Bono Region is a quiet yet culturally vibrant destination that rewards those who look beyond the mainstream. With clean cities, rich traditions, sacred forests, and emerging tourism infrastructure, it’s perfect for cultural travelers, eco-tourists, and anyone seeking genuine Ghanaian hospitality. Whether you're relaxing in Sunyani or exploring sacred groves near Dormaa, Bono offers an unforgettable blend of peace, tradition, and discovery.
The Bono Region, formerly part of the larger Brong-Ahafo Region, is a culturally rich and environmentally diverse part of Ghana. With Sunyani as its regional capital, Bono is known for its cleanliness, organized towns, vibrant chieftaincy, natural beauty, and growing eco-tourism scene. The region offers an ideal blend of cultural heritage, sacred sites, forest trails, and comfortable accommodation options for both leisure and business travelers.
The region’s hospitality infrastructure is strongest in Sunyani, with options ranging from affordable guesthouses to business-class hotels. Towns like Dormaa Ahenkro, Berekum, and Wenchi also provide decent lodging for visitors looking to explore deeper into the region.
Eusbett Hotel – A long-standing, full-service hotel in Sunyani, ideal for conferences, family travel, or relaxation. It offers a restaurant, pool, gym, and serene surroundings.
Tyco City Hotel – A modern hotel with well-furnished rooms, event halls, and restaurant services. Popular for both business and leisure stays.
Batavia Lodge – Offers stylish rooms at mid-range prices with reliable amenities, including Wi-Fi and air-conditioning.
Nhyira Hotel – A clean, budget-friendly hotel suitable for short visits.
Maryland Guest House – Known for hospitality and a peaceful setting, with comfortable rooms and local cuisine.
Presbyterian Guest House – A calm and well-maintained option often used by visiting professionals.
Crown Hotel – Offers basic but tidy rooms, suitable for travelers visiting the west of the region.
Kwabena Lodge – A friendly, affordable choice close to the town center.
Stadium View Hotel (Berekum) – Named for its proximity to the local stadium, it’s a convenient stay for travelers attending events or games.
Victory Guest House (Wenchi) – A locally popular spot offering neat rooms and warm service.
Techiman Road Lodges – On the road from Sunyani toward Techiman, there are small inns and motels that cater to transit travelers.
For travelers interested in ecotourism or cultural exploration, arrangements can sometimes be made for homestays or eco-lodges near attractions such as forest reserves or sacred sites. These may require coordination with local tourism offices or chiefs.
Bono offers a unique mix of natural landmarks, sacred traditions, and royal heritage, making it an excellent destination for travelers seeking authentic, lesser-known experiences in Ghana.
Sunyani Traditional Council & Palace – Visitors can learn about the chieftaincy institution and observe durbars or festivals during special occasions.
Abesim and Fiapre Shrines – These sacred places highlight Bono spiritual heritage and traditional worship practices.
Bono Yam Festival (Apoo) – Celebrated annually in towns like Dormaa and Berekum, this festival combines ancestral reverence with community celebration and dance.
Bui National Park (partly shared with Bono East) – Located at the border of Bono Region, this park is home to hippos, antelope, and the scenic Black Volta River. It offers boat rides and wildlife viewing with guided ranger tours.
Kintampo Waterfalls (near the border with Bono East) – Though technically in Bono East, it remains an easily accessible and popular stop for visitors in the area.
Duasidan Monkey Sanctuary – Located near Dormaa Ahenkro, this forest reserve is home to the sacred Mona monkeys, believed to be spiritually protected. A local guide can take you on a tour of the area.
Wenchi Hills & Sacred Sites – Wenchi is known for its spiritual centers and landscape, including hills used for meditation and prayer.
Sunyani Central Market – Clean, well-organized, and full of locally made products ranging from food to crafts.
Berekum Wood Carving – Known for skilled artisans who produce traditional stools, masks, and ceremonial items.
Dormaa Leather & Beadwork – Handcrafted sandals, bags, and bead jewelry are common here, especially during market days.
Base Location | Recommended Stay | Nearby Attractions |
---|---|---|
Sunyani | Eusbett Hotel, Tyco City Hotel, Maryland Guest House | Traditional Council, Central Market, Cultural Tours |
Dormaa Ahenkro | Presbyterian Guest House, Crown Hotel | Duasidan Monkey Sanctuary, Apoo Festival |
Berekum | Stadium View Hotel, local guesthouses | Wood carving centers, local festivals |
Wenchi | Victory Guest House, lodges near town center | Hills, sacred groves, local healing centers |
Bui Area | Park guest chalets or nearby lodges | Wildlife safari, boat rides on the Black Volta River |
Best Time to Visit: November to March (dry season) is ideal for festivals, wildlife spotting, and easy road access.
Transport: Roads between major towns are paved and well-maintained. Public minibuses (trotros), taxis, and private hire cars are common.
Cultural Respect: Always seek permission before entering sacred sites or taking photographs of traditional ceremonies.
Local Cuisine: Try specialties like yam fufu with light soup, roasted plantain with groundnuts, and locally brewed drinks like pito.