13 Travel Mistakes in Kumasi: What to Avoid Before and During Your Trip

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Kumasi, Ghana, is a city full of life, history, and rich traditions. As the cultural heart of the Ashanti Kingdom, it offers unforgettable experiences, from colorful markets to historical landmarks.

But like any adventure, traveling to a new destination can have its challenges. Whether it’s choosing the right guide, understanding local customs, or planning your stay, we’ve got you covered.

These essential tips will help you avoid common travel mistakes in Kumasi and make your trip smooth, stress-free, and truly memorable.

Researching Kumasi’s Culture, History, and Transportation Options

Start by learning about Kumasi’s culture, language, and history. As the heart of the Ashanti culture, the city is full of rich traditions.

Get familiar with important landmarks, local customs, and festivals like Akwasidae to make the most of your visit.

Plan how you will travel before you arrive. Whether you are flying or driving, know the routes and how you’ll get around and stay safe in the city.

This will help you avoid surprises and prepare for the pace of life in Kumasi.

Choosing the Right Accommodations for Your Stay

Kumasi offers many places to stay, but planning ahead is important. You can choose from hotels, guesthouses, or Airbnb.

Some travelers may have the chance to stay with family or friends, which can make the visit feel a bit more like home.

For those without that option, there are plenty of accommodations available across different price ranges. Pick a place that works for you and your budget, and book early, especially during busy seasons or festivals.

Choosing Reputable Tour Guides for the Best Experience

A good guide can make your trip to Kumasi much more enjoyable. Many historical and cultural sites, like the Manhyia Palace or the Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, have official guides who are trained to share detailed and accurate information.

Be careful of people who approach you claiming to be guides without any proof. They might not have the right knowledge and could give you a poor experience.

For the best experience:

• Ask at the site or facility for official guides.
• Book tours through trusted travel agencies, and check our resources for tips and ideas to help plan your visit.
• Read reviews online to find reliable guides.

Choosing a trustworthy guide ensures a safe and informative visit to Kumasi’s landmarks.

Respecting Kumasi’s Local Customs and Traditions

Respect for tradition is very important in Kumasi. Always use your right hand to greet people, give, or receive items.

Be polite to elders and take off your hat when talking to them.

Saying a simple “good morning” or “good afternoon” goes a long way in making a good impression. Locals in Kumasi value politeness, and showing respect helps you connect with the community.

Dress modestly when visiting public or traditional places, as revealing clothing may not be appropriate.

Public displays of affection, like kissing or hugging, are not common in Kumasi and may be seen as disrespectful. It’s best to keep such moments private.

Navigating Transportation Challenges in Kumasi

Getting around Kumasi can be tricky if you only rely on apps like Bolt, Uber, or Yango. These apps are helpful but may not work well in remote areas or during busy times.

Sometimes, drivers may cancel rides if they feel the distance is too far, or they might say the fare has increased while driving.

While this is not the norm, it’s something to be aware of, as exceptions can happen.

Hiring a local driver or arranging private transportation is often a better option. A reliable driver who knows the city can save you a lot of trouble.

Always plan your routes in advance and have a backup plan for getting around.

It’s better to avoid walking alone at night. Use trusted transportation options or travel with someone, especially in unfamiliar areas.

Be careful in crowded places like markets or bus stations. Keep your belongings secure and watch for pickpockets.

This way, you can avoid unnecessary stress and enjoy exploring Kumasi and surrounding areas.

Managing Your Budget While Enjoying Kumasi

It’s easy to spend more than planned in Kumasi, so setting a budget is a good idea. Plan how much you will spend each day or week on food, attractions, and souvenirs.

Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables where others can see them. Use a secure bag or wallet and only take what you’ll need for the day to stay safe.

Look for affordable places to eat and shop at local markets like Kejetia or Adum. This way, you can enjoy your trip without worrying about running out of money.

Tipping Etiquette in Kumasi

Tipping is not required in Kumasi but is appreciated. At restaurants, leaving 5–10% of your bill is a nice gesture. You can also tip hotel staff, drivers, and tour guides to show your gratitude.

Carrying small bills makes it easier to tip without needing change.

Accommodating Food Allergies and Dietary Restrictions

Trying local food is one of the highlights of visiting Kumasi. We know the feeling of being excited to try everything, but if you have food allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s important to plan ahead.

Common dishes like fufu, banku, and jollof rice may include fish, peanuts, or meat.

Vegetarians and vegans can enjoy dishes such as yam, plantains, and red-red (beans with fried plantains).

