Family Cultural Adventure in Bolgatanga, Ghana

Market Days and Ancient Sanctuaries

Today was a sensory explosion, a deep dive into the heart of Bolgatanga. It was a day where the vibrant pulse of the market met the serene whispers of ancient traditions, a day where Francisca, Nilton, and I truly felt the spirit of Ghana embrace us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Jubeeli Park Food. The place was already buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and travelers fueling up for the day. I opted for a local specialty, something I couldn't quite pronounce but which tasted of sunshine and spices. Nilton, predictably, went for something sweet, while Francisca enjoyed a savory pastry. It's moments like these, sharing a simple meal, that make traveling as a family so special. We discussed our plans for the day, the excitement palpable in Nilton's voice as he anticipated the market's treasures.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Ghana at Jubeeli Park Food in Bolgatanga - where tradition meets taste in every dish.

Bolga Market: A Symphony of Sights and Sounds

The Bolga market was everything I had imagined and more. A kaleidoscope of colors assaulted the eyes, the air thick with the aroma of spices, smoked fish, and a hundred other scents I couldn't identify. The sounds were just as overwhelming: hawkers calling out their wares, the rhythmic clang of metalworkers, the chatter of a thousand conversations blending into a vibrant hum. I felt immediately at home, reminded of the bustling markets of Tarrafal, Cabo Verde, where I spent my childhood. It was chaotic, yes, but also full of life, energy, and a sense of community. Francisca, ever the pragmatist, was in her element, haggling for the best prices on fabrics and crafts. Nilton, wide-eyed with wonder, trailed after us, occasionally stopping to examine a brightly colored toy or a strange-looking fruit. I found myself drawn to the basket weavers. Their skilled hands transformed elephant grass into intricate designs, each basket a testament to generations of tradition. I purchased a small, sturdy basket, its vibrant colors a reminder of this day. As a tour guide, I always appreciate the skill that goes into local artisanship, and this basket was a perfect example.


Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Ghana's Upper East Region at Bolga Market, a bustling hub of handcrafted goods, local cuisine, and authentic experiences.

The market is a mirror reflecting the soul of a place, its people, and its traditions.

We spent hours wandering through the market, getting lost in its labyrinthine alleys, discovering hidden gems at every turn. Francisca found some beautiful fabrics for her sewing projects, while Nilton was thrilled with a hand-carved wooden animal. I even managed to find a few vintage postcards, adding to my growing collection of mementos from around the world. It's funny how a simple postcard can evoke so many memories, transporting me back to a specific time and place.

Lunch with a View

By lunchtime, we were famished. We decided to try Guinea Fowl and Khebabs, a local grill restaurant known for its traditional Ghanaian cuisine. The aroma of grilled meat wafted through the air, making our mouths water. We ordered guinea fowl, of course, along with some kebabs and a side of jollof rice. The guinea fowl was expertly grilled, the meat tender and flavorful. Nilton, who can be a picky eater, devoured his portion, declaring it the best meal he'd had in Ghana so far. Francisca and I savored every bite, appreciating the simple yet delicious flavors of Ghanaian cuisine. It reminded me of the grilled fish we often had back in Tarrafal, cooked over an open fire with just a hint of spice. After our satisfying lunch, we made a quick stop at Melcom Bolgatanga to pick up a few essentials. It was a bit of a contrast to the bustling market, a modern shopping mall with a wide array of goods. We grabbed some sunscreen, as I had forgotten to pack it, and a few snacks for the road. It's a good reminder that even when immersing oneself in local culture, a few modern conveniences can be a lifesaver.


Discover authentic Ghanaian grilled cuisine at Guinea Fowl and Khebabs in Bolgatanga – a culinary gem serving delicious guinea fowl and kebabs.


Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Melcom Bolgatanga, where local culture meets diverse international products.

Zuui: A Sanctuary of Peace

In the afternoon, we ventured to Zuui, a community-protected sacred grove and traditional village known for its unique architecture and cultural significance. The landscape shifted dramatically as we left the bustling town behind, replaced by rolling hills and lush vegetation. Zuui offered a welcome respite from the sensory overload of the market, a chance to reconnect with nature and reflect on our experiences. The village itself was a marvel, its traditional mud houses blending seamlessly into the landscape. We were greeted by a local guide who shared stories of the village's history and traditions. He explained the significance of the sacred grove, a place of worship and healing for the local community. As we walked through the grove, I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me. The air was still, the only sound the gentle rustling of leaves. It was a world away from the hustle and bustle of Bolgatanga, a reminder of the importance of preserving these sacred spaces.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Zuui, an enchanting garden in Bolgatanga, Ghana, perfect for relaxation and nature lovers seeking a serene retreat.

Evenings reflections

For dinner, we chose Sernof Delight, a restaurant that promised a mix of traditional Ghanaian and international dishes. After a day of intense immersion in local culture, we were happy to find a place that would cater to everyone's tastes. Francisca opted for jollof rice, while Nilton chose a burger. I decided to try the grilled tilapia, a local specialty. The food was delicious, the service friendly and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a long and eventful day. As we sat there, enjoying our meal, I reflected on all that we had experienced. From the vibrant chaos of the Bolga market to the serene tranquility of Zuui, today had been a journey of discovery, a chance to connect with the heart and soul of Bolgatanga. As someone who specialises in historical walking tours, I am always fascinated by the way that different cultures blend together.


Discover authentic Ghanaian flavors at Sernof Delight in Bolgatanga – where tradition meets culinary excellence.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Bolgatanga Library and the Regional Library. I'm eager to delve deeper into the region's history and culture, to learn more about the stories that have shaped this place. And perhaps, I'll even find some inspiration for my own tours back in Lisbon.

Before heading back to our accommodation, we took a leisurely stroll through Jubeeli Park, enjoying the cool evening air and the sounds of the city winding down. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with vibrant experiences and cultural immersion.

As I write this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to explore this beautiful country with my family. It's moments like these, sharing laughter, stories, and new experiences, that make life so rich and rewarding. We are looking forward to more adventures tomorrow.