Things To Do
in Kintampo
Kintampo is a town in Ghana's Bono East region, gateway to dramatic savanna landscapes and cascading waterfalls. It blends rural charm with accessible natural sights, from the famous Kintampo Falls to nearby crater lakes. Life moves at a warm, relaxed pace, with markets, friendly locals, and simple, hearty meals shaping daily rhythms.
With a compact layout and nearby day-trip options, Kintampo offers an affordable, authentic Ghanaian travel experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing breakfast at a local eatery, enjoying traditional Ghanaian dishes. After breakfast, embark on a scenic hike to the Kintampo Waterfalls, where you'll be surrounded by lush greenery and the soothing sounds of cascading water. As you approach the falls, take a moment to capture the beauty of the landscape and prepare for a swim in the natural pool beneath the falls.
After a morning of exploration, enjoy a picnic lunch at a designated area near the waterfalls, taking in the serene environment. Post-lunch, you can engage in activities like bird watching or simply relax by the water while soaking in the natural beauty around you. The vibrant flora and fauna provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely afternoon.
As the sun begins to set, return to Kintampo town and explore its lively street market. Sample local snacks and drinks, mingling with friendly locals who can share stories about the rich culture of the area. Conclude your evening with a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, savoring flavors that reflect Ghanaian culinary heritage.
Wake up early and head to a nearby village to experience the rich culture of the local tribes. Participate in a traditional dance workshop, where you'll learn about the meaning behind various dances and their significance in local celebrations. This interactive session allows you to connect with local artisans and understand their crafts firsthand.
After a morning filled with cultural learning, enjoy a traditional lunch prepared by the villagers, featuring local delicacies. Following lunch, visit the local market where you can purchase handmade crafts, woven textiles, and other souvenirs to take home. Engage with the locals, who are eager to share stories and the history of their community.
Return to Kintampo for a relaxing evening at your accommodation, reflecting on the day's cultural experiences. Consider visiting a local bar to enjoy traditional music and dance performances, immersing yourself further in the local vibe. As the night unfolds, savor a light dinner, perhaps trying a local favorite like kelewele or jollof rice.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $3-6 |
| 🛏️Guesthouse per night | $15-30 |
| 🧭Local bus/tro-tro fare | $0.50-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Gateway to Kintampo Falls and nearby natural sights
- Affordable accommodations and food
- Friendly, welcoming local communities
- Limited large-city amenities and nightlife
- Rougher roads and limited public transport options outside town
- "Maakye" - Good morning
- "Meda wo ase" - Thank you
- "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
- "Ɛyɛ me dɛ" - I like it
Places to Visit in Kintampo
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic waterfall with a natural pool and lookout points—best captured in the early morning light or late afternoon when crowds thin.
A caldera lake set in a quiet landscape; bring a wide-angle lens for sweeping horizon shots and a zoom for wildlife along the rim.
Vibrant daily life, colorful fabrics, and bustling stalls provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Sunrise or sunset vantage points offer warm light and expansive views over the surrounding plains.
Food in Kintampo
Kintampo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A smooth starchy dough served with a light tomato-based soup; widely available in local eateries.
Must-Try!
Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and pepper sauce.
Boiled plantain or yam served with a rich palm-nut soup.
Maize-based dough served with a leafy ayoyo soup; a hearty staple in the region.
Yam cooked in a savory sauce with fried or grilled fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Main market with fresh produce, grains, fish, and ready-to-eat street snacks like roasted plantains and fried fish.
Small, informal vendors offering quick bites, fruit cups, and grilled skewers along the main streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet locals politely with a friendly nod or short greeting in the local language and English. Show respect to elders and community leaders; use the right hand for giving and receiving items.
Modest clothing in villages; avoid loud, flashy attire in sacred or community spaces. Ask permission before taking photos of people or homes.
Safety
Tipping in Kintampo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants, guides, and drivers. Common practice is small amounts in cash (5–10% where applicable) or rounding up fares.
Cash (GHS) is widely used in markets and smaller eateries. Some hotels and larger restaurants accept mobile money or cards, but plan to pay cash for most day-to-day purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Lush landscapes, frequent showers, and higher water levels in falls and streams. Pack a rain jacket, quick-dry clothing, and waterproof footwear; trails can be slippery but photography benefits from dramatic skies.
Hot and dusty with cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures. Good visibility for clear photos; carry sun protection, hydration, and a hat. Harmattan winds can dry the air in some months.
Kintampo at Night
Hiking in Kintampo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail leading to the waterfall and vantage points for photography.
Rim-to-rim hiking with panoramic views of the crater and surrounding landscape.
Forest trail through a sanctuary known for its resident monkeys and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Kintampo by plane.
Major international gateway; long road transfer to Kintampo (approx. 430 km).
Closest regional airport with domestic flights; roughly 60–70 km from Kintampo.
Regional hub with national and some international connections; about 180–220 km away.
Northern gateway; significantly farther but serves as an alternative for overland itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with Akan language influences; English is widely spoken for business and tourism.
Many residents speak Twi and other Akan languages alongside English.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport; local leagues and informal games are common in town streets and schools.
Running and track events at schools and community centers; local meetups occasionally organized.
Casual wrestling and street games sometimes showcased during festivals and market days.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kintampo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ghanaian dishes center on vegetables and grains. Request vegetarian versions of stews (without meat or fish) and rely on soups, beans, yams, plantains, and banku with vegetable mixtures. Clearly communicate any allergies at markets and restaurants.