Be sure to ask how the food is prepared, as some dishes may use fish stock. Gluten-free options include foods made from maize, cassava, or yam.

When trying street food, pick vendors with busy stands to make sure the food is fresh. Avoid food that looks unhygienic or has been sitting out for too long.

If you have severe allergies, learn a few Twi phrases or carry a card to explain your needs. This small step can make dining in Kumasi both safe and enjoyable.

Staying Healthy During Your Trip to Kumasi

Health preparation is key to a stress-free trip. Some may say, “Oh, you don’t need it,” but it’s always better to be safe than sorry.

Get vaccinated for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A before traveling. Use mosquito repellents and take antimalarial medication to protect yourself from malaria.

If possible only drink bottled or filtered water, and wash your hands regularly, especially if you’re eating street food. International travel insurance with medical coverage is helpful in case of emergencies.

Hospitals like Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital (KATH) provide quality care, and it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with other healthcare facilities in the area, both public and private.

Being prepared gives you peace of mind while enjoying your time in Kumasi.

Staying Connected with Internet and Mobile Services

Staying connected in Kumasi is easy with local SIM cards from MTN or Vodafone. These offer affordable data plans for using the internet and staying in touch.

Many hotels and cafes also have Wi-Fi, though the speed may not always be reliable. For consistent access, consider a personal hotspot or a local data package.

Using Local Apps and Tools for Your Trip

Apps can make your trip to Kumasi easier and more enjoyable. Google Maps or Maps.me are great for navigating the city and finding nearby landmarks or restaurants.

If you’re exploring markets like Kejetia, having a navigation app can help you avoid getting lost in the crowd.

For language support, there are apps available that provide Twi-to-English translation, basic vocabulary, and pronunciation tips.

While Google Translate supports Twi, it does not currently offer audio for pronunciation, but it can still help with basic translations and text communication.

Checking your app store for Twi language translator tools is a good way to improve your interactions with locals.

For food delivery, note that many popular services, such as Glovo and Jumia Food, have ceased operations in Ghana.

While some options like Bolt Food or Hubtel may still be available, their coverage in Kumasi can vary.

Always check for the latest updates and have alternative plans for meals, such as dining at local restaurants or markets.

Lastly, a currency converter app is helpful for tracking exchange rates while shopping or budgeting.

These tools make it easier to navigate, communicate, and stay organized during your visit to Kumasi.

Following Local Laws and Etiquette

Respecting local laws and customs helps you avoid problems during your trip. Do not take photos of government or military buildings, and always ask permission before photographing people, sacred sites, or minors.

For some, talking about sensitive political topics can be a good way to start a conversation, but for others, it may cause discomfort.

Pay attention to the situation and the people you’re with. When unsure, it’s always better to focus on learning about Kumasi’s history and traditions instead.

When interacting with law enforcement, it’s important to remain calm and respectful, even if the situation feels frustrating.

While some travelers share stories of officers hinting at receiving money, it’s important to note that this is not always the case.

Most officers are simply doing their jobs, and being pulled over doesn’t automatically mean they want something from you. However, there can always be bad apples in any system.

If you find yourself in a situation where it feels like something is being hinted at, stay polite but firm. Kindly let them know you understand the situation but have nothing to offer.

Keeping a friendly and respectful tone often helps resolve the interaction smoothly.

Remember, assuming the worst can sometimes escalate things unnecessarily, so it’s best to approach the situation with kindness and patience.

Staying calm, kind, and respectful, even in challenging situations, will help ensure a smooth and positive experience during your trip.

Supporting Sustainable Tourism in Kumasi

Your visit can benefit the local community by supporting sustainable tourism.

Shop at markets or buy from local artisans. Reduce waste by carrying reusable water bottles or bags.

You can also join cultural activities like kente weaving or pottery-making. This helps preserve traditions while supporting local workers.

Kumasi is truly a gem, filled with rich history, vibrant culture, and unforgettable experiences. This amazing city and the surrounding areas of the Ashanti Region offer so much to explore and enjoy.

Traveling smartly can help you make the most of this incredible destination without unnecessary stress.

By planning your itinerary, choosing the right accommodations, and respecting local customs, you’re setting yourself up for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to share them in the comments.

You never know – others might have helpful advice to offer too! Above all, stay mindful, embrace the adventure, and enjoy your time exploring Kumasi.

AKWAABA!! IF THIS POST CAPTURED YOUR ATTENTION, KEEP EXPLORING KUMASI WITH US AT ExploreKumasi.com. Yɛdaase!

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