Upper West Region, Ghana Travel Guide

Discover the cultural and natural wonders of Ghana's Upper West Region, from historic sites to vibrant festivals and stunning landscapes.

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Upper West Region

The Upper West Region of Ghana is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Located in the northwestern part of the country, this region offers a unique blend of historical sites, traditional communities, and breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant town of Wa, known for its traditional mud-and-stick mosques, to the tranquil Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary, there's something for every traveler to discover. Visitors can immerse themselves in the rich history of the region by visiting the ancient slave trade sites and the Wa Naa's Palace, where one can learn about the local chieftaincy system. The region is also home to several festivals, where tourists can experience the colorful traditions and customs of the local people. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, with opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and even spotting hippos in their natural habitat. The Upper West Region's diverse landscapes, from the rolling hills of the Gwollu Escarpment to the lush greenery along the Black Volta River, provide a picturesque backdrop for adventure and relaxation alike.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Upper West Region.

Visit during the dry season (November to March) for the best weather and accessibility.
Carry cash, as ATMs and card payment options may be limited in remote areas.
Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
Hire a local guide to enrich your experience and gain deeper insights into the region's history and culture.

Top City Travel Guides in Upper West Region

The cities of Upper West Region, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Destinations in Upper West Region

Resorts, valleys and scenic spots worth a trip of their own.

Mole National Park

Bolgatanga

Explore Upper West Region: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Upper West Region

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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All Attractions

Wechiau Hippo Santuary

Explore Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary, a serene haven in Ghana, where you can witness endangered hippos in their natural habitat amidst rich biodiversity.

4.0

Gwollu Slave Defense Wall

Discover the historical significance of the Gwollu Slave Defense Wall, a testament to resilience and culture in Ghana's Sissala region.

3.8

Mushroom Rock, Wulling, Babile

Explore Mushroom Rock in Wulling, Babile - a stunning natural attraction in Ghana featuring unique geological formations and breathtaking landscapes.

4.7

Gbelle Game Reserve

Discover the natural wonders of Gbelle Game Reserve, a national park in Ghana known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.

2.7

Best landmarks in Upper West Region

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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All Landmarks

Gwollu Slave Defense Wall

Explore the Gwollu Slave Defense Wall, a historic monument in Ghana reflecting the resilience of the Sissala people against the slave trade.

3.8

First White Settlers in North West Ghana

Uncover the historical significance of the First White Settlers in North West Ghana, a landmark that blends culture, history, and community in a unique setting.

Best restaurants in Upper West Region

Top-rated picks

Best Restaurants

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All Restaurants

The Buka Restaurant, Osu, Accra

Experience authentic West African flavors at The Buka Restaurant in Osu, Accra – where every dish tells a story.

4.2

The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Experience exquisite seafood and cocktails at The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Accra - a blend of local flavors and fine dining.

4.3

Mummy's Kitchen

Discover authentic Ghanaian flavors at Mummy's Kitchen in Wa – a delightful dining experience that showcases local cuisine.

3.8

Treehouse Restaurant

Experience the magic of nature-inspired dining at Treehouse Restaurant in Accra – where local flavors meet delightful ambiance.

4.5

Best bars in Upper West Region

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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The Republic Bar & Grill

Discover the vibrant flavors of Ghana at The Republic Bar & Grill, a lively bar and grill in Accra serving delicious grilled dishes and drinks.

4.3

The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar

Experience the vibrant blend of flavors at The Gold Coast Restaurant & Cocktail Bar in Accra, where fine dining meets a lively atmosphere.

4.3

The Guys PUB

Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Guys PUB in Wa, a welcoming spot for drinks, music, and local culture.

3.8

Bugatti Black Friday Pub

Discover the lively ambiance of Bugatti Black Friday Pub in Wa, where local drinks and live entertainment come together for an unforgettable night out.

4.0

Best shops in Upper West Region

Top-rated picks

Best Shops

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All Shops

MELCOM

Explore Melcom Shopping Mall in Wa for a vibrant shopping experience featuring local crafts, fashion, and delicious cuisine.

