Upper West: Hippos on the Black Volta and historic caves

The Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary is a protected area for hippos and other species associated with them. It stretches for 40 kilometres along the eastern bank of the Black Volta River. The sanctuary is home to one of only two remaining hippo groups in Ghana; more than 200 bird species have been recorded there. Wildlife populations and species records may change.

On the Black Volta: river safari and sanctuary

On a dugout canoe river safari, you can see the resident hippo group, birds, mammals and fishermen casting their nets. The safari combines wildlife watching with a glimpse of activities on the river.

As a community-based ecotourism project, the Wechiau Hippopotamus Sanctuary protects wildlife along a stretch of the Black Volta River. The project also offers overnight stays at the Hippo Hide Tree House. If you are planning to stay there, check current availability. The river safari is about wildlife watching on the water, while the Hippo Hide Tree House offers an overnight stay. For planning purposes, these are two distinct aspects: an activity and an accommodation option.

Caves, history and local culture

The ancient caves in Bulenga, Dahili and Sankana served as places of refuge during slave raids.

There are also slave camps in the Upper West Region; Kassana is associated with a market. The local market in Sankana takes place every six days. If you are planning a visit, confirm the market day locally.

When Pito, a fermented millet beer, is brewed communally, women come together to brew, sing and share news. The community drinks Pito at ceremonies and on ordinary evenings. Crafts in the Upper West Region include spinning, weaving, pottery and musical instrument making.

Getting there and choosing a hotel

One way to reach the Upper West Region is to fly to Tamale and continue by road. Before travelling, check current flight connections and allow time for the onward road journey.

Then compare a hotel’s specific location with your own travel plans.

Ghana in the wider travel picture

Across Ghana, travel highlights extend beyond Upper West. Mole National Park is Ghana’s largest wildlife reserve. In the village of Adanwomase, the fabric now known as Kente has been woven since the 17th century. The Larabanga Mosque in Ghana was built in the traditional Sudano-Sahelian architectural style, using local materials and building techniques; it is considered possibly the oldest mosque in Ghana and West Africa. Also in Ghana, the twin communities of Wli Agorviefe and Afegame are the host communities of the Wli Agumatsa Waterfalls.

Discover more destinations: Wa Municipal, Western Region, Eastern Region, Ashanti, Upper East, Central Region, Northern Region, Volta

Go to the main travel overview: Ghana.