Do you want to explore Ashanti Region but you don't have an itinerary and a budget?
Then join me on this episode of 'Explore Ghana on a budget'
Ashanti region is said to be the second-largest region in Ghana, with Kumasi city as its capital. This is also where the Asantehene resides, and his palace can be found. During this trip, I spent one night at the Green Ranch in Bosomtwe and two nights in the capital, Kumasi.
I chose this destination out of curiosity, just like my other trips. Most people have also said that if you want to learn about
the culture and history of the Akans, especially the Ashantis, then this region is a must-visit.
I departed from Accra on Thursday, 26th November and returned on Sunday, 29th October 2023. Thus, I spent 3 nights and 4 days in the Ashanti Region.
Transportation:
Accra - Bosomtwe: I booked an STC bus bound for Kumasi at the Circle branch. The bus left Accra around 7:30 am, and we arrived in Kumasi around 1 pm. I alighted at Tech Junction, where I took a trotro (sprinter) to Kuntanase (pronounced Kuntanse). This cost about Ghc 9. From Kuntanse, I took a shared taxi to Abono for Ghc 6. At Abono, I chartered an okada (motorbike) to the Green Ranch.
The experience during this trip isn’t one I can confidently say was the best. This journey is not for the weak. It can really test your patience, especially if you’re going by public transport. Aside from the stops you’d make and the connecting buses, the road is nothing to write home about. The road is long, bumpy, and dusty. Be sure to carry along a nose mask and get a shower as soon as you get to your destination.
Bosomtwe - Kumasi: The next day, after checking out of the Green Ranch at 11 am, I used the same route to get back to Kuntanase. I had initially taken the motor rider’s number and called him the morning of my departure to come pick me up. Alternatively, you can ask the ranch manager to help you with getting transport to Abono. At Kuntanase, I took a Kejetia trotro (Sprinter) for Ghc 10 and alighted at the last stop. I asked for directions to where I would be staying (Patayo Lodge), which is situated in Bantama.
The most common modes of transportation within the Ashanti region are Taxis, Tricycles, Trotros (Sprinters), and Ride-hailing app (Bolt).
Accommodation:
Lake Bosomtwe: I stayed at the Green Ranch, about a 6-hour drive from Accra and an hour and a half drive from Kumasi. It is situated on a hill that overlooks the lake. The Green Ranch is a strictly vegetarian ranch with a specialty in horseback riding. The manager, Elodie, and her family also live on the ranch. Room rates range from Ghc 200 to Ghc 300. Dormitory options are also available. One special feature about the Green Ranch is its nature. It's surrounded by the lake, trees, horses, etc. It is also notable that the family is trying to live sustainably.
I would recommend this ranch for people who want to connect with nature and are interested in horseback riding. Since it was my first time experiencing vegetarian food, I wouldn’t really say I enjoyed it, but it's the experience that matters. I also had a very deep good sleep at night. On arrival, the lights were out, but Elodie assured us by 6 pm it would be back - and she was right. Oh, did I forget to mention that water for drinking is completely free? Yes, and it’s in a wine bottle that is refilled. I booked a double room at Ghc 340 per night. Breakfast isn’t inclusive, but at a rate of Ghc 75, you can opt for the “a la carte'' for Ghc 15 per item on the menu.
For more information, call/text +233 20 291 7058
Kumasi: I stayed at Patayo Lodge for two nights. Patayo Lodge is located in the heart of town. It is opposite the Bantama market. I chose this lodge because it was a walking distance to some of the places I wanted to visit. The breakfast conversation was a bit shaky because I received a screenshot that said it was 4 Euros, and the caretaker also confirmed it was Ghc 50 per person. I later communicated with the manager, and he said for the room I booked, Deluxe Double for Ghc 307 per night, breakfast was inclusive. I had lunch and dinner at some of the places on my list, so I’m not sure if they serve other meals aside from breakfast.
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly place to stay in Kumasi, I would recommend this lodge. As for my experience, I wouldn’t say I had the best. Although the booking process was smooth, on arrival, I was given a room with a bathroom whose water closet tap was leaking. The lights also went off at night and only came back up around 11 pm. When I texted the manager about the leaking washroom, he told me they were aware of it and that the plumber would work on it the next day. The following morning, amidst knocking on my door, I was informed to move to a different room opposite. Packing and unpacking are a daunting task for any traveler, so just imagine the discomfort. Anyway, that was my experience, and yours could be different.
For more information, call/text +233 24 343 8329
Itinerary:
Lake Bosomtwe: During this trip, I only took a walk to the lake. However, activities available at the ranch are Kayaking, horse riding, and padua (traditional fishing boat).
Kumasi: My itinerary included visiting the King Prempeh II Museum, Ikes Cafe and Grill, Kumasi Cultural Centre, Kentish Restaurant, Kumasi Zoo, Okomfo Anokye Sword Site, Armed Forces Museum, Yaa Serwaa Chop bar, Somewhere in Kumasi, and finally Kumasi City Mall.
Food and Dining:
Since I stayed at the ranch, which serves ONLY vegan food, I didn’t really get to try any local foods. This was also as a result of where the ranch is located. Houses are sparsely distributed, and the other resorts nearby are not walking-distance friendly. For dinner, I had Brown rice. For breakfast, which was Ghc 75, I was served Cocoa, Bread, Fruit salad, oats, with honey, brown sugar.
I spent 48 hours in Kumasi, and some of the food I had included Fufu and Jollof.
Travel Tips:
Kumasi is predominantly a Twi-speaking town, but most people speak English. For transport, the ride-hailing app Bolt is available. For safety, there wasn't a moment where I felt unsafe, even when I went out and came back at night. You can travel to Kumasi by air or road.
Photos and Visuals:
Watch some videos from my trip here:
Conclusion: I would rate my overall experience for this trip a 5 out of 10.
I didn't have a good experience, but it was an opportunity to explore the Ashanti Region.
My overall budget (accommodation, transport, meals for this trip) was about Ghc 2000 ($190).
If you have any questions, kindly let me know in the comments section.
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Disclaimer: This content is self-funded and reflects my personal views. While I haven't received monetary compensation, others are entitled to their personal experiences, and perspectives may differ. I invite readers to form their own opinions based on their unique encounters.