Family-Friendly Adventures in Kumasi!

Manhyia Palace Museum (Asantehene"s Palace)

Why Visit?

Family Adventure at Manhyia Palace Museum, Kumasi

Morning Arrival

Begin your exciting family day out at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, the heart of Ashanti culture. Reach Kumasi by road; it"s a vibrant city about 4-5 hours drive from Accra depending on traffic. Alternatively, catch a quick flight to Kumasi Airport and hire a taxi to the museum, located a convenient 20-minute drive from the airport.

Explore Manhyia Palace Museum

Start your tour at around 10:00 AM. Manhyia Palace Museum, once the residence of Ashanti kings, offers a deep dive into the rich history and traditions of the Ashanti Kingdom. Guided tours, typically lasting about an hour, will take you through various exhibits showcasing royal regalia, artifacts, and videos of traditional ceremonies.

Interesting Fact: The current Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, occasionally holds court in a part of the palace, continuing centuries-old traditions of the Ashanti monarchy.

Interactive Cultural Experience

Post the museum tour, join in on a cultural workshop often available by prior arrangement. Here, kids and adults alike can learn about Ashanti symbols, try traditional drumming, or engage in kente cloth weaving, making the cultural heritage accessible and engaging for all ages.

Lunch and Leisure

Take a break around noon to enjoy some local cuisine at a nearby restaurant. Try dishes like fufu and goat light soup, or jollof rice which are popular with locals and tourists alike.

Afternoon Stroll and Departure

Post lunch, enjoy a leisurely walk in the palace gardens where kids can play and adults relax amidst nature. Wrap up your day by 3:00 PM to head back to your hotel or continue exploring other attractions in Kumasi such as the Kejetia Market or the Kumasi Botanical Gardens.

This family-friendly itinerary offers an enriching and enjoyable exploration of the Ashanti culture right from its historical heartland.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Asante Traditional Buildings

Why Visit?

Embark on a captivating journey through Ghana’s rich history with a family-friendly tour of the Asante Traditional Buildings, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980. These architectural wonders are scattered around Kumasi and the small towns nearby, such as Ejisu, Edwenase, and Asawase.

Morning

Start your day early at the Manhyia Palace Museum in Kumasi, where you can dive into the history of the Ashanti Kingdom. It’s advisable to hire a local guide who can enlighten you with the stories behind the artifacts and the significance of the Ashanti rulers. From Kumasi, you can easily reach the nearby traditional buildings by taxi or rented car.

Midday

Head to the village of Ejisu, about 30 minutes from Kumasi, to visit the home of Yaa Asantewaa, the famed warrior queen who led the Ashanti rebellion against British colonialism. This site provides an inspiring tale of courage and leadership, perfectly suited to both children and adults. Enjoy a packed lunch at a nearby picnic spot.

Afternoon

Travel next to Besease, about 10 km from Ejisu. Here, you can explore the intricately adorned Besease Shrine. The façade is decorated with motifs symbolizing Ashanti beliefs and values, an excellent way to introduce your family to local culture and artistry.

Late Afternoon

Conclude your tour at the Asawase Shrine, where the setting sun casts beautiful shadows over the elaborate wood carvings, creating a magical atmosphere. This is a perfect photo opportunity to capture the memories of your day.

Tips

- Dress respectfully as these are revered sites.

- Engage with local artisans and vendors for unique souvenirs and crafts.

- Each site typically requires a small entrance fee; funds go towards preservation.

This tour not only provides a deep dive into the grandeur of Ashanti architecture but also offers a profound understanding of the cultural and historical significance of the Asante people.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Kumasi Fort and Military Museum

Why Visit?

### Family Day Out at Kumasi Fort and Military Museum

Morning Arrival

Start your day early by arriving at Kumasi, the heart of Ghana"s Ashanti region. Kumasi is accessible by road from Accra, taking about 4-5 hours by car or bus. You can also fly into the Kumasi Airport and take a short taxi ride to the city center. The Kumasi Fort and Military Museum is centrally located and easily reachable by local taxi or even on foot if you"re staying nearby.

Exploring Kumasi Fort and Military Museum

Built originally by the British in 1820, the fort was reconstructed in 1897 and has since housed the Ashanti Battalion of the Gold Coast Regiment. Today, it serves as an intriguing museum that showcases military history and artifacts notable to Ghana"s heritage.

Upon arrival, take a guided tour (which usually starts every hour) to fully appreciate the historical significance of the artifacts and the stories behind them. Children will be fascinated by the real-life tanks and aircraft on display. The tour guides often tailor their explanations to hold the interest of younger visitors, making history come alive.

Interactive Sessions

Don’t miss the interactive sessions where kids can try on military uniforms and learn about the different medals and their meanings. These hands-on activities are both educational and fun, offering great photo opportunities.

