The Upper East Region offers travelers a truly authentic Ghanaian cultural experience, far from the beaten path. From its colorful markets and sacred crocodiles to its ancient shrines and art villages, the region is rich in both history and hospitality. Though less commercial than southern Ghana, its warm people and captivating stories make every visit memorable.
Located in Ghana’s far north-eastern corner, the Upper East Region is a land of rich culture, historic heritage, and striking landscapes. With Bolgatanga (popularly called Bolga) as its regional capital, the area is home to ancestral shrines, rocky hills, craft villages, and mud-brick architecture that set it apart from the rest of the country.
Though it is one of Ghana’s smallest regions by land area, the Upper East is culturally dense, offering a vibrant mix of ethnic groups including the Frafra, Kassena, Builsa, and Nankani people. It is a top destination for cultural tourism, eco-tourism, and artisanal shopping, making it ideal for curious, respectful travelers who want to explore traditional life and untouched beauty.
Most of the region’s accommodation is centered in Bolgatanga, with additional options in Navrongo, Paga, and Bawku. While the region doesn't have luxury resorts, it offers a growing range of mid-range hotels, guesthouses, and community lodges that provide comfort, safety, and friendly service.
Mid-range Hotels – Bolga hosts several hotels that offer air-conditioned rooms, local and continental meals, meeting spaces, and serene gardens.
Budget Guesthouses – Affordable and clean, these are popular with students, NGO staff, and backpackers.
Cultural Lodges – Some accommodation facilities incorporate traditional architecture and design, giving visitors a sense of local aesthetics and hospitality.
Navrongo Guesthouses – These serve travelers visiting the cathedral, crocodile ponds, or passing through to Burkina Faso.
Paga Lodges – Small eco-lodges and guesthouses near the famous crocodile ponds, ideal for day trips and short stays.
Town Guesthouses & Inns – Modest options available for travelers exploring the eastern part of the region, particularly near the Ghana-Burkina Faso border.
The Upper East is rich in traditional architecture, sacred sites, and craft-making communities. It offers an authentic northern Ghana experience, free from crowds but full of depth.
Paga Crocodile Pond – A sacred site where friendly crocodiles are revered and protected by local customs. Visitors can interact with the crocodiles under the guidance of caretakers and learn about the spiritual significance behind them.
Navrongo Cathedral – One of the oldest Catholic churches in Ghana, built using mud bricks. The interior is decorated with Christian murals that reflect local cultural aesthetics.
Tongo Hills and Tengzug Shrine – Located near Bolga, this sacred site is perched among rugged hills and caves. It’s a spiritual pilgrimage site for locals and visitors must observe traditional protocols, including modest dress. Guided tours include storytelling, sacred rituals, and panoramic views.
Naa Gbewaa Shrine (Pusiga) – A historic spiritual site believed to be the tomb of the Mamprusi ancestral leader, Naa Gbewaa. It is revered by multiple northern ethnic groups.
Bolgatanga Market – Renowned for its vibrant selection of handwoven baskets, smocks, leather sandals, hats, and beadwork. The market is a must-visit for souvenir shopping.
Sirigu Pottery and Art Village – A community where traditional wall paintings, pottery, and basket weaving are preserved. Women-led cooperatives offer workshops and tours.
Zuarungu Leather Center – Skilled artisans create beautiful handmade leather bags, belts, and accessories using traditional methods.
Tono Dam (Navrongo) – One of the largest irrigation dams in West Africa. Offers a peaceful setting with birdwatching opportunities and insight into regional agriculture.
Rocky Outcrops and Caves – Found throughout the region, especially around Tongo, Bongo, and Bawku. Ideal for light hiking and cultural storytelling.
Sacred Groves & Community Forests – Local efforts to preserve nature offer chances to observe birds and small wildlife in protected areas.
Feok Festival (Sandema) – Celebrates bravery and resistance with colorful war dances and traditional displays by the Builsa people.
Gologo Festival (Tongo) – A religious and cultural festival involving drumming, dancing, and rituals tied to the agricultural calendar.
Samanpiid Festival (Bawku) – Celebrated by the Kusasi people to give thanks for harvest and promote unity.
| Base Location | Recommended Stay | Nearby Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Bolgatanga | Mid-range hotels, cultural lodges | Tongo Hills, Craft Market, Sirigu Village |
| Navrongo | Guesthouses, local inns | Navrongo Cathedral, Tono Dam, Paga Pond |
| Paga | Community lodges, guesthouses | Crocodile Pond, Border Village Tours |
| Bawku | Guesthouses and rest houses | Naa Gbewaa Shrine, Samanpiid Festival, Border Market |
Best Time to Visit: October to March is ideal due to cooler temperatures and the festival season. Dry roads make travel easier during this period.
Transport: Bolgatanga can be reached by road from Tamale or Kumasi. Buses, minibuses, and shared taxis operate within the region.
Respect Local Customs: Many sacred sites require modest clothing and may have restrictions (e.g., no photography, gender-based access). Always ask before entering shrines or taking photos.
Languages: English is widely spoken in towns, while Frafra, Kusaal, Kasem, and Buli are common local languages.
Packing Essentials: Sun hat, sunscreen, light clothing, hiking shoes, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.