Plizio Visual Lab

Ankobra River

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

River

Weather…

The Ankobra River is a significant waterway in southwestern Ghana, located entirely within the Western Region. It rises northeast of Wiawso and flows approximately 190 kilometers southward, eventually reaching the Gulf of Guinea near Axim. The river is noted for its deep valley and the dense tropical rainforests that cover much of its drainage basin. Historically, the Ankobra served as a major transportation route for gold and timber being moved from the hinterland to the coastal ports. In contemporary times, however, the river has become one of Ghana's most polluted water bodies due to extensive illegal gold mining, or 'galamsey', in its upper reaches. Once clear, its waters are now frequently turbid and chemically contaminated, posing severe risks to biodiversity and public health. Despite these environmental issues, the lower sections of the river still host valuable mangrove ecosystems and provide habitats for various reptiles and rare bird species. Government efforts are ongoing to protect the estuary area, which remains vital for local tourism and the traditional fishing industry in Axim.

Location: Ghana
Nearby: Nzulezo (33 km)

Best time to visit & climate

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

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	27	28	28	27	27	26	25	24	25	26	27	27
Rain mm	40	65	126	167	232	277	116	52	103	174	99	51

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Typical access to the river is via roads leading to southwestern Ghana's gold mining towns. From these settlements, local transport or a short walk usually reaches the main riverbanks.

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Best season

The best time to visit is during the dry season, typically from November to March. Heavy tropical rains in other months can drastically raise water levels and turn the surrounding access roads to mud.

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Terrain & paths

The riverbanks are generally flat but can be quite muddy and densely vegetated. You will often find narrow pathways shaped by local mining activities and traditional fishing along the water's edge.

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What to bring

Sturdy, waterproof footwear is highly recommended to navigate the muddy banks safely. Along with insect repellent, you should pack breathable clothing and strong sun protection for the tropical climate.

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Parking

Official parking is typically non-existent, so vehicles are usually left informally in nearby villages or mining settlements. It is often best to secure a spot with the help of a local guide.

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Safety

Exercise caution regarding water quality, as local gold mining activities can affect the river. Swimming is generally not advised, and visitors should always be aware of changing river currents.

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Time needed

A typical visit ranges from one to three hours. This gives you enough time to observe the riparian ecosystem, understand the river's regional significance, and witness the local activities.