📍 Where is Tamale?

Tamale is the capital of the Northern Region, situated approximately 650 km north of Accra. It’s one of the fastest-growing cities in West Africa and a hub for culture, commerce, and development in Ghana’s north.

Despite its size, Tamale maintains a laid-back vibe, with motorbikes zipping through wide roads, friendly locals, and a strong sense of community rooted in traditional values.

🚗 How to Get to Tamale from Accra

🚌 By Road:

• STC, VVIP, and Metro Mass offer daily buses from Accra to Tamale.

• Travel Time: 10–12 hours

• Fare: Around GHS 130–250, depending on the service and class. (as of Sep 2025)

• Departures from: Circle and STC Terminals

✈️ By Air:

• Domestic flights from Kotoka International Airport (Accra) to Tamale Airport.

• Carriers: Africa World Airlines (AWA), PassionAir

• Flight Duration: 1 hour

• Ideal for time-conscious travelers.

🚘 By Car:

• The Accra–Kumasi–Tamale highway is mostly paved.

• Private road trips are scenic and rewarding but long. Rest stops recommended in Kintampo or Techiman.

🗺️ Top Attractions in and Around Tamale

🕌 1. Larabanga Mosque & Mystic Stone

Located about 2.5 hours west of Tamale, Larabanga is home to Ghana’s oldest mosque, built in 1421 using Sudanese mud architecture. The nearby Mystic Stone is steeped in legend and spiritual significance.

🐘 2. Mole National Park

Just a few hours from Tamale, Mole is Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve, home to elephants, antelopes, baboons, buffalo, and hundreds of bird species. Guided walking and driving safaris are available.

🏛️ 3. Northern Regional Museum

Located in Tamale itself, this museum offers insight into Dagomba history, colonial artifacts, traditional crafts, and chieftaincy culture.

🏡 4. Chief’s Palace & Cultural Centres

Visit the Gukpegu-Naa’s Palace to learn about traditional leadership. Also, check out Centre for National Culture, where artisans make smocks, calabash items, and leather goods.

🎨 5. Sagnarigu Architecture

Explore Sagnarigu, a suburb known for its earth house architecture and unique compounds reflecting Sudanese and Sahelian design.

🍽️ Where to Eat in Tamale

🍛 Luxury Touch Restaurant

One of the best in town — serves local and continental dishes, including jollof, TZ with green soup, and grilled meats.

🍲 Moti Mahal Restaurant

Great for lovers of spicy Northern cuisine, including fufu with groundnut soup and light soup with guinea fowl.

🥘 Wooden Restaurant

Known for banku and tilapia, fried rice, and juices. Casual dining with affordable prices.

🍹 Goil Restaurant (at Goil Fuel Station)

A local go-to for quick, tasty food and local favorites like waakye, kenkey, and beans with fried plantain.

🛏️ Where to Stay

• Gariba Lodge – Long-standing hotel with cozy rooms and a pool.

• Mariam Hotel – Modern facilities with restaurant, bar, and great service.

• Zosimli Lodge – Ideal for eco-conscious travelers; supports community development.

• Target Hill Hotel – Mid-range option with comfortable amenities.

• Budget options – Plenty of guesthouses and hostels around town for backpackers.

🎉 Local Culture & Festivals

🎭 Damba Festival

Held annually in September or October, Damba is the largest festival in Tamale and celebrates the birth of the Prophet Muhammad with horse riding, drumming, dance, and colorful traditional wear.

🪘 Drumming & Dance Performances

Catch Dagomba drumming performances and traditional dances like Bamaya and Tora at cultural centers or during festivals.

🧵 What to Buy

• Smocks (Fugu) – Signature Northern attire, handmade with love.

• Leather sandals & bags – Tamale’s artisans are known for quality leatherwork.

• Calabash crafts – Perfect as a souvenir or décor.

• Beaded jewelry – Unique to Northern Ghana’s cultural aesthetic.

🌟 Why Visit Tamale?

✅ Rich Dagomba heritage and traditional leadership
✅ Gateway to Mole National Park and Northern eco-tourism
✅ Vibrant local markets and handicrafts
✅ Peaceful, spacious city with a low cost of living
✅ Home to cultural authenticity and genuine hospitality

✨ Final Thoughts

Tamale is more than just a transit point — it's a cultural capital in its own right. With its welcoming people, historic landmarks, and access to some of Ghana’s most spectacular natural wonders, Tamale offers a deeply enriching experience for any traveler.

So if you're looking to explore a different side of Ghana — one full of history, nature, and soul — head north to Tamale.