Exploring Beyond the Pond: Attractions Near Paga Crocodile Pond
Paga is more than crocodiles — the surrounding region offers a rich tapestry of history, nature, and culture. From sacred ponds to ancient shrines and borderland markets, the Upper East Region invites travelers to explore Ghana’s northern soul.
Traditional round house, Upper East, northern Ghana (c) Remo Kurka
While the Paga Crocodile Pond is the crown jewel of this northern town, the surrounding area is brimming with lesser-known treasures that offer a deeper look into the life, heritage, and landscape of Ghana’s Upper East Region. Whether you're a cultural explorer, nature lover, or history buff, Paga and its nearby attractions promise a journey that’s both enlightening and unforgettable.
Just a short drive west of Paga, the Kulmasa and Kaleo Crocodile Ponds in the Upper West Region are spiritual siblings to Paga’s famous pond. These sites are also considered sacred by their local communities, with crocodiles believed to be ancestral totems. Visitors can witness rituals, hear oral histories, and experience the same peaceful coexistence between humans and reptiles.
Located about 2 hours from Paga in Nania, near Paga, the Pikworo Slave Camp is a haunting historical site where enslaved Africans were held before being marched to the coast. The camp features rock carvings, feeding troughs, and punishment stones, offering a sobering glimpse into Ghana’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. Guided tours provide powerful storytelling and cultural context.
In nearby Navrongo, the Our Lady of Seven Sorrows Cathedral stands as one of Ghana’s oldest Catholic churches. Built in the early 1900s using mud bricks and timber, the cathedral is a stunning example of Sudano-Sahelian architecture. Its peaceful courtyard and historic murals make it a serene stop for reflection and photography.
South of Paga, near Bolgatanga, the Tongo Hills rise dramatically from the savannah, sheltering the Tengzug Shrine — a sacred site where traditional priests perform rituals and offer spiritual guidance. Visitors must remove their shoes and follow local customs to enter. The hills also offer panoramic views and ancient cave dwellings.
Being close to Burkina Faso, Paga offers a unique cross-border market culture. Local traders sell crafts, textiles, and produce, often blending Ghanaian and Burkinabé traditions. It’s a great place to pick up handmade souvenirs and experience the rhythm of northern commerce.
The surrounding countryside is ideal for guided nature walks, birdwatching, and village tours. Learn about traditional farming, architecture, and the role of storytelling in Kassena culture. Many tours include visits to family compounds built in circular formations with intricate wall art.
Plan your full northern adventure - Whether you come for the crocodiles or stay for the stories, Paga and its neighbors offer a journey into Ghana’s spiritual and cultural heart.
For guided visits and cultural experiences of Northern Ghana, see also various tour offers, below: