Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm, located in Mampong Akuapem in Ghana’s Eastern Region, is one of Ghana’s most important historical and cultural sites. This farm is where cocoa was first introduced to Ghana, marking the beginning of an industry that would later position the country as one of the world’s leading cocoa producers.

Tetteh Quarshie, a Ghanaian blacksmith, introduced cocoa to Ghana in 1879 after returning from Fernando Po, now Bioko Island in Equatorial Guinea. He planted the first cocoa seedlings in Mampong Akuapem, laying the foundation for Ghana’s cocoa industry.

Today, the farm is preserved as a heritage site and offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the origins of cocoa production in Ghana.

Ghana’s Cocoa Industry, Quality Over Quantity

Ghana is currently the second largest exporter of cocoa in the world, after Côte d’Ivoire. Ghana was once the leading cocoa producer globally, but Côte d’Ivoire later overtook due to large scale mechanised farming methods that allow for higher production volumes.

Despite this, Ghanaian cocoa is globally recognised for its superior quality. Ghana continues to rely largely on traditional farming methods, including natural sun drying of cocoa beans. This traditional process enhances flavour and aroma, making Ghanaian cocoa highly sought after by premium chocolate manufacturers worldwide.

The Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm highlights these traditional practices and explains why Ghana’s cocoa remains among the best in the world.

What to Expect During the Cocoa Farm Tour

A guided tour of the Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm takes approximately 40 minutes and offers an interactive and educational experience.

During the tour, visitors get to see cocoa pods growing on the trees, pluck fresh cocoa pods directly from the tree, open the pods, and taste the raw cocoa beans. Visitors are also introduced to the traditional fermentation process and learn how cocoa beans are dried naturally under the sun.

The tour provides a clear understanding of the journey cocoa takes from farm to finished product, using methods that have been preserved for generations.

Why You Should Visit the Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm

A visit to the Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm is more than a sightseeing activity. It is an opportunity to connect with Ghana’s agricultural heritage and understand the role cocoa has played in shaping the country’s economy and identity.

The farm is ideal for tourists, students, families, and members of the diaspora interested in history, culture, and agriculture. It also makes a great stop for visitors exploring other attractions in the Eastern Region.

Plan Your Visit

The Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm is easily accessible from Accra and is perfect for a day trip to the Eastern Region. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking around the farm.

Visitors pay an entrance fee at the site; however, Sabary Tours offers inclusive tour packages that cover transportation, guided tours, and a seamless visit experience.



The Tetteh Quarshie Cocoa Farm stands as a symbol of innovation, tradition, and resilience. It tells the story of how a single individual introduced cocoa to Ghana, transforming the country into one of the world’s most respected cocoa producing nations. A visit to this historic farm offers a deeper appreciation of Ghana’s cocoa legacy and the traditional methods that continue to define its global reputation.