Things To Do
in Bawku
Bawku is a vibrant border town in Ghana's Upper East Region, known for its bustling markets and diverse cultural tapestry. Nestled near the Burkina Faso border, it serves as a key trading hub where goods, ideas, and traditions mingle. The town's daily rhythm revolves around market days, religious centers, and rural interludes that showcase northern Ghanaian life.
Visitors should expect warm hospitality, colorful fabrics, and an authentic snapshot of regional culture.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the vibrant Bawku Market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and witness the hustle and bustle of traders selling their goods. Engage with friendly local vendors and sample traditional snacks like kelewele and chinchinga. As you stroll through the market, take note of the colorful textiles and crafts that showcase the rich heritage of the Bawku people.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Bawku Museum, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the Mamprusi and Kusasi people. The museum houses artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region's past, providing insight into its cultural landscape. Spend some time chatting with the museum curator for a deeper understanding of the local customs and practices.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely walk around the outskirts of Bawku, observing the serene landscapes that envelop the town. Stop by a local café for a taste of refreshing palm wine while mingling with the locals. End your day with a traditional Ghanaian dinner featuring jollof rice and grilled chicken, savoring the flavors of the region.
Kick off the day early with a guided nature walk in the nearby Bawku Hills, where you can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and diverse flora. Keep your eyes peeled for local bird species, as this area is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. The crisp morning air and the sounds of wildlife create an invigorating atmosphere for exploration.
After your nature walk, enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the lush greenery, surrounded by the sounds of chirping birds and rustling leaves. In the early afternoon, continue your adventure by visiting the nearby Bawku Wildlife Reserve, where you can spot a variety of animal species in their natural habitat. Take plenty of photographs to capture the beauty of the reserve and its inhabitants.
As dusk approaches, return to Bawku and unwind at a local restaurant, sipping on freshly made smoothies and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. Reflect on your day's adventures while mingling with fellow travelers and locals. To end the evening, consider attending a traditional dance performance to immerse yourself further in the local culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Bottle of water or soft drink | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🚕Local taxi or shared ride | $2-5 |
| 🏨Budget lodging per night | $15-40 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $0.5-2.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant market life and genuine cultural experiences
- Warm hospitality and access to northern Ghanaian cuisine
- Limited nightlife and fewer formal tourist amenities
- Travel can involve long drives on rural roads and variable sanitation facilities
- "Agoo" - Hello / Attention please
- "Meda wo ase" - Thank you
- "Mepa wo kyɛw" - Please
- "Ɛyɛ" - Okay / It is good
- "Wo deɛ" - You there / Excuse me
Places to Visit in Bawku
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, baskets, and vendors as the day starts; vibrant textures and candid street scenes.
Intricate beadwork, textiles, and workshop activity offering compelling porches of color and craft details.
Architectural lines and daily life in soft morning light; always respect privacy and request permission when photographing people or interiors.
Food in Bawku
Bawku Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick maize or millet dough served with a leafy Ayoyo soup; a staple comfort dish common in the region.
Must-Try!
Boiled yam served with a spicy tomato-pepper sauce and vegetables; a simple, satisfying meal.
Skewered meat seasoned with local spices and grilled over open flames; easy to find at markets and street corners.
Dried cassava flour dumplings served with hearty soup; a traditional, filling option for travelers.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for grains, greens, peppers, and ready-to-eat street foods; great for sampling local flavors and ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders politely with a handshake; address people with courtesy and show respect for local customs and religious sites.
Dress modestly, especially in markets and religious spaces; avoid revealing clothing and remove hats when indoors in some settings.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred spaces; be discreet and respectful when taking pictures of daily life.
Use the right hand for giving or receiving items and greetings; the left hand is considered less appropriate in some contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Bawku
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service, especially in eateries and taxis; round up or leave 5-10% where appropriate.
Cash in Ghanaian Cedi is most widely accepted; mobile money (MTN, AirtelTigo) is common for small payments; some places may accept US dollars but less reliably.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with low humidity; carry water, wear breathable clothing, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Cool mornings and dusty air; layer clothing, use sunglasses, and be prepared for cooler nights.
Expect regular showers and muddy streets; wear waterproof footwear and bring a compact rain jacket; markets remain active but some paths may be slick.
Bawku at Night
Hiking in Bawku
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Unmarked, scenic paths through farmlands and open scrub; hire a local guide for safety and to learn about plants and terrain.
Short, rewarding walks to overlooklines where sunset photography opportunities abound; best with a guide or local companion.
Airports
How to reach Bawku by plane.
Regional airport with domestic flights; serves as a common gateway to the Upper East Region and connects to Accra and other major cities. From Bolgatanga, road transfer to Bawku takes several hours.
Major international gateway in the north; more flight options and connections, followed by a long road transfer to Bawku.
A practical cross-border option for travelers combining a border crossing with overland travel to Bawku; expect longer travel times but access to international routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant cultural and linguistic group in Bawku, with deep roots in the town’s ceremonies, textiles, and markets.
People from neighboring regions and ethnic groups—including Mamprusi and Gurunsi—contribute to the town's diverse social fabric.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across communities; local leagues and pickup games are common in the evenings and weekends.
Track and field activities, especially among youth in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bawku.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy yam and plantain dishes, millet porridge, and vegetable stews. Request no meat stock and opt for tomato-based sauces; bringing snacks is wise for longer outings.