Welcome to Delta State, the big heart of Nigeria. Known for its petroleum resources, we hardly associate Delta State with tourism. As with all parts of Nigeria, the tourism potential of Delta is growing.
For anyone who tours Delta State, here are 4 things worth enjoying.
1. Spend a Weekend at a Resort
Lots of resorts have capitalised on the waterways in the state to create a relaxing atmosphere for tourists. Top of the list is Abraka Turf and Country Club in Ethiope East LGA. Record has it as the only luxury equestrian leisure club in Nigeria. Built around the clear waters of the mysterious River Ethiope, it is ideal for swimming, quad biking, fishing, kayaking, horse riding, and nature trail exploration.
Other resorts include Riverpoint Resort in Oghara, Gordon’s Resort along Abraka-Benin, Abraka River Resort along Agbor-Sapele highway, Olona Ranch and Holiday Resort in Onicha-Olona, and Bomadi Beach Party Resort in Bomadi.
If you don’t want to stay over at a resort, you can lodge in a hotel. A few include Alacarte Residence Inn and Resort in Sapele, Bon Hotel in Warri, and Optimum Hotel in Ughelli. The beautiful white sandy shores of McCarthy Beach or Mudi Beach in Abraka, Escravos Beach in Warri, or Otuogo Beach in Asaba are also places worth visiting.
2. Visit Monuments and Landmarks
There are several monuments and landmarks in Delta State. First on the list is Nana’s Palace Living History Museum, (aka Koko’s Palace) in Warri which is recognised as a National Monument. Then there is Araya Bible Site in Isoko South where a bible is believed to have fallen from heaven on a pile of yams. The source of River Ethiope which is from the snake-like roots of a giant silk-cotton tree in Ukwani LGA is also a fascinating sight to see since the river deepens the further as it goes.
In addition, check out the Lander Brothers Anchorage in Asaba. It was built in honour of the brothers who took over Mungo Park’s expedition after his death, and actually discovered the source of River Niger. It is equipped with its own museum and is just beside the Expatriate Graveyard in Asaba.
Speaking of Mungo Park, the house built in honour of him by the Royal Niger Company in 1886 is also a tourist attraction. Last but not least on the list is the Kwale Game Reserve which was also built in honour of Mungo Park. It boasts of rainforest vegetation and a swamp full of reptiles and water animals.
3. Go on a Food Tour
Delta State is famed for its diverse delicacies from the different tribes living within her. There are lots of places to experience meals like banga rice, owo soup, seafood okro soup, ukodo, and more. You can drive around the town, stopping over at the likes of Peter’s Kitchen in Warri, Rodinia Restaurant and Bar, or De Grill in Asaba, just to sample the food.
4. Have a Picnic
If going on a food tour isn’t your thing, try spending a day in a place like Dallas Leisure World. Here, you can play Arcade games and enjoy the kids’ indoor playground. There’s also Leisure Paradise Amusement Park for outdoor fun. When you are done, you can settle down at Effurun Garden Park for a family or couple’s picnic.
If you would rather enjoy a waterside picnic, then visit Okpuzu Falls in Oshimili North, Eni Lake in Isoko South, or the Jamieson River. The Jamieson River runs through Oghara and forms a confluence with River Ethiope. The river’s dark blue freshwaters are also good for swimming or canoeing. This tidal river has an unhampered lush vegetation along its shore; there’s more to do here.
In conclusion, there are many things to see in Delta State. Also explore the Red Mangrove Swamp, the Olu’s Palace, the local markets, Delta Shopping Mall in Warri, and Saint Joseph Catholic Church in Asaba. Whether it is history, architecture, culture or nature, Delta State has something for everyone.
Featured image source: Nigeria Galleria