Paga Travel Guide (Ghanaian Northern Plains/Ghana/West Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Paga

Paga is a small town located on the northern plains of Ghana, in West Africa. Known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Paga attracts visitors from around the world who come to experience all that this unique destination has to offer.

This comprehensive travel guide will take you through the best places to visit, must-see attractions, scenic views, hotels and hostels, food and drink scene, local culture, safety tips, and much more. Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with family and friends, Paga has a lot to offer.

List of Places to Visit in Paga

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Paga is home to a number of culturally significant museums and historical sites that offer visitors a glimpse into the rich history and heritage of the local people. Here are some of the must-visit attractions in Paga:

Paga Crocodile Pond - This is a sacred site for the local people, and home to dozens of crocodiles.
Paga Nania Slave Camp Museum - This museum offers a glimpse into the history of the slave trade in Ghana.
Sirigu Pottery Village - Visitors can witness first-hand the traditional pottery-making techniques that have been passed down through generations.

Natural Attractions of Paga: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Paga is also known for its incredible natural beauty, with a variety of outdoor adventures and scenic views to explore. Here are some of the top attractions in Paga:

Tongo Hills - This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, and a chance to explore the ancient dwellings carved into the rocks.
Kulungugu Bomb Site - This site marks the spot where Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, survived an assassination attempt in 1962.
Paga Hills - These hills offer sweeping views of the surrounding plains, and are a popular spot for hiking and nature walks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Paga

If you love the outdoors and staying active, Paga has a variety of hiking and biking routes to choose from. Some of the top routes include:

Tongo Hills Nature Reserve Hike - This challenging hike takes visitors through the rugged terrain of the Tongo Hills, offering stunning scenic views along the way.
Paga Hills Nature Walk - This gentle walk takes visitors through the lush forests and rolling hills of Paga, offering a chance to see some of the local wildlife up close and personal.

Best Things to Do in Paga: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Paga, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy. Here are some of the top things to do in Paga:

Crocodile Feeding Tour at Paga Crocodile Pond - Visitors can watch as local guides feed the dozens of crocodiles that call the pond home.
Traditional Drumming and Dance Show - Visitors can experience the rich cultural heritage of Paga through the energetic drumming and dance performances.
Paga Antelope Sanctuary Tour - This tour takes visitors through the sanctuary, offering a chance to see some of the local wildlife up close.

Week-Long Itinerary for Paga

If you plan on spending a week in Paga, here is a suggested itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Paga and check-in at your hotel or hostel.
Day 2: Explore the cultural and historical sites of Paga, including the Paga Crocodile Pond and Paga Nania Slave Camp Museum.
Day 3: Take a tour of the Tongo Hills and enjoy breathtaking scenic views.
Day 4: Go on a wildlife safari at the Paga Antelope Sanctuary.
Day 5: Participate in a traditional drumming and dancing show, and learn about the local culture.
Day 6: Take a nature walk in the Paga Hills and enjoy the lush surroundings.
Day 7: Departure from Paga.

Food and Drink Scene of Paga

Must-Try Dishes

Ghana is known for its delicious cuisine, and Paga is no exception. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Paga:

Banku and Tilapia - This popular dish consists of grilled tilapia served with fermented corn dough.
Jollof Rice - A West African classic, this rice dish is flavored with onions, peppers, and spices.
Fufu and Peanut Soup - A hearty soup made with peanut butter and served with fufu, a starchy dough made from cassava or plantain.

Local Beverages

You can’t visit Paga without sampling some of the local beverages. Here are a few to try:

Palm Wine - This sweet, fermented drink is made from the sap of the palm tree.
Sobolo (Hibiscus Tea) - A refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus flowers and sugar.
Bissa (Millet Beer) - A traditional beer made from millet, with a sour and tangy flavor.

Where to Stay in Paga: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Paga has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and needs. Here are a few of our top picks:

Paga Hill View Hotel - This mid-range hotel offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and plains, with a restaurant and bar on-site.
Pink Coconut Guesthouse - A budget-friendly guesthouse with comfortable rooms and a shared kitchen for guests.
Paga Crocodile Pond Hotel - This unique hotel is located right next to the Paga Crocodile Pond, offering visitors a chance to see the crocodiles up close from their rooms.

What to Buy in Paga: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs and local products to bring home, here are a few things to consider:

Sirigu Batik and Tie-Dye Textiles - Sirigu is known for its beautiful hand-woven and tie-dyed textiles, which make for great souvenirs and gifts.
Traditional Wooden Masks - Wooden masks are a staple of West African art, and make for a unique and memorable souvenir.
Palm Wine - Pick up a bottle of this sweet, fermented drink to enjoy back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Paga

The people of Paga have a rich and vibrant culture, with a variety of customs and traditions that are unique to the region. Here are a few things to keep in mind when exploring the local culture:

Respect Religious Customs - Paga is home to a variety of religions, including Christianity and Islam. Be respectful of religious customs and practices, and dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Greet Locals with a Smile - Greeting locals with a smile and a friendly “hello” is a great way to show respect and make connections.
Ask Permission Before Taking Photos - When taking photos of people or their property, always ask for permission first.

Best Time to Visit Paga

The best time to visit Paga is between November and March when the weather is cooler and the skies are clear. The rainy season runs from April to October, making it more difficult to explore the outdoor attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Paga

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions.
Be friendly and respectful to the locals.
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites.
Ask permission before taking photos.

Don’t:

Drink the tap water. Stick to bottled water.
Eat food from street vendors, as it may not be properly cooked.
Leave valuables unattended in your hotel room.
Venture out alone at night.

Safety and Health

Safety in Paga

Paga is generally a safe destination, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

Don’t carry large amounts of cash or valuables with you when exploring.
Avoid walking alone at night.
Be aware of your surroundings, and don’t wander into unfamiliar or unsafe areas.
Always use a registered taxi service when traveling.

Health in Paga

It’s important to take certain health precautions when traveling to Paga. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Make sure you are up to date on all necessary vaccinations before traveling to Ghana.
Drink only bottled water.
Use mosquitos repellent and wear protective clothing to avoid mosquito bites, which can transmit diseases like malaria.

Getting to Paga: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Paga

The nearest airport to Paga is the Tamale International Airport, located about 157 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a taxi or bus to Paga.

Bus Stations Near Paga

Paga does not have a bus station, but visitors can take a bus from Tamale to Bolgatanga, and then take a taxi or shared taxi to Paga.

Other Options

Alternatively, visitors can rent a car or hire a private driver to take them to Paga from other parts of Ghana.

How to Get Around in Paga

The best way to get around in Paga is by taxi or shared taxi. Taxis are readily available and affordable, and it’s important to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in. It’s also possible to explore Paga on foot or by bike, although distances can be quite long.

Where to Go Next from Paga: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Ghana, here are a few nearby destinations and excursions to consider:

Mole National Park - A wildlife reserve located about 300 kilometers from Paga, offering a chance to see elephants, antelopes, and other animals in their natural habitats.
Navrongo Bolgatanga Art and Craft Centre - This center located in Bolgatanga, offers diverse and authentic handcrafted textiles, art, and crafts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Tamale Cultural Center - This center offers a chance to learn about the local culture through exhibits and interactive displays.

Conclusion

As you can see, there is so much to see and do in Paga, Ghana. From exploring the rich cultural heritage of the local people to enjoying the natural beauty of the landscape, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a solo traveler or visiting with family and friends, Paga is sure to leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.