Things To Do
in Obuase
Obuasi is a mining town in the Ashanti Region of Ghana renowned for its long history of gold mining and a lively market culture. The town blends colonial-era architecture with rugged hills, modern cafes, and a welcoming, friendly pace. It sits roughly 70 kilometers southwest of Kumasi, giving it a distinct mining-town character and easy access to the surrounding countryside.
Visitors can sample Ghanaian cuisine, explore local markets, and use Obuasi as a base for day trips into the Adansi countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Obuasi Gold Mine, one of the largest gold mines in the world. You will be guided through the mining process and learn about the historical significance of gold mining in the region. The morning sun shines brightly as you witness the mining operations firsthand, providing a unique insight into the local economy.
After lunch at a local eatery, explore the nearby AngloGold Ashanti Museum which showcases the history of gold mining in Obuasi. Engaging exhibits tell the story of the town's development and its impact on the local culture and economy. You'll also have the opportunity to see artifacts and photographs that commemorate the miners' lives.
As the sun sets, enjoy dinner at a traditional Ghanaian restaurant, savoring local dishes such as jollof rice and banku. The ambiance is lively, filled with the sounds of local music, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Afterward, take a leisurely walk through the town center to experience the evening hustle and bustle of Obuasi.
Begin your day at the Obuasi Market, where the vibrant colors and bustling atmosphere bring the local culture to life. Here, you can interact with vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and handcrafted goods, providing an authentic experience of daily life in Obuasi. Sampling local fruits while chatting with the friendly locals is a great way to start your day.
Post-lunch, engage in a cultural workshop where you can learn traditional crafts such as kente weaving or pottery. Local artisans will guide you through the intricate techniques that have been passed down through generations. This hands-on experience allows for a deeper appreciation of Ghanaian artistry and craftsmanship.
As evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Ghanaian meal at a nearby restaurant, featuring dishes rich in flavor and history. After dinner, consider visiting a local bar where you can enjoy live music and indulge in some local drinks like palm wine or club beer. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, perfect for winding down after an enriching day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Local transportation (one-way) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛏️1 night in a mid-range hotel | $40-85 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at cafe | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich mining heritage and warm, friendly communities
- Affordable food and lodging with rich local cuisine
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Fewer organized tourist attractions; more local experiences required
- "Hello" - Agoo
- "Please" - Mepa wo kyɛw
- "Thank you" - Medase
- "Yes" - Aane
- "No" - Dabi
- "Excuse me" - Mepaakyɛw
- "How much is this?" - Ɛyɛ sɛn?
- "Where is the market?" - Market no he?
- "I don’t understand" - Mente ase
Places to Visit in Obuase
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic views of the town and surrounding hills, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Colorful market scenes with vendors and stacks of produce in the early hours.
Shady river paths and gentle cascades ideal for candid portraits and landscape shots.
Food in Obuase
Obuase Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A filling staple of pounded cassava and plantain dough served with a light meat or palm-nut soup.
Must-Try!
Fermented corn and cassava dough served with grilled or boiled tilapia and pepper sauce.
Spiced fried ripe plantains, often enjoyed as a snack or side dish.
Rice and beans dish usually served with gari, cheese, eggs or fried plantain and a hot sauce.
Black-eyed peas stewed with palm oil, often served with fried ripe plantain.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls offering fresh produce, ready-to-eat snacks, and traditional dishes.
Kebabs, fried yams, plantains, and gari-based snacks around market lanes.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a handshake and a polite greeting in Akan; use right hand for giving and receiving items.
Respect local norms by covering shoulders and knees in religious or traditional areas.
Safety
Tipping in Obuase
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping of 5-10% at restaurants is common if service was good; round up fares or tip hotel staff modestly.
Cash in Ghanaian cedi is widely used; mobile money (MTN, AirtelTigo) is common for small transactions; some hotels and larger shops may accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Characterized by lower humidity and cooler mornings; expect dusty roads and pleasant days, but water levels can be lower.
Frequent afternoon showers and lush green landscapes; plan for indoor options during heavy rain.
Obuase at Night
Hiking in Obuase
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rolling forested hills and viewpoints within easy reach for a half-day hike.
Riverside trails offering shade, birdlife, and scenic scenery near Obuasi.
Airports
How to reach Obuase by plane.
Airport serving Kumasi; around 60-70 km from Obuasi; domestic and some international flights; taxis or private car hire are common ground transport options.
Ghana’s main international gateway in Accra; around a 4-6 hour drive or short domestic flight to Kumasi, with onward road transfer to Obuasi.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group in the area with strong traditions, language, and crafts.
Includes Ewe, Mole-Dagbani and immigrant communities; Christianity is the major religion, with Muslim and traditional beliefs also present.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with local matches and community leagues.
Track and field events are common in schools and local clubs; active communities often host small competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Obuase.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes are plant-based or can be adapted; request vegetable stews like kontomire or mushroom-based options and avoid meat-based broths.