Family Cultural Adventure in Bolgatanga, Ghana

First Impressions of Bolga

Today marked the beginning of our family's adventure in Bolgatanga, Ghana, and what a start it has been! Leaving Lisbon behind, with its familiar sights and sounds, stepping onto Ghanaian soil felt like entering a new chapter. The air is thick with the scent of spices and earth, a welcome change. I'm excited to share our experiences as we explore this vibrant region.


Explore Bolgatanga's vibrant markets, rich culture, and stunning landscapes in the heart of Ghana.

Our journey from Lisbon to Accra was smooth, but the domestic flight to Bolgatanga was an experience in itself. The landscape transformed from bustling cityscapes to serene savannahs, hinting at the cultural richness that awaited us. Francisca and Nilton were equally excited, their eyes wide with anticipation. It's moments like these that remind me why I love traveling with my family – sharing new experiences and creating lasting memories together.

After settling in, our first stop was the Upper East Regional Museum. I was eager to delve into the history and traditions of the region. The museum, though modest in size, is a treasure trove of artifacts, showcasing everything from ancient pottery to traditional weaponry. Nilton was particularly fascinated by the displays of musical instruments and chiefs' regalia. It was a great way to introduce him to the local culture and spark his curiosity. Francisca, with her keen eye for detail, was captivated by the intricate designs on the traditional clothing and textiles.


Discover the cultural treasures and historical narratives at the Upper East Regional Museum in Bolgatanga, a must-visit for every traveler.

Culture is the widening of the mind and of the spirit.

The Upper East Regional Museum was established in 1972 and relocated to its current site in 1991. The museum's mission is to preserve the material culture of the Upper East Region and educate the public, especially the youth, on the importance of protecting their local heritage. The exhibits include local pottery, paintings, musical instruments, jewelry, weaponry, and carved stools. Many of the artifacts come from archaeological sites across the region, such as Tongo-Tengzuk and the Pikworo Slave Camp. The museum also offers tours of other sites of interest in the region, including the Tongo-Tengzuk Hills and Shrines, and the Paga Crocodile Pond.

After the museum, we headed to the Bolgatanga Arts and Crafts Village. As a tour guide in Lisbon, I'm always drawn to places where local artisans showcase their skills, and this village did not disappoint. The vibrant colors and intricate designs of the Bolga baskets immediately caught my eye. Francisca, with her background as a seamstress, was particularly interested in the handwoven fabrics and smocks. Nilton, of course, was drawn to the leather goods and miniature drums. We spent a good amount of time talking to the artisans, learning about their craft and the stories behind their creations. It's these personal connections that make travel so enriching.


Explore the Bolgatanga Arts and Crafts Village: A treasure trove of authentic Ghanaian handicrafts and vibrant local culture.

The Bolgatanga Arts and Crafts Village is a bustling shopping destination known for its exquisite handicrafts. The village is not just a place to shop; it is a cultural experience where tourists can engage with the artisans, learn about their techniques, and appreciate the stories behind their creations. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it a perfect place to spend an afternoon.

For lunch, we decided to try the Maryland Tilapia Joint, recommended by a local we met at the craft village. I've always believed that food is a window into a culture, and this place offered a delicious glimpse into Ghanaian cuisine. The tilapia was fresh and flavorful, seasoned with local spices that tingled the taste buds. Francisca enjoyed the traditional tilapia stew, while Nilton devoured the grilled tilapia with spicy pepper sauce. It was a satisfying meal that left us energized for the rest of the day.


Discover authentic Ghanaian cuisine at Maryland Tilapia Joint in Bolgatanga - where fresh tilapia meets warm hospitality.

Maryland Tilapia Joint specializes in fresh tilapia and captures the essence of Ghanaian culinary traditions. The restaurant offers a variety of tilapia dishes, expertly prepared with local spices and ingredients that highlight the rich flavors of Ghana. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a meal after exploring the vibrant streets of Bolgatanga.

As the day drew to a close, we opted for a relaxed dinner at Comme Ci Comme Ca Ghana. The ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. The restaurant offered a mix of local and international dishes, catering to our diverse tastes. Over dinner, we shared our favorite moments from the day, laughing and reminiscing about the sights, sounds, and flavors we had experienced. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with cultural immersion.


Discover Como Ci Como Ca: Your Ultimate Hotel Experience in Bolgatanga's Heart - Dining, Nightlife & Events Await!

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we're planning a trip to the Tongo Hills and Tengzug Shrine. I've read about the sacredness of the site and the stunning views it offers, and I'm eager to experience it firsthand. Francisca is particularly interested in the traditional shrines, while Nilton is excited about the prospect of hiking in the hills. I am sure we will learn a lot about the local traditions and beliefs. I am also hoping to visit Baby's Pub in the evening. It will be nice to end the day with a drink and some music.

Even though we forgot to pack insect repellent and a first aid kit, we managed to have a great first day in Bolgatanga. I'm already looking forward to sharing more of our adventures with you all. Stay tuned for more updates as we continue our cultural journey in Ghana!

Bolgatanga has already captivated me with its rich heritage and warm hospitality. It's a place where tradition and modernity coexist, where the past is celebrated, and the future is embraced. I'm grateful for the opportunity to explore this unique corner of the world with my family, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.