Lunch Break

Enjoy a picnic in the nearby Rattray Park, just a 10-minute drive from the museum. The park offers a clean and safe environment, with plenty of space for kids to play and adults to relax.

Post-Lunch Walk

After lunch, take a leisurely walk back to the museum area and explore the surrounding neighborhood, which is rich in colonial architecture and bustling markets.

Departure

Wrap up your visit by late afternoon, allowing plenty of time to reflect on the day’s learnings or possibly browse through the souvenir shop at the museum for keepsakes.

This educational yet entertaining visit to the Kumasi Fort and Military Museum will surely provide a memorable experience for the whole family, enriching knowledge and sparking curiosity in Ghana"s rich history.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Prempeh II Jubilee Museum

Why Visit?

Family Visit Itinerary to Prempeh II Jubilee Museum

Morning: Arrival and Introduction to Asante History

Begin your day at the historic Prempeh II Jubilee Museum, nestled in the heart of Kumasi, the cultural heartbeat of Ghana. Arriving early will help you avoid the crowds and fully immerse in the rich experience. The museum is easily accessible by taxi or local bus from any part of Kumasi. Aim to arrive by 9 AM.

Welcome Orientation (9:15 AM)

Start with a welcome orientation. The friendly museum staff provide insights into what you’ll discover during your visit, including the fascinating history of the Asante kingdom.

Guided Tour (9:30 AM - 11:00 AM)

Embark on a guided tour. The museum, located within the premises of the Centre for National Culture, presents a treasure trove of artifacts and regalia related to the Asante monarchy. Marvel at the display of King Prempeh II’s personal belongings, royal paraphernalia, and photographs depicting significant events.

Interactive Workshop (11:15 AM)

Join an interactive workshop where kids can try their hands at traditional Asante crafts, including Kente weaving and Adinkra printing. It"s not only fun but also a great way for them to connect with Ghanaian culture.

Afternoon: Explore Surrounding Attractions

Post-lunch, explore nearby attractions. A short walk leads you to the Kumasi Fort and Military Museum, where you can learn about the region’s colonial and military history through intriguing exhibits, including armory and fortifications.

Evening: Stroll and Souvenir Shopping (4:00 PM)

Conclude your day with a leisurely stroll around the vibrant Kejetia Market, just a 10-minute drive from the museum. It"s a perfect place to pick up souvenirs, from traditional crafts to exotic spices, ensuring you take a piece of Kumasi with you.

End of Day (6:00 PM)

Return to your accommodation by taxi or bus, filled with memories and new insights into the rich Asante heritage.

Tips

- Wear comfortable shoes as there"s a fair amount of walking involved.

- Don’t forget your camera to capture the colorful exhibits and your creations from the craft workshop.

Enjoy your journey through history and culture at the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum in Kumasi!

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.

Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary

Why Visit?

Family-Friendly Itinerary for Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary

Morning Arrival

Start your adventure early to enjoy a cooler climate and active wildlife. Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary is located about 16 kilometers west of Kumasi, easily accessible by car via the Kumasi-Techiman road. Upon arrival, register at the visitor center. The sanctuary offers a unique blend of wildlife conservation and water protection, as it surrounds the Owabi reservoir, a vital water source for the region.

Guided Nature Walk (9:00 AM - 11:00 AM)

Join a guided nature walk. The trails are well-maintained and manageable for children. Your guide will help you spot various bird species—over 160 have been recorded here, including the rare African pied hornbill. The sanctuary is also home to monkeys and antelopes. Guides will share fascinating facts about the local flora and fauna, adding an educational twist to the walk.

Picnic Lunch by the Reservoir (11:30 AM - 12:30 PM)

Pack a picnic to enjoy by the reservoir, a tranquil spot perfect for family bonding. The area provides a picturesque view of the water and a chance to see birds swooping down to catch fish.

Canoe Ride (1:00 PM - 2:00 PM)

After lunch, rent a canoe for a gentle row on the reservoir. It’s a great way to see the sanctuary from a different perspective and get up close to aquatic life.

Visit the Environmental Education Center (2:30 PM - 3:30 PM)

Conclude your visit at the Environmental Education Center, where interactive displays engage children with the importance of conservation and the roles they can play in protecting nature.

Departure (4:00 PM)

Head back to Kumasi in the late afternoon, leaving with memories of a day spent in nature and new insights into wildlife protection.

Tips

- Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring insect repellent.

- Keep cameras ready for wildlife and scenic shots.

- Stay hydrated and bring refillable water bottles.

This itinerary balances fun and learning, making Owabi Wildlife Sanctuary a memorable visit for any family.

Family-Friendly Tips: Check for specific amenities and accessibility features relevant to family-friendly travelers.