ABUJA
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.
LAGOS
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.
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.
KANO
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.
CALABAR
Known for its rich history and palm oil trade, Calabar is the beautiful capital city of Cross River state. The city is home to one of the oldest churches in Nigeria, the Duke Town Church. It is famous for being home to many primates, including the Cross River gorilla and the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee.
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.
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.
Gashaka-Gumti National Park
Renowned for its unique biodiversity, Gashaka-Gumti National Park is Nigeria’s largest national park, located in the north-eastern states of Taraba and Adamawa. This magical area of Nigeria is home to many luscious forests, sweeping grasslands, and wonderous valleys. The park is also home to Chappal Waddi, the highest mountain in Nigeria.
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. The hills completely encircle the Idanre town and are visible from all angles. Along with their beauty, the hills are entrenched in the history of Idanre indigenes, woven into many Nigerian myths. Sometimes appearing to touch the sky, the hills are a true wonder to behold.
Zuma Rock
West of Abuja peacefully lays Zuma Rock, a mighty monolith that reaches an impressive 725m, or just under 2,400ft, in height. Magnificent to behold, the rock is often referred to as the ‘Gateway to Abuja from Suleja’. Zuma rock is deeply rooted in the state’s history. Historically a retreat for the Gbagyi tribe when under attack, today the mountain even features on one of Nigeria’s banknotes.
Erin-Ijesha/Olumirin Waterfall
Erin-Ijesa, or Olumirin waterfall, is one of the most visited waterfalls in Nigeria. It is located right in the heart of Osun state in the southwest, just two kilometers away from the Erin-Ijesa town. Indigenes believe the waterfall possesses healing qualities. Erin-Ijesa in its entirety consists of three waterfalls, linked by several trails with various stop-off points at certain levels. Hiking to the peak of Erin-Ijesa takes around two hours, but the mesmerizing views of valleys, shallow pools, hills, tall trees, and lush vegetation are definitely worth it.
Coconut Beach
Coconut Beach is situated in Badagry, a coastal city in Lagos state. Around thirty-three kilometers away from the Nigerian border and the Republic of Benin, you’ll discover this utterly beautiful beach, flanked by coconut trees. This beach is ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. You can take in the colorful and enthralling scenery, let the ocean breeze soothe you, and marvel at the magnificent blue sky as the Nigerian sun kisses your skin
