Solid Rock Executive Travel & Tours

The upper west region has a different feel as a more traditional region. The administrative capital, Wa, is also the seat of Wa Na, paramount chief of the Walas. The magnificent palace still stands as stately as it did when it was first built in the 19th century. The uniquely styled traditional village houses of round mud-walled structures connected by walls forming large compounds are well adapted to the demanding climate of this region.

Gbele Game Reserve

This reserve (56km square) is located 17km south of Tumu. It is an important sanctuary for endangered species of wildlife as well as the hippo, elephant and buck. Most impressive is its large herds of Roan Antelope. Birdwatchers consider this an important habitat for indigenous and migratory birds.

Wa Na’s Palace

This palace was built in 19th century. It is a palace with its distinctive architecture and the official residence of the Wa Na,the traditional chief of the Walas. In front of the Palace are the graves of the previous Wa Nas.

Gbollu Defence Wall

Gbollu, 70km north of Wa, was part of the slave route. In the 19th century, Gbollu Koro Liman built the wall as part of his defence against the slaves

George Ferguson’s Tomb

George Ekem Ferguson was a Ghanaian colonial agent who was instrumental in convincing he local chiefs to sign treaties of friendship with the British. He was later killed, in 1897, by slave raiders but his tomb is preserved in Wa

FESTIVALS OF THE UPPER-WEST REGIONS

Paragbiele Festival

It is a post-harvest thanksgiving festival celebrated at Tumu during the last week if January to February. Farm produce is exhibited alongside dance and general merry-making. Particularly interesting is the rhythmic dance display by special dance groups. It is a 'must-see'

Kobine Festival

It is celebrated at Lawra in the last week of October. It is a post-harvest event to acknowledge spiritual guidance of the traditional area, by the gods and jubilate over a bountiful harvest. Dancing competitions are organized

Zumbenti Festival

Celebrated at Kaleo in the first week of April. It is a thanksgiving and spiritual cleansing pacification of the gods and re-uniting of families. It is considered the most opportune time to contract traditional marriages

*****************************

Click here to return to tourist attractions main list