The Ahafo Region is a hidden jewel with untapped tourism potential. Its serene landscapes, cultural richness, and welcoming communities offer a refreshing escape from crowded tourist spots. Whether you’re interested in nature, cultural heritage, or agricultural life, Ahafo invites you to slow down and connect with authentic Ghanaian experiences.
The Ahafo Region, carved out of the former Brong-Ahafo Region, is one of Ghana’s newest administrative areas. Known for its lush vegetation, peaceful towns, and strong agricultural base, Ahafo is a region with growing tourism potential. While it may not be as developed as other regions for tourism, it offers visitors a blend of rural serenity, forest adventures, cultural history, and emerging hospitality.
Ahafo’s accommodation scene is modest but steadily improving, especially in towns like Goaso, Kenyasi, Bechem, and Duayaw Nkwanta. You’ll find a mix of guesthouses, inns, and a few modern hotels catering to both local travelers and visitors.
Royal Diamond Guest House – A clean, comfortable guesthouse located in the heart of Goaso. Offers affordable rooms with basic amenities.
Big Boss Hotel – Known for decent lodging and a central location, suitable for business or leisure stays.
Jemimah Guest House – A smaller, cozy option often recommended for its hospitality and quiet atmosphere.
Sunset Hotel – Popular among travelers seeking privacy and a touch of comfort without high prices.
Newmont Guest House – A well-maintained facility often used by visiting professionals due to its proximity to the Ahafo mine.
Sunsu Hotel – A local hotel with adequate facilities, including air-conditioned rooms and on-site dining.
Sankofa Lodge – Offers simple but clean accommodation with easy access to the town centre and nearby attractions.
Gloryland Hotel – Located in Bechem, this hotel provides mid-range comfort for business and leisure travelers alike.
Unity Lodge – A quiet spot in Duayaw Nkwanta, known for its tidy rooms and friendly staff.
Modern Guest Inn – A budget-friendly guesthouse for backpackers and solo travelers.
While rural homestays and eco-lodges are limited, there are growing efforts to promote community-based tourism, especially near forest reserves and cultural towns. Visitors can sometimes arrange overnight stays in farming communities for an immersive experience.
Though Ahafo is not yet a mainstream tourist destination, it offers several hidden gems for adventurous and curious travelers.
Subim Forest Reserve – A lush forest reserve located near Kenyasi. It offers rich biodiversity and opportunities for hiking, birdwatching, and ecotourism. With community engagement, the area is being developed for nature-based tourism.
Tano River – Flowing through parts of Ahafo, the Tano River is central to the livelihoods of many communities and holds spiritual significance in local traditions.
Wuramuhene Sacred Grove – A protected forest area held sacred by local chiefs and used for traditional ceremonies. Visitors are advised to follow local customs when entering.
Goaso Traditional Area – Visitors can engage with the traditional authority and witness local festivals, including the annual yam festivals and durbars of chiefs.
Kenyasi Stool House – A historical location where important royal stools and symbols of power are preserved.
Local Festivals – Festivals like Ahafo Yam Festival or Akwanbo Festival in various towns celebrate harvests, ancestry, and community unity. These festivals offer rich displays of drumming, dancing, and storytelling.
Ahafo is known as one of Ghana’s leading producers of cocoa, timber, plantain, and vegetables. Some local farms, particularly around Bechem and Kenyasi, are exploring agro-tourism opportunities where visitors can:
Tour cocoa and plantain farms
Participate in traditional farming practices
Learn about organic and sustainable agriculture
| Base Location | Recommended Stay | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Goaso | Royal Diamond Guest House, Sunset Hotel | Goaso Traditional Area, Local Markets, Forest Walks |
| Kenyasi | Newmont Guest House, Sankofa Lodge | Subim Forest Reserve, Tano River, Cultural Ceremonies |
| Bechem | Gloryland Hotel | Farming Villages, Agro-Tours, Local Crafts |
| Duayaw Nkwanta | Unity Lodge, Modern Guest Inn | Sacred Groves, Traditional Town Tours |
Transport: Roads in the region are generally accessible, especially from Sunyani or Kumasi. Shared taxis and minibuses (trotros) are common.
Connectivity: Mobile networks are available but may be patchy in remote areas.
Local Etiquette: Respect for traditional leaders and customs is essential. Dress modestly when attending festivals or entering sacred areas.
Best Time to Visit: Between November and March (dry season) is ideal for travel and festivals.