Volta and Ashanti Region
The Volta region is dominated by Volta Lake, the largest manmade lake on earth. The waterway stretches for two-thirds of the length of the country. A round trip on the car ferry to Kete-Krachi takes one day; alternatively, take the three-day trip to the northern capital of New Tamale at the head of the lake. There are facilities for sailing, water-skiing and other watersports. Ferry links across the lake now make the region more accessible (see Travel – Internal section). Akosombo, centre to the important Akosombo irrigation dam, is developing as a holiday resort, particularly for watersports.
This is the historic capital of the Ashanti civilisation, where ruins of the Manhyia Palace and the Royal Mausoleum burnt down by Lord Baden-Powell may be examined. The Cultural Centre is a complex comprising a museum, library and outdoor auditorium largely devoted to the Ashanti. There is also a ‘Living Museum’, a farm and reconstituted village, where craftspeople such as potters, goldsmiths and sculptors can be seen at work using traditional methods. Of particular interest are weavers making the vividly coloured kente cloth, the ceremonial dress of the region.
Located to the west, close to Kumasi. Further to the northeast is the Boufom Wildlife Sanctuary, containing the spectacular Banfabiri Falls. To the south is the pleasant gold-mining city of Obuasi.
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