Eat, Drink, Explore: Legon

BEST FOOD TO EAT IN LEGON

Fufu is the national dish of Ghana and a staple throughout much of West and Central Africa. While it might not look Instagram-worthy, fufu is incredibly difficult to make and very deserving of your taste buds.  First, cassava and unripe plantains are pounded together, which requires the effort of two people – one doing the hammering and the other rotating the mixture. It is then shaped into smooth rounds and placed in a stew or soup with meat. While fufu doesn’t have a lot of flavor – its gummy texture absorbs the soup or stew broth, giving it a rich peanut tang.

Top Cultural Foods To Try in Legon

Here are some of the top traditional foods to try while you're studying in Legon:

• Fufu: Fufu is a doughy staple made from cassava and plantain, and it’s a staple of Ghanaian food culture. It’s not eaten exclusively on its own but instead is the perfect pairing for rich and spicy soups, like groundnut soup or light soup. Following the local culture, you’ll want to eat this tasty food with your hands instead of utensils!
• Banku: Another major staple in Ghana is Banku, which is a fermented corn and cassava dough that has a distinct sour taste that locals love. It's usually served with fried fish and hot pepper or with a delicious okra stew. It’s a favorite of locals!
• Waakye: Waakye is a simple but delicious dish of rice and beans that is typically served in a banana leaf with a variety of sides like spaghetti, fried plantain, eggs, and spicy pepper sauce. Since it's a convenient and delicious street food, it’s a go-to meal for students and locals alike. 

BEST DRINK IN LEGON

Coconut water tops the list of Ghana’s most popular drinks for a few reasons. For starters, Ghana is the world’s 15th largest coconut producer, yielding an average of 366,183 tons of coconuts per year. Additionally, the health benefits of drinking coconut water are difficult to dispute. A glass of this refreshing drink is low in calories, naturally free of fat and cholesterol, and offers more potassium than four bananas! Make this delicious drink your go-to beverage on a hot day in Legon.

Top Cultural Drinks To Try in Legon

Here are some of the top traditional drinks to try while you're studying in Legon:

• Sobolo: Sobolo is a spicy, non-alcoholic drink made from hibiscus leaves, ginger, and other spices that gives it a beautiful red color and a sweet yet tangy flavor. You'll find it sold by street vendors all over the city, and it’s a healthy drink option that will keep you refreshed in the sunny weather of Legon!
• Palm Wine: To really get a taste of local tradition, you’ll want to try palm wine! This is a traditional alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees. Its flavor can be sweet and fizzy when fresh, or it becomes sour and more potent when aged. Plus, it's popular for social gatherings and celebrations in Ghana!
• Brukinia and Asana: Brukinia is a thick drink made from fermented millet and milk, while Asana is a sweet, caramel-colored drink made from fermented corn. Both are popular street-side beverages that allow you to enjoy a deliciously refreshing taste of traditional Ghanaian flavors. 

BEST PLACE TO EXPLORE IN LEGON

Seven USD (or 40 GHS) buys you a ticket to Kakum National Park, a tropical rainforest reserve in Ghana’s Central region. What makes this rainforest so special? It features one of only two canopy walks in all of Africa. Take a stroll along the 1,148-foot walkway, enjoy the lush flora and fauna from a tree-top view, and explore the reserve’s diverse species of monkeys, African grey parrots, and rare white-breasted guinea fowl.

Top Cultural Attractions to Visit in Legon

Here are some of the top cultural attractions to visit while you're studying in Legon:

• Legon Botanical Gardens: The Legon Botanical Gardens offer a beautiful green space with walking trails, a peaceful lake, and a gorgeous canopy walkway. It is a favorite spot for students to relax, hang out with friends, and enjoy some time in nature. For students who love a thrill, you’ll also want to try the high ropes course located here!
• Makola Market: Makola Market is one of the largest and busiest markets in Accra. Here, you can find everything from food and spices to textiles and souvenirs that you can take home as gifts or memorabilia. Walking around the market is a great way to experience the heart of the city's commercial and cultural life!
• National Theatre of Ghana: If you love the arts, we recommend you visit the National Theatre of Ghana. The theatre is a major hub for Ghanaian culture, hosting a variety of traditional music, dance, and drama performances, but the theatre also features a unique and modern architectural design that is a beautiful sight on its own. 

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