70 Top Tourist Attractions in Nigeria To Visit
The top tourist attractions to visit in Nigeria are Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, Zuma Rock in Niger State, the Nike Art Gallery in Lagos, and the Benin City Walls in Edo State. Tourist attractions are places or landmarks that draw visitors from around the world due to their unique features, historical significance, natural beauty, or cultural importance.
Types of Tourist attractions in Nigeria
1. Historical Sites: Such as ancient ruins, castles, forts, and archaeological sites like the Badagry slave trade site is an example of a historical attraction.
2. Natural Wonders: Spectacular landscapes, geological formations, and scenic vistas such as the Owu and Arinta water falls.
3. Landmarks: Iconic structures or monuments that are symbolic of a particular place or culture, like the Zuma Rock in Abuja and Olumo Rock.
4. Museums and Galleries: Institutions housing collections of art, artifacts, and historical objects, such as the Nike Art Gallery and the National Museum Lagos.
5. Parks and Gardens: Public green spaces, botanical gardens, and national parks renowned for their beauty and biodiversity, such as Millennium Park in Abuja and Muri Okunola Park in Lagos.
6. Entertainment and Theme Parks: Amusement parks, water parks, and entertainment complexes offering rides, shows, and attractions for visitors of all ages, such as the Wave Beach Theme Park.
These are just a few examples of the wide range of tourist attractions found around different states in Nigeria, each offering its own blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and entertainment.
Tourist attractions in Nigeria
Here’s a list of 70 tourist attractions to visit in Nigeria with friends and family during Christmas, Easter, Valentines day or even as soon as this weekend:
1. Olumo Rock – Abeokuta
2. Lekki Conservation Centre – Lagos
3. Zuma Rock – Niger State
4. Nike Art Gallery – Lagos
5. Benin City Walls – Edo State
6. Ogbunike Caves – Anambra State
7. National Arts Theatre – Lagos
8. Ikogosi Warm Springs – Ekiti State
9. Erin Ijesha Waterfalls – Osun State
10. Aso Rock – Abuja
11. Yankari National Park – Bauchi State
12. Tinapa Resort – Cross River State
13. Freedom Park – Lagos
14. Agodi Gardens – Oyo State
15. Gurara Falls – Niger State
16. Tarkwa Bay Beach – Lagos
17. Jos Wildlife Park – Plateau State
18. Omenka Gallery – Lagos
19. Badagry Slave Trade Route – Lagos
20. Kajuru Castle – Kaduna State
21. Olumirin Waterfalls – Osun State
22. Jabi Lake – Abuja
23. Millennium Park – Abuja
24. Coconut Beach – Lagos
25. Ibeno Beach – Akwa Ibom State
26. Lekki Beach – Lagos
27. Eyo Festival – Lagos
28. New Afrika Shrine – Lagos
29. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove – Osun State
30. Oguta Lake Holiday Complex – Imo State
31. IITA Forest Reserve – Oyo State
32. Obudu Mountain Resort – Cross River State
33. Abuja National Mosque – Abuja
34. Lekki Ikoyi Link Bridge – Lagos
35. Port Harcourt Tourist Beach – Rivers State
36. Emotan Statue – Edo State
37. Oron Museum – Akwa Ibom State
38. Ahmadu Bello University Zoo – Kaduna State
39. Yola Park – Adamawa State
40. Ibom Tropicana Entertainment Centre – Akwa Ibom State
41. Ojude Oba Festival – Ogun State
42. Ikom Monoliths – Cross River State
43. Owerri Amusement Park – Imo State
44. Elegushi Beach – Lagos
45. The Cathedral Church of Christ – Lagos
46. Eko Atlantic City – Lagos
47. Confluence of Rivers Niger and Benue – Kogi State
48. Nike Lake Resort – Enugu State
49. Mambilla Plateau – Taraba State
50. Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum – Niger State
51. National War Museum – Imo State
52. Zik’s Mausoleum – Anambra State
53. Kainji National Park – Niger State
54. Ijele Masquerade Festival – Anambra State
55. Ezeagu Tourist Complex – Enugu State
56. Kofar Mata Dye Pits – Kano State
57. Kano City Walls – Kano State
58. Gashaka Gumti National Park – Taraba State
59. Ogbaukwu Caves and Waterfalls – Anambra State
60. Shere Hills – Plateau State
61. Port Harcourt Pleasure Park – Rivers State
62. Iho Eleru Cave – Ondo State
63. Bayelsa State Ecumenical Centre – Bayelsa State
64. Okomu National Park – Edo State
65. Edo State Government House – Edo State
