Tuesday September 27, 2016 is World Tourism Day and this year’s theme focuses on making tourism accessible to all people. Now, take a moment to think about who needs to take a trip somewhere and what factors may prevent that desire from being realized. Is there something that can be done to change that?
With the current economic situation in Nigeria, there have been strong outcries about the foreign currency exchange rate. Travelling outside the country is now deemed a luxury and the 8 billion dollars according to The World Bank spent in outbound tourism during 2014 will drop. The good news is this opens the door to planning more local trips within the country and becoming the quintessential tourist in your own country.
Are you wondering, where can you visit and see through the eyes of a tourist? Here are 10 amazing places you may not have known existed right in your backyard. This list has been specially crafted to cover all the regions in Nigeria. Tourism for all is indeed a reality. So, whether you are a Nigerian planning a weekend road trip or someone on the look-out for a culturally adventurous vacation, there is somewhere for everyone to plan a trip to.
1. Awhum Waterfall
Tucked into a monastery in the Coal City of Enugu, this is a waterfall like no other. The fall itself is 30 meters high and its waters are believed to be curative.
2. Azumini Lake
Visitors are drawn by the appeal of its blue waters and surrounding lush greenery. It is in between the boundary of Abia and Akwa-Ibom states, and empties into the Imo River.
3. Idanre Hills
To take in the spectacular views offered by this hill in Western Nigeria, be prepared to climb 667 steps. Don’t panic, there are 5 rest stops and bragging rights to say you have visited this 800 year old site.
4. Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
Welcome to Nigeria’s first cable stayed bridge that connects Ikoyi to Lekki Phase 1. Gorgeous both during the day and at night, this bridge is a runner’s delight. If in doubt, ask Mark Zuckerberg.
5. Kajuru Castle
Feel like royalty on the sprawling grounds of this castle set against the backdrop of Kaduna’s mountain range. You have to drive up a hill to get to it, but it is totally worth it.
6. Ogbunike Cave
Adventure meets tradition in this Anambra cave. Visitors enjoy the presence of the tropical rainforest and passing through the tunnels hosted by the cave.
7. Olumo Rock
This is the icing on the cake for a town laid under a rock. Even its name, Abeokuta says so. It is an easy climb and there is a guide to tell you more about its history and people.
8. Osun- Osogbo Sacred Grove
One of Nigeria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the undisturbed forest leading up to the grove marks its cultural landscape. The Osun River is close to the grove.
9. Sukur Cultural Landscape
Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, travel to Adamawa to visit this hill and its people. Sukur’s home is the Mandara Mountain and it used to be known for iron smelting.
10. The Benin Palace
Real kings live here. This is one of the most famous royal households in Africa and you can get a tour. Learn about the history of the Benin people from Edo state. Who knows you may see the Oba himself.
