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Kejetia Market
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Landmark
Kejetia Market in Kumasi is widely regarded as one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa, functioning as the economic epicenter of the Ashanti Region. Housing over 10,000 stalls and shops, the market has an exhaustive variety of goods ranging from traditional Kente cloths and hand-carved crafts to modern consumer electronics and food staples. The market underwent a significant redevelopment process, with the first phase of the modern Kumasi Central Market project being commissioned in 2018 to improve safety and hygiene. It also serves as a critical transportation hub, with a massive bus and taxi terminal integrated into the complex to manage the flow of commuters. Hundreds of thousands of people navigate the market daily, contributing to an animated commercial atmosphere that sustains thousands of local livelihoods. The site remains a vital landmark of Kumasi, blending traditional trading methods with emerging urban infrastructure.
- Location: Ghana
- Top sights: Wesley Methodist Cathedral · Saint Peter's Cathedral
- Nearby: Tafo (4 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 18 | 48 | 110 | 118 | 163 | 212 | 143 | 83 | 173 | 216 | 87 | 20 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Kejetia Market is a huge open-air market in Kumasi, Ghana. It is accessible to everyone during market hours. Visitors are advised to mind their valuables.
Typical hours
The market typically opens early morning and closes late afternoon. The busiest time is in the late morning hours. Sundays are usually quieter.
Photography
Photography is generally allowed in the market, but ask vendors for permission first. Be respectful and avoid intrusive shots.
Time needed
Allow at least 1 to 2 hours for a stroll through the market. The size is overwhelming and there is plenty to discover.
Combine with
The market is centrally located in Kumasi and can be combined with the Manhyia Palace or the National Cultural Centre. Komfo Anokye Hospital is also worth a visit.
Getting there
Kejetia Market is easily accessible on foot from central Kumasi. Taxis and tro-tros (shared minibuses) stop nearby. Private vehicles can be parked in guarded parking lots.
Insider tip
Arrive early in the morning when goods are fresh and the aisles not yet crowded. Bargain politely-it's part of the culture-but remain fair.
Geography
Facts
- The market houses more than 11,000 individual trading stalls.
- Phase one of the market's redevelopment was commissioned in 2018.
- The reconstruction project cost approximately 259 million USD for phase one.
- It is the primary center for the wholesale and retail of Kente fabric.
- The facility includes modern amenities like a clinic, police station, and bank.
- Daily foot traffic at the market is estimated to reach up to 300,000 people.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Kejetia Market (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes the Kejetia Market special?
It is considered one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa with over 10,000 stalls.
Is it safe for tourists to visit the market alone?
It's safe but very crowded; watch out for pickpockets and consider using a guide.
What can you buy at Kejetia Market?
From Kente cloth and local crafts to food items and household goods.
When is the best time to visit?
Morning during weekdays, when the activity is most spirited but manageable.
How do you find your way in the labyrinth?
Use landmarks for orientation or ask local vendors for help.
Kejetia Market: where is it located?
Kejetia Market is located in Ghana.
Kejetia Market: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wesley Methodist Cathedral, Saint Peter's Cathedral.
Kejetia Market: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Kejetia Market: why is it worth visiting?
Kejetia Market in Kumasi is widely regarded as one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa, functioning as the economic epicenter of the Ashanti Region.
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History & landmarks
More places
Kumasi Fort
A British-built fortress designed to assert control over the Ashanti Empire.
Prempeh II Jubilee Museum
A museum in Kumasi showcasing artifacts of the Ashanti royals and the history of the Ashanti throne.
Manhyia Palace
The official residence of the Asantehene, the monarch of the Ashanti people.
Yaa Asantewaa Museum
A museum dedicated to the Queen Mother of Ejisu who led the Ashanti resistance against the British.
Ashanti Uplands
Hilly landscape in the heart of the country.
Nsuta Hills
A hill group known for manganese deposits.
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Asanko Gold Mine
A multi-pit gold project in the Amansie West District of the Ashanti Region.
AngloGold Ashanti Mine
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