Do you know that Nigeria is home to the highest mountain peak in West Africa, Chappal Waddi— known as the mountain of death— which stands at 2419 meters (7936 feet)?
Truth is: I didn’t expect you to. For various reasons, it’s an obscure fact. Yet, if you do, accept my sincere respect. But this obscure geographical fact isn’t the only interesting thing about Nigeria.
Nigeria is a country rich in culture and history. From stunning natural landscapes to fascinating cultural landmarks, there are many tourist attractions to explore in this diverse and vibrant nation. These tourist attractions offer something for everyone and are sure to make your visit to Nigeria an unforgettable experience.
But there’s a problem. The number of tourist attractions in Nigeria is overwhelming and often leads to “choice paralysis.”
I am here to help. I have outlined the most fascinating tourist attractions in Nigeria in this article. So let’s get down to business.
1. Obudu mountain resorts
Obudu Mountain Resort, also known as Obudu Cattle Ranch, is a popular tourist destination in Cross River State, Nigeria.
The resort is situated on the Obudu Plateau and is known for its cool climate and beautiful scenery. Its semi-temperate Alpine climate is a perfect getaway for those looking to escape the heat and hustle of the city.
This tourist attraction is home to several attractions, including:
- Cable cars that offer a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape
- Water parks with swimming pools and water slides
- Wildlife sanctuary that is home to a variety of animals, such as antelopes, crocodiles, and monkeys.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The resort has several accommodation options, from luxury cottages to more budget-friendly ones, such as guest rooms and campsites.
Also, there are several dining options on-site, including a restaurant that serves local and international cuisine.
In addition to its many recreational activities and amenities, Obudu Mountain Resort is a popular location for conferences and events. The resort has several conference facilities and can accommodate large groups of people.
2. Lekki Conservation Center
The Lekki Conservation Centre is second on our list of tourist attractions in Nigeria. This tourist site is located in Lagos, Nigeria. It’s a nature reserve known for its diverse flora, fauna, beautiful beaches, and lagoons.
The center covers an area of 78 hectares and is home to various animals, including crocodiles, monkeys, snakes, and over 170 species of birds.
And guess what? It has several hiking trails, a canopy walkway, and a boardwalk that allows visitors to get a close-up view of the wildlife.
In addition to its natural attractions, the Lekki Conservation Centre also has many cultural and educational programs. These include:
- Traditional dance performances
- Art exhibitions
- Workshops on topics such as environmental conservation and sustainability.
3. Nike Art Gallery
It is true: Not everyone is intrigued by the wonders of mother nature. Some of us are interested in artificial art. With that in mind, I have outlined one of the largest repositories of contemporary Nigerian arts— the Nike art gallery.
The Nike Art Gallery is an art gallery located in Lagos, Nigeria. It was founded by Nike Davies-Okundaye, a renowned Nigerian artist and textile designer, in the early 1990s.
This gallery is home to many artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. It features traditional and modern works by Nigerian artists and artists from other parts of Africa and the world.
Additionally, this gallery is known for its vibrant and colorful artworks, which often depict the Nigerian people’s culture, history, and daily life.
If you love to meet art lovers, this art should be unmissable. It is a popular destination for art lovers and tourists and regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and other events.
And the best part is that the gallery also has a shop that sells handmade crafts, textiles, and other artisanal products.
4. Mambilla Plateau
Now, my friend, if you are in for experiencing the beauty of mother nature. The Mambilla Plateau is your best bet.
The Mambilla Plateau is a highland region located in Taraba State, Nigeria. It is situated at an elevation of approximately 1,800 meters above sea level and is known for its cool climate and scenic beauty.
This plateau is home to several small villages and is a popular destination for tourists looking to escape the heat and humidity of the surrounding lowland regions.
Also, the Mambilla Plateau houses a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species found nowhere else in the world. Rolling hills, lush forests, and numerous streams and waterfalls characterize the region.
Many visitors enjoy hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching, as well as exploring the local culture and traditions of the Mambilla people.
I can assure you the Mambilla Plateau is a unique and fascinating place worth exploring for its natural beauty and cultural richness.
5. Ogbunike Cave
The fifth on the list of tourist attractions in Nigeria is also a Natural attraction. This place is all about adventure and curiosity. If you are not scared of dark places and open to seeing bats, Ogbunikee cave is the place for you.
Ogbunike Cave is a natural tourist attraction located in Anambra State, Nigeria. It is a series of interconnected caves that are thought to have been formed over 300 million years ago.
The cave is home to many bats, and visitors can see these animals in their natural habitat.
One of the main attractions of Ogbunike Cave is the “Path of Peace,” a series of 317 steps leading to the cave’s main chamber. You can climb the steps to reach the chamber, which is said to have a cool and refreshing atmosphere.
Locals believe the cave has medicinal properties, and it is said that water from the cave can cure various ailments. As a result, some tourists visit the cave hoping to be cured of their ailments. Also, it is a popular destination for those seeking spiritual enlightenment and renewal.
In addition to its natural beauty and medicinal properties, Ogbunike Cave is also an important cultural and historical site. It is believed to have been used by the area’s indigenous people as a place of worship and shelter during times of war.
6. Osun-Osogbo sacred grove
In all honesty, I find it hard to categorize this tourist attraction. This site is a combo of heritage and a wildlife attraction. And that speaks a lot about its uniqueness.
The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a sacred forest in Osun State, Nigeria. It is a site of spiritual and cultural significance for the Yoruba people, who believe it is inhabited by the goddess Osun and other deities.
