Things To Do
in Tafo
Tafo is a vibrant suburb of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region of Ghana, known for its bustling markets and friendly locals. The area blends traditional Akan culture with modern Ghanaian life, offering colorful markets, street foods, and easy access to the wider Ashanti heartland. As a residential and commercial hub, Tafo serves as a gateway to both urban experiences and nearby natural landscapes.
Visitors should expect warm hospitality, lively streets, and opportunities to explore authentic Ghanaian daily life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Upon arrival in Tafo, you will be greeted by the vibrant sights and sounds of this lively town. Take some time to settle into your accommodation and refresh yourself after your journey. A stroll through the local markets will give you a first taste of the culture and warmth of the people.
After lunch at a local eatery, visit the nearby attractions such as the Tafo Technical Institute to learn about the educational initiatives in the area. Engage with friendly locals and get an insider's perspective on the community. This is a great opportunity to take photographs and soak in the surroundings.
Enjoy a traditional Ghanaian dinner at a local restaurant where you can try the famous jollof rice or banku. After dinner, take a leisurely walk around the town square, where you might encounter street performances or music. Relax and enjoy the cool evening breeze, mingling with the local residents.
Start your day by visiting the local historical sites, including the sacred grove which is vital to the local tradition. Take a guided tour to learn about the significance of these locations and the history of the Akuapem people. Participate in a morning prayer session, feeling the spiritual energy around you.
After a cultural immersion, head to a pottery workshop where you can observe artisans at work and try your hand at creating your own piece. Enjoy a light lunch with traditional meals prepared by local families. Experience the beauty of collaborative art making and learn the importance of crafts in Ghanaian culture.
As the sun sets, take part in a community drumming and dancing session. Join in the festivities, and feel the rhythm of the vibrant music. Share stories over a bonfire, enjoying the camaraderie of locals and other travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $20-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant markets and warm hospitality
- Close access to nature and cultural sites
- Often crowded markets can be overwhelming
- Travel from Tafo to other regions may require planning around traffic
- "Maakye" - Good morning
- "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
- "Medase" - Thank you
- "Aane" - Yes
- "Dabi" - No
- "Kosɛ" - Sorry / Excuse me
- "Ɛhe na ... wɔ?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Tafo
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful morning market scenes with traders, clay pots, and textiles.
Vast market with vibrant stalls, spices, textiles, and daily hustle; ideal for street photography.
Historic palace with colonial-era architecture and ceremonial surroundings.
Modern riverside park with water features and landscaped views.
Scenic lake and surrounding hills offering sunrise and sunset photography opportunities.
Food in Tafo
Tafo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled tilapia and pepper sauce.
Must-Try!
Pounded cassava and plantain dough served with a light meat-based soup.
Tomato-based fried rice often served with chicken or fish.
Spiced fried plantains seasoned with ginger and pepper.
Beans stewed in red palm oil with fried plantain.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering fruits, spices, gari, and street snacks.
One of West Africa's largest markets with a variety of prepared foods and snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and ask about wellbeing; address elders with titles; maintain polite tone.
Dress modestly in public and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in some spaces.
Use the right hand for giving/receiving and paying; do not show the soles of feet when seated.
Seek permission when entering ceremonial spaces and follow local guidelines.
Safety
Tipping in Tafo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up at restaurants and hotels; small tips for taxi and guide services.
Cash (GHS) is common; many places accept mobile money (e.g., MTN Mobile Money) and card payments in larger establishments; carry some cash for markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days, cooler nights, lower humidity; ideal for outdoor sightseeing, but carry water and sun protection.
Occasional showers; humidity rises; good for lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
Heavy rain showers and possible floods; plan indoor activities and carry rain gear.
Better visibility and pleasant days; occasional showers; increasing humidity toward November.
Tafo at Night
Hiking in Tafo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hiking trails around the Bosomtwe crater lake with scenic viewpoints.
Hills near Kumasi offering viewpoints and forest scenery; suitable for a half-day hike.
Airports
How to reach Tafo by plane.
Main international gateway to Ghana; good connections to major world airports; drive or fly to Kumasi or Tafo afterwards.
Domestic airport serving Kumasi; convenient for quick trips within Ghana; check schedules as services can be limited.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in Tafo and Kumasi; strong cultural traditions and Akan language (Twi).
Presence of university communities and growing tech/entrepreneurial scene; frequent markets and cafes.
Active street markets and craft production, especially in Tafo and Kejetia.
Residential neighborhoods with daily routines around markets and schools.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the area; local clubs and matches are widely attended.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tafo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes can be prepared without meat; opt for bean stews, maize porridge, and plantains; ask for vegetable versions of soups and stews.