Bawku - Discovering Ghana

Travelling to Bawku

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bawku, a pretty good destination in Ghana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bawku and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bawku, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Ghana, here's everything to know about Bawku for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bawku

Bawku is a town located in the Upper East Region of Ghana, West Africa. It has a population of approximately 70,000 people and is known for its vibrant local market, traditional crafts such as pottery and basket weaving, and traditional dancing. The town also serves as a commercial hub for the surrounding agricultural region, with trade in crops like yams, millet, and sorghum being the main economic activity. Bawku is also home to a variety of religious and cultural festivals throughout the year, including Damba and the Kusasi Fire Festival.

What to visit in Bawku

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Bawku, Ghana: 1. Paga Crocodile Pond: This pond is located about an hour's drive from Bawku. It's home to dozens of crocodiles that are considered sacred by locals. Visitors can observe these creatures up close and even touch them.
2. Tongo Hills: These beautiful hills are located just outside of Bawku. The landscape is stunning, featuring rock formations, caves, and wildlife. Visitors can hike to the top of the hills for panoramic views of the area.
3. Bawku East Museum: This small museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the Bawku region. It features exhibits on local traditions, crafts, and agriculture.
4. Bawku Market: This bustling outdoor market is a great place to experience the local culture and shop for souvenirs. Visitors can find everything from handcrafted goods to fresh produce.
5. Kuyar-Kuyar Waterfall: This serene waterfall is located in the nearby village of Kuyar-Kuyar. It offers a peaceful escape from the city and a chance to swim in natural pools.
6. Mognori Eco Village: This sustainable village is located about an hour's drive from Bawku. Visitors can learn about traditional farming practices, participate in cultural activities, and even stay overnight in one of the eco-friendly huts.
Overall, Bawku offers a unique and authentic experience for tourists looking to explore the rich culture and natural beauty of Ghana.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Ghana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bawku.

When to go on holiday to Bawku

Bawku, Ghana experiences a tropical savanna climate with a wet and dry season throughout the year. The best time to visit Bawku is during the dry season, which starts from November to April. The temperature is generally hot, ranging from 28°C to 34°C during the day and cooling down to 20°C at night. During this season, the sky is generally clear, and there is little to no rainfall, making it suitable for outdoor activities. However, if you don't mind the rain, you can visit during the wet season, which starts from May to October, where there are occasional showers and abundant greenery.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bawku

The best way to get to Bawku, Ghana is by air or by road.
By air: You can fly to Tamale airport, which is the nearest airport to Bawku. From Tamale, you can take a taxi or a bus to Bawku.
By road: Bawku is easily accessible by road from major cities in Ghana. You can catch a bus from Accra, Kumasi or Tamale to Bawku. The journey from Accra to Bawku takes about 12 hours, while the journey from Tamale to Bawku takes around 4 hours.
Alternatively, if you prefer a more comfortable and convenient means of transportation, you can hire a private car/taxi to take you straight to Bawku from anywhere in Ghana.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bawku, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bawku

Bawku is located in the Upper East Region of Ghana and has a diverse range of foods that reflect the region's cultural diversity. Some of the typical foods of Bawku and short descriptions of them are: 1. TZ – a starchy dish made from maize, millet, or sorghum, served with soup, stew or sauce.
2. Waakye – a rice and beans dish cooked together and often served with a sauce, eggs, shito, and/or spicy sausage (Kontomire) 3. Tuo Zaafi – a traditional dish made from mashed yam or cassava served with soup and meat/fish.
4. Koko – a popular breakfast porridge made from millet or corn flour, often served with koose (fried bean cakes).
5. Pulu – a rice dish cooked with vegetables and spices.
6. Ayoyo soup – a soup made from the Ayoyo leaves, traditionally served with TZ or Waakye.
7. Zogorba – a porridge made from millet or sorghum, mixed with shea butter, and often served with milk and sugar.
8. Tanga – A local Kenaf seed dish prepared with groundnuts, spices, and a leafy vegetable.
These are just some of the typical foods of Bawku, but there are many more to try and savor when visiting this region of Ghana.
You can find general info about typical foods in Ghana here.

Is Bawku an expensive destination for tourists?

Bawku is generally an affordable destination compared to many other popular tourist destinations in Ghana. However, prices may vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and food you choose. It would be best to research and compare prices from different hotels, tour operators, and restaurants to get a better idea of how much you should expect to spend. Additionally, bargaining is a common practice in Ghana, so you may be able to negotiate prices for some services and products.

Where to find accomodation in Bawku

The best areas to find accommodation in Bawku, Ghana would be within the town itself. Some popular areas include the central market, the Government Hospital area, or the Bawku Presbyterian Senior High School area. It's also worth considering accommodation near the Bawku-Nalerigu road or the Bawku-Garu road, as these roads provide easy access to neighboring towns and tourist attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Bawku here:
Booking.com

Is Bawku a safe destination for tourists?

Bawku is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other destination, it is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. There have been some isolated incidents of violence and unrest in the past, particularly around election times, so it is advisable to stay informed about the local situation and to avoid political gatherings or demonstrations. Additionally, it is recommended to travel with a reputable tour guide who knows the area well and can provide valuable advice on staying safe during your trip. Overall, if you exercise common sense and take appropriate precautions, you should be able to enjoy a safe and enjoyable trip to Bawku.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Ghana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bawku.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bawku the most?

Bawku, Ghana is a great destination for those who are interested in exploring the culture and history of the area. The town is particularly known for its vibrant festivals, including the Kusasi and the Bugum festivals, which offer a unique opportunity to experience authentic traditional dances, drumming, and other cultural practices.
Bawku is also a great destination for nature enthusiasts who want to explore the beautiful landscapes, as the town is home to several natural attractions, such as the Tongo Hills, the Pikworo Slave Camp, and the Paga Crocodile Pond.
While Bawku can be a fun destination for couples and young people, families with children may also enjoy the cultural and natural attractions. However, it is worth noting that Bawku is a small town with limited tourist infrastructure, so travelers looking for luxury amenities may need to adjust their expectations accordingly.

How to get around Bawku

Bawku is a small town in Ghana, and the most common mode of transportation to move around the town is by using motorbikes, also known as "okadas". Taxis are also available, but they may be a bit more expensive compared to using a motorbike. Buses and other forms of public transportation are not commonly used within the town, so it's recommended to use a motorbike or taxi to get around. It's important to note that safety precautions should be taken when using a motorbike or taxi, such as wearing a helmet and choosing vehicles with proper licenses and insurance.

What to see around Bawku

There are several nice places to visit in a day trip from Bawku, Ghana. Here are some options: 1. Paga Crocodile Pond: Located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bawku, Paga Crocodile Pond is a popular destination for tourists in Ghana. Here, you can get up close and personal with crocodiles that are considered sacred by the local people.
2. Tongo Hills: These rocky formations are a beautiful sight to see and offer wonderful views of the surrounding area. The Tongo Hills are located about 30 minutes from Bawku.
3. Sirigu Pottery Village: This village is known for its traditional earthenware pottery, which is made using ancient techniques. Sirigu Pottery Village is located about 1 hour and 30 minutes from Bawku.
4. Bolgatanga Handicraft Market: This market is known for its woven baskets, hats, and other handicrafts. The Bolgatanga Handicraft Market is located about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Bawku.
5. Navrongo Catholic Cathedral: This beautiful cathedral is a popular tourist attraction in the Navrongo area, about 1 hour and 15 minutes from Bawku. It features a mix of traditional African and European architecture.
For every travel information about Ghana you can click here.

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