Exploring Ashanti Culture and Crafts

Get captivated by the legendary history and extraordinary culture of the Ashanti Kingdom on this introductory tour to Kumasi- capital of the Ashanti region, Ghana’s second largest city with nearly 2 million residents.

This region is well noted for the expertise in a variety of specialized crafts. Get immersed in the ancient craft of weaving the boldly colored fabrics of Kente and Adinkra which are deeply intertwined in Ashanti history. You will visit studios of indigenous brass-makers, potters and batik-makers.

Your tour will be incomplete without a visit to the cradle of the exquisite cultures of the Ashantis- the Manhyia Palace, former residence of Ashanti Kings. Observe the orderly chaos of Kejetia Market – one of the largest open air markets in West Africa.

No tour of Ghana is complete without sampling some of Ghana’s most popular traditional dishes such as Omotuo, made with rice and peanut butter soup, a much tastier experience than the name conveys.

Enjoy a short boat ride on Lake Bosumtwe, Ghana’s largest natural freshwater lake.

A decorative African mask

You can control these tabs with mouse and keyboad.

Aria roles are given automatically.

  • Arrow Key Left : Previous Tab
  • Arrow Key Right : Next Tab
  • Home : First Tab
  • End : Last Tab
  • Space/Enter : Select Tab
Activity

  1. 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 Miklin Kumasi

  2. 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 Miklin Kumasi

    Meal(s) Included: Breakfast

  3. 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

     

Trip Includes:

  • Hotel accommodation in the indicated properties
  • Transportation in private vehicle
  • Experienced tour guide
  • Admission to listed sites
  • Meals indicated
Request A Quote

Book Your Trip:

3 Day TourBook TourCustomize Tour