Explore Kumasi Metropolitan

Kumasi combines a long history with museums, lively commerce, and insights into crafts and tradition. The city is the historic capital of the Ashanti Region and Ghana’s second-largest city; it was founded in 1695 by the Asantehene Osei Tutu. When planning your trip, it is worth choosing the themes that interest you most: city history and collections, nature and wildlife, or activities in the wider destination of Ashanti.

History and collections in Kumasi

Kumasi Fort tells the story of a defining moment: British forces destroyed it in 1874, and it was rebuilt in 1897. The collection at the Kumasi Fort and Military Museum includes weapons of war, standards, medals, armoured vehicles, anti-aircraft guns, photographs, and portraits. The museum is located at Uaddara Barracks in Kumasi. Its collection may change over time. The exhibits offer different points of interest if you are interested in military history, visual sources, or historical equipment.

Tours at Manhyia Palace Museum introduce visitors to the history of the Ashanti Kingdom, the royal lineage and rituals, and the conflicts with British colonial forces. The museum also displays a battle garment from 1900. Check the current visiting arrangements with the museum before your visit. Sites with significance in oral tradition also contribute to Kumasi’s historical picture: according to tradition, the Golden Stool of Asanteman descended onto the lap of King Osei Tutu I, “Opemsuo,” at the Komfo Anokye Sword Site. This account is regarded as a tradition.

Everyday life, wildlife, and regional culture

Kejetia Central Market is a major centre for shopping, transport, food, and everyday trade. It complements museum visits with a glimpse of another side of the city. Kumasi Zoo was founded in 1957 by the Asanteman Council. As a wildlife conservation area, it serves native wildlife from Ghana as well as animals from other countries. Kumasi therefore offers cultural and historical attractions alongside experiences connected with nature and wildlife.

Traditional buildings and crafts are also important themes in the wider destination of Ashanti. Ten surviving Asante Traditional Buildings are located in and around Kumasi in the Ashanti Region and are among the properties listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites by the Ghana Museums and Monuments Board. Kente weaving is a defining feature of Bonwire; according to legend, two friends from the town learned to weave by watching a spider spin its web. In Ntonso, a guided tour lets you learn about and try out the steps involved in making Adinkra, from preparing dye and colouring cloth to printing and embroidery.

Activities for different travel plans

In the wider destination of Ashanti, Adanwomse brings together several ways to explore the area: a one-hour tour of the community Kente workshop lets visitors try spinning, warping, and weaving. A culinary tour includes farm visits, tapping palm wine, and preparing traditional dishes; tastings must be arranged before the visit. A village theatre group featuring dance, drumming, and storytelling also performs only by prior arrangement. Travellers who enjoy hands-on activities will find different options here from those who mainly want to experience performances and storytelling.

Lake Bosomtwe offers another focus on nature and activities in the wider destination of Ashanti. Boating and swimming are possible on the lake, and you can hike around it; local availability and conditions may vary. An information centre shares knowledge about the lake and conservation measures, and can arrange boat trips. Ask there for current information and arrangements.

When looking for a holiday rental, a simple travel decision can help: should Kumasi—with its city history, museum, and market—be the main focus, or would you also like to include crafts, cultural performances, and Lake Bosomtwe in your plans? Once you have decided on your interests, you can better consider which location would make a suitable base for your itinerary.

Discover more destinations

Discover more destinations: Kumasi.

Back to the main travel overview: Ashanti.