🌳 Explore Sunyani, Ghana: The Clean, Green Heart of the Bono Region
Tucked away in the forested hills of central Ghana, Sunyani is often referred to as “The Green City” — and for good reason. Known for its clean streets, calm atmosphere, and lush surroundings, Sunyani is the capital of the Bono Region and one of Ghana’s most peaceful urban centers.
Though less flashy than Accra or Kumasi, Sunyani offers an authentic Ghanaian experience — with rich culture, friendly locals, beautiful nearby nature spots, and delicious local cuisine. It’s the perfect destination for eco-tourists, road-trippers, or travelers seeking tranquility and culture off the beaten path.
🗺️ Where is Sunyani?
Sunyani is located in the Bono Region, about 126 km northwest of Kumasi and 400 km from Accra. It serves as a regional administrative and commercial hub and sits at the edge of Ghana’s forest belt, surrounded by rolling hills, cocoa farms, and wildlife reserves.
🚗 How to Get to Sunyani from Accra
🚌 By Bus:
STC, VVIP, and other long-distance buses depart regularly from Accra.
Departure points: Circle, Kaneshie, or STC yard.
Travel Time: 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
Fare: Approx. GHS 100–200, depending on class. (as of Sep 2025)
✈️ By Air (currently limited):
Sunyani Airport had domestic flights (primarily Accra–Sunyani), but services are intermittent. Always check for current schedules. However, you may want to fly to Kumasi or Tamale, daily good connections, and continue from there.
Flight time: ~1 hour if operational.
🚘 By Private Car:
Road trip lovers will enjoy the scenic drive via Nkawkaw or Kumasi. Until Nkakaw, the road is very bad due to ongoing, over years, road building.
Roads thereafter are mostly tarred and in fair condition.
File Photo
📍 Top Attractions in and Around Sunyani
🌿 1. Kintampo Waterfalls (~1.5 hours from Sunyani)
One of Ghana’s most famous waterfalls, featuring three cascading levels and a walkway bridge. Great for picnics, swimming, and nature photography.
🦓 2. Boabeng-Fiema Monkey Sanctuary (~2 hours away)
A sacred forest where mona and colobus monkeys roam freely. These monkeys are protected by traditional taboos, making this one of Ghana's best community-based eco-tourism spots.
🌄 3. Bui National Park & Bui Dam (~3 hours away)
See hippos, rare birds, and lush river scenery at Bui National Park, which stretches along the Black Volta River. Boat rides and guided hikes are available. The Bui Dam is also an impressive sight.
🏛️ 4. Cocoa Research Institute (Bodwesango/Sunyani)
Learn about Ghana’s cocoa heritage, farming innovations, and cocoa's impact on the local economy. Great for educational tours.
🛍️ 5. Sunyani Central Market
Vibrant and colorful, this market is a great place to interact with locals and shop for fresh produce, textiles, handmade crafts, and Ewe kente from nearby towns.
🍽️ Where to Eat in Sunyani
🍛 Eusbett Hotel Restaurant
Offers a wide variety of Ghanaian and continental cuisine in an upscale setting. Great service and serene atmosphere.
🍗 Mixtech Restaurant
A local favorite known for grilled tilapia, fried rice, and banku with soup. Great portions at affordable prices.
🍲 Top Taste Restaurant
Known for its delicious fufu, light soup, and goat meat dishes. Casual and authentic.
🥗 Mary's Garden
Perfect for a quiet lunch or dinner with healthy options, juices, and vegetarian meals.
🏨 Where to Stay
Eusbett Hotel – The most prominent hotel in Sunyani, with a pool, gym, conference center, and top-notch rooms.
Tyco City Hotel – Elegant and ideal for business travelers, with spacious rooms and great dining.
Regal Hotel – Mid-range, clean, and affordable with excellent customer service.
Local guesthouses – Budget-friendly options like Capital View or Presby Guesthouse.
🎉 Local Culture & Festivals
🎭 Kwafie Festival
Celebrated by the Dormaa people, this festival involves ancestral rites, fire processions, and traditional performances. It’s a fascinating way to witness Bono customs and chiefdom traditions.
🪘 Local Drumming & Dance
Sunyani and surrounding towns often host cultural nights showcasing Adowa, Kete, and Bono folk dances. Check with local hotels or the cultural center for upcoming events.
🌟 Why Visit Sunyani?
✅ One of Ghana’s cleanest and calmest cities
✅ Surrounded by natural attractions and eco-tourism sites
✅ A cultural gateway to the Bono and Ahafo peoples
✅ Ideal for road trips, eco-travel, and cultural immersion
✅ Friendly locals and affordable accommodations
✨ Final Thoughts
Sunyani might not top every tourist’s bucket list — but maybe it should. It’s a city where tranquility meets culture, where clean streets and fresh air invite you to stay a little longer, and where the rhythms of rural and urban life coexist in harmony.
Whether you're seeking waterfalls, wildlife, cultural experiences, or just peace of mind, Sunyani is Ghana’s hidden gem waiting to be explored.