Plizio Visual Lab

Yaramoko Gold Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Yaramoko Gold Mine, located in the Bagassi commune of Balé Province, is one of the most distinctive mining operations in Burkina Faso. Unlike the majority of the country's mines, Yaramoko is primarily a high-grade underground operation. Commercial production commenced in 2016 under the management of Roxgold, which was later acquired by Fortuna Silver Mines. The mine is renowned for its exceptional ore grades, making it one of the most profitable operations in the nation despite its relatively small physical footprint. The facility employs advanced underground mining techniques and a compact, high-efficiency processing plant. The opening of Yaramoko has fundamentally altered the economic landscape of the Bagassi region, providing highly skilled employment for Burkinabe miners. The company maintains an exemplary record in environmental stewardship and community development, focusing on sustainable agriculture and education initiatives. Yaramoko serves as a prime example of how technological excellence can enable the safe and economic extraction of deep-seated mineral resources in West Africa.

Location: Burkina Faso
Nearby: Boni (34 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	28	31	33	32	30	27	26	26	27	26	25
Rain mm	1	2	6	36	71	113	192	256	164	52	3	0

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

This gold mine is a high-grade underground operation that brings modern mining to a rural part of western Burkina Faso. It plays a significant role in the local economy, attracting workers and investment to the region.

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Visiting

The mine is not generally open to visitors. One can only observe the site from a safe distance outside the perimeter fence, where heavy machinery and trucks are visible.

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Where to view it

The best public viewpoint is along the main road passing near the mine entrance. From there, visitors can glimpse the headframe and the processing infrastructure against the rural backdrop.

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Local products

Gold is the primary product, though it is not available for direct purchase by travellers. Local markets may sell small gold jewellery or handicrafts inspired by mining themes.

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Active season

The mine operates throughout the year without a distinct off-season. Activity is most visible during daylight hours when shifts change and trucks move along the haul roads.

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Nearby

Combine a visit with other attractions in western Burkina Faso such as the Sindou Peaks or the Dômes de Fabedougou. The nearby town of Houndé has local markets and accommodation.

Geography

Coordinates

11.75830, -3.27500

Facts

Yaramoko achieved commercial production in June 2016.
It is predominantly an underground mine, targeting high-grade quartz veins.
The mine is owned and operated by Fortuna Silver Mines following its 2021 merger.
Ore grades at the 55 Zone frequently exceed 10 grams of gold per tonne.
The processing facility achieves an exceptional gold recovery rate of nearly 99%.
The mine provides substantial tax contributions to the Burkinabe government.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mana Gold Mine26 km · SEExplore →

Boni34 km · SWExplore →

Balé Forest35 km · NWExplore →

Zina Solar Power Station37 km · EExplore →

Houndé Gold Mine37 km · SWExplore →

Boromo Old Town38 km · NExplore →

Houndé Basin40 km · SWExplore →

Balé Lake60 km · NWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Yaramoko Gold Mine (1)

cour des jeunes🎭 culture

This local arts and cultural center provides a creative space for youth activities and performances near the Yaramoko gold mine.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Yaramoko located?

About 200 km southwest of Ouagadougou.

Is it an underground mine?

Yes, Yaramoko is known for its high-grade underground mining.

Who is Fortuna Silver Mines?

The company that operates the Yaramoko mine.

Can journalists visit the mine?

Only after prior accreditation and security clearance.

Is mining important for the region?

Yes, it contributes massively to the local infrastructure.

Yaramoko Gold Mine: where is it located?

Yaramoko Gold Mine is located in Burkina Faso.

Yaramoko Gold Mine: when is the best time to visit?