Unsurprisingly, this Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its cultural and spiritual significance and biodiversity. Plus, the grove is also home to various plants and animals, some of which are considered sacred by the Yoruba.
Now, here’s something exciting.
This world heritage site is also an important center for the traditional Yoruba deities known as Orisa. Thus, it is home to the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors annually and is a major cultural event in Nigeria.
When you visit the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, you can participate in traditional ceremonies and rituals, visit the Osun shrine, and learn about the Yoruba religion and culture. The grove is open to the public, but it is important to respect the sacred nature of the site and follow the rules and guidelines set by the trust.
Which trust?
The Osun-Osogbo Grove Trust manages the grove, which works to preserve the site and promote its cultural and spiritual significance. The trust also protects the grove’s flora and fauna, including a variety of trees, plants, and animals such as monkeys, snakes, and birds.
7. Gashaka Gumti National Park
Now, we are back in Taraba state again. And for a good reason. Nature.
You can not unearth everything in this place with just a few months’ visit. It is a lifelong task. However, with a few months’ visit, you can keep unforgettable memories of good old mother earth.
The Gashaka Gumti National Park is a protected area in Nigeria that covers an area of about 6,000 square kilometers. It is located in the Northeastern part of the country, in the states of Taraba and Adamawa, and is bordered by the Benue and Cross Rivers.
A wide variety of plant and animal species call this park home, including many that are endangered or threatened.
Now, here’s the interesting part…
Gashaka Gumti National Park’s landscape is diverse, with various habitats, including savannas, forests, grasslands, and wetlands. It houses several large mammals, including elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, and buffalo. Likewise, it is home to many species of birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Now, why is this special? You won’t find this species anywhere else.
Furthermore, Gashaka Gumti National Park houses important historic sites— like the German fort— and ancient rock paintings.
As a popular destination for eco-tourism, this site is also a must-visit location for lovers of nature. Trust me. You don’t want to miss this.
9. Gurara Waterfalls
Gurara waterfalls exemplify nature at its peak. This site is indescribable. You must see it for yourself. This mind-blowing natural attraction is located in Niger State, Nigeria. It is a series of cascading waterfalls that flow into a large pool at the base, creating a picturesque and tranquil setting. The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and provide a refreshing respite from the heat of the surrounding region.
But that’s only a part of the story.
The Gurrara waterfalls are part of a national park. It is home to various flora and fauna, including monkeys, antelopes, and a wide variety of birds. The falls and the park are popular tourist destinations and are often visited by locals and tourists alike.
If you visit these WaterFalls, you can swim in the pool at the base of the falls, hike through the surrounding park, or relax and take in the beauty of the falls. Also, there are many vendors selling refreshments and souvenirs in the area.
The falls and the surrounding park provide a peaceful and refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
10. Yankari Game Reserve
Not everyone is into stressful adventurous activities. And there’s nothing wrong with that. If you are all about relaxation and internal satiation, Yankari National Park is the place for you.
Yankari National Park is a large wildlife reserve in Bauchi State, northeastern Nigeria. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.
The park covers an area of approximately 2,244 square kilometers. It is home to various species, including elephants, buffalo, baboons, bushbucks, warthogs, and waterbucks. Also, it houses several rare and endangered species, such as the West African lion, roan antelope, and pangolin.
In addition to its rich wildlife, Yankari National Park is home to the Wikki Warm Spring, which is believed to have therapeutic properties. The spring has a constant temperature of 31.1 degrees Celsius (88 degrees Fahrenheit) and is a popular spot for swimming and relaxation.
If you visit this park, you can experience the park in many different ways. They include:
- game drives
- guided walks
- cultural visits to nearby villages.
Also, there are several accommodation options within the park, including tents and chalets, as well as a restaurant and bar.
11. Olumo Rock
Olumo rock welcomes thousands of photographers, adventurers, and cultural tourists annually. It is located in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. It is a massive outcropping of granite that rises about 137 meters (449 feet) above the surrounding plain.
The rock is believed to be over 200 million years old and has been a sacred site for the Egba people, the indigenous people of Abeokuta, for centuries.
But here’s the interesting part.
The rock is also an important historical site, as it was used as a natural fortress by the Egba people during intertribal wars in the 19th century. Also, locals used the rock as a place of refuge and a base to launch counterattacks against their enemies.
As a tourist, you can climb to the top of the rock and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding city and countryside. There is also a museum at the base of the rock that displays artifacts and information about the history and culture of the Egba people.
12. Sukur cultural landscape
“The Sukur landscape is a unique blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, with terraced fields, villages, and traditional houses carefully crafted to blend in with the natural surroundings…” – UNESCO.
The abridged quote from UNESCO perfectly describes this historical and cultural tourist attraction.
The Sukur Cultural Landscape is a cultural landscape located in the Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State in northeastern Nigeria. It was inscribed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.
It is made up of a series of terraced hills, created over more than 1,000 years by the Sukur people. The terraced hills are divided into three main areas:
- the hilltop
- the middle slope,
- the lower slope.
The hilltop is the most important area, where the Sukur people built their houses, temples, and other buildings. The middle slope is used for agricultural purposes, and the lower slope is used for livestock grazing.
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
The Sukur people welcome visitors and are happy to share their culture with those interested in learning more.
That is to say. as a visitor, you can learn about the history and culture of the Sukur people while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the landscape.
See you in Nigeria
We hope you enjoyed our blog post on the 12 most fascinating tourist attractions in Nigeria. If you are planning on traveling through Nigeria, any of these locations would be a great place to visit!
These are must-visit locations, and you’ll surely find one you and your friends have never heard of. We hope you have time to explore these places soon.