📍 Where Is Wa?

Wa is located in northwestern Ghana, serving as the regional and administrative capital of the Upper West Region. It's a gateway to some of the country's most remote yet stunning landscapes, and it's just a few hours from Mole National Park — Ghana’s premier wildlife reserve.

🛣️ Getting There: Accra to Wa

Traveling from Accra to Wa takes some time, but the journey is part of the adventure:

✈️ By Air:

• Wa Airport (WZA) is operational with domestic flights from Accra.

• Africa World Airlines and PassionAir offer flights (approx. 1 hour 30 mins), though availability can vary — booking in advance is recommended.

🚌 By Road:

• The overland journey is approximately 700 km and takes around 12–14 hours by bus or private vehicle.

• STC and Metro Mass Transit buses operate routes to Wa from Accra, Kumasi, and Tamale.

• The road is generally safe, with scenic views and stopovers in towns like Techiman, Bole, and Damongo.

🏞️ Attractions & Things to Do in Wa

🕌 1. Wa Naa’s Palace

This is the traditional seat of the Wala people and home to the Wa Naa (chief). The palace is a stunning example of Sudanese-style architecture, built with mud and thatch, and has stood for centuries. Visitors are often welcome, especially if accompanied by a local guide.

🕌 2. Wa Central Mosque

Believed to be over 300 years old, this mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Ghana, built in the Sudano-Sahelian style using mud and wood. Its unique architecture and cultural importance make it a must-see for anyone interested in Islamic or West African history.

🦓 3. Mole National Park (Day Trip Option)

Located just about 3 hours southeast of Wa, Mole National Park offers the chance to see elephants, antelope, warthogs, baboons, and over 300 bird species. Visitors can do walking safaris or jeep safaris, and park accommodations range from budget lodges to eco-resorts.

🌄 4. Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary (Approx. 1.5 hours from Wa)

Nestled along the Black Volta River, this sanctuary protects one of Ghana’s few remaining populations of hippos. Visitors can take canoe rides, explore wetland birding trails, and experience community-based tourism, including cultural performances and homestays.

🛖 5. Traditional Architecture & Culture

Wa is dotted with mud houses, ancestral shrines, and markets full of local crafts. Take time to explore the town on foot or with a local guide — it’s a great way to interact with locals and understand the rich Wala culture.

🍲 Where to Eat in Wa

🌶️ Jirapa Dubai Restaurant

A unique stop if you’re traveling toward Jirapa, this luxurious complex has become a local sensation. It's ideal for a day trip or overnight, combining good food with impressive architecture and even a mini-zoo!

🍛 Dowine Restaurant & Chop Bars

Popular with locals, this is a great place to try Waakye, TZ (Tuo Zaafi), Konkonte, and guinea fowl — all staples of northern Ghanaian cuisine.

☕ Wa City Restaurant

A more modern restaurant offering a mix of continental and local dishes, ideal for travelers looking for variety in a comfortable setting.

🥘 Street Food & Markets

Don’t miss out on local street vendors serving fresh kebabs, pito (millet beer), boiled yam, and bean stew. Wa's central market is a great place to try food, buy fabric, or simply observe daily life.

🏨 Where to Stay

• Upland Hotel – Comfortable rooms and air conditioning; centrally located.

• Nuoyong Empire Hotel – Popular among visitors for its clean rooms and decent service.

• Wa Guest Houses – Several budget-friendly and community-owned options are available.

• Jirapa Dubai – A luxurious out-of-town stay that’s become an attraction in itself.

🧭 Why Visit Wa?

✅ Cultural authenticity – far from commercial tourism
✅ Rich history and architecture – mosques and palaces that date back centuries
✅ Ecotourism – proximity to Mole Park and Wechiau Hippo Sanctuary
✅ Warm hospitality – the Wala people are known for their friendliness
✅ Delicious local cuisine – hearty northern Ghanaian dishes
✅ Off-the-beaten-path adventure – a rewarding destination for the curious traveler

✨ Final Thoughts

Wa is more than just a northern city — it’s a living archive of Ghana’s pre-colonial history, Islamic heritage, and ecotourism potential. For those seeking authentic experiences, fewer crowds, and opportunities to explore Ghana’s cultural and environmental diversity, Wa should be on your radar.

Whether you're a history lover, wildlife enthusiast, or culinary explorer, Wa offers a journey like no other — one that connects you to the soul of northern Ghana.