Escape to tranquillity at Boti Falls, Ghana's breathtaking waterfall
Are you looking for a city break and a quick getaway from city life? Boti Falls and the surrounding forests are exactly the places you are looking for! Beautiful waterfalls, bird songs, serenity and the stunning nature will make you forget all the troubles. Explore the waterfall, nearby attractions with us!
Brief History
While there are a few versions of ‘the true’ legend about how the waterfalls were discovered, one of them states that a Catholic priest discovered the falls around 1903. President Kwame Nkrumah referred to Boti Falls as the most attractive place in this part of Ghana. In 1961, during his visit, he was so amazed by the beauty of the waterfalls that he even had requested a holiday home to be built nearby, and we can see why.
Exploring Boti Falls
The waterfall is a two-tiered cascade that drops 30 metres into a plunge pool below. This place is beautiful any time, however, the rainy season (May to September) is the time when the falls are the most spectacular. At this time of the year, the high water flow creates a double waterfall. Locals say that the bigger fall represents a male and the smaller one–a female who were cursed for life to live separately as waterfalls. The fall merging is the ‘reunion’ and often forms a pretty rainbow in celebration. This is the ‘right place to be’ if you would like to have twins.
250 steps will take you through nature sounds and splendid scenery to the bottom of the waterfall where you can have a swim or simply relax and enjoy the surroundings. This is THE place to be on a hot day.
The beauty of Boti Falls isn’t just limited to the waterfall. The surrounding area is also home to beautifully lush greenery and wildlife. Take a hike through the rainforest and take in the beauty of these surroundings. Boti Falls is also a significant and sacred place for the locals. The town of Boti is also famous for its beadwork and weaving industries. Visit local artisans in Boti or Koforidua and purchase their beautiful, handcrafted souvenirs. Also, every year on the 1st of July, the Boti Fall celebration attracts many people. Foreign visitors are welcome to join the celebration too.
Getting there
You will find the waterfall in a small town called Boti, near the village of Huhunya, in the Eastern Region of Ghana. The upper falls and the lower falls are in Boti within a forest reserve on the river Pawnpawn. It is located approximately 17 km North-east of Koforidua and is roughly 30-minute drive and about a 90-minute drive if you drive all the way from Accra. As you approach Boti Falls, the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape will amaze you. No wonder this is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers.
To get to Boti Falls, you can either take a public bus from Accra to Koforidua, and then take another bus to Boti or you can rent a car, which is a more comfortable option, but it’s also more expensive.
Other Attractions Nearby
If you have time to spare, there are more attractions to see nearby! Only a 30-minute walk from the falls you will find the Umbrella Rock–2 boulders forming an enormous umbrella that can shelter up to 15 people, and the other one is the three-headed palm tree. The hike can get steep at places. These spots are great for those Instagram photos!
The Huhunya Forest Reserve is a beautiful place to step away from city life and enjoy the serene and lush surroundings of singing birds and beautiful butterflies. Guided tours around the forest are also available. For 10 cedis, there is an option to rent a canoe. It will take you around 2-3 hours to see all 3 places, but it is worth the effort.
About an hour from Boti Falls, the Aburi Botanical Gardens is another lush oasis in the middle of the Eastern Region. With over 160 acres of greenery, the gardens are home to a variety of exotic plants and flowers, as well as a butterfly sanctuary and a bird sanctuary.
Planning Your Trip: Tips and Advice for Visiting Boti Falls
- The best time to visit the waterfall is during the rainy season (May to September/October). During this time, the waterfall is at its fullest, making it an impressive sight.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking as there’s a fair bit of hiking involved.
- Bring swimwear and a towel if you plan to swim in the pool at the bottom of the falls.
- Pack sunscreen, hat, insect repellent, and plenty of water supplies.
- Respect the local culture and traditions by dressing modestly and be respectful.
- Bring some cash with you as there’s a small entrance fee to access the waterfall.
- Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the breathtaking views and that rainbow everyone’s talking about.
Hi, I’m Edite, I am part of the core team of GhanaTRVL and also one of the Insiders.
Comments