Ghana is known for its rich traditions, intricate crafts, stunning nature of beaches and forestry, as well as colorful festivals reflecting the passionate music and dance scene.
A radiant country that brims with incredible cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and an infectious warmth of its people. Known as the “Gold Coast” of Africa, Ghana’s highlights range from bustling markets selling kente cloth and beads, a vibrant music scene pulsating with rhythms of Highlife and Afrobeats, to historic forts bearing the scars of the slave trade era, and a diverse geography encompassing savannah, lake lands, and pristine beaches.
There are many reasons why Ghana stands as an emblem of African pride and a compelling destination for every wanderlust-driven heart.
What Is Ghana Known For?
Ghana is famous for its spirited culture, captivating music, dance forms, historical landmarks like Cape Coast Castle, and impressive football legacy. These are, however, the tip of the iceberg as there are plethoras of interesting facts about Ghana waiting to be discovered.
History, Culture, And Traditions Israel Is Known For
Ghanaian Pidgin
Ghanaian Pidgin, or creole, is a blend of the local dialects and the official language, English. Ghana is famous for this incredibly funny, smart, and interesting language that will undoubtedly grow on you too!
Interestingly, there are two variations of Ghanaian Pidgin: the educated/formalized pidgin and the uneducated/non-formalized pidgin.
The educated pidgin language is usually acquired as a result of pursuing higher education and can be found spoken by college students and other educated individuals. The non-formalized pidgin is commonly spoken by the average Ghanaian, regardless of their education level. It is similar to the day-to-day pidgin language.
This language is catchy and amusing; it will most likely leave you fascinated as the locals communicate rapidly with you. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a word or two of English in their sentences.
Ghanaian Cuisine
Ghana boasts a variety of agricultural produce and ethnic groups which contributes to its culinary diversity and cooking techniques, resulting in a wide range of national dishes.
The majority of Ghana’s dishes consist of a combination of staples and soups. Various spices are also incorporated to enhance the flavor of their meals.
Some of the more popular and versatile staples include Fufu, banku, and, of course, the famous jollof rice. Jollof rice is prepared by cooking rice with different spices and vegetables, giving it a vibrant red color and tasty flavor.
The popular soups that accompany the staple swallows include groundnut soup and palm nut soup, made with groundnut and palm fruit extract respectively.
Ghanaian food also includes an assortment of snacks and street foods like kelewele, koose, and waakye, a meal prepared by cooking rice and beans together.
Your visit to Ghana will undoubtedly involve a lot of new experiences and an enriched palate.
Colorful Festivals
Ghana is known for its plethora of vibrant and colorful celebrations. Some of its most famous festivals include the Akwasidae Festival, the Ashanti Yam Festival, and the Damba Festival.
The Akwasidae festival is celebrated by the Ashanti people on Sundays, once every six weeks, to honor their ancestors. During this event, there is usually a lot of dancing, singing, and offerings made to their gods.
The Ashanti Yam Festival marks the first harvest of yam and is observed as a national holiday for five days. The festival features music, dance, and ancestral processions of various people in decorated palanquins, offering yam to the gods.
The Damba and Fire Festival is one that involves colorful customs, traditional dresses, and a fire procession accompanied by dancing and the performance of war songs.
These celebrations provide tourists with the opportunity to indulge their senses in captivating displays, colorful attires, and local delicacies, experiencing Ghana in all its native glory.
The Ashanti Kingdom
Ghana is famous for its ancient and powerful Ashanti kingdom. The Ashanti kingdom is one of the oldest traditional kingdoms in the country, known for its formidable military force and vast trading networks.
Although Ghana is now a democratic republic, the Ashanti kingdom still operates on a hierarchical system and monarchy. The Asantehene, the king of Ashanti, is regarded as a sacred figure by the Ashanti people and highly respected. The king is responsible for preserving Ashanti culture and traditions.
In addition to its rich history and traditions, the Ashanti Kingdom is also renowned for its festivals and its significant authority in Ghanaian culture and history.
Drumming And Dancing
Ghanaians, like other Africans, are very expressive people, and it shows in every aspect of their practices.
Drumming and dancing in Ghana are two activities that you will almost always observe. These activities play a vital role in their cultural celebrations, rituals, and social gatherings. Ghanaians also consider both activities a way of communicating with their ancestors and gods.
The drummers, dancers, and singers are often synchronized due to years of constant practice. During different festivals, you have the chance to see talented dancers in colorful attire moving to the fast-paced rhythmic beat of the traditional drums. It is truly a sight to behold, and before long, you may find yourself joining in the gyrations.
Handicrafts
Ghana is famous for its variety of beautiful handicrafts, showcasing the creativity and skill of the Ghanaian people.
In addition to preserving cultural heritage, these handicrafts is the livelihood for many artisans. Ghanaian handicrafts include woodcarvings, pottery, basketry, leatherwork, and more. They play a significant role in their culture and traditions, with some used during cultural festivals and rituals.
From lifelike sculptures of wooden figures adorned with traditional symbols to decorative vases and pots, to handmade leather wallets, bags, and footwear, there is a plethora of beautiful handicrafts that can serve as thoughtful souvenirs for your loved ones.
Anomabo And Elmina Castles
Located along the coast of Ghana, these two historical sites hold an important piece of the nation’s history, particularly related to slavery and freedom.
The castles were built as trading posts and British strongholds to facilitate the trading of goods and enslaved Africans. They were held within the castle walls before being transported across the Atlantic Ocean to the Americas and the Caribbean.
