SCENIC INFORMATION
Kumasi Central Market (Kejetia): The largest open market in West Africa. It opens daily from 6:00a.m - 6:00p.m. There is an array of items for sale ranging from foodstuffs, jewellery, livestock, toiletries, clothes and textiles, herbal medicine, footwear etc. Visitors should note, items cost less on weekends. Purchases can be made through bargaining. The market is a 15-30 minutes taxi ride from the hotel. Lake Bosomtwe 31km south west of Kumasi. A meteorite crater lake surrounded by farming and fishing villages. The lake basin is ideal for mountaineering, diving, swimming and relaxation. BIRDS, INSECTS, WILDLIFE ETC
Kumasi Zoo There are a variety of birds and animals to be seen at the Kumasi zoo located at Kejetia near the Kejetia lorry park. Animal lovers will find a visit to the zoo an experience. Digya National Park Home to varied primate species such as the black white colobus monkeys, elephants, antelopes, manatees and clawless otters. Natural Reserves There are a variety of natural reserves where visitors can see rare exotic and endangered species of birds, insects and animals.
Owabi Forest Reserve and Bird Sanctuary
15km north east of Kumasi. An ideal habitat for winter migratory birds and hundreds of endangered Mona Monkeys. Bobiri Forest Reserve And Butterfly Sanctuary A quiet research centre for the forestry research institute, showcasing an arboretum, forest hiking trails and the worlds largest butterfly sanctuary. Bomfobiri Wildlife Sanctuary About 80km north east of Kumasi . The reserve showcases tropical landscape, vibrant waterfalls and a wide variety of bird and animal life.
Atwia Rock Formations Spectacular natural rock formations.
Anglo-gold Ashanti (Obuasi Gold Mines)
The most important gold mine in Ghana. There are other places of interest such as the Kogyae Natural Reserve and Mframabuom Caves at Kwamang.
Back to top SHOP AND SUPERMARKETS There are a number of shops and supermarkets scattered over town where visitors can purchase a range of goods or supplies. Communication There are phone booths at vantage points around town where you can make local and international calls. Phone cards are available at most shops and supermarkets. Health There are easily accessible hospitals and health centres in most of the towns in and around Kumasi. Our receptionists will provide guests with information about available health facilities in Kumasi . All medical treatment has to be paid in cash before treatment. OTHER
Other Attractions In Ghana . There are lots of other interesting places to see and things to do in other regions of Ghana. Some of the attractions in the various regions are: GREATER ACCRA REGION The capital city of Ghana is Accra, which is the smallest and yet most densely populated region in the country. Kotoka international airport, the port of call for all international flights is located in the city of Accra. Some of the tourist attractions to be found in the city of Accra are: The National Museum The museum houses a fascinating collection of Ghana's historical treasures. The museum is located on Barnes Road, West Ridge. Independence Square This is usually the venue for most national celebrations. Its dominating features are the Independence Arc and the memorial to the Unknown Soldier. Located on the Labadi - Ministries road.
Accra International Conference Centre It has a 1600 seater hall where most international gatherings take place. The National Theatre With distinctive architecture, this building is located in the centre of the city of Accra. It is usually the venue for seminars, concerts, cultural programs etc. Back to top The Du-Bois Memorial Centre For Pan-African Culture The centre houses a research library and a gallery of manuscripts as well as the graves of the famous African-American scholar; W. E. B. Du-Bois and his wife. Located in Cantonments. The George Padmore Research Library Of African Affairs This is a famous research and educational centre for African-American studies. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum The final resting place of the first President of Ghana. Osu Castle Formerly Christianborg Castle, it was built by the Dutch in 1659 during the slave trade. It has been renovated and currently serves as the seat of government; it has served this purpose since the early 1920s. It is also the official residence of the President of Ghana and is not open to the public. Accra Zoo Part of a conservation program, the Accra zoo is home to a collection of indigenous African birds and animals. The Makola Market Located on the Kojo Thompson Road, Adabraka, the market is one of the largest in Ghana and stocks a variety of goods ranging from foodstuff to electronics and textiles. The market opens everyday from 6am to 7pm, purchases are