Things To Do
in Koforidua
Koforidua is a vibrant inland town in Ghana's Eastern Region, perched on the Akuapem Ridge with a cooler, breezier climate than the coast. It serves as a lively commercial hub with markets, crafts, and cocoa farming influences shaping daily life. The surrounding hills and nearby nature spots give the town a distinct blend of urban energy and rural charm.
Visitors will find friendly people, colorful markets, and easy access to nature within a short drive.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Koforidua and check in at your accommodation to freshen up after your journey. Take a leisurely stroll around the central plaza to get a feel for the town’s vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a local café to sample freshly brewed Ghanaian coffee.
Head to the Koforidua Flower Gardens to admire colorful blooms and lush greenery just outside the city center. Explore the nearby Nana Biribi Waterfalls as a gentle introduction to the region’s natural wonders. Enjoy a light picnic lunch by the cascading water.
Dine at a traditional chop bar to savor local specialties like fufu and light soup. Wander through the night market to browse handcrafted souvenirs and street snacks. Wind down with a cold sobolo drink under the starlit sky.
Set off early for the Obuo Tabri Waterfalls located north of town to beat the midday heat. Follow the well-marked trail through tropical forest, listening to birdsong and the rustle of monkeys overhead. Arrive at the first cascade in time for a refreshing swim in the natural pool.
Enjoy a packed lunch on a rock ledge overlooking the falls before hiking to the higher tiers. Pause to photograph the emerald pools and dramatic drops. Return slowly along the riverbank trail, stopping to spot colorful butterflies.
Relax back at your hotel with a soothing herbal bath to ease sore muscles. Order grilled tilapia and plantain from a nearby eatery for a hearty dinner. Reflect on your day’s adventure while sipping fresh coconut water.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🧃Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚗Local taxi or tro-tro short ride | $3-7 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $20-40 |
| 🛍️Souvenirs and crafts | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly locals and a welcoming vibe
- Affordable costs and easy access from Accra
- Access to Akuapem Hills, gardens, and local crafts
- Diverse markets and authentic Ghanaian cuisine
- Limited high-end nightlife and upscale dining options
- Roads can be affected by rain; driving can be slow at times
- Market crowds can be intense during peak hours
- Fewer English-speaking guides in very rural areas
- "Meda wo ase" - Thank you
- "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?
- "Ɛyɛ me dɛ sɛ me ne wo spoke" - Nice to meet you
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
- "Wobɛtumi aboa me?" - Can you help me?
- "Aane/Daabi" - Yes/No
Places to Visit in Koforidua
Visit one of these nice places.
Vibrant colors, stalls waking up, and the interplay of light between awnings and merchandise provide dynamic street photography opportunities.
Sweeping hills and misty mornings offer dramatic landscape shots and panoramic silhouettes of the town below.
Lush greenery, winding paths, and classical garden structures create a tranquil setting for nature photography.
Candid portraits of traders and artisans amid colorful textiles and wares, capturing daily life and culture.
Food in Koforidua
Koforidua Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Spiced fried ripe plantains, a popular street snack often enjoyed with peanut sauce or fresh tomatoes.
Must-Try!
Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled or fried tilapia and a spicy pepper sauce.
Black-eyed bean rice served with a variety of sides such as gari, spaghetti, boiled eggs, and sauce—great for a filling meal from street vendors.
A classic Ghanaian staple—pounded cassava and plantain dough served with a light spicy soup and meat or fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market where you can taste fresh fruit, roasted plantain, fried fish, and various stews from local vendors.
Temporary stalls offering grilled corn, akara (bean fritters), fried yam, and small meat skewers—perfect for an inexpensive meal on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a handshake; address elders with respect and courtesy. A warm, patient conversation goes a long way.
Dress modestly in markets and religious sites; avoid loud behavior in public spaces, especially in traditional communities.
Safety
Tipping in Koforidua
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, leave a small tip (5–10%) if service charge isn’t included. For taxi drivers and bar staff, small coins or notes are common.
Cash (GHS) is widely accepted in markets and street stalls. Mobile money (MoMo) is popular for transfers and some vendors accept it. Many hotels and larger restaurants may take cards, but carry cash for smaller establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler evenings with lower humidity; pleasant for outdoor exploration but dust can be noticeable on certain days. Excellent for hill walks and outdoor photography.
Frequent showers and lush greenery; plan for afternoon showers and occasional mud on trails. Carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof shoes.
Intermittent rain, still green landscapes with fewer crowds; good for softer light photography and fruit season availability.
Milder warmth with possible dry dust; skies can be clear, making for crisp photos and comfortable daytime temperatures.
Koforidua at Night
Hiking in Koforidua
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Multi-peak ridge trail offering sweeping views of the valley and towns below; suitable for day hikers.
Scenic routes through forest and tea/coffee landscapes with opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.
Gentle to moderate loops along the hillside communities, ideal for a half-day hike with cultural glimpses.
Airports
How to reach Koforidua by plane.
The main international gateway to Ghana; a few hours’ drive to Koforidua depending on traffic and route.
Regional airport offering domestic and some international options; about a 3–4 hour drive to Koforidua.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the area with distinct dialect, customs, and agricultural roots; a core part of the town's identity.
A mix of traders, students, and visitors who contribute to a cosmopolitan town feel.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular across communities, with local leagues and friendly matches at schools and towns.
Track and field events are common in schools and community programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Koforidua.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Ghanaian vegetarian-friendly options exist (rice dishes, beans, yams, vegetables). Request dishes without palm oil or meat, and ask for soups without fish stock when needed.