Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve is a protected area in Ghana.

Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve at a Glance

Location
Western Rainforests & Coastal Reserves, Ghana, West Africa
Coordinates
6.360917, -2.366242
IUCN Category
III
Crowds
Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season) for wildlife and national parks. Best birding November to April.

Getting to Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

Nearest airport: Aéroport de Gaoua (XGA), 456 km away.

Weather & Climate in Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

The warmest temperatures in Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve occur in February, averaging 28.2°C (up to 34.9°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 24.5°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 23.5mm. Average humidity: 67.9%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C (rainfall: 23.5mm)
  • February: 28.2°C (rainfall: 55.4mm)
  • March: 27.2°C (rainfall: 143.3mm)
  • April: 26.9°C (rainfall: 145.4mm)
  • May: 26.4°C (rainfall: 194.0mm)
  • June: 24.9°C (rainfall: 271.9mm)
  • July: 24.5°C (rainfall: 159.5mm)
  • August: 24.5°C (rainfall: 123.6mm)
  • September: 24.7°C (rainfall: 240.0mm)
  • October: 24.9°C (rainfall: 227.4mm)
  • November: 25.7°C (rainfall: 93.1mm)
  • December: 26.6°C (rainfall: 27.4mm)

Best Time to Visit Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

The best months to visit Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve are January, February, November, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 27.18°C, rainfall 23.5mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 67.9%
  • February: Great, temperature 28.2°C, rainfall 55.4mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 69.8%
  • March: Good, temperature 27.19°C, rainfall 143.3mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 79.7%
  • April: Good, temperature 26.94°C, rainfall 145.4mm, sunshine 9 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • May: Good, temperature 26.45°C, rainfall 194mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 83.4%
  • June: Good, temperature 24.93°C, rainfall 271.9mm, sunshine 7.7 hrs, humidity 86.6%
  • July: Good, temperature 24.54°C, rainfall 159.5mm, sunshine 8.1 hrs, humidity 83.9%
  • August: Good, temperature 24.5°C, rainfall 123.6mm, sunshine 7.4 hrs, humidity 82.2%
  • September: Good, temperature 24.69°C, rainfall 240mm, sunshine 7.3 hrs, humidity 85.1%
  • October: Good, temperature 24.91°C, rainfall 227.4mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 87.4%
  • November: Great, temperature 25.73°C, rainfall 93.1mm, sunshine 9.2 hrs, humidity 83.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.64°C, rainfall 27.4mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 73.3%

Wildlife in Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

Home to 1 recorded species including 1 waterbirds.

Recommended Packing List for Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

Based on average temperature of 26.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 80%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 26°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve

6 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Western Rainforests & Coastal Reserves

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Ghana

Travel advisory for Ghana

Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve for wildlife viewing and comfortable trekking?

The dry season, typically spanning from November to March, is generally considered the best time to visit Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve. During these months, rainfall is minimal, which makes forest trails more accessible and improves visibility for spotting the reserve's diverse wildlife.

What specific wildlife can I expect to encounter at Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve, given its forest reserve status in Ghana?

As a forest reserve, Tano Suraw is primarily home to various primate species, such as mona monkeys and olive colobus, along with a rich diversity of birdlife. While large savanna mammals are not typical, visitors might spot forest antelopes like duikers and a wide array of insects and reptiles.

What are the typical entry fees and logistical considerations for visiting Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve?

Entry fees for Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve are generally modest, reflecting its status as a protected area in Ghana rather than a high-end safari destination. It is highly recommended to arrange a local guide for navigation through the forest and to enhance your wildlife viewing experience.

Beyond the known high malaria risk, what other safety precautions should I take when exploring Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve?

In addition to malaria prevention, visitors to Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve should prioritize staying hydrated and adhering strictly to their guide's instructions, especially when traversing dense forest paths. Be mindful of local flora and fauna, and always maintain a respectful distance from wildlife.

What kind of visitor experience can I expect at Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve, particularly regarding its low crowding level?

With a low crowding level (2/5), visitors to Tano Suraw Extension Forest Reserve can expect a more intimate and tranquil safari experience, ideal for deep nature immersion. This allows for unhurried wildlife observation and a stronger connection with Ghana's natural forest environment, away from large tourist groups.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet West Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.