made by bargaining. Centre For National Culture The centre has an arts and crafts bazaar as well as a traditional textile market where visitors can find and purchase handicrafts from all over Ghana. University Of Ghana Founded in 1948, this was the first institution of higher education in Ghana. It also houses the School of Performing arts and the Balme library. BRONG AHAFO REGION With Sunyani as its capital, the region due to its longer than average rainfall season, has extensive forest reserves and cocoa plantations as well as considerable acreages of food crops. Kintampo Falls Hidden in the woods close to the Kintampo - Kumasi highway are these breathtaking falls. The geographical centre of Ghana can be found in Kintampo. The area has been developed into an interesting tourist spot. Boabeng Fiema Sanctuary Home to many families of Colobus and Mona monkeys, the sanctuary is located 22km north of Nkoranza. It also houses many birds and butterflies as well as indigenous flowers and trees. Back to top WESTERN REGION
This region shares a border with Côte d'Ivoire and has a large number of castles and forts since it was one of the first areas to welcome early European traders. The Western region also boasts of some of the oldest mines in the country as well as a harbour and a commercial center at Takoradi. The roads are line with rubber and cocoa plantations. Castles Most of the castles in the western region are still open to visitors. Some of them are;
- Fort St. Apollonia at Beyin
- Fort Metal Cross (1693) at Dixcove
- Fort Batensteyn (1656) at Butri
- Fort Groot Friederichsburg at Princesstown
- Fort St. Antonia (1515) at Axim
- Fort Dorothea (ruins) at Akwida
- Fort St. Sebastian at Shama
Nzulezu - Village On Stilts
Nzulezu is a village in the centre of lake Tadane, 9km west of Takoradi. The houses in the village are built on stilts. The village can be reach by canoe. The village welcomes visitors everyday except Thursdays, which are considered to be sacred. Akatekyi Crocodile Pond
Located 30km west of Takoradi, the crocodile is enticed from the water with a live chicken and can be stroked. Visitors are welcome everyday except Wednesdays which are considered sacred days. Beaches
The western region has some of the best beaches in Ghana. Some of the popular beaches in the western region are; • Busua pleasure beach - 5km from Fort Metal Cross • Sports club beach - Takoradi • Ajua beach - 200m from Dodowa lagoon • Princesstown beach - Off Takoradi/Elubo highway • Miamia beach Dr. Nkrumah's Grave
The original grave of the first president of Ghana. Dr. Kwame Nkrumah can be found in Nkroful, a town located 83km west of Takoradi. Mines One of the earliest regions to mine for gold and other minerals, the region has several mines that may be visited by prior arrangement. The main mining sites are:
- Nsuta Manganese Mine - 20km southeast of Tarkwa
- Prestea Goldmines - 40km north of Tarkwa
- Tarkwa Goldmines - Founded in the 1800s, 92km northwest of Takoradi.
Kundum Festival The Kundum festival is celebrated from August to November the inhabitants of the Western Region's coastal towns and moves from town to town every week. Drumming and dancing feature prominently.
Back to top EASTERN REGION The eastern region has Koforidua, a pleasant traditional town as its capital this region is famous for its lush tropical forests and cascading waterfalls.
Akosombo Dam The dam is the source of Ghana's hydroelectric power.
Dodi Island A beautiful island that is a favourite tourist spot. Can be reach by boat or ferry from Akosombo. Aburi Botanical Gardens The botanical gardens, which opened in 1890, offer a rich collection of tropical flora, birds and butterflies. Atewa-Atwirebu Forest 10km north of Kibi, the forest is home to hundreds of birds and butterflies. Tetteh Quarshie's Cocoa Farm The first cocoa farm established from seeds brought from the island of Fernando Po by Tetteh Quarshie. It is located in Mampong - Akwapim. Ghana is now one of the world's major cocoa producing countries. Lake Volta Favorite spot for tilapia fishing. The lake flows through some of the towns and villages. Abonse Slave Market The town of Abonse was an important crossroads on the ancient slave route. Traces of the 17 th and 18 th century slave market can still be seen in the town. Okomfo Anokye's Shrine This shrine is dedicated to Okomfo Anokye; the legendary priest who commanded the golden stool of Ashanti from the sky. It is located 60km from Koforidua. Boti Falls Spectacular but seasonal waterfalls in the forest reserve of Huhunya. In the immediate vicinity are cascades at their best in June to August. Begoro Waterfalls A series of falls surrounded by attractive woodlands and forest. Akwatia Diamond Mine The only commercial diamond mine in Ghana.
