankra at Night

Boankra and Kumasi offer modest nightlife with bars and live music in the city. Expect relaxed venues, casual atmospheres, and social gatherings around weekends; most people enjoy a local drink, share meals, and listen to Afrobeats and Highlife music.

Hiking in Boankra

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Lake Bosomtwi Shoreline Trail

A scenic lakefront path ideal for easy hikes and photography.

Boankra Wetlands Boardwalk

Gentle boardwalk through wetlands with birds and water features.

Assin Manso Forest Trail

Forest trail offering shade and wildlife viewing near Kumasi.

Airports

How to reach Boankra by plane.

Kumasi International Airport (KMS)

Closest major airport serving the region; domestic and limited international flights; taxi or car transfer to Boankra.

Kotoka International Airport (ACC) – Accra

Main international hub; many connections; road or air travel to Boankra is common.

Getting Around

Walkability

Boankra offers limited walkability within the town but is walkable to the lakefront and nearby market areas. For longer trips, taxis and local buses are common. Kumasi town center is more pedestrian-friendly with dense markets, cultural sites, and cafes.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Akan (Ashanti)

Major ethnic group in the area; Twi is widely spoken and English is used in business and schools.

Other groups

Ewe, Dagomba, and other groups contribute to a diverse mix across the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The dominant sport with local clubs and school competitions.

Athletics and traditional games

Running events and cultural games in communities and schools.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Boankra is generally light, with heavier flows into Kumasi during peak hours. Local transport includes tro-tro minibuses and shared taxis; some routes rely on bicycles and motorbikes. Rainy season can slow travel due to slick roads and minor flooding near waterways.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Boankra.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Ask for vegetables, bean stews, and fufu or banku with vegetable soups; many chop bars can accommodate with a vegetable option.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is primarily found in Kumasi with larger hospitals and private clinics. Boankra residents typically access care there or in Ejisu; basic care and pharmacies are available locally, with pharmacies stocking common medicines.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide