Bolgatanga, colloquially known as Bolga, is the capital of the Upper East Region of Ghana, with a population of about 50,000 (1992). It is the major town between Tamale, 161 km to the south, and the Burkina Faso border, 45 km to the north. About 30 km to the West is the Togo border. It is also the main town of the Frafra people.

Bolga is known as the crafts centre of northern Ghana, with a large central market. Apart from items found everywhere in Ghana, the so-called "Bolga hats" are made and sold there. There is also a museum in the town.