The Upper East Region, with its administrative capital at Bolgatanga ("Bolga' as it is known locally) has always been a meeting point for traders from Mali and Burkina Faso on their way south to Tamale and southern Ghana. The markets continue to be important trading points, and 'Bolga' is a famous centre for handicrafts, including straw hats and baskets, leather good and metal jewellery.

The local villages with their distinctive building styles that have evolved through the generations, and adapt so well to the lifestyle of the people and local conditions, provide a distinct contrast to those in other parts of Ghana and welcome visitors.

The historical relics of this region date back to the era of slavery and the trans-Sahara slave trade, in the period of the ancient Sudanese empires of Ghana, Mali and Songhai. the ancient Wuriyanga mosque, 36km south-east of Bawku, and built by Muslim missionaries along the trans-Saharan trade routes, showcases typical Sudanese architecture.

The Naa Gbewaa's shrine at Pusiga is about 18km from Bawku. The shrine is situated on a plantation hill in an environment that is calm and conducive to meditation.Sandema, 40km west of Navrongo, was home to the brave warriors who defeated the notorious slaves raiders Babatu at the turn of the 2oth century. Also in the Upper East Region is a crocodile pond at Paga. It houses the friendliest crocodiles in Ghana.The crocodiles may be enticed from the pond with a fowl, and photography is permitted.

In Navrongo, one can visit the Navrongo Cathedral, the last remaining mud cathedral in Ghana, built in 1906. It has traditional interior decoration amid the mud walls and mud floors.

A small range of Hotels and Lodges will be found in 'Bolga'