Things To Do
in Kumasi

Kumasi is the capital city of the Ashanti Region in Ghana, renowned for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant markets. It serves as the heart of the Ashanti Kingdom, showcasing a blend of traditional and modern influences. The city is famous for the Kejetia Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa, and the Manhyia Palace, which is a significant historical site.

Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture through art, music, and traditional festivals.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Visit the Manhyia Palace Museum to learn about the history of the Ashanti Kingdom and its rulers.

afternoon
:

Explore the bustling Kejetia Market, where you can shop for traditional textiles, crafts, and local produce.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and experience traditional Ghanaian music at a cultural performance.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Community
morning
:

Take a stroll in the Kumasi Central Park, enjoying the greenery and local flora.

afternoon
:

Visit the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, which is steeped in legend and history.

evening
:

Dine at a popular restaurant and explore the nightlife by visiting local bars or clubs.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$3 - $10
🚌City Bus Fare$0.50
🛍️Souvenir Shopping$5 - $20
🏨Mid-range Hotel Night$50 - $100
🚕Taxi Ride$3 - $10

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and heritage.
  • Vibrant markets and delicious local cuisine.
  • Friendly and welcoming locals.
  • Traffic congestion can be challenging.
  • Limited access to some modern amenities.
  • Language barrier may exist for non-Twi speakers.
  • "Medɔ wo" - I love you
  • "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?
  • "Meda ase" - Thank you
  • "Yɛbɛhyia" - See you later
  • "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please

Places to Visit in Kumasi

Visit one of these nice places.

Manhyia Palace

A stunning architectural marvel that provides insight into the Ashanti royal history.

Kejetia Market

Captures the vibrant hustle and bustle of local life, with colorful stalls and diverse vendors.

Kumasi Central Park

A beautiful green space perfect for nature photography and capturing local flora.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kumasi

Kumasi offers a delightful culinary experience with its rich and diverse flavors, making it a paradise for food lovers.

Kumasi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fufu and Light Soup

A staple dish made from pounded cassava and plantains, served with a spicy soup.

Must-Try!

Jollof Rice

A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with fried plantains.

Kelewele

Spicy fried plantains seasoned with ginger and pepper, perfect as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kejetia Market

The largest market in Kumasi, offering a variety of street food including kebabs, fried yam, and local pastries.

Adum Market

Known for its small food stalls selling delicious local snacks and dishes.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kumasi has a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. The average temperature ranges from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F) throughout the year. The rainy season lasts from May to October, with the heaviest precipitation occurring in June. The dry season is warm and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is common, often accompanied by a friendly smile; greetings are important in local culture.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders; use appropriate titles and greetings.

Dress Modestly

While casual dress is acceptable, modesty is appreciated, especially in rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Kumasi is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to practice standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas, keep your belongings secure, and be cautious in crowded places to prevent petty theft. It is also wise to stay informed about local news and follow any travel advisories.

Tipping in Kumasi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

It is common to tip service workers, usually around 10% of the bill in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money are popular for transactions.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Rainy Season (May - October)

Expect heavy rainfall, particularly in June and September; pack waterproof clothing.

Dry Season (November - April)

The weather is generally dry and warm, ideal for outdoor activities.

Harmattan (December - February)

A dry and dusty wind from the Sahara that can lower humidity and temperatures.

Festival Season

Various festivals occur throughout the year, showcasing rich cultural practices; check the local calendar.

Nightlife Guide

Kumasi at Night

Kumasi has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, nightclubs, and cultural venues. Live music ranging from highlife to reggae can be found in many places, and local gatherings often feature traditional drumming and dancing. Popular spots include clubs in the Adum area, which attract both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the evening atmosphere.

Hiking in Kumasi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aburi Botanical Gardens

Located about an hour from Kumasi, this area offers scenic trails and beautiful flora.

Afadjato Mountain

A popular hiking destination that provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape, located a few hours' drive from Kumasi.

Airports

How to reach Kumasi by plane.

Kumasi International Airport (KMS)

Located about 6 km from the city center, it connects Kumasi to several major cities in Ghana and West Africa.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kumasi is moderately walkable, especially in the central areas like Adum and around the markets. Sidewalks may be uneven or absent in some regions, so caution is advised. Many attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it feasible to explore on foot, but it's best to use local transport for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ashanti People

The dominant ethnic group in Kumasi, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Migrant Communities

Kumasi attracts people from various regions of Ghana and beyond, contributing to its diverse cultural landscape.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer (Football)

The most popular sport in Kumasi, with local teams drawing large crowds at matches.

Basketball

Gaining popularity among the youth, with various courts available for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Kumasi can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation options include shared taxis and buses, which are commonly used by locals. Ride-hailing services are also available, providing convenient options for getting around the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kumasi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; however, always confirm with the vendor.

Gluten-Free

Ghanaian cuisine often uses rice and yams, but caution is advised for cross-contamination.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Kumasi include both public and private hospitals. While basic medical care is available, more specialized treatment may require travel to larger cities like Accra. It's advisable for travelers to have health insurance and to be aware of the nearest healthcare facilities in case of emergencies.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide