Things To Do
in Kumasi
Known as the heart of the Ashanti region, this vibrant city boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, epitomized by the Manhyia Palace and the Ashanti King's annual Akwasidae festival. It's a bustling hub of Ghanaian culture, offering colorful markets like Kejetia, reputed to be West Africa's largest open-air market, where artisans sell kente cloth, carved wood, and traditional jewelry.
Additionally, Kumasi serves as an educational center with numerous institutions, including Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, contributing to its reputation as a city of innovation and learning.
- "Me da wo ase" - Thank you
- "Yɛn ara nsɛm" - It's our matter
- "Ɛyɛ" - It is good
- "Odo yɛ" - Love is
- "Kɔtɔkɔ" - Go well
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Kejetia Market, one of the largest open markets in West Africa. Here, you can experience the vibrant culture and shop for local goods.
Head to the Manhyia Palace Museum to learn about the Ashanti Kingdom's history. The museum showcases artifacts and the culture of the Ashanti people.
Enjoy a traditional Ghanaian dinner at a local eatery. Savor dishes like Jollof rice and banku while enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Visit the Kumasi Cultural Centre to see traditional crafts and performances. Engage with local artisans and discover the artistry that defines Ghanaian culture.
Make your way to the Central Market for lunch and local handicrafts. Sample street food and shop for unique items made by local craftsmen.
Wrap up the day with a visit to a local bar or cultural night spot. Enjoy live music and dance performances that reflect Ashanti traditions.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Accessibility to various markets and trade opportunities.
- Beautiful natural surroundings and proximity to attractions like Lake Bosomtwe.
- A warm and welcoming community with friendly locals.
- Growing infrastructure and development, including educational institutions.
- Traffic congestion and poor road conditions in some areas.
- Limited access to healthcare facilities compared to larger cities.
- Challenges with waste management and sanitation.
- Economic disparities and poverty in certain regions.
- Occasional power outages and unreliable utility services.
Best Activities in Kumasi
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the lush forest, go birdwatching, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Relax by the scenic crater lake, go fishing, or take a boat tour.
Visit the village known for its traditional Kente weaving and observe the craftsmanship.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kumasi with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kumasi
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful market with photo opportunities of local goods and bustling activity
Historic site with beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings
Lush green campus with modern and traditional architecture, great for photography
Food in Kumasi
Kumasi Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A quintessential Ghanaian dish, banku - a fermented corn and cassava dough - paired with grilled tilapia offers a delightful blend of textures and flavors. Try this dish at Asanka Local in Adum.
Must-Try!
Fufu, made from cassava and plantain, served with light soup, is a beloved staple in Kumasi. Experience this traditional meal at Ahenfie Restaurant in Asokwa.
A popular West African rice dish cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, often accompanied by grilled chicken or fish. Sample delicious jollof rice at Ike's Cafe and Grill in Suame.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kumasi better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore the bustling Kejetia Market in the city center, where you'll find an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls offering local favorites such as waakye, kelewele, and bofrot.
For an evening culinary adventure, head to Pampaso Night Market and savor an array of street food delights, from grilled kebabs to waakye served in plantain leaves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kumasi, Ghana, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Handshakes should be firm but not overly aggressive, and it is respectful to use the right hand for greetings and other social interactions.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Kumasi's culture. It is important to show deference and politeness towards older individuals, and use respectful language and gestures when interacting with them.
When visiting Kumasi, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or traditional events. Wearing attire that covers shoulders and knees is considered appropriate and respectful.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kumasi with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kumasi
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kumasi, Ghana, tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated in the service industry. It is common to tip 5-10% of the total bill at restaurants and cafes. Additionally, tipping hotel staff, taxi drivers, and tour guides is also appreciated.
Cash is the primary method of payment in Kumasi, Ghana. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It is important to carry enough cash for daily expenses and transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kumasi.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit as there is little rainfall and the weather is cooler. It's also festival season, with events like the Ashanti Yam Festival and the Ohum Festival. Expect higher tourist numbers and lively cultural celebrations.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. While the countryside is lush and beautiful, outdoor activities may be limited. This is also a quieter time for tourism, with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices for accommodations.
Kumasi at Night
Hiking in Kumasi
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
This location offers nice walking trails and a serene environment, making it ideal for casual hikes amidst nature.
Located near Kumasi, this reserve features a network of trails through lush greenery, perfect for hikers looking for a peaceful escape.
Though primarily a lake, the surrounding areas provide scenic walking trails with beautiful views and a relaxing atmosphere for hikers.
This park includes trails that provide a nice area for hiking while enjoying the local flora and fauna.
A bit further from Kumasi, this forest offers a variety of trails amidst rich biodiversity, catering to both novice and experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kumasi through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kumasi by plane.
Located in Accra, approximately 250 km southeast of Kumasi, it is the main international airport in Ghana.
Located in Tamale, about 200 km north of Kumasi, it serves domestic and limited international flights.
Located in Kumasi, it is the city's own international airport serving both domestic and limited international routes.
Located in the Western Region of Ghana, about 300 km southwest of Kumasi, it handles domestic flights primarily.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Kumasi, representing a large portion of the population. The Ashanti people are known for their rich cultural heritage and the Ashanti Kingdom.
Includes people from various regions of Ghana and neighboring countries who have moved to Kumasi for economic opportunities, contributing to the city's diverse demographic.
A larger ethnic grouping that includes the Ashanti and other groups like the Fante and Akuapem, who share linguistic and cultural traits.
Comprising smaller percentages of the population, these groups include Ewe, Dagbani, and Ga-Dangme, among others, each bringing their unique cultures to Kumasi.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from other countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Kumasi.
The Soul of Kumasi
Discover the essence of Kumasi through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kumasi, with a strong local following and numerous clubs. The city is home to the famous Asante Kotoko SC, one of the most successful football clubs in Ghana.
Basketball is gaining popularity in Kumasi, especially among the youth. Local leagues and schools often host basketball competitions.
Athletics, including track and field events, is widely practiced in Kumasi, with many schools and organizations promoting various athletic competitions.
Volleyball has a growing presence in Kumasi, with both recreational and competitive play encouraged in schools and community centers.
Boxing is a well-respected sport in Kumasi, with several clubs that train boxers for local and national competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kumasi.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Ghanaian cuisine often features meat and fish, many restaurants in Kumasi offer vegetarian and vegan versions of classic dishes, such as red-red made with plantains and black-eyed peas, and kontomire stew prepared without meat.
Diners with gluten restrictions can find options like grilled plantains, steamed yams, and light soups thickened with cornflour, as well as international cuisines offering gluten-free pastas and breads.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Kumasi with these cultural adventures.