Back to top VOLTA REGION The Volta region shares a border with Togo and stretches from the Atlantic coast to the north. The dominant features of the region are the River Volta and the Volta Lake. It has sun-dappled beaches and mangrove swamps as well as moist rain forests. Mount Afadjato, which at the height of 885m is the highest point in Ghana, can also be found in the Volta region. The regional capital is Ho. Lake Volta Estuary The estuary is an area of great scenic beauty with river and ocean beaches, and picnic spots shaded by palm trees. The sand bars are the nesting grounds for sea birds and endangered species of turtle are still found here. Keta-Angaw Lagoon Basin The lagoon basin is an important wetland and serves as a breeding ground for migratory birds. Tafi Monkey Village The monkey village is located 5km from the Avatime hills. It serves as a sanctuary for varied monkey species. Waterfalls Some of the popular waterfalls in the Volta region are as follows;
- Wli waterfalls - highest waterfall in Ghana, 20km from Hohoe, in the Wli Nature Reserve
- Tagbo Falls - Liate Wote
- Tsatsadu falls - 10km from Hohoe (Alavanyo)
- Aflambo falls - Leklebi
- Amedzofe-Abadzeme falls
Mountain Afadjato At a height of 885m, Mt. Afadjato is the highest mountain in Ghana. The mountain attracts climbers of all ages. From the top of the mountain, one is rewarded with spectacular views of the waterfalls, Togo and surrounding villages as well as the Volta Lake. Kalakpe Game Production Reserve Located at Abutia Kloe, 15km from Ho, the reserve is home to varied species of migratory and indigenous birdlife, monkeys and other wildlife. Kyabobo National Park A newly designated national park at the foothills of Mt. Djebobo, on the border with Togo. Grottos And Caves The dramatic grottos and caves set in the limestone hills are a must see. Some of the grottos and caves are;
- The ancestral caves of Likpe - 14km from Hohoe
- The grottos of Kpando - Agbenohoe and Aziavi
- Caves and iron mine workings - Alepafu
Historical Sites Relics of European forts vestiges of the German colonial era still remain in some parts of the Volta region. • Fort Prinzenstein - Keta • Cape St. Paul Lighthouse - Woe • German Historical sites - Kpando, Ho, Amedzofe, Kpedze
Regional Museum
An ideal place to understand the background and heritage of the people of the Volta region. Festivals The Volta region is famous for its festivals and ceremonies. The Hogbetsotso festival of the Anlo people, held in November is the most famous.
Back to top CENTRAL REGION The central region is the former government centre of the Gold Coast presently Ghana. The regional capital Cape Coast was the seat of the British colonial administration up until 1877. The coastline is famous for its ancient forts and castles built by early European traders. Castles The castles along the coast of the central region are some of the best preserved in Ghana. Some of them are;
- Fort St. Jago (World Heritage Monument -UNESCO)
- Elmina Castle (World Heritage Monument - UNESCO)
- Cape Coast Castle (World Heritage Monunment - UNESCO)
- Fort Amsterdam
- British Fort
- Fort Good Hope
Kakum National Park A 357km² national park comprising undisturbed virgin rainforest. It has a canopy walkway through the forest that provides the opportunity to see plant life, rare butterflies, birds and game. The park is located 30km north of Cape Coast. Beaches The central region has a number of beaches that are popular relaxation spots. Some of the beaches are:
- Brenu beach - 15min from Elmina
- Sir Charles beach resort - Winneba
- Elmina beach - close to the castle
- White Sands beach - Gomoa Fetteh
Fishing Villages Along the coast are a succession of busy fishing villages and traditional market towns of particular interest are;
- Winneba
- Mankessim
- Kromatse/Abandze
Craft Villages The region is also famed for its traditional crafts. Visitors can buy great souvenirs from some of the craft villages.
