Gambaga Escarpment

Where is the Gambaga Escarpment in Ghana?

Gambaga Escarpment also called Gambaga Scarp, is line of cliffs along the Volta River basin, northeastern Ghana, western Africa. that stretch for nearly 100km from Walewale to the Ghana-Togo border at Tusugu. The Escarpment forms the elevated northern boundary of the Volta River basin and the eastern section of the granite plateaus of Wa and Mamprusi.

What is the Gambaga Escarpment?

Apart from being a striking physical geological feature The Gambago Scarp is composed of horizontal layers of sandstone, which causes the southbound White Volta River to turn west and follow the Western half of the until it finally turns south again at Kpasinkpe. The scarp is named after Gambaga, which is the capital of the ancient powerful Mamprugu Kingdom which was led by a powerful warrior called Tohazie and affectionately called the “red hunter”. The place is steeped in history.

To the south of the Gambago Scarp is another narrow plateau, followed by a gradual descent to the surrounding land.  Due to its elevation (1,000–1,500 feet [300–460 m]), the climate is relatively cool and moist.

Getting to the Gambaga Escarpment?

Hiking is the best way to see the Gambaga Escarpment with many starting points, but rumour has it that the best place to start your hike from is Nakpanduri largely due to the accessible nature of that portion of the scarp and also because it is among the highest point. To get to the top will take about 25 mins, bring water and sensisble shoes. The hike is not challenging but takes time.

What else can you find in Gambaga

The only sizable town on the plateau is Gambaga, originally a cotton-collecting centre and now a popular hill station. The only major road off the scarp runs from Gambaga to Walewale and from there to Kumasi. in addition to this Gambaga is also home to the Gambaga Witch Camp, a community of women and man who have been accused of witchcraft and wizardry and forced to flee their homes. This village is still active comprising of over 50 huts with basic amenities. Its surprising that some of these old beliefs still exist in Ghana but its worth a look if you have time.