10 Major Tour Attractions in Nigeria

Many people want to tour Nigeria but they are unsure what the tourism scene holds for them. Below are a few of the many attractions in Nigeria that are worth exploring:

1. Beaches – Nigeria is situated close to the Atlantic Ocean with two major water sources flowing through it – River Niger and Benue. This creates a lot of coastal areas within our country ideal for beach holidays and water sporting activities. Some beaches are more developed than others with gate fees, water sports equipment and resorts on site. Others are yet to be commercialised. If you love hanging out by the beach or engaging in activities like kayaking, boat paddling, scuba diving, jet skiing and more, then Nigeria is your destination.
2. Caves – The hype for cave exploration is still relatively unexplored but if you love it, then Nigeria is your destination. We have multi-tunnelled caves, caves with waterfalls in them and a few that are regarded as sacred. Examples of caves in Nigeria include Ogbunike cave in Anambra state, Cave of Ashes in Ondo state, and Eggon Hills and Caves in Nasarawa State. So pack up your gear and head on down.
3. Warm springs – This natural phenomenon occurs randomly around Nigeria. We have multiple warm springs at the Yankari Game reserve with the most popular and developed one being the Wikki Springs. We also have Ikogosi Warm Springs in Ekiti State that runs side by side with a cold spring and never mixes. We also have some in Benue State (Enemabia Warm Springs), Edewuwu Waterfall which is a warm spring in Edo State and Nasarawa State (Akiri/Akuriwari warm spring). If you are looking for an adventure, why not check out these places?
4. Castle – Many Nigerians aren’t aware that we have a castle in the country. Although it wasn’t built by Nigerians or with Nigerian Architecture, the location on a hill makes it super special. It comes equipped with a Dungeon and Crocodile Pit. It’s none other than Kajuru Castle in Kaduna state. Even though you can’t book a night there without going with a group, it is still a lovely destination for a daycation.
5. Waterfalls – The dynamic nature of the waterfalls in Nigeria are a joy to see. Each waterfall has its unique characteristic making it like no other. They are found all over the country. From Matsiriga Falls in Kaduna state, Mayanka falls in Niger state to Oluimirin Falls in Osun State, Kwa falls in Cross River state and Arinta waterfalls in Ekiti state, you’ll have a feast for your eyes only.
6. Theme Parks – There are game parks opening around the country ideal for having a good time like Kofar Gamji Amusement Park in Kaduna State, Lekki Leisure Lake on the Island in Lagos, HI Impact Plant Amusement Park in Ogun State, Trans-Amusement Park in Ibadan, Oyo state, Marina Park in Calabar, Cross River, and lots more.
7. National Parks – There are some National Parks in the country complete with residential quarters (resort) and wildlife reserve. They enable you have the experience of living in the jungles of Africa without compromising the comfort you are used to. You get to go on safari rides and see animals in their habitat as nature intended. You could visit Yankari National Park, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Okomu National Park, Kamuku National Park, etc.
8. All-inclusive Resorts – All over the country all-inclusive resorts are springing up. People are using up every opportunity they get to unwind at these locations. Some are family friendly like Omu resort, others are ideal for lovers or group getaways like Abraka Turf and Country Club, Oguta Lake Resort, Zenababs Half Moon Resort, Ibadan Zoo and IITA Resorts, etc.
9. Carnivals/festivals – Since Calabar carnival became the biggest street carnival in West Africa, more attention has been given to festivals in Nigeria. We have revived our Argungu fishing festival, Igue festival, Port Harcourt street festival, alongside regular festivals like the Durbar festival.
10. Cultural and Historical artefacts – It’s no secret Nigeria is brimming with a rich cultural heritage that have historical roots like the lost civilisation at Nok village. There are so many unique places and historical artefacts in Nigeria that are worth exploring like the Osun Oshogbo Sacred groove, the Museum of Traditional Architecture at the Jos Museum, the recently returned Benin Bronze artefacts from the British Museum to the Oba of Benin’s Palace, etc.

Once you get a taste of Nigeria, you’ll definitely recommend it to others.

Featured image source: nairaland.com