Exploring Ashanti Culture and Crafts

Day  1: ACCRA – KUMASI

After breakfast drive to Kumasi, the seat of the Ashanti Empire to explore the legends of the famous Ashantis, whose legacies are still evident today. Founded in 1695 by the Asantehene (King) Osei Tutu, Kumasi showcase palaces, forts, museums and places of worship  which provide a distinct backdrop for important festivals and ceremonies which are still of high importance in Ashanti culture.

Kumasi may surprise you, being the most dynamic marketplace in West African and the second largest city in Ghana with a population of almost three million.

Visit Manhyia Palace, official residence of Ashanti Kings (Asantehene) until 1974, now a museum containing treasured items relating to the Ashanti Kingdom. The Ashanti forms the biggest population group in Ghana. For centuries they were the rulers in this region because of the well-organized society. At Manhyia Palace, disputes are still settled in accordance with centuries-old customs where the King has the final word.

Time permitting; visit Kumasi Central Market, the largest open air market in West Africa where more than 10,000 vendors sell their wares, from food to herbs, to beauty products and crafts.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

Overnight at Noda Hotel

Day 2: KUMASI – 3 CRAFT VILLAGES

After breakfast, visit the Ashanti craft villages:

• The woodcarving village of Ahwiaa, known for the talented craftsmen who fashion royal stools, walking sticks and fertility dolls from wood. You will have the opportunity to purchase hand carved items of all kinds.
• The Village of Ntonso where artisan’s hand-stamp patterns on cotton cloth to make Adinkra textiles. Black-on-black and black-on-red Adinkra cloth is worn for funerals and other solemn occasions. You will learn how the black dye is made in the village from the bark of trees, and create your own Adinkra sash to take home. You may also purchase large pieces of Adinkra cloth handmade in the village.
• The village is Bonwire, where the famous Kente cloth is handmade on looms in a time-honored tradition passed down through generations. You will see the Kente weavers in process of creating Kente cloth in various styles, and have the opportunity to purchase souvenirs or gifts.

Overnight at Noda Hotel

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

Day 3: KUMASI – LAKE BOSOMTWE – ACCRA

After breakfast, return to Accra with stopping enroute at points of interests.

Visit the National Cultural Centre which features the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum and various studios of brass makers, potters and batik makers.

Continue to visit Lake Bosomtwe, the largest body of natural fresh water in Ghana. You will be delighted with the peace and serenity of the lake.  A walk on the banks provides the opportunity to meet and interact with the local fishing folks giving an insight into their way of life. After lunch (on your own), enjoy a 30 minute boat ride to explore the picturesque view of the Lake.

Continue to Accra arriving early evening, and check in to your hotel/residence or continue  to the airport for your onward flight.

Meal (s) Included: Breakfast

Hotel: Client’s Own Arrangement