30/09/2022
Best Places to Visit in Nigeria.
Eager to experience the unique culture and natural wonders of Nigeria? If so, these beautiful places to visit in Nigeria are all must-visits for your travel itinerary to one of Africa’s most vibrant countries.
Oke Idanre/Idanre Hill.
Oke Idanre, a cluster of gigantic hills, is an absolute marvel to behold. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located in Ondo, a south-western state of Nigeria. Sometimes appearing to touch the sky, the hills are a true wonder to behold.
To reach the peak, visitors have to climb a 3000-feet-tall staircase (nearly 700 steps). This is definitely an ideal spot for hikers, adventure seekers, and fun lovers. If you are in the area, the King’s Palace is also a major attraction and more than worth a visit.
Yankari National Park.
Located in north-eastern Nigeria, Yankari National Park is the natural home of the African bush elephant, the West African lion, the African buffalo, and many kinds of majestic wildlife. Other top attractions include the Wikki, Dimmil, Mawulgo, and Gwana Warm Springs, the Marshall Caves, and the Dukkey Wells.
Yankari National Park is also home to some of the earliest examples of human settlement, dating back millennia. Paintings and engravings on rocks such as the Tunga Dutse are some of the park’s must-see attractions.
Yankari National Park has something for everyone. You can see many animals in their natural habit on safari, swim in the warm.
Abuja city.
Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria, strategically located right in the middle of the country. It is one of the most beautifully planned cities in the world, furnished with spectacular architectural sites, including the National Stadium, National Mosque, and National Christian Centre.
It is also home to the National Assembly, the Presidential Palace, and many other beautifully designed government headquarters, including the Supreme Court. Visible from all parts of the city is the A*o Rock, a monolith reaching a height of 400 meters.
This city presents something special for all kinds of tourists. Hikers in particular will love the Usuma Lower Dam, while Thought Pyramid Art Centre is a must-see for anyone who enjoys art, design.
Cross River National Park.
Often regarded as ‘the African Amazon’ due to its vastness and beauty, Cross River National Park is located in the south-eastern part of Nigeria. The park is divided into two major regions, fifty kilometers apart: the Okwangwo region and the Oban region.
The biodiversity of this natural wonder is well-known. It is one of West Africa’s richest tropical rainforest regions. The park is home to a variety of animal species, including gorillas, chimpanzees, drill, birds, and rare butterflies. If you’re lucky, you can also spot leopards, baboons, and buffaloes.
Lagos city.
Nigeria’s most populous city, Lagos, boasts some truly wonderful feats of architecture, including the Lekki Ikoyi Bridge, Lagos Lagoon, the Marina, and the National Theater.
The Nike Art Gallery is also a must-visit for art lovers and enthusiasts. This contemporary five-story art gallery, established in 2009 by Nike Davies-Okundaye, is located in Lagos, a southwestern state.
The gallery houses over 20,000 artworks by various Nigerian artists, and evidently encourages and creates a conducive atmosphere for the growth and appreciation of African art.
Owu Waterfall.
Known as the ‘Wonder in the Wilderness’, Owu Waterfall is without a doubt one of Mother Nature’s most awe-inspiring gifts to Nigeria. It is the highest waterfall in West Africa, and the 120-meter-high, 330-foot-long waterfall cascades into ice-cold water, surrounded by lush vegetation.
There are a number of walking paths around the waterfall, meaning both casual and serious hikers can enjoy the views. Swimming in the pool, and picnicking amid the beautiful surroundings, are also common activities for visitors.
Kano city.
The capital city of Kano state, Kano is a major agricultural and commercial region. It is the oldest city in West Africa and has a rich medieval history.
A charming city, Kano is popular for its various festivals, and is renowned for its horseback riding, due to its location in the south of the Sahara Desert.
Some of the main attractions in Kano city are the Emir’s Palace, the Murtala Muhammed Library, the Kajuru Castle, Dala Hill, and the Gidan Makama Museum.
Leather works, weaving, and cloth dyeing are central to the traditional arts and crafts of Kano. Tourists can also enjoy architectural structures that date back to the 15th century.
Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort.
Have you ever heard of a place where warm and cold springs form a confluence? This truly amazing wonder of nature is called the Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort, located in the south-western part of Nigeria.
The most fascinating aspect of this natural phenomenon is that the springs do not mix, yet somehow retain their thermal qualities.
Decorated with rich vegetation and picturesque landscapes, this resort is a perfect place for those who love nature.
Benin City.
Benin City is the capital of Edo state. It is one of the oldest cities in the country, dating back to the precolonial era. Its unique history and culture make it a must-visit place in Nigeria.
The city is also popular for its bronze sculptures, and various arts and crafts, some of which are currently displayed in various museums all over the world.
Top attractions of Benin City include the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin, Ogiamen Palace, Okomu National Park, Igun Street, the Igue Festival, and the National Museum.
Benin City is also a great place for foodies. You can try various delectable local dishes, like pounded yam and ogbono soup, at food markets, restaurants, and from vendors, throughout the city.