Upper East
· GH

Upper East

Upper East, Ghana

Journey to Ghana's Upper East Region: Where History Meets Hospitality Escape the ordinary and journey to Ghana's captivating Upper East Region, a land where ancient history intertwines with vibrant culture and breathtaki…

#Upper East#Ghana#Northern Region#Rural#Cultural
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Upper East.

Top Hotels in Upper East

Top Flights to Upper East

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Upper East.

Tours

Explore Paga Crocodile Pond

Visit this mesmerizing place to see live crocodiles that are considered sacred by locals. Visitors can get quite close to these fascinating creatures.

Tour the Tongo Hills and Tengzug Shrine

Experience the spiritual ambiance of the Tongo Hills and visit the mystical Tengzug Shrine.

Visit Navrongo Cathedral

Explore the stunning Navrongo Cathedral, known for its unique architectural design and historical significance.

Shopping

Shopping at Bolgatanga Market

Immerse yourself in the colorful and vibrant atmosphere of Bolgatanga Market where you can purchase handmade crafts and local produce.

Outdoor

Hiking at Pikworo Slave Camp

Engage in a historical and fitness activity at Pikworo Slave Camp, where you can learn about history while enjoying a hike.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Upper East.

Currency
GH₵ | GHS | Ghanaian Cedi
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Upper East, Ghana, is around 1.3 million.
Languages
English, Kusaal

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Upper East.

What people love

Traveling to the Upper East Region of Ghana offers several unique advantages and experiences. Here are some of the key pros:

  1. Rich Cultural Heritage: The Upper East Region is home to a variety of ethnic groups, each with their own distinct traditions, festivals, and crafts. The area is known for its vibrant cultural festivals such as the Fao Festival and the Gologo Festival, where visitors can experience traditional music, dance, and customs.

  2. Historical Sites: The region boasts several historical sites, including the Paga Crocodile Pond, where friendly crocodiles are considered sacred and can be interacted with under supervision. Additionally, the ancient slave trade routes and the Navrongo Cathedral, one of the oldest churches in the region, offer a glimpse into the area's past.

  3. Unique Architecture: The Upper East is famous for its unique traditional architecture, particularly the mud-built, round-shaped houses with conical thatched roofs. The village of Sirigu, for example, is known for its distinctive painted houses and offers art workshops for visitors.

  4. Natural Attractions: The region features beautiful landscapes and wildlife. The Tongo Hills and the Tengzug Shrine provide scenic views and spiritual significance, while the Gambaga Escarpment offers opportunities for hiking and exploring nature.

  5. Local Crafts and Art: The Upper East Region is renowned for its handicrafts, including basket weaving, pottery, and textiles. The Bolgatanga Market is a vibrant place to purchase souvenirs and see local artisans at work.

  6. Hospitality: The people in the Upper East Region are known for their hospitality and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and enhancing the travel experience.

  7. Rural Tourism: For those interested in rural tourism and community-based experiences, the Upper East offers opportunities to engage with local communities, learn about their way of life, and participate in community projects.

  8. Culinary Experiences: Visitors can enjoy traditional Ghanaian cuisine, which includes dishes such as Tuo Zaafi and Pito, a locally brewed millet beer, providing a taste of the regional flavors.

Traveling to the Upper East Region of Ghana promises a rich and diverse experience, with opportunities to learn about history, culture, and nature, all while enjoying the hospitality of the local people.

What to know

Traveling to the Upper East Region of Ghana can be a rewarding experience, but like any destination, it has its challenges. Here are some potential cons of traveling to this area:

  1. Climate and Weather: The Upper East Region experiences a hot and dry climate, particularly during the Harmattan season, which typically occurs between November and February. During this time, dust-laden winds from the Sahara can reduce visibility and affect air quality, which might be uncomfortable for travelers.

