5 Places In Nigeria You Should Visit Year
So the 1st quarter is gone but it’s not too late to start making travel plans for the year. We know everyone has lofty dreams of visiting the Maldives, Seychelles or even Turkey. However, while making these plans and budgeting why not add a Nigerian destination to your list.
Wondering where in Nigeria would make the hassle worth it? Well we’ve come with a list that you can choose from.
Abraka Turf – Located in Abraka, Delta state, this country club is a divine oasis. It is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of everyday Nigerian life. While their accommodation is definitely a highlight due to the variety there are also things that you can do while there.
Ever heard of River Ethiope? This blue green goodness is believed to be Africa’s deepest inland waterway. The clarity of this river is incredible and the source is said to be a cotton tree. Even if you don’t do anything when you go there, this is a must visit and there’s a trail at the turf that leads to it so you can jump in for a swim or have a boat ride. The turf also offers quad biking, horse riding etc.
Other things you can do while in Delta state is visit McCarthy beach, Chief Nana’s palace (the only living historical museum in Nigeria), eat starch and banga and just enjoy the vibe. This way, your trip is a mixture of relaxation, history and local cuisine.
To get to Abraka, the quickest route would be to fly to Warri and make the 1 hour drive down, or just go with us. 🙂
Kano State – This is the 2nd largest city in Nigeria and the commercial nerve center of the North. Best part is it’s steeped in a lot of history. Visit this ancient city with us and find out what makes it such an amazing state. From the Kano wall ruins to the tie and dye pits. The museum to the Emir’s palace, you’re sure to love it.
The Kofar Mata dye pits were created over 500 year ago and can be found in the city center. It’s still in use today with the same techniques being passed down. Upon visitation, if you’re lucky you could get a live demonstration.
Although the walls lay in ruins, the Kano walls when first created were, built to protect the inhabitants of the ancient city.
Other places to visit include Giddam Makama Museum, the Emir’s Palace, Kano Zoo, Kurmi Market and Goron Dutse Hills.
So visit, soak in some history, culture the sights and sounds. We’re going later in the year so why not join us.
Kwara State – They don’t call this the state of harmony for no reason. Everyone is super friendly and helpful. There’s always a smile on anyone you speak to. What’s there to see in Kwara you ask? Well let’s help you out with that.
Owu falls: This is one of the highest and most spectacular waterfalls in Nigeria. It is often described as the ‘wonder in the wilderness’ as there’s a hike to get to the falls. With a fall of 330m the hike is well worth it.
Esie Museum: This was the first museum to be established in Nigeria. It is said to have the largest soapstone images in the world. Visiting is definitely creepy and hearing the stories is even worse but you can’t go to Kwara without heading there.
Dada Pottery: This is the largest traditional pottery workshop in Nigeria. There’s an assortment of pottery products that range from water storage vessels to cooking utensils Decorative pottery items are also produced. It is said to be as old as Ilorin itself and if you get there on time and you aren’t in a hurry, you can watch the women at work.
You can also throw in the University of Ilorin zoo and get on the canopy walk.
One things is clear, Kwara may not be the most famous tourist destination but don’t sleep on it either.
Kogi State – Lokoja (the capital) is a haven of history; from Mount Patti (which is the location where Flora Shaw got the name Nigeria) to the first Anglican Church in Northern Nigeria, it is a state you absolutely must visit.
Hike up mount Patti (or drive if you’re feeling lazy) and enjoy the views. You’ll also see Lord Luggard’s first office and you can have a little peek into it.
Something not everyone is aware of is that you can take a boat ride on the famous River Niger and Benue. I suggest you book this ride through the navy, as that way your safety is ensured.
If you’re not too creeped out you should head to the cemetery which is the largest cemetery in Nigeria in terms of being the resting place for missionaries and soldiers.
To be honest there’s a lot to do in Kogi state but you can start with these.
Cross River State – It shouldn’t surprise anyone that this is on the list. From Obudu to Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary, the slave trade museum to the Calabar Festival in December, there is a plethora of reasons to visit.
We’re very sure Cross River is on everyone’s list even if it’s only because of Obudu or Agbokim Falls, so visiting isn’t a very hard sell.
Obudu has the beautiful mountain ranges and various waterfalls, the calabar festival brings people from ALL over the world and Agbokim falls is such a hidden gem. Afi Mountain allows you roam free amongst Drill monkeys and the slave trade museum doesn’t need any introduction.
The only question left would be when you are heading there.
So now that we’ve given you a few suggestions which will you be picking. In my opinion, choose all and make it a fun filled 2019.
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*Reviews are based on opinions and personal experiences, and may differ from person to person
*prices written are based on the time the visit was made and is subject to change by the owners.
*originally written for Tush Magazine