Just like the tender breast of a woman, the breast mountain is an alluring tourist attraction to experience in Ghana.
The Breast Mountian is located in the Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region of Ghana and forms part of the Kyabobo Mountain which is the second highest Mountian in Ghana after Afadjato. The mountain according to tour rangers, was named Breast Mountian because it possesses the features of the breast of a young lady.
With one mountain range on the left and one on the right, the peak of the mountain gives an impression of the nipple at the tip of the breast of a young woman.
The Breast Mountain rises majestically with its lush, slopes and rugged peaks that resemble the gentle curve of a breast. This awe-inspiring mountain stands as a sentinel over the surrounding landscape, its serene beauty offering a striking contrast to the vibrant green of the tropical forest in Nkwanta.
The Mountian is the only Eco-Mountian in Ghana and serves as a border between Ghana and Togo from Nkwanta.
The breast mountain is surrounded by the Kyabobo forest reserve, a 220 square kilometers forest reserve which is home to the Kyabobo Waterfalls and wildlife species such Green Monkeys, Elephants, Buffalos, antelopes, river hawks and other wildlife species and bush fruits.
The Kyabobo Waterfalls
The Kyabobo waterfalls is located approximately 5.5 Km into the Kyabobo forest reserve.
It is a stunning natural wonder that cascades over rugged rocks into a serene pool below. Surrounded by lush vegetation and set within a tranquil forested area, the waterfall offers a picture and refreshing retreat. Its single distinct drop creates a series of beautiful tiers, where the water plunges gracefully, creating a captivating display of nature’s power and beauty.
The water flows to form streams which are very potable.
The Mountain, Forest Reserve Tourism and Development
Mountain and forest reserves are precious assets for tourism and development, serving multiple critical roles.
In terms of tourist attraction, their dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and unique wildlife make mountains and forests prime destinations for eco-tourism and adventure tourism.
They attract visitors seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and opportunities for wildlife observation, thereby boosting local economies through tourism-related revenues.
The Forest reserves play a crucial role in preserving biodiversity protecting endangered species, maintaining ecological balance, and supporting a wide range of plant and animal life, which can be vital for scientific research and education.
The forest also acts as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide and helping to mitigate climate change. The Mountian also influences local weather patterns and water cycles, which can be essential for agriculture and water supply.
The mountain according to the rangers holds cultural and spiritual significance for local communities.
They often feature in traditional practices, folklore, and heritage, fostering a sense of identity and continuity.
Beyond tourism, forests and mountains provide resources such as timber, medicinal plants, and clean water, supporting livelihoods and contributing to sustainable economic development when managed responsibly.
The need and call to action
Although the Breast Mountain and the Kyabobo forest reserve which houses the Kyabobo waterfall and other several wildlife provide a huge potential for eco-tourism and development in the Nkwanta Municipality, there is a need for massive publicity.
The mountain and forest reserve is not well known by many in the country and even in the Oti region.
There is thus a need for a conscious effort to publicize the mountain and the reserve to attract more tourists. The Ghana Tourism Authority and other local and international investors must take a critical interest in the area.
The curfew in the area can not be the stumbling block for such a critical tourism investment.
So the next time you think of taking a trip or a vacation out of the busy and noisy capital town of Accra and Kumasi to an adventurous and untouched splendor of nature, think of the Breast Mountain and the Kyabobo forest reserve both in the Nkwanta South Municipality in the Oti Region.
BY: Obed King Gaglo
