Things To Do
in Bolgatanga
Bolgatanga, often referred to as Bolga, is a vibrant city located in the Upper East Region of Ghana. It serves as a cultural and commercial hub for the region, famous for its unique handwoven baskets and traditional crafts. The city is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including savannahs and hills, making it an attractive destination for both locals and tourists.
Bolgatanga also showcases a rich heritage with its diverse ethnic groups and colorful festivals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Bolgatanga Market, where you can see local artisans at work and purchase traditional crafts.
Explore the nearby Tongo Hills and visit the Tongo Tombs, which are significant to the local Talensi people.
Enjoy dinner at a local eatery and soak in the atmosphere of the bustling city as night falls.
Take a leisurely walk along the Red Volta River and enjoy the serene environment while spotting local wildlife.
Visit the Bolgatanga Cultural Centre to learn more about the history and culture of the region.
Relax at a local bar or café, enjoying traditional music and perhaps some dancing.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant | $5 |
| 🛒Grocery Shopping (Weekly) | $30 |
| 🚖Taxi Ride (within City) | $2 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel (per night) | $20 |
| 🍺Local Beer | $1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and local traditions.
- Stunning natural landscapes for outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living and dining options.
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
- Infrastructure may be less developed in rural areas.
- Language barrier for non-local speakers.
- "Aani" - Hello
- "Medaase" - Thank you
- "Ba" - Come
- "Ete sen?" - How are you?
- "Yenko" - Let's go
Places to Visit in Bolgatanga
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning landscape with rocky formations and scenic views, perfect for landscape photography.
Capture the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of local commerce and craftsmanship.
Photograph the unique architecture of traditional mud houses that reflect the region's heritage.
Food in Bolgatanga
Bolgatanga Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ghanaian dish made from pounded cassava and plantain, served with a spicy light soup.
Must-Try!
A local staple made from fermented corn and served with a variety of soups and stews.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local dishes, and vibrant street food stalls.
Various stalls around the city offering grilled meats, spicy kebabs, and fried plantains.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet people appropriately; respectful greetings are important in Ghanaian culture.
Dress conservatively, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites.
Show respect to elders by addressing them properly and following their lead in social situations.
Safety
Tipping in Bolgatanga
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage (10%) is common.
Cash is preferred, but some establishments may accept mobile money services like MTN Mobile Money.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect dry weather with lower humidity, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Frequent rains with high humidity; plan for possible delays and muddy conditions.
A dry, dusty wind from the Sahara that can cool temperatures significantly; dress warmly during evenings.
Experience vibrant local festivals with traditional music, dance, and cultural displays.
Bolgatanga at Night
Hiking in Bolgatanga
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking trail offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.
A scenic hiking destination with diverse wildlife and panoramic vistas, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
Airports
How to reach Bolgatanga by plane.
Approximately 150 km from Bolgatanga, this airport offers domestic flights and is the nearest major airport for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in the region known for their agricultural practices and traditional crafts.
Another significant group known for their rich cultural heritage and unique customs.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and matches drawing significant local interest.
A culturally significant sport, traditional wrestling events are held during festivals and attract large crowds.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bolgatanga.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about preparation methods.
Gluten-free options may be limited; inquire about specific dishes to avoid gluten.