Things To Do
in Savelugu
Savelugu is a town in the Northern Region of Ghana known for its vibrant market life and Dagomba culture. It sits northeast of Tamale and serves as a gateway to rural savannah landscapes and traditional crafts. The town offers warm hospitality, colorful markets, and a slow-paced atmosphere that highlights everyday life in northern Ghana.
Visitors can explore nearby farmlands, attend local dances, and use Savelugu as a base for cultural and nature excursions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey with a visit to the local market to experience the vibrant atmosphere and purchase traditional handicrafts. Engage with friendly vendors and savor a local breakfast, perhaps a bowl of porridge made from millet. Take a moment to appreciate the colorful displays of fruits and textiles that reflect the culture of Savelugu.
After lunch, visit the nearby Savelugu Mosque, known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment. Spend some time exploring the surrounding areas, where you can interact with local craftsmen and learn about their artisanal skills. As the sun starts to set, enjoy a leisurely stroll through the town, discovering hidden gems along the way.
For dinner, savor local dishes at a popular eatery where you can try fufu with light soup or the famous kelewele. Conclude your day with a traditional storytelling session by the fire, where locals share folklore and legends of Savelugu. This immersive evening will provide you with deeper insight into the cultural heritage of the community.
Start your day by participating in a traditional dance workshop with local performers, learning rhythms and moves that are integral to Savelugu's culture. After the workshop, visit a nearby school to engage with students and share educational stories, enhancing cross-cultural connections. It’s a rewarding way to immerse yourself in the local education system and youth culture.
Spend your afternoon visiting the cultural heritage center that showcases the history and traditions of the Mamprusi people. Participate in crafting sessions where you can try your hand at weaving or pottery, guided by artisans. This hands-on experience not only deepens your understanding but also allows you to create a personal souvenir.
Share a meal with a local family, enjoying a variety of traditional dishes while learning about their daily life and customs. The warmth of their hospitality will leave you with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the community. As night falls, relax under a starry sky, reflecting on the enriching experiences of the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant local markets and warm hospitality
- Gateway to northern Ghana's savannah landscapes and culture
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Occasional travel delays during the wet season
- "Agoo" - Hello
- "Meda wo ase" - Thank you
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
- "Wo te sɛn?" - How are you?
- "Yɛbɛhyia" - See you later
Places to Visit in Savelugu
Visit one of these nice places.
Burst of color and activity as vendors set up, with vibrant fabrics, spices, and produce creating dynamic foregrounds.
Wide-open savannah with golden light and long shadows; ideal for landscape and silhouette shots.
Mud-brick architecture, everyday life, and textiles provide rich texture and cultural context.
Photographs of traditional drums and dancers during community performances at twilight.
Food in Savelugu
Savelugu Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A soft maize- or millet-based staple served with a thick, green ayoyo or spinach-style soup; popular in Savelugu markets and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Dried cassava flour formed into a mound, traditionally eaten with a flavorful nut or palm nut soup.
Creamy yam mash cooked with palm oil and tomato-based sauce, often served with vegetables or meat.
Skewered grilled meat seasoned with local spices; widely available from street vendors and market stalls.
Traditional fermented millet beer; enjoyed in social settings, often alongside meals or during gatherings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant daily market offering fresh vegetables, grains, spices, and freshly prepared street foods.
A larger regional market with broader regional fare, useful for sourcing ingredients and trying new snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always greet elders with a polite nod or handshake; use titles when addressing older people and show respect in social interactions.
Modest clothing is appreciated in town centers and religious settings; shoulders and knees should be covered in formal or traditional spaces.
Avoid passing items with the left hand; accept with a smile and a nod when appropriate.
Safety
Tipping in Savelugu
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are customary for good service but not obligatory; round up bills or give small cash tips to waitstaff, guides, and transport workers where appropriate.
Cash in Ghanaian Cedi is widely used; mobile money (MTN/ AirtelTigo) is common for small transactions; some shops may accept card or mobile wallets in busier hubs.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cool mornings and a dry Harmattan breeze; excellent for outdoor exploration and market life, but dusty conditions require protective gear.
Regular rains bring lush greenery and river swells; roads can become muddy and travel slower; ideal for photography of vibrant landscapes and crops in full growth.
Savelugu at Night
Hiking in Savelugu
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle trails through farmland and small forests near Savelugu; best with a local guide.
Seasonal hiking along riverbanks with birdwatching and sunset views.
Airports
How to reach Savelugu by plane.
Nearest airport; serves regional flights and connections to Accra and other hubs; about 30-60 minutes from Savelugu by road.
Ghana's main international gateway in Accra; significantly farther but provides international connectivity for long-haul travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group in the area, with Dagbani as a common language and rich cultural traditions.
Includes Mamprisi, Gonja, and other communities contributing to a diverse local culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with informal matches around towns and organized local leagues.
Cultural sports and demonstrations during festivals and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Savelugu.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in many eateries; request vegetable stews, bean dishes, and TZ with vegetable soups; clarify no meat stock when needed.