Plizio Visual Lab
Tarkwa
ℹ️Practical info — Tarkwa
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🌤 Weather — 5 days
📍 Nearby
Sights nearby
💡 Tips
- A prominent mining town; prices for some goods can be slightly higher than in non-mining areas.
- The roads can get very muddy during the rainy season, so sturdy footwear is advisable.
- The presence of the University of Mines and Technology gives the town a youthful, academic vibe in some areas.
- If interested in mining history, ask locals about viewpoints or areas where old mining equipment can be seen.
- Always buy gold or jewelry only from certified, reputable dealers to avoid scams.
🍽 Food
A popular evening dish served at local restaurants near the town center.
Kebabs available at night markets and street corners.
A staple found in both university cafeterias and local eateries.
🛍 Shopping · 🧘 Quiet spots
Sells everything from fresh food to mining equipment and local textiles.
For those looking for authentic local gold items.
The university grounds offer a relaxed, leafy environment away from the busy market.
Offer scenic views over the town and the mining landscapes.
Water temperature…
Tarkwa is a major mining and administrative center in the Western Region of Ghana, recognized as one of the oldest gold-mining towns in West Africa. The town is situated in a landscape rich in mineral deposits, including gold and manganese, which have shaped its history and economy for over a century. Since the late 19th century, Tarkwa has attracted significant international investment, leading to the development of some of the largest open-pit mines on the continent. The local economy is heavily centered on the extractive industry, providing employment for thousands and supporting a wide range of secondary services and trade. Tarkwa is also an educational hub, home to the University of Mines and Technology, which trains professionals for the global mining sector. Its modern role is characterized by a mix of industrial activity and urban growth, with a railway line connecting it to the port city of Takoradi.
- Location: Ghana
- Nearby: Prestea (24 km)
- Population: ~49.937 (2023)
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 |
Geography
Facts
- Capital of the Tarkwa-Nsuaem Municipality, with a 2010 population of 90,477.
- Home to the Tarkwa Gold Mine, which started modern operations in the 1870s.
- University of Mines and Technology (UMaT) was established there in 1952.
- Nsuta Manganese Mine, located nearby, has been active since 1916.
- Elevation of the mining town is approximately 78 meters.
- Connected to the port of Takoradi by a 106-kilometer railway line.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Frequently asked questions
Why is Tarkwa economically important?
Is there a university in Tarkwa?
Can you visit the mines?
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How is the connection to Takoradi?
Tarkwa: where is it located?
Tarkwa: when is the best time to visit?
Tarkwa: why is it worth visiting?
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