4.0

The Shop Accra

Explore The Shop Accra, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture in a treasure trove of unique gifts and souvenirs.

4.4

Heaven Sent Super Market

Discover local flavors and essential goods at Heaven Sent Super Market in Wa, Ghana's vibrant grocery shopping destination.

4.0

FAA Shoppings (Indian & Western Dress Store/Indian Boutique)

Explore the vibrant blend of Indian and Western fashion at FAA Shoppings, Accra's boutique for unique cultural attire.

5.0

Explore Upper West Region on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Upper West Region, mapped for you.

Upper West Region Essentials

The Upper West Region of Ghana is accessible via both air and road. The nearest major airport is Wa Airport, which offers flights from Accra. From the airport, taxis and car rentals are available to take you to your destination within the region. By road, you can take a long-distance bus from Accra or other major cities such as Kumasi and Tamale. The journey by road can be long and often bumpy, but it offers a scenic view of the Ghanaian countryside.
Within the Upper West Region, transportation options include taxis, motorbikes (locally known as 'okadas'), and tro-tros (shared minibuses). Taxis are relatively affordable and can be hired for short trips within towns or for longer journeys between towns. Tro-tros are a more economical option but can be crowded. For a more immersive experience, consider renting a bicycle to explore the area at your own pace.
The official currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in major towns like Wa. However, it is advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller towns and rural areas. ATMs are available in major towns but may not be as common in remote areas, so it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading out.
The Upper West Region is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions are advisable. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep your belongings secure in crowded places. Some areas may have higher crime rates, particularly targeting tourists, so always stay alert and follow local advice. It's recommended to avoid isolated areas after dark and to travel in groups when possible.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. The region has several hospitals and clinics in major towns like Wa. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available in towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. For more serious health issues, it may be necessary to travel to a larger city for specialized care.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes before entering a mosque or a traditional home. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It's polite to ask about someone's wellbeing before proceeding with a conversation. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience the Upper West Region like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary and the ancient mosques in Wa and Larabanga. For a unique experience, try attending a local festival, which offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.

When is the best time to visit Upper West Region?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Upper West Region

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Upper West Region. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloNaa
  [Nah]
- GoodbyeNaa bɔŋ
  [Nah bong]
- YesEey
  [Eh-yee]
- NoDaa
  [Dah]
- Please/You're welcomeMɔbɔ
  [Moh-boh]
- Thank youMeda w'ase
  [Meh-dah wah-seh]
- Excuse me/SorryMepa wo kyɛw
  [Meh-pah woh chay]
- How are you?Nɛ nyɛ?
  [Neh nyay?]
- Fine. And you?Me ho yɛ. Na wo?
  [Meh ho yeh. Nah woh?]
- Do you speak English?Wopɛ ɔkasa bea?
  [Woh-peh oh-kah-sah beh?]
- I don't understandMente ase
  [Men-teh ah-seh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMepɛ sɛ menya menu no, mɔbɔ
  [Meh-peh seh men-yah meh-noh noh, moh-boh]
- I don't eat meatMente mɛtɔ
  [Men-teh meh-toh]
- Cheers!Nda nyɛ!
  [N-dah nyay!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMepɛ sɛ mɛyɛ sika no, mɔbɔ
  [Meh-peh seh meh-yay see-kah noh, moh-boh]
- Help!Bɔ m'aso!
  [Boh mah-soh!]
- Go away!Kɔ n'ako!
  [Koh nah-koh!]
- Call the Police!Frɛ ɔmanpanyin!
  [Freh oh-mahn-pah-nyin!]
- Call a doctor!Frɛ dɔkita!
  [Freh doh-kee-tah!]
- I'm lostMede me ho bɔ
  [Meh-deh meh ho boh]
- I'm illMeyare
  [Meh-yah-reh]
- I'd like to buy...Mepɛ sɛ mɛtɔ...
  [Meh-peh seh meh-toh...]
- I'm just lookingMerehwɛ
  [Meh-reh-hweh]
- How much is it?Ɛyɛ sɛn?
  [Eh-yeh sen?]
- That's too expensiveƐyɛ dɛdɛɛdɛ
  [Eh-yeh deh-deh-deh]
- Can you lower the price?Wobɛtɔ sika no ase?
  [Woh-beh-toh see-kah noh ah-seh?]
- What time is it?Dɛn na ɛyɛ?
  [Den nah eh-yeh?]
- It's one o'clockƐyɛ dɔkita baako
  [Eh-yeh doh-kee-tah bah-koh]
- Half past (10)Mpɛn mmiɛnsa
  [Mpenh mee-en-sah]
- MorningAnɔpa
  [Ah-noh-pah]
- AfternoonMmerɛ
  [Mmeh-reh]
- EveningAwia
  [Ah-wee-ah]
- YesterdayAnɔpa a atwa
  [Ah-noh-pah ah at-wa]
- TodayƐnnɛ
  [Eh-neh]
- TomorrowƐkyɛ
  [Eh-chyeh]
- 1Baako
  [Bah-koh]
- 2Mbɔ
  [Mboh]
- 3Mmienu
  [Mmeen-oo]
- 4Mmienu
  [Mmeen-oo]
- 5Mmienum
  [Mmeen-oom]
- 6Nkron
  [N-kron]
- 7Nkyɛn
  [N-chyen]
- 8Nkyɛ
  [N-chyeh]
- 9Nkyɛn
  [N-chyen]
- 10Dɔn
  [Dohn]
- Where's a/the...?He na ...?
  [Heh nah ...?]
- What's the address?Dɛn na adwuma no?
  [Den nah ah-dwoo-mah noh?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Wobɛda me ho adi (ɔkɛse no)?
  [Woh-beh-dah meh ho ah-dee (oh-keh-seh noh)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Bɛn na bus no bɛba?
  [Ben nah boos noh beh-bah?]
- A ticket (to ....)Tiket (kɔ ...)
  [Tee-ket (koh ...)]

