Lake Bosomtwe is an ancient meteoritic crater lake located in Ghana’s Ashanti Region. Only one of six (6) meteoritic lakes in the world, Bosomtwe is the only natural lake in Ghana. Its water provides livelihood for more than 50,000 people, majority of whom are farmers.
Lake Bosomtwe is an important national cultural and natural site of particular relevance for international conservation. Is a circular lake, caused by a meteor impact a million years ago. The sides rise steeply, covered with trees and bush. There are various settlements around, mainly fishing and farming villages but also some places to stay. Lake Bosumtwi also sometimes spelled Bosomtwe, is a lake formed by an ancient meteorite strike in the Ashanti Region
Lake Bosomtwe is located about 30 km south-east of the Ashanti Regional capital, Kumasi. Visiting Lake Bosomtwe brings you close to an ancient natural resource with spiritual wonder. Bosomtwe comes from two Twi words; bosom: god, otwi: antelope. It signifies Lake of the Antelope God. Lake Bosomtwe was discovered in 1648 by a hunter called Akora Bompe. On one of his hunting expeditions, Akora Bompe shot and injured an antelope. The injured animal fled the scene, and the hunter with his dog followed the animal’s bloody trail to a nearby lake. When he shot again, the antelope suddenly vanished into the lake, never to resurface.
Lake Bosomtwe overlaps with the Bosomtwe Range Forest Reserve. The lake, therefore, forms an important oasis of wetlands, forests, and a mountainous ecosystem. It supports more than 30 tree species, a wide range of wildlife, and more than 50,000 people.
Animals found at the Crater Lake Bosomtwe include tree pangolins, marsh mongoose, the lesser spot-nosed monkey, and the western green mamba. The lake also supports habitats for birds for the white-crested hornbill and red-chested cuckoo.
There is a lot to do during your trip to Lake Bosomtwe. As the only natural lake in Ghana, Bosomtwe’s ancient history offers a strong spiritual connection to the earth. You can hike around the surrounding areas during your trip to Lake Bosomtwe. If you are looking for more fun activities, take a swim in the cold, ancient waters, or row a traditional canoe across its dark waters.
