Kumasi, the historic capital of Ghana’s Ashanti Region, is a city where royal tradition, cultural pride, and modern life blend seamlessly. Known as “The Garden City” for its lush greenery, Kumasi is the spiritual and cultural heart of the Ashanti Kingdom—a place where ancient legacies still shape daily life.
Kumasi offers a deeply immersive experience in Ghanaian culture—royal traditions, spiritual sites, arts, crafts, and markets that pulse with life.
Manhyia Palace Museum
The former residence of the Ashanti kings, this museum showcases royal regalia, photographs, and personal items of past rulers. It offers a fascinating look into the monarchy that still plays a ceremonial role in Ghanaian society.
Prempeh II Jubilee Museum
Located within the Kumasi Cultural Centre, this museum houses artifacts including gold jewelry, chieftaincy stools, and ceremonial clothing of the Ashanti royal family.
Kumasi Fort and Armed Forces Museum
Built in the 19th century, this fort turned museum tells the story of Ashanti-British wars, Ghana’s military history, and colonial resistance. Displays include military vehicles, uniforms, and weapons.
Kumasi Cultural Centre
A vibrant venue where traditional crafts, music, dance, and local performances thrive. Visitors can watch kente cloth being woven, admire wood carvings, or explore Ashanti artwork.
Kejetia Market
The largest open-air market in West Africa, buzzing with over 8,000 stalls. It’s a maze of color and sound, offering everything from spices and fabrics to handmade jewelry and street food.
Okomfo Anokye Sword Site
This symbolic site marks where the legendary Ashanti priest planted a sword in the ground centuries ago. It’s said the sword cannot be removed, symbolizing the unbreakable unity of the Ashanti people.
Rattray Park
A modern urban park in central Kumasi, ideal for relaxation. Features include landscaped gardens, fountains, walking trails, a mini-lake, playgrounds, and shaded seating areas.
Kumasi Zoo
Home to around 40 animal species including lions, monkeys, crocodiles, and a large colony of bats. It’s a family-friendly destination with gardens and educational exhibits, also probably still camels, Muammar Al Gaddafi sponsored to the zoo.
Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary
Located just outside Kumasi, this is a peaceful nature reserve rich in birdlife, monkeys, and butterflies. Ideal for birdwatching, picnics, and hiking in quiet forest surroundings.
Lake Bosomtwe
Ghana’s only natural lake, apparently formed by a meteor impact. However, there is no evidence of that. Located about 30 km from Kumasi, it’s a serene escape for boating, swimming, hiking, or visiting traditional fishing villages along the shore.