  2. Infrastructure: The region is less developed compared to southern parts of Ghana, such as Accra or Kumasi. Travelers might encounter less reliable road networks, limited public transportation options, and fewer facilities and services, such as hospitals or high-end hotels.

  3. Limited Amenities: While the region offers a unique cultural experience, it may lack some of the amenities and conveniences found in more urbanized areas. This includes limited dining options, shopping centers, and entertainment venues.

  4. Healthcare Facilities: Access to healthcare facilities can be limited, and the quality of care may not meet the standards found in larger cities. Travelers may need to plan accordingly, especially if they have specific medical needs.

  5. Language Barrier: Although English is the official language of Ghana, many locals in the Upper East Region speak local languages such as Gurene, Kusaal, or Kasem. Communication might be a challenge for travelers who do not speak these languages.

  6. Cultural Differences: While cultural experiences can be enriching, travelers should be aware of and respect local customs and traditions, which might differ significantly from their own. Misunderstandings can occur if cultural norms are not observed.

  7. Safety Concerns: Although generally safe, travelers should remain vigilant and aware of their surroundings. Petty crime can occur, as in many places, so taking precautions with personal belongings is advisable.

These factors should not deter potential visitors, as the Upper East Region offers rich cultural heritage and beautiful landscapes. However, being prepared for these challenges can enhance the travel experience.

The Upper East Region of Ghana, known simply as Upper East, is located in the northeastern part of the country. It shares borders with Burkina Faso to the north and the Upper West and Northern regions of Ghana to the west and south, respectively. This region is known for its rich cultural heritage, historical landmarks, and diverse ethnic groups.

Historical Background

  1. Pre-Colonial Era:

    • The area that is now the Upper East Region was historically inhabited by several ethnic groups, including the Gurunsi, Kusasi, Bimoba, Mamprusi, and others. These groups maintained distinct cultural practices and engaged in local trade.

  2. Colonial Period:

    • During the colonial era, the Upper East was part of the British-administered Northern Territories of the Gold Coast. The British administration established colonial rule in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which affected local governance and social structures.

  3. Post-Independence:

    • After Ghana gained independence in 1957, the Upper East Region was carved out as a separate administrative region in 1960. This was part of efforts to decentralize governance and improve the administration of the diverse areas of Ghana.

Significant Events

  • Creation as a Region:
    • The Upper East Region was officially established in 1983 when it was separated from the Upper Region, which was divided into Upper East and Upper West regions to facilitate better governance and development.

Historical Figures

  • Naa Gbewaa:
    • Although primarily associated with the Mole-Dagbon kingdom, Naa Gbewaa is an important historical figure whose influence extends into parts of the Upper East Region. He is considered an ancestral figure by several ethnic groups in northern Ghana.

Important Landmarks

  1. Paga Crocodile Pond:

    • This is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the region. Located in the town of Paga, it is known for its sacred crocodiles which are said to be friendly and are an integral part of local spiritual beliefs.

  2. Tongo Hills and Tengzug Shrine:

    • This sacred site near the town of Tongo is known for its unique rock formations and the Tengzug Shrine. It is a place of spiritual significance, and people visit for blessings and to offer sacrifices.

  3. Navrongo Cathedral:

    • Built in 1906, the Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Basilica in Navrongo is one of the oldest Catholic cathedrals in Ghana. It is renowned for its mud-brick architecture and historical importance.

  4. Sirigu Women's Organization for Pottery and Art (SWOPA):

    • This center promotes traditional arts and crafts, particularly pottery and basket weaving, and has gained international recognition for empowering local women.

Cultural Heritage

The Upper East Region is known for its festivals, traditional dances, and crafts. The people of this region celebrate various festivals such as the Fao Festival by the Gurunsi and the Samanpiid by the Kusasi, which are important for community identity and cohesion.

In conclusion, the Upper East Region of Ghana is a place with a rich tapestry of history, cultural diversity, and significant landmarks that reflect its storied past and vibrant present.