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Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine
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The Tarkwa gold mine, operated by Gold Fields Ghana, is the country's largest gold mine by production volume and a premier open-pit operation. Located in the Western Region of Ghana near the town of Tarkwa, it sits on one of the richest gold belts in the world. The mine was acquired by Gold Fields in 1993 and has since undergone massive expansion and modernization. The extraction process primarily utilizes open-cast methods, moving vast quantities of gold-bearing ore from multiple pits. The facility employs advanced heap leach and CIL (Carbon-in-Leach) processing technologies to maximize gold recovery rates. Producing over 500,000 ounces of gold annually, Tarkwa is a vital economic engine for the Ghanaian state. The mine possesses extensive mineral reserves, securing operational viability for at least another two decades. In addition to its industrial output, the mine operator is heavily involved in regional community development and infrastructure projects.
- Location: Ghana
- Top sights: Wassa Fiase Traditional Council · TNA Park
- Nearby: Prestea (24 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 29 | 61 | 131 | 151 | 207 | 255 | 131 | 69 | 150 | 233 | 111 | 33 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine is one of Ghana's largest open-pit gold mines and a major producer. It contributes significantly to national gold production and employs thousands of people.
Visiting
The mining site is closed to the public for safety reasons. The facility can be viewed from outside along the public roads surrounding the perimeter.
Where to view it
A viewpoint is located on the main road between Tarkwa and Bogoso, where large waste dumps and the open pit are partially visible. The hills east of the mine also provide a good overview of the entire area.
Local products
In the Tarkwa region, local markets often offer handmade gold jewellery and raw gold. Seasonal agricultural products like cassava and plantains round out the selection.
Active season
Mining at Tarkwa Mine takes place year-round as an industrial continuous operation. The mine is especially active during the dry season when ore extraction and transport run more smoothly.
Nearby
A visit can be combined with the town of Tarkwa itself, which has a lively market and colonial buildings. Nearby Wassa cultural villages and Ankasa National Park are also worthwhile destinations.
Geography
Facts
- Acquired in 1993
- 500,000 ounces per year
- Ghana's largest open-pit mine
- Located in Western Region
- Operated by Gold Fields
- Uses CIL processing
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine?
It is a large open-pit gold mine in the Western Region of Ghana.
How does it differ from the Obuasi mine?
Tarkwa is mainly an open-pit mine, while Obuasi is primarily operated underground.
Where exactly is the mine located?
It is located near the town of Tarkwa, a major mining center in Ghana.
Can you visit the open-pit operation?
For safety reasons, access is strictly limited; visits must be arranged in advance.
What is the economic significance of Tarkwa?
Tarkwa is the heart of Ghana's gold and manganese production, featuring a mining university.
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine: where is it located?
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine is located in Ghana.
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wassa Fiase Traditional Council, TNA Park.
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Gold Fields Tarkwa Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Tarkwa gold mine, operated by Gold Fields Ghana, is the country's largest gold mine by production volume and a premier open-pit operation.
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