Tourism soared this year with lots of eager Nigerians ready to explore the world. Many visited the UAE, the Republic of Benin, South Africa (before the xenophobic attacks), Egypt, Kenya, Mauritius, Thailand, France, Zanzibar, Italy, and Beirut. On the other hand, a good number of Nigerians and foreigners experienced domestic tourism by visiting cities within Nigeria such as Lagos, Abuja, Abeokuta, and Calabar.
Most tourists engaged in activities such as hiking, boat cruises, kayaking, and city tours. Even travel photography got a boost this year. That’s because more people wanted to document their experience or showcase the beauty of Nigeria.
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Based on our observations of the tours offered by tour operators this year, these are the top 10 tourist spots in Nigeria for 2019:
La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort
The topnotch ambience of this beach resort made it perfect for romantic and group getaways. Its pool, bush bar of African cuisine accompanied with drumming and dancing, and a boat ride from Radisson Blu Hotel, made it one of Africa’s most visited resorts this year.
Omu Resort
Tailored to people looking for adventure and wholesome family fun, Omu Resort played host to a variety of tourists who participated in activities like archery, quad biking, go kart racing, water park and amusement park thrills, mini zoo and wax museum visitations, and s kiddies zone full of games. Omu Resort in Bodijie, Lagos State is awesome for family outings.
Olumo Rock
This massive granite rock has been a tourist magnet drawing people to Abeokuta this year. It is excellent for hiking and group getaways. There’s a lot of entertainment at the base of the rock, and a panoramic view from the top. Natural tunnels, cantilevers, escalators and man-made stairs along the rock, and guides retelling the folklore surrounding the rock, added to the spot’s appeal.
Badagry/Gberefu Island
This historian’s paradise is loaded with tales, trails and artifacts of slave trade activities from the past. It is the perfect blend of history, adventure and fun. Tourists experienced lots of hiking especially to the Point of No Return, a boat cruise, visits to the Mobee Slave Relic Museum, Lord Luggard’s Residence, the first story building in Nigeria, and more.
Lekki Conservation Centre
This eco-tourism spot with a tree house and the longest canopy walk way in West Africa is ideal for adventurers or nature lovers who want an aerial view of the mangrove. From the serenity of the forest to the life-sized game boards on site and the variety of wildlife present, this spot will continue to be a money spinner for Lagos.
Idanre Hills
This 800-year old rock is about 15km west of Akure. With a culmination of five resting spots along the 667 steps to the top, undulating hills and valleys, Arun River, writings on the rock, structures enroute its apex, and Agbogun footprints etched into the rock, tourists had a lot to enjoy here. It is another great spot for group hiking, taking awesome shots, and feeling on top the world.
Nike Art Gallery
Lots of tourists included a tour of this gallery into their itinerary in 2019. The diversity of art techniques shown in about 8,000 art collections and which are available for free viewing is the reason tourists love this spot.
Usman Dam
A dam as a tourist spot doesn’t immediately scream fun or adventure. But this scenic man-made hydropower dam in Abuja rose to the challenge and has entertained several tourists. Usman Dam is a cool place for cave camping, fishing, bonfire, canoe riding, rock climbing, BBQ picnics, hiking, taking dope photos, and having all out fun.
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Inagbe Resort and Leisure
Inagbe Resort got so much attention this year. The 15-minute speedboat ride from Victoria Island to Inagbe Island and the resort facilities were the charm for visitors. It is a great spot for relaxation, family or group outings, and nature lovers. Sporting activities include quad biking, horse riding, tennis, swimming, and volleyball.
Obudu Mountain Resort
This spot really comes alive towards the end of the year. The range of activities such as hiking, swimming, picnicking and bonfire nights, makes Obudu Mountain Resort a coveted spot. In December, the Calabar Carnival draws in lots of tourists. And also with the repairs of the cable car completed, the mountain resort has become the perfect place for a Christmas getaway.
We have so much to look forward to in 2020. There’s also news of available direct flights from Lagos to Cape Verde, 10-year visas to business tourists visiting South Africa, and a promising partnership between Jumia and Travelstart amongst others. Stay glued to this column as we explore the tourism possibilities in 2020.
Featured image source: The Wakaholic
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