The best things to do in Kumasi
Kumasi, the second-largest city in Ghana and the capital of the Ashanti Region, is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, outdoor activities, or simply soaking up the local atmosphere, there’s something for everyone in Kumasi. Here are some of the top things to do in the city.

Visit the Manhyia Palace

The Manhyia Palace, located in the heart of Kumasi, is the traditional home of the Ashanti Kingdom’s royal family. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the rich history and culture of the Ashanti people, as well as see traditional artifacts and artwork. The palace grounds are also home to a beautiful garden and a small museum.

Explore the Kumasi Central Market

The Kumasi Central Market is one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa and offers a fascinating glimpse into local life and culture. Visitors can find a wide variety of goods for sale, including textiles, jewelry, crafts, and food. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kumasi.

Visit the Ashanti Kingdom’s Golden Stool

The Golden Stool is a sacred symbol of the Ashanti Kingdom and is said to contain the soul of the Ashanti people. Visitors can see the stool on display at the Asantehene’s palace, and learn about its significance in Ashanti culture and history.

Visit the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum

The Prempeh II Jubilee Museum is dedicated to the history and culture of the Ashanti Kingdom, and features a wide range of artifacts, including traditional weapons, textiles, and jewelry. The museum also offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Ashanti people, and provides visitors with an in-depth understanding of Ashanti culture and history.

Take a Day Trip to Lake Bosomtwe

Located just a short drive from Kumasi, Lake Bosomtwe is a beautiful and serene destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake, go fishing, or simply relax on the beach. The lake is also home to a number of bird species, making it a popular destination for birdwatching.

Visit the Okomfo Anokye Sword

The Okomfo Anokye Sword is a sacred symbol of the Ashanti Kingdom and is said to have been placed in the ground by the Ashanti king Okomfo Anokye in the 17th century. The sword is considered to be a powerful symbol of Ashanti unity and strength, and visitors can see the sword on display at the Asantehene’s palace.

Visit the Adum Cultural Centre

The Adum Cultural Centre is a great place to learn about Ashanti culture and history. The Centre showcases traditional Ashanti art and artifacts, and also offers workshops and classes on traditional Ashanti practices such as drumming, dancing, and kente weaving. The Centre is also home to a beautiful garden and traditional Ashanti houses.

Experience the Adae Festival

The Adae Festival is an important cultural event that takes place in Kumasi every year. The festival features traditional music, dance, and food, and is a great opportunity to experience Ashanti culture and tradition firsthand. The festival takes placeon the first Sunday of every month and is a colorful and lively celebration that is not to be missed. Visitors can also see the Ashanti king and queen in attendance, and participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies.

Visit the National Cultural Centre

The National Cultural Centre is a great place to learn about the diverse cultures and traditions of Ghana. The Centre features a variety of exhibitions and displays, including traditional art, costumes, and artifacts. Visitors can also attend workshops, lectures, and cultural performances, and learn about the different ethnic groups and cultures that make up Ghana.

Visit the Kejetia Market

The Kejetia Market is one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa and offers a fascinating glimpse into local life and culture. Visitors can find a wide variety of goods for sale, including textiles, jewelry, crafts, and food. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs and to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Kumasi.

Visit the Kumasi Zoo

The Kumasi Zoo is a great place to learn about the diverse animal life of Ghana. Visitors can see a wide variety of animals from all over the continent, including lions, hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birds. The zoo also has a botanical garden with a variety of plants and trees from all over Ghana.

Visit the Kumasi Fort and Military Museum

The Kumasi Fort and Military Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Kumasi and the Ashanti Kingdom. The Fort was built by the Ashanti king Osei Tutu in the 17th century, and visitors can see the remains of the fort, as well as learn about the Ashanti people’s battles against the British colonial forces.

Experience the Akwasidae Festival

The Akwasidae Festival is an important cultural event that takes place in Kumasi every 42 days. The festival features traditional music, dance, and food, and is a great opportunity to experience Ashanti culture and tradition firsthand. Visitors can also see the Ashanti king and queen in attendance, and participate in traditional rituals and ceremonies.

In conclusion, Kumasi is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. From visiting historic sites and museums, to experiencing traditional festivals and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone in Kumasi. These are some of the top things to do in the city, but there are many more exciting experiences waiting for you in this wonderful city.

Things to do