- Winneba
- Gomoa-Otsew-Jukwa
Festivals Many exciting festivals are held in the region throughout the year. Some of the best known festivals are:
- Bakatue - beginning of fishing season (Elmina)
- Edina Bronya - Native version of Christmas (Elmina- first Thursday of New year)
- Aboakyer - Winneba (First Sunday in May)
- Fetu Afahye - Cape Coast (First Saturday of October)
- Odambea - Saltpond (Last Saturday in August)
Back to top NORTHERN REGION The Northern region is the largest region in Ghana. It has Tamale as its capital and distinctive style of housing. The mud-walled houses surprisingly adapt quite well to the climate of the region. Mole National Park The Mole national park is a vast acreage of savannah and rocky outcrops that are home to elephants, lions, leopards etc. it also has a vast range of birdlife. Larabanga Mosque The 13th century mosque believed to be built by the Moorish people is considered one pf the holiest site s in Ghana. Larabanga Mystery Stone Local legend has it that the mysterious boulder was in the way of a road that was being constructed through the town. The stone is said to have been moved to facilitate the construction of the road but returned to its former place in the morning. This happened several times thus the road was constructed around the stone. The stone still stands in the exact same spot. Yipabongo At Yipabongo, excavation work has revealed terra cotta artifacts and traces of 9th century Koma people. Daboya Daboya, famous for its handmade textile is located 89km west of Tamale. It is a 16th century town from the Gonja Kingdom. Nalerigu Defense Wall 120km form Bolga; the Nalerigu defence wall was built in the 16th century to protect Nalerigu from slave raiders. Salaga In the Salaga market, leg pegs can still be seen where slaves were chained during the slave trade when trans-Saharan caravans paused in the market. Yendi Yendi was part of the 19th century German settlement. Located 96km east of Tamale, many of the German soldiers who died in battle with the Dagomba people are buried in the cemetery. The grave of Bafatu; the slave raider is said to be near here. Festivals The festivals of the northern region are full of pageantry and showmanship. Some of these festivals are: • Damba festival • Bugum Back to top UPPER EAST REGION The upper east region has Bolgatanga as its capital. The capital serves as a meeting point for traders from neighbouring countries. A variety of goods can be founds in Bolga. Bolga Market This market stocks an assortment of goods such as basketware, leather goods and traditional clothing from all over the region. Tongo Rocks Located 10km from Bolga, the whistling rocks are a must see. During harmattan, the dry winds create a ghostly whistling sound. Paga Crocodile Pond This sacred sanctuary for crocodiles is a very popular tourist spot. Visitors can take photographs while sitting on the back of the crocodile. Naa Gbewa's Shrine Naa Gbewa was the founder of the Mole-Dagbon tribe in the 13th century. The traditional shrine at Pusiga is a commemoration of the founder. Nalerigu The ancient defence wall was a bastion indicating that the slave route passed close by on its way from Djenne and Ouagadougou. UPPER WEST The upper west region is a more traditional region. With Wa as its capital, the region has interesting sites that attract tourists. Gbelle Game Reserve The reserve serves as a sanctuary for many endangered species of wildlife, hippo, elephant, buck as well as indigenous and migratory birds. The reserve located 17km south of Tumu is part of Ghana's conservation programme. Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary This community based Ecotourism project is home not only to hippos but also to a variety of bird species. Other animals such as snakes, hedgehogs, chameleons etc. are also present in the hippo sanctuary. Wechiau is 6km from Wa. Wa Naa's Palace The 19th century palace with its distinctive architecture is the official residence of the Wa Naa, traditional chief of the Walas. In front of the palace are the graves of previous Wa Naas. Gbollu Defense Wall
Gbollu, located 70km from Wa was part of the slave route. In the 19th century, Gbollu Koro Liman built the wall as part of its defence against the slave raiders. George Ferguson's Tomb George Ekem Ferguson was a Ghanaian colonial agent who was killed in 1897 by slave raiders. He was instrumental in convincing local chiefs to sign treaties of friendship with the British. His tomb is preserved in Wa.
Hospitals and Health Facilities
There are easily accessible hospitals and health centres in most of the towns in and around Kumasi.
There are lots of other interesting things to see so be sure to make Golden Gate Hotel your choice when visiting Kumasi. We will be looking forward to welcoming you and making your stay pleasurable. Back to top |
Among the Asante as indeed among all Akans, The occupant of the Golden Stool is the political, cultural and spiritual head of his community; and the importance of the Golden Stool which he occupies is that it gives a community its group identity with the land which has nurtured it and provides it with not only its sustenance, but also, its link with its past and future.