One of Ghana’s tallest waterfalls, Kintampo waterfalls is situated on the Pumpum River, a tributary of the Black Volta, on the Kumasi-Tamale route, some 4 kilometres (2.5 miles) north of Kintampo Municipality. One of the area’s main natural attractions, the waterfalls are composed of three large drops, the longest of which is 25 metres (82 feet) tall. The river then drops roughly 70 metres following a series of steps and cascades (230 ft). About 10 kilometres from the waterfalls, in the village of Pumpumatifi, is where it gets its start.
Ghana’s Kintampo waterfalls are stunning cascading waterfalls. It is situated on the Pumpum river, a tributary of the Black Volta, some 4 kilometres north of Kintampo municipality, on the Kumasi-Tamale route, and was formerly known as Sanders Falls during colonial times.
This seasonal fall originates from the spectacular granite steps that the Pumpu River descends 70 metres down. The Kintampo Waterfalls offer a more festive atmosphere with thousands of residents having picnics and shade where tourists can sit and enjoy themselves. There are many trees, predominantly mahogany, some of which reach heights of more than 40 metres. Between Kumasi and Tamale or Mole National Park, Kintampo Falls makes a great break stop.
History Of Kintampo Waterfalls
The Kintampo waterfalls was designated in 1992 as a tourist site after it was discovered in the 18th century. The waterfalls has contributed to the growth of the country over the years. A large tree fell on a group of kids in 2017 when they were swimming at the base of the waterfall due to a strong storm. Twenty students may have passed away. Since then, numerous safety precautions have been taken, and swimming and taking a clean shower is once safer. Avoid going to the falls during storms and periods of severe rain. Near the stairs is a stone plaque honouring the deceased that has the names of all the kids. The daytrippers’ ensnared tree served as furniture for the newly restored picnic area.
The waterfalls has gone through several developments including the creation of a car park, a receptive centre, trained guides and the construction of stairs.
Stages Of Kintampo Waterfalls
There are three main stages of flow at Kintamp waterfalls.
Waterfalls Stage 1
- Waterspouts in the large rock should be created by water eroding holes into the rock.
- The falls is backed by a cave which houses a colony of bats.
- The water disappears under the rocks and reappears 20 meters downstream.
- The water flows throughout the year.
- The volume of the water increases with more visitors present.
- Please do not swim or better here.
- Keep surroundings clean.
Waterfalls Stage 2
- The water tumbles down and behind several large rocks.
- The water disappears and reappears much wider at the base of the rocks.
- No swimming or bathing here.
- Keep surroundings clean.
Waterfalls Stage 3
- This stage has two staircases, one constructed for the main waterfalls in 1996 by Taysec. It was however rehabilitated by the Ghana Tourism Authority in 2017.
- It has 153 steps coming up and a new 173 steps going down. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the waterfalls as you descend.
- Do not sit or slide on the rail.
- No refreshments, dining or smoking at the base of the falls.
- You may swim or bathe at the base of the falls.
CAUTION: Slippery rock surfaces
New Addition At Kintampo
Since its reconstruction, the attraction has received a number of updates. Overlooking the waterfall, a canopy walkway has been erected across the river. To enhance the visiting experience, a biplane construction aid is also under the building.
How To Get There
4 kilometres north of Kintampo, immediately after the Falls Rest Stop, is where the little park’s entrance can be found. Take any taxi in the city and have it drop you off near the falls’ entrance. On the way back, you can flag down a cab on the side of the road, although this may take some time, especially if there are several of you. It is preferable in this situation for you to decide whether the driver will pick you up or wait for you.
When To Visit
Daily 7:30am – 5:30pm
Kintampo Waterfalls Entrance fees
- Entrance: Children 3 GHC, Students 5 GHC, Adults 10 GHC, Foreigners 20 GHC
- Canopy Walk: Adult foreign 30 GHC, Student foreign 20 GHC, Ghanaian adult 15 GHC, Ghanaian student 10 GHC, Primary and JHS 5 GHC.
Contact Details
+233-249612507 / +233-244910560
Website: visitkintampo.wordpress.com
Nearby facilities
- Falls Palace Hotel
- Premier Palace Hotel
- Dery Yire Hotel
- Premier Palace Hotel
Nearby Attractions
- Fuller Falls – 7km from Kintampo