Home of the popular Olumirin Waterfall, Ilesa is a town located in Osun State of Southwest Nigeria. The towns which make up this town include Erin Ijesa, Ipetu-Jesa, Ijebu-Jesa, Esa-Oke, Ibokun, Ifewara, Ipole and Idominasi among others. The people from Ilesa are referred to as Ijesas, and it is a 6-hour drive from the bustling city of Lagos.
Top Three Sites
The Olumirin Waterfall This is the widely held spot located in Erin Ijesa never ceases to attract tourists visiting Osun. Climbing up or down the falls which cascade through 7 layers is quite an experience, with the topmost layer giving adventurers a captivating panorama of the locale. There is an entry fee of ₦500 to visitors who are advised to arrive early in order to catch all the exciting experience.
Kiriji War Museum The Kiriji war was a sour phase in the history of the Ijesas. It was a war between two powerful Yoruba groups which share the same lineage. They are the Western Yorubas (Ibadan and its allies) and Eastern Yorubas (Ijesas and Ekitis). According to findings, the war was as a result of the crash of the Oyo Empire as well as the domination of the Ibadan soldiers despite the collapse of the Oyo Empire. This led to a bitter rivalry that resulted eventually in a 16-year war. Thus in order not to forget this important part of Ilesa history, a museum was established. The museum features the ancient weapons and history behind the Kiriji war.
Iwude Ijesa Festival For 11 days in December, persons who trace their heritage to Ijesaland, return home to celebrate the Iwude festival. The festival showcases the culture, dance, music, games and tradition of the people, and a procession.
Interested in a tour? Spring Hill Hotel, GoldCity Hotel, Garrett Hotel, Royal Park International Hotel and Heis Hotel are great choices for accommodation, with reservations available on online portals like Jovago.com. The town’s centre has a number of restaurants like The African Restaurant, Bukateria, and Royal Restaurants among others. Shopping spots include Format Ventures, Phonson Boutique, Adebambo Tayo stores, and Brainfield shopping mall and the popular Atakumosa Market.
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