66. Oguta Lake – Imo State
67. Idanre Hills – Ondo State
68. Port Harcourt Zoo – Rivers State
69. Zuma Memorial – Niger State
70. Jabi Boat Club – Abuja
A deeper dive…
1. Olumo Rock – Abeokuta: Olumo Rock is a historical landmark in Abeokuta, offering visitors the chance to explore natural caves and tunnels while learning about the rock’s significance in Egba history and culture. Visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
2. Lekki Conservation Centre – Lagos: Located in Lagos, the Lekki Conservation Centre is a vast nature reserve featuring a canopy walkway, bird watching spots, and lush greenery, providing opportunities for nature walks and wildlife viewing. The highlight is the 401-meter-long canopy walkway, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding forest.
3. Zuma Rock – Niger State: Zuma Rock, often referred to as the “Gateway to Abuja,” is a massive monolith located in Niger State, with cultural and spiritual significance to the indigenous people. Its distinctive appearance and size make it a notable natural landmark visible from miles away, drawing tourists and photographers alike.
4. Nike Art Gallery – Lagos: Situated in Lagos, the Nike Art Gallery is a renowned cultural institution showcasing Nigerian art and culture, featuring a vast collection of traditional and contemporary artworks including paintings, sculptures, and textiles. Visitors can explore the gallery’s multiple floors, interact with artists, and purchase unique pieces of Nigerian art.
5. Benin City Walls – Edo State: The Benin City Walls are ancient defensive walls surrounding the former capital of the Benin Kingdom, now located in Edo State, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the 13th century, these walls are a testament to the historical and architectural achievements of the Benin Kingdom and offer insight into its rich cultural heritage.
6. Ogbunike Caves – Anambra State: The Ogbunike Caves, located in Anambra State, are a network of caves and tunnels with spiritual and cultural significance to the Igbo people. Visitors can explore the caves, swim in the crystal-clear waters of the cave pool, and learn about the traditional rituals associated with the site.
7. National Arts Theatre – Lagos: The National Arts Theatre in Lagos is an iconic cultural landmark and the primary venue for performing arts and cultural events in Nigeria, known for its distinctive architectural design and cultural significance. The theatre hosts a wide range of performances including music concerts, dance shows, and theatrical productions, attracting both local and international artists and audiences.
8. Ikogosi Warm Springs – Ekiti State: Ikogosi Warm Springs, located in Ekiti State, is a natural phenomenon where warm and cold springs meet, creating a unique thermal pool surrounded by lush vegetation. Visitors can relax in the warm waters, take nature walks in the surrounding forest, and learn about the cultural significance of the springs to the local community.
9. Erin Ijesha Waterfalls – Osun State: Erin Ijesha Waterfalls, also known as Olumirin Waterfalls, is a natural cascade located in Osun State, surrounded by lush greenery and rock formations. Visitors can climb the terraced rocks and swim in the refreshing pools beneath the waterfalls, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
10. Aso Rock – Abuja: Aso Rock is a massive rock formation located in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, and is also home to the Nigerian Presidential Complex. It is one of the city’s most prominent landmarks and offers panoramic views of Abuja from its summit, attracting tourists and photographers alike.
Conclusion
Nigeria boasts a diverse array of tourist attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and historical significance. From ancient rock formations like Olumo Rock and Zuma Rock to cultural institutions such as the Nike Art Gallery and the National Arts Theatre, visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty and history of the country. Whether exploring caves, enjoying wildlife reserves, or experiencing vibrant festivals, Nigeria offers a wealth of experiences that appeal to travelers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.
