Known as the most populace country in Africa, Nigeria is a beautiful country with a vibrant cultural heritage and tourist attractions. There are a variety of activities to do and places to see. Ranging from exploring the beaches to touring historical sites and taking in the lively nightlife. If you’re planning a trip to Nigeria, here are some things you should consider doing.
Top 8 Must-See Tourist Attractions in Nigeria – A Comprehensive Guide
Visit the Yankari Game Reserve
Located in Bauchi State, the Yankari Game Reserve is the most popular national park in Nigeria. Covering approximately 2,244 square kilometers, the reserve is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, baboons, and various antelopes. You can take safari drives, take a dip in the Wikki warm springs (which maintains a temperature of 31°C all year round), hike several trails, bird watch over 300 species of birds and explore several ancient settlements and caves. Or you can simply picnic and take in the beauty of nature. However, you should ensure you have enough time to explore the reserve fully and take advantage of all it has to offer.
Explore the Great Walls of Benin
The Great walls of Benin are a popular tourist destination in Nigeria. Though constructed many centuries ago, these walls are over 16,000km long while providing a unique perspective of life in the past and reflecting on the creativity of the people who lived in the area at the time.
You can explore the walls. And while you are at it, you can also visit the museum and Oba’s palace, attend festivals, explore Benin and buy unique art and craftwork in the nearby markets.
Relax at the Beaches
Are you looking for a fun day or a romantic getaway? Then you should visit one of the several beaches in Nigeria. There is always something for everyone. You can sunbath and take long strolls along the shoreline or getting some adrenaline rush by doing some water sports or just enjoy sampling some of Nigerian’s finest alcoholic beverages at the bars. Some of the top beaches you can visit in Nigeria are; Bar Beach (Lagos),
- Tarkwa Bay Beach (Lagos State)
- Elegushi Beach (Lagos State)
- Eleko Beach (Lagos State)
- Elegushi Beach (Lagos State)
- Oniru Beach (Lagos State)
- Calabar Beach( Cross River State)
- Ibeno Beach (Akwa Ibom State)
Visit the Olumo Rock
Olumo Rock located in Abeokuta of Ogun State, is another popular tourist attraction in Nigeria. A massive rock that stands at over 130 meters tall has been a symbol of unity and protection for the people of Abeokuta for centuries. While there you can learn about the Nigeria’s rich history and culture, take pictures, picnic and do some shopping for arts and craftwork.
Experience the Lagos Nightlife
Lagos State, the commercial capital of Nigeria, is famous for its vibrant nightlife. It is a city that really never sleeps and offers a variety of entertainment options for locals and tourists alike. Whether you prefer to dance the night away or enjoy a quiet drink with friends. Lagos will match your energy, toe for toe.
Some of the activities you can do at night in Lagos includes visiting nightclubs, attending live music shows, taking boat cruises, visiting cinemas, shopping at the night markets and exploring the Lagos food scene.
Also Read: Fascinating Facts You Need to Know About Nigeria
Explore the Nike Art Gallery
The Nike art gallery, which located in the Lekki area of Lagos, is a must-visit tourist attraction for people who enjoy and are interested in art. The gallery boasts of thousands original works of art created by Nigerian artists on display. In this welcoming environment, you can experience Nigerian art and culture, attend art classes, shop for souvenirs which is a great way to relax and unwind.
Visit the Zuma Rock
Zuma Rock is a famous rock in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. rock climbing, sightseeing, hiking and exploring the culture and traditions of the local Gwari people are some of the activities you can participate in when you visit Zuma rock.
Go on a Food Tour
Nigeria is known for its diverse culinary culture with a range of traditional dishes that showcase its various ethnic groups. Going on a food tour in Nigeria is a great way to explore the country’s culture and taste its unique flavors. You should try out some of our popular local dishes. They include; jollof rice, suya, pounded yam and egusi soup, akara and pap, efo riro, moi moi, amala and ewedu, pepper soup, etc. With a wide range of traditional dishes to choose from, you will definitely find something that suits your taste buds.
There is a lot of natural beauty and culture to explore in Nigeria. There is always something for everyone, from taking in the exciting nightlife to exploring the wildlife reserves. From those who are interested in its history to those who enjoy trying out new delicacies. Start making your travel plans right away so you can experience everything that this incredible nation has to offer. Cheers!
