Tamale, Ghana: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Tamale, Ghana? If you're planning to go to Tamale, this is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Tamale, Ghana

Based on the climate and weather in Tamale, Ghana, the best time to go is December. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Tamale, Ghana

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Tamale, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Tamale, Ghana by month

January

If you are traveling to Tamale in January, you will notice that it is consistently hot, extremely hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

February

Traveling to Tamale in February, you will notice that it can be very hot, extremely hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the right kind. Many adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

If you visit Tamale during March, you will probably see that it is sizzling, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 80s F (low 30s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

If you vacation in Tamale during April, you will probably find that it can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you find the right type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

May

If you vacation in Tamale during May, you may see that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the correct type. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

June for Tamale is extremely warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

July

Traveling to Tamale in July, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

August

August in this region is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

September

September in Tamale is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be careful to get the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

October

If you vacation in Tamale during October, you are likely to see that it can be very hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

November

November for Tamale is consistently hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you pick the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

December

Traveling to Tamale in December, you will notice that it is really hot, extremely hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Ghana has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Tamale may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the right kind. Many adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

What to do in Tamale, Ghana

Tamale, the Northern Region's capital city of Ghana, is endowed with a rich cultural, historical and natural heritage making it an attractive tourist destination. From the bustling markets and street food, to the historic palaces and mosques, Tamale has a lot to offer visitors. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Tamale.

Mole National Park

One of Ghana's largest wildlife reserves, Mole National Park is a must-visit for every tourist. It is home to wildlife such as elephants, antelopes, baboons, warthogs, hyenas, and more. Visitors can go on guided walking safaris, jeep safaris, and birdwatching tours. The park also has accommodation facilities and a swimming pool for visitors.

Gurunsi Village

An hour drive from Tamale, Gurunsi Village is famous for its mud-built homes and vibrant wall paintings. The village has a rich cultural heritage and visitors can get a glimpse of the daily lives of the people, their customs, and traditions. Gurunsi also boasts of craft markets where tourists can purchase locally-made souvenirs.

West African Historical Museum

Located in Tamale city, the West African Historical Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts and relics that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. The museum has a collection of traditional clothes, drums, woodcarvings, musical instruments, and pottery, among other items. Guided tours are available to visitors, and they can learn about the different ethnic groups in the Northern Region.

Central Market

The central market in Tamale is a haven for foodies and adventurous shoppers. The market is the largest in the region, and it is always abuzz with activities, particularly during weekends. Visitors can purchase a wide range of items, including fresh produce, spices, handmade crafts, and textiles. The market is also a great place to sample local street food, such as waakye, t-zed, and kenkey.

Ghana Armed Forces Museum

The Ghana Armed Forces Museum in Tamale is an interesting place to visit, particularly for history enthusiasts. The museum showcases Ghana's military history, from the pre-colonial era to present times. Visitors can see military equipment, photographs, and relics from various wars and conflicts.

Tamale Cultural Centre

The Tamale Cultural Centre is a hub of cultural activities in Tamale. The centre hosts regular cultural events, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the local arts and crafts, music, and dance. Visitors can learn about the diverse cultural heritage of the Northern Region through these events.

Conclusion

Tamale is a wonderful tourist destination that has something for everyone. Whether you're interested in wildlife, history, culture, food, or shopping, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. The above-listed tourist attractions are just a few of the many that Tamale has to offer. When next you plan your vacation, consider Tamale, Ghana.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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