The Untouched Beauty of Northern Ghana
After my journey North of Kumasi a few weekends ago, to Mole National Park, I thought I would take the time to shine the light on the breathtaking but often over looked North of Ghana. There is a noticeable contrast between the north and south of Ghana. From peoples clothing, religion, architecture as well as the rural landscape (especially when reaching the Upper East Region). Culturally enticing, remote and beautiful I personally think it’s somewhere that shouldn’t be missed off your Ghana list!
MOLE NATIONAL PARK
Mole National Park is the largest protected wildlife area in Ghana covering a total of 1,868 Square Miles and based in a stunning savanna. Being very diverse amongst plants, mammals, birds and reptiles it attracts many tourists each year. Mole is truly a tranquil paradise, whether you’re a keen safari goer or someone who just wants to soak up the rich sunlight, you will not regret going!
There are two common places to stay, situated within the park itself. The Mole Motel is the most popular I would say, especially amongst travel groups, volunteers and families. It is said to be on the more basic side when in comes to accomodation however has super friendly and attentive staff and a clean west facing pool overlooking the park! Then there is Zaina Lodge, boasting 25 luxury chalets as well as an infinity pool makes it West Africas first luxury safari lodge, right in the heart of Mole!
Larabanga Mosque
Larabanga Mosque holds huge historical significance and is a popular pilgrim destination amongst the muslim community in Ghana. Situated just outside of Mole National Park in the village of Larabanga, ‘The Mecca of West Africa’ was built in the 17th Century using horizontal timbers, giving the mosque its distinct triangular appearance. It is the oldest mosque in Ghana and one of the oldest in West Africa, hence the name.
TAMALE
Tamale is considered the fasted growing city in West Africa and is the capital of North Ghana, with a population of just over 350,000. It’s a place where agriculture and local produce is plentiful, creating some very exciting, vibrant markets. Getting around tamale is incredibly easy as its most common to travel by motorbike or tuktuk been considered the most bike friendly city in Ghana, and you can certainly tell! It’s a sunny, happy and friendly city so well worth a visit (especially if heading to the north of Ghana)
BOLGATANGA
Bolgatanga, the capital of Ghanas Upper East Region and home to the traditional Basket Weaving of Ghana. Located 100 miles north of tamale and nearly touching Burkina Faso you can imagine it has an incredibly hot climate, especially during the Harmattan. In the month of March it has been recorded to reach highs of 37 Degrees Celsius!
It’s creative history in handicrafts makes Bolga what it is today. Artists still produce, sell and trade goods such as smocks, leather and straw baskets. In addition to Craft, farming takes up a large proportion of people occupation producing millet, maize, rice, beans and groundnuts during the rainy season and onions, peppers and tomatoes in the dry season.
Bolgatanga really is one of Ghana’s most beautiful untouched places, filled with incredible craftsmanship, tradition and true beauty, of the people and the space.
I hope this little insight into the North of Ghana has inspired you as much as it did me!
With Love from Akosua & The AAKS Team