The beautiful rock formations, caves and sweeping landscape of the Tongo Hills at Tenzug are reason enough for a visit, but the community is also the home of multiple shrines. The most important of these draws people from across Ghana and neighbouring countries who believe it has sacred power to provide guidance and resolution of problems.
The views from the surrounding hilltops and large rock formations are arresting, particularly during the rainy season, when the hills burst into lush greenery. Tengzug’s combination of natural beauty and cultural richness has resulted in it being short-listed for future consideration as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Note that visitors are welcome to visit the principal shrine (and enjoy the great view from its high perch), but are required by tradition to remove both their shoes and clothing from the waist up at the entrance. Those not wishing to disrobe to enter the shrine may still climb fully clothed most of the way to the entrance but must remain outside.
When To Visit
Tengzug and the Tongo Hills are the most beautiful and coolest during the rainy season (June – September). It is also cooler and the light is more dramatic in the early morning and late afternoon.
What To Do
At the visitor centre you will see a map of the village and can choose the attractions you wish to visit, including the hiding Baobab tree, model home showcasing the fascinating local architecture, cave schoolhouse, chief’s house, donkey cave and the principal shrine. Rock scrambling and the resulting views are extra rewards for the able-bodied, but these portions can be easily bypassed if desired. The tour can be further extended for those wishing to see the entire village, including blacksmithing. Time: 1–2.5 hours, depending on the attractions chosen. Difficulty:
to
depending on attractions chosen.
Region:
Upper East
Hours
8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily
Fees
Entrance: Adults: Ghanaian 2.00 GHc; Non-Ghanaian 3.50 GHc
Students: Ghanaian 2.00 GHc; Non-Ghanaian 2.50 GHc