The crocodiles
Resting on the bank.
Knowledge and philosophy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Knowledge and philosophy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Knowledge and philosophy — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Deishini Mariam — CC BY-SA 4.0 · Knowledge and philosophy — CC BY-SA 4.0
Paga Crocodile Pond is a sacred pond in the town of Paga, in the far north of Ghana near the Burkina Faso border. Wild West African crocodiles live here, and some are said to be about 90 years old. It is known for crocodiles so calm around people that visitors now come to see them up close. The area is home to the Kassena people, who have a long tie to the pond, also known as the Chief's Pond. Local people regard the crocodiles as sacred and do not harm them. Paga has been a trading centre for centuries thanks to its place near the border. Today the pond relies on tourism, which pays for feeding the crocodiles and keeping them healthy. The pond is broad, set among green grass and shallows, and crocodiles walk slowly along the bank or lie half under the water. Guides draw one to the shore with food and then invite you closer, and some visitors touch its tail or back. That is entirely up to you, and it is enough to watch them from a short distance as they rest in the sun. Bolgatanga is about 36 km away in a straight line, and the Burkina Faso border is close. Always follow the guide's instructions and never approach a crocodile on your own, as they are wild however calm they seem. Remember that the place is sacred to its people, and respect their customs.
Resting on the bank.
Green grass and shallows.
Explains the local tie.
Paga, Upper East Region, Ghana
Many visitors do it with a guide, but these are wild animals, so it is optional, and never approach alone.
The people of Paga hold them sacred and have a long tie to them, so custom protects them.