Upper East

stateGhana, Africa

Upper East is a STATE in Ghana, Africa.

The Upper East Region of Ghana is a treasure trove of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Known for its vibrant festivals, such as the Fao Festival and the Samanpiid Festival, this region offers a deep dive into the traditions of the Gurune (Frafra), Kassena, and other ethnic groups. The landscape is dotted with ancient mud-built mosques, like the iconic Paga Crocodile Pond, where visitors can interact with sacred crocodiles. The region's savanna climate and the stunning Tono and Vea irrigation dams make it a haven for agriculture and birdwatching. Don't miss the bustling markets of Bolgatanga, where you can find exquisite handicrafts, including the famous Bolga baskets.

Best time to visit Upper East

The best time to visit the Upper East Region is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is cooler and festivals are in full swing.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 28-32°C, end of rains

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Gradual drying

Know before you go

Getting there

BOL

Bolgatanga Airport

Domestic

5 km away

TML

Tamale Airport

Domestic

160 km away

ACC

Kotoka International Airport

International

800 km away

Getting around

"Public transportation in the Upper East Region includes shared taxis, tro-tros (minibuses), and motorbikes. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or hiring a private driver."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in major hotels in Bolgatanga

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airport from $5

Calling code

233

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Scams are uncommon but can occur in tourist areas. Overall, a safe destination.

Night safety

7/10

Scams are uncommon but can occur in tourist areas. Overall, a safe destination.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"The Upper East Region is generally safe, but avoid traveling alone at night. Keep valuables secure and be cautious when interacting with wildlife at tourist sites."

Entry and health

Health information

"Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines. Malaria is prevalent, so use mosquito repellent and sleep under a mosquito net. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for elders is paramount in the Upper East Region. Greetings are important, and it's customary to shake hands with your right hand. During festivals, visitors are often welcomed to participate in traditional dances and ceremonies."
Gurune (Frafra)KassemEnglish

Costs and practicals

Currency

Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) · ¢

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs around $5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Mid-range options are limited; luxury is rare.

Timezone

Africa/Accra +00:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

1,300,000

Area

8,842 km²

ISO code

GH-10

Type

state

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Upper East Ghana, 东北地区 (加纳), إقليم الشرق الأعلى, Yukarı Doğu Bölgesi, UE, Верхняя Восточная область, Regiunea Superioară de Est, Región Alta Oriental, مقاطعة الشرق األوسط, アッパー・イースト州, GH-UE, Région du Haut Ghana oriental, Верхні ўсходні рэгіён, Yankin Upper East, Regió Superior Oriental, یوخاری دوغو اوستانی, Region Północno-Wschodni, Región del Alto Oriente, Aukštutinis Rytų regionas, 어퍼이스트주, Upper East (Regiuun), Upper East Region, Upper East, Regione Orientale Superiore, Alto Oriental, Верхня Східна область, ჟიმოლენი ბჟაეიოლი რეგიონი, Верхний Восточный регион, 上東部大區, Rannvro ar Reter Uhelañ, Region Timur Atas, استان شرق علیا, Верхня Східна, Övre östra regionen, Obere Ostregion, Верхний Восточный, Горноизточен регион, Mkoa wa Mashariki ya Juu, Bolagatanga, Bolga, Bolgatanga, Bolgatange, bo er jia tan jia, bolgatang-ga, borugatanga, Болгатанга, Болгатанге, ボルガタンガ, 博爾加坦加, 볼가탕가

Capital CityMajor HubCulturalHistoricNatureHandicraftsOff-the-Beaten-PathWildlife