Plizio Visual Lab

Bui Reservoir

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Lake

Weather…

The Bui Reservoir was created by the construction of the Bui Dam on the Black Volta River and currently stands as Ghana's second-largest artificial lake after Lake Volta. The hydroelectric project was officially commissioned in 2013 and primarily serves to generate electricity with a total installed capacity of 400 megawatts. Geographically, the reservoir is situated within the boundaries of the Bui National Park, straddling the border between the Savannah and Bono Regions. The inundation of the area profoundly altered the local environment, submerging significant portions of the original gallery forests. However, the resulting lake has established new habitats for various waterfowl and has provided a substantial boost to the regional fishing industry. Historically, the area was noted for its remote location and a prominent population of hippopotamuses, whose conservation remains a key priority for park authorities following the dam's completion. The reservoir also facilitates large-scale irrigation schemes designed to bolster agricultural productivity in Ghana's drier northern latitudes. The Bui project is a cornerstone of Ghana's national energy strategy and serves as a prime example of the large-scale industrial transformation of natural riverine systems.

Location: Ghana
Nearby: Kintampo (61 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	27	30	31	30	29	27	26	26	26	27	28	27
Rain mm	4	19	49	95	116	137	157	144	199	120	24	4

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The reservoir is generally accessed by driving via the established roads leading toward the Bui Dam infrastructure and its surrounding national park. Visitors typically arrive via regional roads from towns like Wenchi, passing through necessary security checkpoints.

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Best season

Visiting is typically viable throughout the year, but the dry season roughly from November to March often has the most reliable road access. During the wet season, the reservoir swells to its maximum capacity, making the surrounding landscapes animated but complicating travel.

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Terrain & paths

The terrain primarily features the expansive, relatively calm open water of the artificial lake, bordered by Savannah woodland and forested hills. Shorelines can be variable, often characterized by muddy or rocky stretches where the water level fluctuates.

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What to bring

General outdoor items like sun protection, lightweight clothing, and comfortable walking shoes are usually sufficient for standard viewpoints. If planning a boat trip or extensive exploration, packing extra drinking water and robust insect repellent is generally advisable.

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Parking

Parking is generally available and organized at the main dam viewing areas or official administrative compounds nearby. For informal stops along the broader reservoir banks away from the dam, vehicles are typically just pulled safely onto the roadside dirt verges.

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Safety

Swimming in the reservoir is generally discouraged due to unpredictable underwater hazards, changing depths, and the presence of wildlife, including hippos. Visitors should always adhere closely to the guidance of dam security personnel and remain in permitted zones.

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Time needed

A standard visit to observe the reservoir and the impressive dam structure usually takes around one to two hours of focused time. Exploring further by arranging boat tours or combining the trip with an excursion into the national park extends the visit to a full day.

Geography

Coordinates

8.27000, -2.24000

Facts

The reservoir covers a total surface area of approximately 444 square kilometers.
The Bui hydroelectric plant has a generating capacity of 400 megawatts.
Construction on the dam began in 2009 and was completed in 2013.
It is the second largest man-made lake in Ghana after Lake Volta.
The entire reservoir is located within the Bui National Park boundaries.
The project was primarily funded through financial cooperation with China.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bui Gorge2 km · SEExplore →

Black Volta39 km · SEExplore →

Begho Ancient City52 km · SWExplore →

Kintampo61 km · NWExplore →

Wenchi62 km · WExplore →

Bono Manso64 km · NWExplore →

Kintampo Plateau67 km · NWExplore →

City of 1000 Mosques Bondoukou68 km · SWExplore →

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 Bui Reservoir (1)

Bui Dam📍 landmark

A hydroelectric dam on the Black Volta river, creating a reservoir and supplying electricity to the region.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Bui Dam lake used for?

It is primarily used for hydroelectric power generation and supports local irrigation.

Can you go boating on the lake?

Yes, boat trips are available, often combined with wildlife viewing in the adjacent national park.

Are there hippos there?

Yes, the Bui National Park by the lake is known for its significant hippo population.

How do you reach the Bui Dam?

It is located on the border between the Bono and Savannah regions and is best reached by car.

Is fishing allowed in the lake?

Local fishing is allowed, but visitors should inquire about specific permits.

Bui Reservoir: where is it located?

Bui Reservoir is located in Ghana.

Bui Reservoir: when is the best time to visit?

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

Bui Reservoir: why is it worth visiting?

The Bui Reservoir was created by the construction of the Bui Dam on the Black Volta River and currently stands as Ghana's second-largest artificial lake after Lake Volta.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →