Tamale - Discovering Ghana

Travelling to Tamale

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tamale, 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 Tamale 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 Tamale, 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 Tamale for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tamale

Tamale is the largest city in northern Ghana, located in the Northern Region. It is a cultural, commercial, and agricultural hub with a diverse population of over 350,000 people. The city is known for its vibrant marketplaces, bustling nightlife, and traditional music and dance. Tamale is also home to the Tamale International Airport, which serves as a gateway to the northern regions of Ghana and neighboring countries. The area surrounding Tamale is rich in natural resources, including fertile agricultural land and mineral deposits, making it an important center for trade and industry in the region.

What to visit in Tamale

Certainly! Here are some of the tourist attractions in Tamale, Ghana: 1. Larabanga Mosque - This is one of the oldest mosques in Ghana and is considered a historical site. It features unique Sahelian-style architecture and attracts visitors from all over the world.
2. Mole National Park - This park is located in the northern region of Ghana and is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, antelopes, baboons, and more. Visitors can go on safari drives, guided walks, and even stay overnight in the park.
3. Tamale Cultural Centre - This center is dedicated to exposing visitors to the rich cultural heritage of Tamale and Ghana as a whole. It offers exhibitions, performances of traditional dance and music, workshops, and more.
4. Shea Butter Village - In this village, visitors can learn about the process of producing shea butter, a traditional Ghanaian product used in cooking and skincare. They can also purchase high-quality shea butter products.
5. Salaga Slave Market - This market was a major site for the slave trade in Ghana during the 19th century. Visitors can learn about the history of the trade and the role that Salaga played in it.
6. Tamale Central Market - This is the largest open-air market in Ghana and is a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Tamale. Visitors can purchase a wide variety of goods, including fresh produce, textiles, clothing, and more.
7. Kintampo Waterfalls - While not technically in Tamale, these waterfalls are located within driving distance and are a popular day trip destination. The falls feature multiple cascades and offer great opportunities for swimming and picnicking.
I hope this information is helpful!
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 Tamale.

When to go on holiday to Tamale

The best time to go on holiday to Tamale, Ghana is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During these months, temperatures are cooler and there is less rainfall, making it a great time to explore outdoor attractions such as the Mole National Park. However, the Harmattan winds can cause dusty conditions and decreased visibility, so it is important to bring appropriate clothing and eye protection. If you don't mind a bit of rain, the wet season (April to October) can also offer lush green landscapes and lower tourist crowds.

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

How to get to Tamale

There are several ways to get to Tamale, Ghana: 1. By Air: Tamale has an airport, Tamale International Airport, which is served by several airlines including Africa World Airlines, Asky Airlines, and PassionAir. You can book a flight from Accra or other cities in Ghana to Tamale.
2. By Bus: Tamale is well-connected to other major cities in Ghana by bus. Several bus companies operate daily service from Accra, Kumasi, and other cities to Tamale.
3. By Car: If you prefer driving, you can rent a car and drive to Tamale from Accra or other cities. The drive will take about 8-10 hours depending on traffic and road conditions.
4. By Train: Currently, there is no train service to Tamale. However, the government of Ghana is planning to extend the railway line to Tamale as part of its development agenda.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tamale, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tamale

Sure, here are some typical foods of Tamale, Ghana with a short description: 1. Waakye - a popular dish made from rice and beans boiled together, served with a variety of accompaniments such as spicy sauce, meat, fish, boiled eggs, and vegetables.
2. Tuo Zaafi - a thick porridge-like dish made from boiled corn dough and served with a spicy soup made from groundnut or palm nut, and typically eaten with goat or beef meat.
3. Fufu - a traditional dish made from cassava or yam that is boiled, mashed and rolled into balls, which is then served with soup or stew.
4. Banku - a dish made from fermented corn and cassava dough which has a sour taste, and is often served with soup, stew, or sauce.
5. Kenkey - a staple food in Ghana, made from fermented corn dough that is steamed and wrapped in banana leaves. It is typically served with spicy soup, stew, or sauce.
6. Jollof rice - a popular and flavorful dish made from rice, tomato sauce, and spices. It is often served with fried plantains and meat.
7. Groundnut soup - a thick soup made from groundnut, tomatoes, onions and other ingredients, and is typically served with rice, fufu, banku, or kenkey.
8. Kelewele - a popular street food snack made from ripe plantains that are sliced, seasoned with spices, and fried until golden brown. It is often eaten as a snack or served as a side dish.
9. Grilled tilapia - a delicious and popular fish dish that is seasoned and grilled, and often served with spicy pepper sauce, rice, and plantains.
I hope this helps you plan your trip to Tamale, Ghana!
You can find general info about typical foods in Ghana here.

Is Tamale an expensive destination for tourists?

In comparison to other destinations in Ghana, Tamale can be considered slightly more expensive for tourists. However, the cost of living and travel expenses in Tamale are generally lower than many other places around the world. Accommodation and transportation are usually the main expenses for tourists, and in Tamale, there are various options available to suit different budgets. If you're looking for budget-friendly accommodation, you can stay in hostels or affordable guesthouses that cost around $10-20 per night. Mid-range hotels can cost between $30-$70 per night, while luxury hotels can cost upwards of $100 per night.
For transportation, taxis are the most convenient mode of transport in Tamale, and they are relatively inexpensive. A typical ride within the city should cost between $2 to $5, depending on the distance traveled. Overall, it is possible to have an enjoyable trip to Tamale on a moderate budget, but it's always a good idea to plan ahead and research the costs associated with your planned activities to avoid any surprises.

Where to find accomodation in Tamale

In Tamale, some of the best areas to find accommodation to visit include the city center, the University of Development Studies area, and the Airport Residential area. These areas have easy access to main roads, shops, restaurants, and attractions in Tamale. They also have a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences, from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels.
You can check hotel prices at Tamale here:
Booking.com

Is Tamale a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Tamale is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, it's important to take standard precautions while traveling, such as keeping valuable items in a safe place and being aware of your surroundings. Additionally, it's advisable to avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas. Overall, Tamale has a friendly and welcoming culture, and with some basic precautions, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip.
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 Tamale.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tamale the most?

Tamale, Ghana can be enjoyed by a variety of travelers. The city offers a unique blend of cultural experiences, historical attractions, and natural beauty that can appeal to couples, young people looking for fun, and families alike.
For couples, Tamale offers opportunities to explore the local culture through visiting traditional villages, markets, and mosques. The city's natural beauty also makes it an ideal location for a romantic getaway, with scenic parks and outdoor activities such as hiking and biking.
For young people looking for fun, Tamale has a vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, restaurants, and clubs that offer live music and entertainment. Additionally, visitors can engage in exciting outdoor activities such as zip-lining, horseback riding, and quad biking.
For families, Tamale offers a unique opportunity to immerse in the local culture with children. They may enjoy visiting the Tamale Cultural Center, Paga Crocodile Pond, or the Mole National Park, where they can go on safari and observe wildlife. There are also opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with children through hiking, picnics, and nature walks.
Overall, Tamale, Ghana can offer a fantastic experience for any type of traveler looking for an immersive and authentic African experience.

How to get around Tamale

The most common forms of transportation in Tamale, Ghana are taxis and tro-tros (mini-vans) that serve as public transportation. There are also motorbikes available for hire, but they are typically less reliable and safe. Walking and biking are also viable options for shorter distances or for exploring the city at a leisurely pace.

What to see around Tamale

Sure, there are several nice places to visit on a day trip from Tamale, Ghana. Here are some suggestions: 1. Mole National Park - Go on a safari and see elephants, antelopes, baboons and other wildlife animals. 2. Larabanga Mosque - Visit the oldest mosque in Ghana, which dates back to the 15th century.
3. Kintampo Waterfalls - Cool off by visiting these beautiful waterfalls and swimming in the pools beneath them.
4. Gbedembilisi Rock Art Sites - Check out the various rock paintings and engravings that offer insight into ancient Ghanaian culture.
5. Salaga Slave Market - Learn about Ghana's history and the transatlantic slave trade by visiting the Salaga Slave Market.
6. Tamale Cultural Centre - Explore and learn about the traditions and culture of the Northern Region of Ghana in this interesting museum.
7. Northern Regional Museum - Discover the history and artifacts of the Northern Region of Ghana in this museum.
I hope that helps!
For every travel information about Ghana you can click here.

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