Kumasi Ashanti, Ghana Travel Guide
The dry season in Kumasi extends from November to March. During this period, you can expect less rainfall, clear weather, and slightly lower humidity. From December to February, the Harmattan wind arrives from the Sahara Desert. This wind brings dry, dusty conditions and can cause hazy skies, reducing visibility. While the Harmattan makes mornings and evenings cooler and more comfortable, the dust can affect air quality and cause respiratory irritation. Prepare for dry skin and lips during these months.
The wet season runs from April to October. This period features higher rainfall and increased humidity. The heaviest rains typically fall from April to July, with another peak in September and October. A brief, less rainy spell often occurs in August. During the wet season, the landscape becomes lush and green, but heavy downpours can occur, sometimes lasting for several hours. These rains can alter travel plans and outdoor activities, making some unpaved roads challenging to navigate. Average annual rainfall in Kumasi is approximately 1,400 mm (55 inches).
Plan your Kumasi visit by considering your activity preferences. For comfortable outdoor exploration and cultural events, aim for the dry season. For fewer crowds and lush scenery, the shoulder or low season offers special benefits, provided you prepare for rain.
Cultural Festivals (e.g., Akwasidae): Timing follows the Ashanti traditional calendar, so specific dates vary each year. Research dates well in advance. Outdoor Activities (hiking, exploring craft villages): The dry season (November-March) is ideal. Wildlife Viewing (further afield): Dry season generally brings better opportunities. Photography: Dry season offers clearer skies.
Dry Season
Less rain, clearer skies, comfortable for outdoor activities. Cooler mornings/evenings.
Higher tourist numbers, potential for higher prices. Harmattan dust can reduce visibility.
Transition Months
Fewer tourists, potentially lower prices. Lush green landscape.
Increased chance of rain and humidity. Sudden downpours may occur.
Wet Season
Lowest number of visitors, best prices for flights and lodging. Authentic local rhythm.
Heavy rainfall can alter plans. High humidity. Increased mosquito activity.
The Harmattan wind, occurring from From december Through february, has a specific consideration. This very dry, dusty air from the Sahara can cause respiratory irritation and significantly reduce visibility. Air travel, specifically domestic flights, can experience delays or cancellations during periods of heavy Harmattan haze. Travelers with asthma or other respiratory conditions might carry appropriate medication and take precautions.
Kumasi does not experience monsoons or hurricanes. These severe weather events are not part of the region's climate patterns. Extreme temperatures are seldom found in Kumasi. The climate maintains a consistent warmth, meaning you typically don't encounter unusually cold or excessively hot conditions outside the typical range. The main variations involve humidity and rainfall.
Bring a light scarf or mask for face and respiratory protection.
Lip balm and a good moisturizer are recommended to combat dry skin.
Domestic flights may experience delays or cancellations due to reduced visibility.
Individuals with respiratory conditions might carry appropriate medication.
Harmattan dust can affect air quality.
Travel to Ghana, including Kumasi, calls for careful attention to visa and entry regulations. Most non-ECOWAS (Economic Community of West African States) nationals need a visa to enter Ghana. ECOWAS nationals, from countries in the West African region, typically enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 90 days. Always verify current requirements with the Ghanaian embassy or high commission in your home country before trip planning, as regulations can change.
Ghana offers several visa types for various travel purposes. The application process typically involves applying online through the Ghana Immigration Service portal. Some countries might still require in-person applications at a Ghanaian embassy or high commission. Allow several weeks for processing. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee.
When applying for a Ghanaian visa, make a list of documents. The online portal generally guides you through the steps, including uploading documents and paying fees. You should apply well in advance of your intended travel date.
While not always mandatory for the visa application itself, comprehensive travel insurance is strongly suggested for your trip to Ghana. It provides financial protection for various unforeseen events during your travel.
The currency of Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi, represented by the symbol GH₵ or ₵. Its sub-unit's the Pesewa, with 100 Pesewas equaling 1 Cedi. Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before your trip and while you're on it. For reference, as of late 2023/early 2024, approximately 1 USD exchanged for 11-13 GHS, 1 EUR for 12-14 GHS, and ONE GBP for 14-16 GHS. These figures are could be different, so verify them before your travel dates.
Carry some USD, EUR, or GBP in cash for exchange upon arrival, but mostly obtain Cedis from ATMs. Always possess small Cedi denominations for daily transactions.
Daily costs in Kumasi vary significantly depending on your travel style. These rough figures are a general guide, excluding international flights.
Accommodation: GH₵ 100-250 ($8-20)
Daily Total: GH₵ 200-470 ($16-38)
Mid-range hotels with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and sometimes a pool or restaurant. Dining at mid-range restaurants, including a mix of local and international cuisine. Using private taxis or ride-sharing apps.
Accommodation: GH₵ 300-800 ($25-65)
Daily Total: GH₵ 520-1300 ($43-105)
High-end hotels or resorts, offering international standards of service, extensive facilities, and modern amenities. Fine dining experiences at upscale restaurants. Dedicated private car and driver services.
Accommodation: GH₵ 900+ ($75+)
Daily Total: GH₵ 1400+ ($115+)
| Category | Item | Price Range (GH₵) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (per night) | Hostels/Guesthouses | 100-250 |
| Meals (per serving) | Street food/Local Eateries | 10-30 |
| Attractions (non-resident adult) | Manhyia Palace Museum | 50-100 |
Mandatory for all travelers 9 months and older. Present original certificate upon arrival. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before travel.
Hep A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap), Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR), Polio, Rabies (for prolonged stays or remote areas).
Always check with a healthcare professional specializing in travel medicine 4-6 weeks before travel for personalized advice.
Malaria Risk is High
Take anti-malarial medication as prescribed. Use Insect repellent containing DEET (30-50%) or Picaridin. Sleep under mosquito nets. Wear Long-sleeved shirts and trousers at dusk and dawn.
Diarrheal Diseases: Practice strict food and water hygiene. Follow the rule: "Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it." Drink only Bottled water with an unbroken seal, boiled water, or water purified with a reliable filter or chemical tablets like LifeStraw. Wash hands frequently or use Alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Schistosomiasis: Avoid bathing or wading in freshwater lakes and rivers (e.g., Lake Bosomtwe). Heat-related Illnesses: Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, seek shade.
Kumasi has several hospitals and clinics, including Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH). Private clinics often offer better care standards.
Limited response times may occur. Dial 112 for national emergencies (Ambulance, Police, Fire). Direct Police: 191, Fire: 192, Ambulance: 193.
Keep contact details for your country's embassy or high commission in Accra, and your hotel or local contacts readily available.
Kumasi is generally safe, but common crime occurs. Awareness of your surroundings helps. Natural events like flooding are also possible seasonally.
Safe drinking water and hygienic food preparation are important for avoiding illness. Make informed choices about where and what to consume.
Tap water is generally not safe. Drink commercially bottled water with an intact seal. Alternatively, boil water, or use a reliable water filter or purification tablets. Avoid ice unless from purified water.
Choose reputable establishments. Select freshly cooked, hot food. Avoid raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits unless washed with safe water. Observe where local people eat; busy stalls often suggest fresh food.
Comprehensive travel insurance is highly suggested. It covers medical emergencies, evacuation, trip cancellation, and lost belongings. Adventure Medical Kits supplies first aid for travelers.
