The North East Region is a quiet treasure for travelers looking to connect deeply with traditional Ghanaian life, untouched landscapes, and living history. While accommodations are still developing, the warm hospitality, cultural richness, and raw beauty of the region make it a powerful and humbling destination. It offers a chance to step off the tourist track and into the heart of Ghana’s northern soul.
The North East Region is one of Ghana’s newest regions, carved out of the Northern Region in 2019, with Nalerigu as its capital. Despite being relatively less developed in terms of mainstream tourism infrastructure, the region is rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and unique landscapes. It’s a destination for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters, rural tranquility, and unexplored eco-tourism.
The people of the region—primarily Mamprusi, Bimoba, Konkomba, and other ethnic groups—are known for their hospitality and deep-rooted traditions. It’s a great destination for off-the-beaten-path explorers and cultural enthusiasts.
Accommodation in the North East Region is mostly basic to mid-range, with a growing number of guesthouses, small hotels, and lodges in towns like Nalerigu, Walewale, Chereponi, and Gambaga. While facilities may be modest compared to urban centers, they are generally clean and run by friendly staff familiar with the needs of travelers.
Naa Gbewaa Guest House – A simple guesthouse providing clean rooms and local meals, often used by NGO workers and regional visitors.
Nalerigu Lodge – Popular among missionaries, researchers, and tourists, offering basic amenities with quiet surroundings.
Presby Guest House – A mission-based facility offering modest accommodation with a focus on service and safety.
Walewale Rest House – A popular spot for travelers passing through or attending local events.
Peace Hotel – Mid-range with air-conditioned rooms and a small restaurant.
Basic Inns – Several small inns and guesthouses are scattered throughout Walewale, catering to drivers, traders, and short-term guests.
Gambaga Guest House – Close to local landmarks and ideal for visitors wanting to explore historical and spiritual sites.
Community Lodges – Some areas offer community-based accommodation where guests can experience rural life more intimately.
Local Guesthouses – Basic but hospitable lodges, often used by visitors traveling for research, volunteering, or family connections.
Home Stays – In rural areas, arrangements can often be made to stay with families, especially during festivals or ceremonies.
Though still emerging as a tourist destination, the North East Region has unique cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and historical sites that reflect the deep traditions and heritage of northern Ghana.
Naa Jaringa’s Wall (Nalerigu) – One of the most prominent attractions in the region, this ancient defensive wall was built over 300 years ago by a powerful Mamprusi chief. It stands as a symbol of local engineering and historical resilience.
Gambaga Escarpment – A dramatic highland ridge offering stunning views of the surrounding savannah. The escarpment is also of spiritual importance and ideal for hiking and photography.
Gambaga Witches’ Camp – A culturally complex site that hosts women accused of witchcraft. Though controversial, the camp is part of a larger social and historical conversation about justice, belief systems, and human rights in Ghana.
Mamprugu Royal Palace (Nayiri Palace) – The seat of the Overlord of the Mamprusi people. Visitors may be permitted to tour the palace grounds and learn about traditional leadership if arrangements are made respectfully.
White Volta River (Yagaba-Kubori Area) – This river flows through the region and provides opportunities for boat rides, fishing, and scenic relaxation.
Forested Savannah Zones – The region is home to a mix of grassland and forested areas with native species, ideal for eco-tourism and birdwatching.
Scenic Rock Outcrops and Sacred Groves – Around Chereponi and Bunkpurugu, unique rock formations and sacred natural sites offer quiet, reflective spaces.
Damba Festival – Celebrated by the Mamprusi and other northern groups, featuring traditional drumming, horse riding, and colorful regalia.
Bugum (Fire) Festival – A nighttime celebration with torches and storytelling, rooted in ancient oral history and widely observed.
Smock Culture – The region is part of the traditional smock-wearing belt. Local markets showcase beautifully woven smocks and traditional fabrics.
| Base Location | Recommended Stay | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Nalerigu | Naa Gbewaa Guest House, Nalerigu Lodge | Naa Jaringa’s Wall, Nayiri Palace, Traditional Markets |
| Walewale | Peace Hotel, Rest Houses | Cultural centers, local crafts, access to nearby districts |
| Gambaga | Guesthouses or community stays | Gambaga Escarpment, Witches' Camp, Rural Trails |
| Chereponi/Bunkpurugu | Local lodges or homestays | Sacred sites, cultural performances, market days |
Best Time to Visit: November to February offers cooler temperatures and dry roads, ideal for sightseeing and attending festivals.
Transport: Access to the region is via road through Tamale or Bolgatanga. Roads are improving but may require 4x4 vehicles in remote areas.
Language: Mampruli is widely spoken, but English is understood in major towns. Learning a few greetings in Mampruli or Dagbani is appreciated.
Cultural Respect: Always ask before taking photos of people or sacred sites. Respect local customs and dress modestly in rural areas.
Health & Safety: Travel with mosquito repellent and stay hydrated. Basic health facilities are available in major towns, but carry a first aid kit if traveling deep into the countryside.