Lake Bosumtwi
Lake Natural meteorite-formed crater lake, Ashanti sacred site
South of Kumasi, Lake Bosumtwi sits in a meteorite crater ringed by Akan villages; locals fish and perform traditional rites while visitors hire pirogues or walk crater trails.
Lake Bosumtwi is a natural, circular lake in Ghana’s Ashanti Region formed within a meteorite impact crater. It is the country’s best-known natural lake and is significant both geologically and culturally to surrounding Ashanti communities.
The lake occupies a roughly circular crater and is fairly deep relative to its diameter; it is fed by rainfall and groundwater and has no surface outlet, which means water balance is controlled by evaporation and subsurface flows. The lakeshore is fringed by small towns and villages where fishing and local tourism are important activities.
Scientific studies have dated the impact that created the basin to the Pleistocene, and the site is used for geological and environmental research as well as recreation and traditional ceremonies.
Lake Bosumtwi lies about 30 kilometres south of Kumasi in the Ashanti Region, set within a rural landscape of farmland and forested hills.
- Hydrology: A closed-basin lake with no surface outlet; water level fluctuates seasonally and is linked to groundwater and rainfall patterns in the catchment.
How to Get to Lake Bosumtwi #
Lake Bosumtwi is about 30-40 minutes by car from Kumasi. Road access is via the Nsuta-Kumasi road with local signage to lakeside villages; public transport to nearby towns is available.
Tips for Visiting Lake Bosumtwi #
- Combine a visit with a drive around the lake to stop at small fishing villages and local craft markets.
- Hire a canoe with local guides to reach quieter bays and view the lake's geology up close.
- Bring local currency for small purchases in lakeside villages where cards are rarely accepted.
Best Time to Visit Lake Bosumtwi #
Accessible year-round; drier months provide easier travel and clearer views.
Weather & Climate near Lake Bosumtwi #
Lake Bosumtwi's climate is classified as Tropical Savanna - Tropical Savanna climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 22°C to 32°C. Abundant rainfall (1227 mm/year), wettest in June with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is warm with highs of 31°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 11 mm and mostly sunny skies.
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February
February is hot, feeling like 30°C. Moderate rainfall (53 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is the hottest month, feeling like 32°C due to high humidity. Significant rainfall (116 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (133 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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May
May is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Significant rainfall (157 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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June
June is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). The wettest month with heavy rain (189 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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July
July is warm with highs of 28°C and lows of 23°C. Significant rainfall (120 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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August
August is warm with highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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September
September is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 22°C). Significant rainfall (149 mm) and mostly overcast skies.
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October
October is warm with muggy conditions (dew point 23°C). Significant rainfall (138 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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November
November is hot, feeling like 31°C with oppressive humidity. Moderate rainfall (63 mm).
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December
December is hot, feeling like 30°C due to high humidity. Light rainfall.
