Nigeria has an array of tourist sites ranging from the rocky hills of the Northland of Nigeria to the beaches and seashores in the south. There are a lot of charming cities tourist should stop by before biding farewell to Nigeria.
Lagos: Lagos being the largest city in Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities, is home to over 14 million people and the economic hub of Nigeria. It is known for its bustling markets, nightlife, and cultural diversity. Here are some of the top sights and sounds of Lagos:
- National Museum Lagos: This museum showcases Nigeria’s cultural heritage through its collection of art, artifacts, and historical items.
- Freedom Park: This former colonial prison is now a public park and cultural center, with live music and theatre performances.
- Lekki Conservation Centre: This nature reserve offers visitors the chance to see a variety of plant and animal species, including monkeys, crocodiles, and rare birds.
- Afrika Shrine: Popularly called the Fela Shrine was founded by Fela Kuti and continues to be a hub for live music and cultural events.
Calabar: Calabar is a city located in Cross River State, in the southern region of Nigeria. It is the capital city of Cross River State. Calabar is situated on the banks of the Calabar River and is surrounded by tropical rainforests, making it a beautiful and scenic destination. Calabar is home to several tourist sites, including:
- Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort: Tinapa is a world-class resort located in Calabar. It offers a wide range of leisure and entertainment options, including a shopping mall, a waterpark, a cinema, a casino, and a cultural center.
- Slave History Museum: The Slave History Museum is located in Calabar and it preserves the history of the transatlantic slave trade. It houses artifacts, documents, and exhibitions related to the slave trade.
- Kwa Falls: Kwa Falls is located near Calabar and is a popular destination for tourists seeking outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and camping.
- Calabar Carnival: The Calabar Carnival is an annual festival held in December in Calabar. It is a celebration of culture, music, and dance and attracts thousands of tourists from around the world.
- Marina Resort: The resort is situated along the Calabar River and offers a range of recreational activities for visitors of all ages, including a water park, a mini-golf course, a botanical garden, and an art gallery.
Bauchi: Bauchi State is located in the Northern region of Nigeria and is known for its diverse landscapes and cultural heritage. Some of the top tourist attractions in Bauchi State include:
- Yankari National Park: This is the most popular tourist destination in Bauchi State and is one of the most visited national parks in Nigeria. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, baboons, antelopes, and various bird species. Visitors can take guided safari tours, hike through the park, swim in the park’s natural springs, and visit Wikki Warm Springs.
- Tafawa Balewa Tomb and Museum: This museum is located in the town of Tafawa Balewa and is dedicated to the life and legacy of Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa, Nigeria’s first prime minister. The museum showcases the personal effects and artifacts of Sir Balewa, including his personal library, clothing, and letters.
- The Emir’s Palace: The Emir’s Palace in Bauchi City is a cultural heritage site it is home to the traditional ruler of Bauchi State. The palace is a combination of traditional and modern architectural styles and features several courtyards, living quarters, and a museum.
- Sumu Wildlife Park: This wildlife park is located in the town of Ningi and is home to a variety of wildlife, including baboons, hyenas, and warthogs. The park features a picnic area and a playground for children.
- The Rock Paintings of Dutsen Jami: These rock paintings are found in the village of Dutsen Jami in the Toro Local Government Area. The paintings are believed to be over 1,500 years old and depict images of animals, humans, and abstract patterns.
Abuja: What is a visit to Nigeria without a stop in its capital city? Abuja, a metropolitan City is a beautiful and modern city with many tourist attractions. Some of the must-visit sites in Abuja include:
- Aso Rock: Aso Rock is a massive granite rock formation that towers over the city and is one of the most iconic landmarks in Nigeria. Visitors can take guided tours around the base of the rock and enjoy stunning views of the city from the top.
- National Mosque and National Church: The National Mosque and National Church are two major religious landmarks in Abuja. The National Mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture, while the National Church is a modern and elegant building. Visitors can take guided tours of both sites and learn more about the history and significance of these important landmarks.
- Zuma Rock: Zuma Rock is a stunning monolith located just outside Abuja and is a must-visit site for nature lovers. It is a sacred site to the local Gwari people and is believed to possess spiritual powers. Visitors can take guided tours of the rock and its surroundings and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Abuja Arts and Crafts Village: This village is a great place to explore Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and buy locally made handicrafts. The village features several stalls and shops where visitors can purchase traditional Nigerian pottery, carvings, textiles, and other handicrafts.
- Millennium Park: Millennium Park is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Abuja. It features several walking trails, picnic areas, and a large lake where visitors can rent paddleboats. The park also has a botanical garden that showcases Nigeria’s diverse plant species.
Osun State is located in the southwestern region of Nigeria and is known for its rich cultural heritage, beautiful landscapes, and historical landmarks. Here are some of the top tourist sites and sounds in Osun State:
- Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove: The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osogbo, Osun State. It is a sacred forest and shrine that has existed for over 400 years and is home to several sculptures, monuments, and shrines dedicated to the river goddess Osun.
- Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls: Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls is a breathtaking waterfall in Erin-Ijesha, Osun State. It consists of seven layers of cascading waterfalls and offers visitors the opportunity to swim in its natural pools.
- Ife Museum: The Ife Museum is a cultural museum located in Ife, Osun State. It houses several artifacts and sculptures that are important to the history and culture of the Yoruba people.
- Osun River: The Osun River is a sacred river that runs through Osogbo, Osun State. It is believed to be the home of the river goddess Osun and is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists.
Plateau State is located in the middle belt region of Nigeria and is home to several tourist attractions. Some of the top tourist sites in Plateau State include:
- Jos Wildlife Park: Jos Wildlife Park is a popular tourist attraction in Plateau State. It is home to several species of wild animals, including lions, elephants, and monkeys, and offers visitors the opportunity to go on guided tours and see the animals up close.
- Shere Hills: Shere Hills is a stunning mountain range in Jos, Plateau State. It is a popular destination for hiking and outdoor activities and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
- Kurra Falls: Kurra Falls is a beautiful waterfall in Wamba, Plateau State. It is a popular destination for picnics, it offers visitors the opportunity to swim in its natural pools.
- Pandam Wildlife Park: Pandam Wildlife Park is a wildlife reserve in Qua’an Pan, Plateau State. It is home to several species of wild animals, including antelopes, hyenas, and baboons, and offers visitors the opportunity to go on guided tours and see the animals up close.
- Riyom Rock Formation: Riyom Rock Formation is a unique geological feature in Riyom, Plateau State. The formation consists of several large rock pillars and offers visitors the opportunity to go on guided tours and learn about its history and significance.
These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that offer unique experiences for tourists in Nigeria. Each city has its attractions, culture, and history, making Nigeria a fascinating and diverse country to explore.
