Things To Do
in Tarkwa

Tarkwa is a mining town located in the Western Region of Ghana, known for its rich gold deposits and vibrant culture. It serves as a hub for the mining industry and offers a glimpse into the lives of the local communities intertwined with mining activities. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, making it a scenic location for visitors.

Despite its industrial nature, Tarkwa has a unique charm, with friendly locals and a variety of cultural experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Tarkwa
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tarkwa Gold Mine, where you can learn about the mining process and its impact on the local economy.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tarkwa Market to experience local shopping and taste street food. Browse through colorful stalls selling everything from fresh produce to handicrafts.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant such as 'The Golden Spoon', known for its delicious Ghanaian dishes, followed by a stroll through the town center.

day 2
Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Nature
morning
:

Visit the St. Augustine's Anglican Church, a beautiful historical site, and learn about its significance in the community.

afternoon
:

Take a short trip to the nearby Bonsa River for a relaxing afternoon by the water, where you can enjoy a picnic or take photos of the scenic views.

evening
:

Wrap up your trip by experiencing Tarkwa's nightlife, visiting a local bar or club to enjoy live music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant$5
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel Night$20
Coffee at Cafe$2
🍺Beer at Bar$3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and dining.
  • Unique opportunity to learn about the mining industry.
  • Limited tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • Some areas may have safety concerns at night.
  • "Akwaaba" - Welcome
  • "Medɔ wo" - I love you
  • "Ɛyɛ" - Okay
  • "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
  • "Wo ho te sɛn?" - How are you?

Places to Visit in Tarkwa

Visit one of these nice places.

Tarkwa Gold Mine

Capture the vastness of the gold mine and the surrounding landscape, showcasing the industrial heart of Tarkwa.

Bonsa River

A serene spot for nature photography, with lush greenery and reflections on the water.

St. Augustine's Anglican Church

A beautiful historical church with stunning architecture, perfect for capturing local culture.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tarkwa

Tarkwa offers a vibrant culinary scene with a mix of traditional Ghanaian dishes and street food that reflects the local culture.

Tarkwa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jollof Rice

A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, and spices, often served with chicken or fish.

Must-Try!

Fufu and Light Soup

A traditional dish made from pounded cassava and plantains served with a spicy soup.

Banku and Tilapia

A Ghanaian staple made from fermented corn and cassava dough, served with grilled tilapia and spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tarkwa Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies.

Street Vendors

Local vendors sell fried plantains, kebabs, and meat pies on the streets.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tarkwa has a tropical climate, with a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March. Temperatures are generally warm, averaging between 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) throughout the year, with humidity levels rising during the rainy season. The Harmattan season brings cooler temperatures and dust from the Sahara, making it feel significantly cooler.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Always greet locals with a smile and a handshake; it shows respect.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders in the community; use polite language and gestures.

Dress Modestly

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tarkwa is generally safe for tourists, but it is advisable to take standard safety precautions such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping valuables secure. Be cautious of petty theft in crowded places. Engaging with locals and asking for advice can enhance your safety while exploring.

Tipping in Tarkwa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% at restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards can be used at some major establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - March)

Expect warm and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring.

Rainy Season (April - October)

Frequent rain showers and humidity; plan indoor activities and be cautious of slippery roads.

Harmattan (December - February)

A dry and dusty wind from the Sahara can reduce visibility but brings cooler temperatures.

Festive Season (December)

Cultural festivals and celebrations take place, offering a vibrant experience of local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Tarkwa at Night

Tarkwa's nightlife is vibrant, with a variety of bars and clubs offering live music, dance, and local drinks. Popular spots often feature local bands playing highlife and hiplife music, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. Be prepared for a lively night out filled with dancing and socializing with locals.

Hiking in Tarkwa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Aburi Mountain Trail

A scenic hiking trail offering beautiful views of the surrounding landscape, suitable for all skill levels.

Kakum National Park Trail

A more challenging hike through the rainforest, famous for its canopy walk and diverse wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Tarkwa by plane.

Takoradi Airport

Located approximately 50 km from Tarkwa, it offers domestic flights connecting to Accra and other regional destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tarkwa is moderately walkable, especially in the town center where most shops, markets, and eateries are located close to each other. However, sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised while walking. For longer distances, local transport options like shared taxis are available.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Ewe

One of the major ethnic groups, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.

Akan

Another significant demographic group, contributing to the cultural diversity and social fabric of Tarkwa.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Tarkwa, with local teams and matches drawing crowds of enthusiastic fans.

Athletics

Running and other athletic events are common, with local schools and communities often hosting competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tarkwa can be congested, especially during peak hours due to the high volume of mining vehicles and local traffic. Public transportation options include shared taxis and minibuses, which are affordable and widely used. Walking is viable in the town center, but be cautious of the traffic conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarkwa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, but it's best to confirm with the chef.

Gluten-Free

Options are limited, but dishes like Jollof rice are generally gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tarkwa includes a few local clinics and hospitals, but facilities may be limited compared to urban centers. It's advisable to have health insurance and to carry any necessary medications. For serious health concerns, traveling to larger cities like Takoradi may be necessary.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide