March is International Women’s Month, and what better way to celebrate than by spotlighting incredible women shaping Ghana’s travel and hospitality industry? Today, meet Martina Kumi, a freelance tour guide who does it all.
Choosing Passion and Purpose
Some people fall into tourism by chance, but for Martina, the pull to tourism was revealed in layers. At first, she had a choice of going into community nursing, business, or tourism. As she researched each choice and the layers peeled away, tourism sparked an insatiable curiosity. The more she learned, the more she loved it, and the greater her desire to know more grew. Martina’s love of Ghana and wanting to share all its beauty with others led to her eventually becoming a full-time freelance tour guide with a reputation for guiding visitors on immersive, fun, and unforgettable travel experiences.
A Tour for Every Traveler
One of the things that makes Martina truly stand out is her versatility. Whether you’re a history and heritage buff retracing the steps and experiences of the past, an adventurer looking to hike through lush rainforests or climb rugged mountains, or a wellness traveler seeking relaxation and time for reflection by the ocean—she’s got you covered.
But let’s talk about what sets her apart: Martina isn’t just a tour guide; she’s also an amazing cook. If you’re the type of traveler who believes food is the best way to experience a new culture, then you’re in for a treat. She doesn’t just show you Ghanaian cuisine—she takes you straight into the heart of it. If you want cooking lessons, you’ve got it. Want to shop in open-air markets looking for the cooking ingredients? She’ll make it happen. Learn how to make jollof rice from scratch, or fufu and groundnut soup. You’ll leave Ghana with more than just memories—you’ll have recipes to impress your friends back home.
Beyond the Tours: A Taste of Ghana, Naturally
When she’s not leading unforgettable tours, Martina creates organic products, from an aromatic spices blend that adds West African flavor to your cooking to handcrafted black soap and pure shea butter. With Martina, her side business is still all about sharing Ghana’s natural goodness with others.
Passion & People
If you ask her what she loves most about her work, she won’t hesitate—it’s the people. Martina firmly believes that travel is a two-way exchange. She shares Ghana’s rich history, culture, and traditions with visitors, but she also learns from them through insightful conversations.
And let’s talk about customer service—because if there’s one thing Martina prides herself on, it’s making sure every traveler feels welcome, safe, and cared for. She is emphatic about this and crafts experiences that leave a lasting impact. Whether it’s ensuring your food preferences are met, adjusting schedules to fit your interests, or simply sharing a laugh during long road trips, her goal is to make sure you leave Ghana feeling like you have been very well taken care of – like family.
Overcoming Challenges & Thriving in a Male-Dominated Industry
The travel and hospitality industry in Ghana hasn’t always been the easiest space for women, but it is getting better and Martina has navigated it with resilience and confidence.
When she first started as a female tour guide in Ghana, there were very few women in the field. The challenges weren’t just about opportunity—they were cultural. Many women faced a lack of support from their families, particularly from spouses, due to traditional gender roles. Balancing family responsibilities with leading full-day and multi-city tours often became overwhelming, causing many women to leave the industry.
But Martina stood firm. She had already established herself as a tour guide before meeting her husband, and she made it clear—anyone who wanted to marry her had to accept her profession. She wasn’t going to give up her passion for travel and tourism. Fortunately, her husband fully supported her career, and today, they are proud parents of three brilliant children. Their eldest is currently enrolled at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). Martina also credits her mother’s unwavering support, which allowed her to continue growing her career while raising her family.
Her journey is a testament to her belief that women should have full control over their career choices and financial independence. She is passionate about encouraging more women to enter the tourism sector and to pursue their dreams—regardless of societal expectations.
“Love what you do, be authentically you, and don’t be afraid to take your place.”
Why You Should Travel with Martina
So, why should you book a tour with Martina? Here are just a few reasons:
✅ Authentic Experiences – No matter the type of tour, you’ll experience Ghana like a local.
✅ Unmatched Passion – Her enthusiasm is contagious, making every tour engaging and unforgettable.
✅ Attention to Detail – From the moment she meets you to the moment you wave goodbye, she ensures a seamless, stress-free experience.
✅ A Personal Touch – Expect warmth, laughter, and maybe even a cooking lesson if you’re lucky.
Martina’s Tip for Women Travelers: Always be careful when traveling alone. Know where you are going and what you want to do. Be confident. It is best to have a guide with you, especially if you are a first-timer. There are some things you just won’t know. Also, having a guide to translate for you can pave the way for introductions to more people and greater opportunities for deeper insights and experiences.
Ready to Experience Ghana Like Never Before?
If you’re planning a trip to Ghana, don’t just visit—immerse yourself. Travel with someone who loves what she does and is eager to share all that it offers with you.
Note: While I love spotlighting amazing tour guides and operators, I always encourage travelers to do their research and choose what’s best for them. Every traveler has different needs, so take the time to ask questions, check reviews, and make sure it’s the right fit for you.
Contact Martina today!
Email: matikumi2002@yahoo.co.uk
WhatsApp Phone: +233277424244 and you can also find Martina on her Facebook page (Martina.Kumi)
If planning your trip to Ghana feels like a lot to handle, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Whether you need a custom itinerary, help with bookings, or just want a stress-free travel experience, we’re here to make it easy.
Reach out today, and let’s start planning your unforgettable trip to Ghana!
Email: info@celmartravelandtours.com
WhatsApp Phone: +233277425131
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