Visit Upper East&UpperWest Region
Visit Upper East and Upper West – Culture, History & Top Tourist Attractions
Table of Contents
Introduction
Top 7 attractions in the Upper East and Upper West of Ghana offer a unique blend of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historical significance. From sacred crocodile ponds to ancient rock shrines, these must-visit sites promise an unforgettable experience.
Overview of the Upper East and Upper West Regions
The Upper East and Upper West Regions of Ghana are characterized by vast savannah landscapes, rocky outcrops, and deep cultural roots. Bolgatanga (Upper East) and Wa (Upper West) serve as the regional capitals, known for their vibrant markets, traditional crafts, and historical monuments. The regions also feature unique wildlife experiences, making them perfect for eco-tourism.
A Glimpse into Bolgatanga’s Rich Cultural Landscape
Bolgatanga, often called “Bolga,” is the cultural heartbeat of the Upper East Region, renowned for its woven crafts and traditional festivals. The town’s history is shaped by:
- Artisan Heritage: Famous for straw baskets and smocks.
- Religious Significance: Home to ancient shrines and sacred sites.
- Colonial Influence: Notable for churches and missionary schools.
Quick Highlights
- Top 3 Must-See Attractions: Paga Crocodile Pond, Tongo Hills, Wa Naa’s Palace
- Where to Eat: Tap Hotel Restaurant (local dishes), Nuoyong Restaurant (continental)
- Where to Stay: Blue Sky Hotel (Bolga), Jirapa Dubai Resort (luxury)
Top Tourist Attractions in the Upper East and Upper West
1. Paga Crocodile Pond – Sacred Crocodiles and Tradition
One of the top attractions in the Upper East and Upper West, Paga Crocodile Pond is famous for its friendly crocodiles that are considered sacred. Locals believe the reptiles are the souls of ancestors and treat them with reverence. Tourists can take photos while holding a crocodile’s tail.
📍 Location: Paga, near the Burkina Faso border
🕘 Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon
💵 Entry Fee: Available at the gate
📸 Don’t Miss: Feeding the crocodiles with a chicken
🔗 Explore more: [Visit Paga | Crocodile Encounter]
2. Navrongo Cathedral – A Century-Old Architectural Marvel
Built in 1906, the Navrongo Cathedral (Our Lady of Seven Sorrows) is the oldest church in the Upper East and features unique mud-brick architecture. The interior murals depict biblical stories blended with local artistic styles.
📍 Location: Navrongo
🕘 Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Free (donations welcome)
📸 Must-See: Traditional murals, historic bell tower
🔗 Explore more: [Explore Navrongo | Historical Church Tour]
3. Tongo Hills and Tengzug Shrine – Sacred Caves and Rituals
The mystical Tongo Hills are known for their unusual rock formations and ancient Tengzug Shrine, where spiritual rituals are performed. Visitors can hike to the shrine and hear stories about its spiritual significance.
📍 Location: Near Bolgatanga
🕘 Best Time: Dry season (November to March)
💵 Entry Fee: Available at the entrance
📸 Highlights: Hilltop views, rock paintings, shrine rituals
🔗 Explore more: [Visit Tongo Hills | Cultural Tour]
4. Pikworo Slave Camp – Historical Reflection of the Slave Trade
Established in the 1700s, Pikworo was a slave transit camp where captives were held before being transported to the coast. Visitors can see relics like feeding bowls carved into rocks and stone walls used for chaining.
📍 Location: Paga
🕘 Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
💵 Entry Fee: Available on site
📸 Top Picks: Slave punishment rocks, lookout points
🔗 Explore more: [Learn About Pikworo | Historical Tour]
5. Wa Naa’s Palace – Royalty and Cultural Heritage
The palace of the Wa Naa (king) is an architectural wonder built of mud and thatch. It’s the traditional seat of the Wala people and a center for cultural events.
📍 Location: Wa
🕘 Visiting Hours: By appointment
💵 Entry Fee: Donation recommended
📸 Must-See: Traditional royal artifacts, dance performances
🔗 Explore more: [Visit Wa Naa’s Palace | Cultural Heritage Tour]
6. Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary – Wildlife and River Safaris
Located along the Black Volta River, this sanctuary is home to hippos, monkeys, and numerous bird species. Canoe safaris are a highlight, offering close encounters with hippos in their natural habitat.
📍 Location: Wechiau, Upper West
🕘 Best Time to Visit: November to April
💵 Entry Fee: Required
📸 Highlights: Hippo spotting, guided river tours
🔗 Explore more: [Explore Wechiau | Hippo Safari]
7. Gwollu Slave Defense Wall – A Testament of Resistance
Built by Gwollu Koro Limann during the slave raids, this historic wall served as a defense against slave traders. It’s one of the few remaining examples of indigenous fortification in Ghana.
📍 Location: Gwollu
🕘 Opening Hours: Daily
💵 Entry Fee: Free
📸 Must-See: Stone walls, oral history sessions
🔗 Explore more: [Visit Gwollu | Historical Tour]
Where to Eat in Upper East and Upper West
| Restaurant | Specialty | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tap Hotel Restaurant | Local Dishes | Bolga |
| Nuoyong Restaurant | Continental Cuisine | Wa |
| Jirapa Dubai Resort | Fusion Cuisine | Jirapa |
Where to Stay in Upper East and Upper West
| Hotel | Location | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Blue Sky Hotel | Bolga | Modern amenities, central location |
| Jirapa Dubai Resort | Jirapa | Luxury, pool, safari access |
| Upland Hotel | Wa | Affordable, clean, local vibe |
Cultural Experiences to Try
- Witness the Feok Festival in Sandema
- Learn Pottery Making in Sirigu
- Experience Traditional Drumming at Wa Cultural Centre
Travel Tips for Exploring Upper East and Upper West
- Best Time to Visit: November to March (dry season)
- Getting There: Flights from Accra to Tamale, then buses
- Local Transport: Taxis, motorbikes (motorking)
- Currency: Ghanaian Cedi (GHS)
- Dress Code: Modest attire for sacred sites
Frequently Asked Questions About the Upper Regions
How many days should I spend in the Upper Regions?
3–5 days to explore both cultural and natural attractions.
Do I need a guide?
Yes, for shrines and wildlife areas, guides provide invaluable insights.
Book Your Upper East and Upper West Experience
- Guided Cultural Tours
- Wildlife Safaris
- Historic Site Visits
- Content updated May 2025