Things To Do
in Tamale

Tamale, Ghana, is the capital of the Northern Region and is known for its vibrant culture and warm hospitality. It serves as an economic hub for the region and is characterized by its unique blend of traditional and modern lifestyles. The city is home to a diverse population and is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it an ideal base for exploring northern Ghana.

Visitors can enjoy rich cultural experiences, delicious local cuisine, and an array of outdoor activities.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Tamale Central Market, where you can experience the local hustle and bustle and shop for handicrafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Tamale Cultural Centre to learn about the rich traditions of the Dagbon Kingdom and view local art.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Ghanaian dinner at Buka Restaurant, known for its authentic local dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Take a guided tour to the nearby Mole National Park, famous for its wildlife and natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Return to Tamale and explore the local neighborhoods, interacting with residents and learning about their daily lives.

evening
:

Relax at a local bar, such as the popular Bawa's Place, and enjoy live music while trying some local drinks.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Local Meal$3
🚌Public Transport$0.50
🏨Budget Hotel$20
🍺Local Beer$1.50
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable costs of living and food.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Hot temperatures during the dry season.
  • Potential language barriers for non-local speakers.
  • "Meda wo akpe" - Thank you
  • "Ete sɛn?" - How are you?
  • "Me pɛ sɛ me kɔ" - I want to go
  • "Yɛbɛhyia" - See you later
  • "Bɔkɔɔ" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Tamale

Visit one of these nice places.

Tamale Central Mosque

A stunning architectural landmark that showcases the Islamic heritage of the region.

Mole National Park

A beautiful natural reserve where you can capture wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Cultural Centre

Offers vibrant displays of local art and culture, perfect for capturing the spirit of Tamale.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tamale

Tamale offers a rich culinary experience with a variety of local dishes that reflect the culture of northern Ghana. Must-try dishes include Fufu, a starchy dough served with soup, and Waakye, a rice and bean dish popular for breakfast. The local food markets and street vendors provide an authentic taste of the region, serving dishes fresh and at reasonable prices. Whether you have dietary restrictions or specific preferences, there are options available to cater to various needs.

Tamale Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fufu

A starchy dough made from pounded cassava or plantains, typically served with a rich soup.

Must-Try!

Waakye

A popular breakfast dish made of rice and beans, often accompanied by fried plantains and eggs.

Chinchinga

Grilled kebabs made from beef or chicken, seasoned with spices and often served with spicy sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tamale Central Market

A lively market where you can find fresh produce, local dishes, and snacks from various vendors.

Street Food Stalls

Scattered throughout the city, these stalls offer quick bites like roasted corn and spicy kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tamale experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (November to March) features warm temperatures, ranging from 22°C to 36°C (72°F to 97°F), while the wet season (April to October) can bring heavy rains, cooling temperatures slightly. Harmattan winds in December to February bring cooler and drier air. Overall, expect sunny days year-round with occasional humidity.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial; greetings should be polite and formal.

Dress Modestly

Especially in rural areas, dressing modestly is appreciated, particularly for women.

Greetings

Ghanaians often greet each other warmly; it’s customary to ask about one's wellbeing before initiating conversation.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tamale is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night, and always be aware of your surroundings. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, particularly in crowded areas. It’s also wise to keep your belongings secure and avoid flashy displays of wealth.

Tipping in Tamale

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small percentage is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some restaurants accept mobile payments and credit cards.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to March)

Expect warm weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Wet Season (April to October)

Rainfall can be heavy, particularly in June and July; however, the landscape becomes lush and green.

Harmattan (December to February)

This dry and dusty trade wind can reduce visibility but brings cooler temperatures.

Festival Season

During important festivals, such as the Damba Festival, visitors can experience vibrant cultural celebrations.

Nightlife Guide

Tamale at Night

Tamale has a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars and clubs offering live music, dancing, and socializing. Popular spots include Bawa's Place and Club 360, where locals and visitors gather to enjoy drinks and entertainment. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with an emphasis on community and fun, making it a great place to meet new people. Traditional music and dance performances frequently take place, adding a cultural touch to the night.

Hiking in Tamale

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Ghana's Mole National Park Trails

Several trails within the park offer different levels of difficulty, allowing hikers to explore wildlife and natural beauty.

Laribanga to Mole Trails

This hiking route leads from Laribanga Mosque to Mole National Park, showcasing scenic views and local flora.

Airports

How to reach Tamale by plane.

Tamale International Airport

Located about 10 km from the city center, this airport connects Tamale with major cities in Ghana and is the main gateway for international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tamale is moderately walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions, markets, and restaurants are located close together. Sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised. Generally, walking is a pleasant way to explore the local culture and interact with residents, but for longer distances, taxis or motorbikes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Dagbani Speakers

The majority ethnic group in the area, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.

Migrant Workers

Tamale attracts people from various regions of Ghana seeking job opportunities, contributing to its diverse population.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in Tamale, with local teams participating in regional leagues.

Traditional Wrestling

Known locally as 'Bawa', this sport is a cultural event that draws large crowds during festivals.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tamale is generally light, especially compared to larger cities in Ghana. Most roads are unpaved, which can affect travel speed during the rainy season. Public transportation options include shared taxis and motorbikes, which are widely used for short distances. It is advisable to negotiate fares before getting in.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tamale.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many local dishes contain meat, options such as vegetable stews and rice dishes are widely available.

Gluten-Free

Dishes like Fufu made from cassava are gluten-free; however, it's best to confirm with vendors.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tamale is available through public hospitals and private clinics. The Tamale Teaching Hospital is the largest facility, providing various services, but it may be limited compared to urban centers like Accra. Travelers are advised to have travel insurance and consider bringing any necessary medications, as pharmacies may have limited stock.

Discover Ghana

Read more in our Ghana 2025 Travel Guide.

Ghana Travel Guide