Lake Bosomtwe | Kumasi

Lake Bosomtwe is a circular meteorite impact crater lake situated in the Ashanti Region, approximately 30km southeast of Kumasi. It is the only natural inland lake in Ghana and is considered one of the six major meteoric lakes in the world.

Visual Characteristics

The lake is characterized by a nearly perfect circular shoreline surrounded by steep, densely forested hills that rise approximately 330m above the water level. The water is deep, reaching a maximum depth of approximately 78m. The landscape features 22 small villages dispersed along the lake's edge, with traditional wooden jetties and vast expanses of calm, reflective water.

Location & Access Logistics

The lake is located in a crater basin accessible via the Kumasi-Kuntanase Road. From Kumasi, visitors typically travel to Kuntanase and then proceed to lake-entry points such as Abono. Access is primarily via private vehicle, taxi, or "tro-tro" minibuses from the Kejetia or Atonsu terminals in Kumasi. The final descent into the crater involves steep, winding paved roads. Parking is available at various resort sites in Abono.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The lake was formed by a meteorite impact approximately 1.07 million years ago. It is an endorheic basin, meaning it has no surface outlets; water level is maintained entirely by rainfall and internal evaporation. The area was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 2012 due to its unique ecosystem, which includes endemic fish species like the Hemichromis frempongi.

Key Highlights & Activities

Primary activities include boat cruises and traditional dugout canoe trips. Due to the sacred status of the lake, traditional law forbids the use of modern metal or motorized boats for fishing; local fishers use the padua, a flat wooden plank paddled with the hands or small wooden blades. The surrounding hills offer opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and mountain biking. Swimming is permitted, although visitors are advised to stick to areas cleared by established resorts.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The Abono area and other lakeside villages feature several guest houses and resorts, such as Lake Point Safari Lodge and Wildwin Resort. These facilities provide restaurants, public restrooms, and shaded lake-view seating. 4G cell phone signal is stable near the major resort areas but can be intermittent in the more remote villages within the crater.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March) for clear views and stable water conditions. Early morning (06:00–08:30) is optimal for photography to capture the mist rising from the water and the reflection of the crater walls. Weekends are popular for local excursions, while weekdays offer a more secluded environment.

Facts & Legends

To the Ashanti people, Lake Bosomtwe is a sacred site where the souls of the deceased come to say goodbye to the god Twi before moving on. A unique ecological phenomenon is the occasional "exploding" of the lake, where decomposing organic matter on the lake floor releases gases that turn the water a leaden color and cause a temporary sulfurous odor, an event locals call the "dying of the cows."

Nearby Landmarks

Kuntanase – 8km North

Kumasi – 30km Northwest

Obuasi – 45km Southwest

Bobiri Forest Butterfly Sanctuary – 35km Northeast