Things To Do
in Wa
Wa is the capital city of the Upper West Region of Ghana, known for its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality. It is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including rolling hills and traditional mud-brick architecture. The city serves as a hub for trade and commerce in the region, attracting travelers interested in exploring its unique customs and traditions.
Wa is also famous for its vibrant festivals and community spirit, making it a great destination for cultural enthusiasts.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Wa Central Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of local vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and crafts.
Visit the Wa Naa's Palace, a historical site that provides insight into the traditional leadership and history of the area, followed by a leisurely walk around the nearby communities to appreciate local architecture.
Dine at a local restaurant to enjoy traditional dishes and perhaps catch a cultural performance or music event in the city.
Embark on a short trek to the nearby Witches' Forest, a site of cultural significance, where you can learn about the local beliefs surrounding the forest and its importance to the community.
After lunch, visit the nearby Tono Dam for a scenic view and engage with local fishermen to learn about their daily routines.
Relax at a local bar or cafe, enjoying the evening atmosphere and mingling with locals over drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at Local Restaurant | $3 - $10 |
| 🚌Local Bus Fare | $0.50 |
| 🏨Budget Hotel per Night | $20 - $50 |
| 📱Mobile SIM Card | $2 - $5 |
| 🍺Beer at Local Bar | $1 - $2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
- Beautiful natural scenery and outdoor activities.
- Affordable cost of living compared to other tourist destinations.
- Limited nightlife options.
- Transportation can be challenging due to infrastructure.
- Language barriers may exist for non-local speakers.
- "Wo hia" - How are you?
- "Medasi" - Thank you.
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please.
- "Yɛfrɛ me..." - My name is...
- "Bɔkɔɔ" - Goodbye.
Places to Visit in Wa
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture the stunning architecture and learn about the history of the traditional rulers of Wa.
A serene environment with unique flora, perfect for nature photography.
Photograph scenic landscapes and local fishermen at the dam, especially during sunset.
Food in Wa
Wa Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A starchy dish made from cassava and plantains, often served with soup.
Must-Try!
A popular rice and beans dish, typically served with fried plantains, boiled eggs, and stews.
Grilled kebabs made from spiced meat, often enjoyed as a street food snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can try various local foods and buy fresh ingredients.
Look out for street vendors selling snacks like kelewele (spicy fried plantains) and chinchinga.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greetings are an important part of the culture; take time to greet people respectfully.
While Wa is relatively liberal, modest dress is advisable, especially in rural areas.
Show respect to elders by greeting them first and using appropriate titles.
Safety
Tipping in Wa
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, usually around 10% of the bill.
Cash is widely used, but some restaurants and shops may accept mobile money and card payments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and cultural festivals.
Frequent rain showers can occur; however, the landscape is lush and vibrant.
Dusty winds can make temperatures cooler, particularly in the mornings and evenings.
Various local festivals occur throughout the year, offering vibrant experiences and cultural insights.
Wa at Night
Hiking in Wa
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging hike with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for adventurous travelers.
A scenic trail that offers breathtaking views and opportunities to explore local flora and fauna.
Airports
How to reach Wa by plane.
A small airport located about 5 km from the city center, offering domestic flights to Accra and other regional destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Gurunsi people are among the indigenous groups in Wa and are known for their rich cultural heritage and crafts.
Another prominent ethnic group in the region, the Dagaaba are known for their agricultural practices and traditional music.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely loved sport in Wa, with many local teams and matches often drawing large crowds.
A unique sport in the region, often featured during festivals and cultural events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Wa.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is common in local cuisine, many restaurants in Wa offer vegetarian dishes, such as stews made with legumes.
Rice and starchy dishes are widely available, making it easier for gluten-sensitive travelers.