History of Upper West Region

The Upper West Region, historically known for its ancient settlements, has been home to various ethnic groups for centuries. The region's earliest inhabitants included the Dagaaba, Sissala, and Wala people, who developed complex societies with rich cultural traditions. Archaeological findings in the region reveal evidence of early farming, pottery making, and ironworking, indicating a thriving and sophisticated community.
The Wala Kingdom, one of the prominent pre-colonial states in the Upper West Region, was founded around the 17th century. The Wala people, led by their paramount chief, the Wa Naa, established Wa as the capital. The kingdom was known for its trade networks, which connected it to other regions and facilitated the exchange of goods such as gold, kola nuts, and textiles. The Wala Kingdom played a significant role in the region's political and economic landscape until the advent of colonial rule.
The Upper West Region came under British colonial rule in the late 19th century. During this period, the British established administrative centers and introduced new governance structures. They also built infrastructure such as roads and schools, which had lasting impacts on the region's development. The colonial era was marked by both resistance and cooperation from local leaders, who navigated the complexities of foreign rule while striving to maintain their cultural heritage.
Following Ghana's independence in 1957, the Upper West Region experienced significant changes. The region was formally established as a separate administrative entity in 1983, with Wa designated as the regional capital. Post-independence efforts focused on improving infrastructure, education, and healthcare, which contributed to the region's growth. The establishment of the University for Development Studies in Wa further enhanced educational opportunities and fostered regional development.
The Upper West Region is renowned for its vibrant cultural festivals and traditions. One of the most notable is the Dumba Festival, celebrated by the Wala people in Wa. This annual event features traditional music, dance, and rituals, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. Other significant festivals include the Kobine Festival of the Dagaaba people and the Paragbiele Festival of the Sissala people, each reflecting the unique customs and histories of the respective communities.
The region boasts a unique architectural heritage, with traditional homes known as 'compound houses' that reflect the local way of life. These structures, typically built from mud and thatch, are designed to accommodate extended families and communal living. The region's mosques, particularly the ancient Sudanese-style mosque in Larabanga, are also significant architectural landmarks. These structures not only serve religious purposes but also stand as symbols of the region's historical and cultural identity.