Both castles have been transformed into museums and serve as solemn reminders of Ghana’s history of slavery and freedom. Ghana was the first country in sub-Saharan Africa to abolish the slave trade.
A walk through the castles reveals dungeons that once held enslaved Africans. Both sites are now regarded as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are a must-visit for anyone seeking to learn more about this important aspect of the country’s history.
Cities And Areas Ghana Is Famous For
Accra
Undoubtedly, Ghana is known for its dynamic and vibrant metropolitan capital city, Accra.
Accra is the largest metropolitan area in Ghana for good reason! With bustling markets, historical landmarks, and lively nightlife, it’s no wonder that both tourists and locals flock to this part of the country.
If you are visiting Accra, there are plenty of places to explore. Check out historical landmarks like the Osu Castle, the Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and the Independence Square, which was built to commemorate Ghana’s independence from British colonial rule.
With vibrant local markets like the Makola and Kaneshie Markets featuring all kinds of wares, you’ll have no shortage of things to see, buy, or even eat in Accra.
After exploring the main city, you can head to the coastal area and relax on the beautiful beaches with sparkling turquoise water and pristine sands.
Kumasi
As the capital of the Asante Kingdom, Kumasi is often referred to as the cultural capital of Ghana. The city holds a significant piece of Ghana’s cultural history and heritage. For tourists interested in the history of the ancient Asante kingdom, Kumasi is the ideal place to visit.
You can start your exploration at the Manhyia Palace, the official residence of the King of Ashanti. Walk through its museums and exhibits to view historical Asante artifacts and regalia on display.
Then, proceed to the Kejetia Market, where you’ll find a plethora of stalls and shops selling food, wares, textiles, and handicrafts. Don’t forget to engage in some good-natured haggling with the local vendors to sharpen your bargaining skills.
You can also visit various cultural centers and museums, where guides can share the history of the Ashanti people.
Takoradi
Located in the Western Region of Ghana, Takoradi is the largest port city in the country. Its strategic location as the gateway for exporting and importing goods makes it the major economic hub of Ghana.
Aside from being home to one of the largest ports in West Africa, Takoradi is also known for its oil reserves.
The oil and gas industry has provided employment opportunities for the locals. You can learn about the Ghanaian oil and gas industry at the Ghana Oil and Gas Learning Center and enjoy relaxation and surfing at the beautiful palm-fringed Busua Beach.
Mole National Park
Mole National Park is a significant wildlife conservation area spanning 4,577 square kilometers. It is the largest national park in Ghana that is famous for its abundant wildlife, diverse ecosystem, and stunning landscapes.
Mole National Park is a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, with species such as buffalos, antelopes, and elephants. You can embark on thrilling game drives through the park, accompanied by experienced tour guides who provide information about animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem. Additionally, hiking and bird-watching opportunities are available.
Best of all, there are even accommodation facilities with stunning views of the park for anyone who wishes to extend their stay beyond a day.
Architecture And Landmarks Ghana Is Known For
Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum
The Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum is one of the most famous and visited landmarks in Ghana. It was built and dedicated to honor the legacy of Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah. The mausoleum is a striking architectural piece featuring a towering black statue and is built in a cross-shaped layout, similar to traditional Ashanti architecture.
It houses the tomb of Kwame Nkrumah as well as a museum where you can learn about his life and achievements. It also serves as a cultural and educational center that showcases Pan-Africanism, a cause that Kwame was passionate about.
After exploring the mausoleum, you can relax in the picturesque gardens boasting striking structures and flowing fountains while enjoying the pleasant scent of flowers.
National Museum Of Ghana
Another marquee landmark in Ghana is, none other than, the iconic National Museum.
It was founded in the year Ghana gained its independence and holds several cultural artifacts. The museum is designed in traditional Ghanaian architectural style, reflecting and promoting the cultural heritage of the country.
You can explore a large collection of exhibits that include artifacts and relics that were recovered from archaeological ruins.
One of the major highlights of the museum is the display of the Ashanti Kingdom gold regalia. A day spent at this museum will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Ghana and its history.
Larabanga Mosque
Tucked in the village of Larabanga in northern Ghana, the Larabanga Mosque is one of the oldest and most striking religious centers in the country. Believed to have been constructed in the 1600s, the Larabanga Mosque holds immense spiritual significance for the local community, serving as a place of worship, community gathering, and religious education.
Its history is also intriguing, as local folklore claims that the mosque was built overnight by Yidan Barimah, who allegedly prayed to Allah for assistance. The mosque has undergone renovations several times due to its delicate construction and still stands strong today.
Travelers will have a great time exploring the mosque, as well as the scenic landscapes surrounding it, including the mystic stone, a mysterious formation believed to hold spiritual powers.
Famous Ghanaian Food
Ghana Jollof Rice
Ghana Jollof Rice is a staple and tasty Ghanaian dish that has gained international recognition for its aromatic and flavorful taste. This beloved dish is made from a blend of ingredients and spices that come together to form a delicious meal with a mouthwatering aroma.
The meal is usually eaten with vegetables and protein to create a flavorful and balanced dish. It is often served at all forms of social gatherings and celebrations.
Discovering More Things Ghana Is Known For
Ghana’s rich cultural heritage, historical significance, natural beauty, warm hospitality, and rich cuisine contribute to its fame and allure. These are just some of the many things Ghana is famous for, and there’s plenty more to uncover.
Whether it’s immersing yourself in the vibrant culture, exploring the historical landmarks, enjoying the natural wonders, or simply experiencing the warmth of the Ghanaian people, a visit to Ghana promises to be an enriching and unforgettable experience.
