1. Lekki Conservation Center
The LCC in Lekki, Nigeria is a green oasis of calmth and peace away from the busy city life of Lagos. The centre was established in 1990 to promote and preserve the local biodiversity and to serve as an educational center. It was built by Chevron who still funds the center. The foundation wants to preserve Nigeria’s rich plant and animal species and ecosystems by raising environmental awareness and promoting responsibility. The 78 hectare center is located in the Lekki Peninsula where we can find wetlands with swamp and savannah. Visitors can walk on the longest canopy in Africa and enjoy the park through several hiking trails and tree platforms helping you to observe the wildlife. The park is ideal to have a picnic with a panoramic view of the reserve.
2. Idanre Hill
Idanre Hill (Oke Idanre) is located in Idanre Town in Ondo, in the south-west of Nigeria. The landscape of Indanre Hill is well-known among Nigerians and besides the fantastic views the area has a wide variety of cultural and archeological sites. It has been added to the UNESCO world heritage site list and has since then gained in popularity. The hill is 914 meters above sea level and houses a unique ecosystem in which we can find the remains of the ancient city. A visit to the hill is a full day of discovery filled with breathtaking views, cultural and archeological exploration and a great exercise as it’s quite the hike!
3. Coconut Beach
This idyllic beach is located in Badagry, about 30 km from the border with Benin, and is surrounded by .. you guess .. coconut trees. There are several beach resorts where you can stay for a few days to relax in this beautiful tropical setting. The place is popular among Lagos and Abuja residents and expats who come to spend the weekend here.
4. Gurara Waterfalls
The Gurara Falls are among the most famous tourist sites in Nigeria and are popular among Nigerians and expats who are looking for a nice day out. They were discovered in 1745 by a local hunter. The falls were named after two gods which were worshipped by the Gwari: Gura and Rara who went to pray near the waterfalls. The falls span 300 meter across and have a 50 meter drop. They are about an hour drive away from Abuja and are best visited between April and November when there is a lot of water. It is safe to swim in the river during the dry season.
5. Ikogosi Warm Springs
The Ikogosi Warm Springs are located at Ikogosi town in Ekiti State, in the south-west of Nigeria. Besides the warm spring there is also another cold spring and the two eventually meet each other, providing the perfect temperature of 37 degrees for anyone who wants to bathe.
6. Kano Ancient City Walls
The ancient Kano City Walls are a defensive system which was built by the king of the Kingdom of Kano around the city of Kano to protect its inhabitants. It was constructed between the 11th and 12th century and was finally completed in the 14th century. It is one of the most important and interesting historical sites to visit in West-Africa. Inside we find the Kurmi Market and the Emir’s Palace, there are 15 gates through which you can enter.
7. Gashaka-Gumti National Park
Gashaka-Gumti National Park was created in 1991 out of two game reserves and is the largest national park in Nigeria. It is located near the border with Cameroon and covers over 6.400 sq km. The south of the park is very mountainous, rich in valleys, gorges and montane forests. In the north we can find mostly savanna. There are 103 species of mammals which have been identified such as golden cat, buffalo, duikers, wild dog, roan antelope, and chimpanzees. The park has over 1 million birds and we can find over 500 species. It is favoured by birders all over Africa. With its spectacular landscapes the park is definitely worth a visit.
8. Zuma Rock
Zuma Rock is a large natural monolith in the Niger state just outside Abuja. It rises over 300 meters above the flat surrounding landscape and we can find its picture on the 100 nairo bill. The rock has a very peculiar form and is massive in size. It is a popular stop to view this amazing natural wonder and to take photographs.
9. Farin Ruwa Falls
The Farin Ruwa Falls are among the highest waterfalls in Nigeria and are located in the central region of the country. The name comes from Hausa and means ‘white water’. From the distance the fall produces a white-smoke like effect on the mountains. The water drops over 150 meter during its descent from the Jos Plateau. Visits are mostly done from Lafia. The falls are most impressive when visited during the rainy season.
10. Lagos Nightlife
Nigerian music is booming like no other and is currently dominating the African continent. Stars such as Davido, Mr. Eazi, Wizkid and Burna Boy have been gaining popularity in the west and have been working together with western artists. Lagos is the musical center of Africa where we can find the best nightlife in all of Africa with exclusive clubs pounding the newest afro beats and attracting the hippest crowd of the continent. When you’re in Lagos you definitely need to visit the local pubs and clubs.
