EXPLORING ASHANTI CULTURE & CRAFTS-3 DAYS

ACCRA-KUMASI

Early morning, begin a scenic 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 churches which provide a distinct backdrop for important festivals and ceremonies which are still of high importance to the people

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.

We 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 their 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; continue to Kumasi Central Market, the largest open 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.

Return to hotel.

KUMASI-ASHANTI CRAFT VILLAGES

This morning, we visit the three Ashanti craft villages of the surrounding lush countryside which is a sharp contrast of the modern day Kumasi city.

Adanwomase will be our first craft village where we’ll see how the famous Kente Cloth is handmade on looms in a time-honored tradition passed down through generations. See the Kente styles and the opportunity to make purchases. We may pay a courtesy call to the paramount chief of this community amidst drumming and dancing or see their cocoa farms (must be prearranged).

We continue to the village of Ntonso where Artisans 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; 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 the Adinkra Cloth handmade in the village.

Our final village will be the Woodcarving Village of Ahwiaa, known for the talented craftsmen who fashion Royal stools, walking sticks and Fertility Dolls from wood; with the opportunity to purchase hand carved items of all kinds.

The rest of the day is at leisure.

KUMASI-ACCRA

Today, we depart for Accra with a few stops at points of interests.

We will visit the National Cultural Centre which features the Prempeh II Jubilee Museum and various studios of brass makers, potters and batik makers.

Enroute, we shall visit Lake Bosomtwe, the largest body of 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 minutes boat ride to explore the picturesque view of the Lake.

Continue to Accra, arriving early evening and check in to your hotel/residence or to the airport for your onward flight.