Best Places to Visit in Nigeria: My Personal Travel Guide
By: Etuk Ukpono
If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Where are the best places to visit in Nigeria?”, you’re not alone. As someone who loves exploring the hidden gems of my country, I’ve come to realize that Nigeria is far more than just Lagos traffic or Abuja business meetings. From breathtaking waterfalls to ancient kingdoms and lively markets, Nigeria is full of places that leave lasting memories.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through my personal list of the best places to visit in Nigeria, mixing both popular destinations and underrated gems. Whether you’re a tourist, a student on holiday, or even a Nigerian planning a weekend getaway, this post will give you practical tips, real experiences, and travel hacks.
For more practical Nigerian lifestyle and travel guides, check out Nigerianinfolink.com.
Why Nigeria Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List
Nigeria is blessed with culture, food, music, and nature. Imagine dancing at a traditional festival in Calabar, relaxing on Lagos beaches, or hiking through Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River. The variety is mind-blowing.
Apart from the fun side, visiting different Nigerian states also makes you appreciate the diversity of languages, food, and traditions. Trust me, there’s no “one Nigeria” when it comes to lifestyle—you’ll find something unique in every region.
Best Places to Visit in Nigeria (My Top Picks)
Below are my personal recommendations based on my trips, friends’ experiences, and top attractions you’ll see in travel communities.
1. Lagos – The City That Never Sleeps
If you want energy, Lagos is the heartbeat of Nigeria.
Must-visit places in Lagos:
Lekki Conservation Centre – Home of the famous canopy walk (Africa’s longest). If you love adventure and nature, this is a must.
Tarkwa Bay Beach – A peaceful beach accessible by boat; perfect for couples or group hangouts.
Nike Art Gallery – One of the largest art galleries in West Africa.
Pro tip: Lagos can be stressful, so plan your movement early to avoid traffic.
2. Abuja – The Nation’s Calm Capital
Unlike Lagos, Abuja is calmer but equally fun. It’s also central, making it easy to connect to other states.
Top Abuja attractions:
Aso Rock – The giant rock standing guard over the city. Great for photography.
Jabi Lake – A peaceful spot for picnics, boat rides, and evening relaxation.
Millennium Park – Abuja’s largest park, good for family outings.
3. Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River
This is hands-down one of my favorites. I call it “Nigeria’s Switzerland” because of its cold climate and stunning scenery.
Things you can do at Obudu:
Ride the cable car for a breathtaking view.
Swim in the natural pool.
Hike through mountain trails.
If you ever want a honeymoon or a quiet retreat, Obudu should be at the top of your list.
4. Calabar – Culture and Carnival
Calabar is popular for the annual Calabar Carnival, Africa’s biggest street party held every December. But beyond the carnival, the city is neat, welcoming, and full of history.
Highlights in Calabar:
Marina Resort – Combines history and fun with a cinema, restaurants, and ocean view.
Drill Monkey Ranch – A wildlife sanctuary perfect for nature lovers.
Slave History Museum – To understand Nigeria’s past.
5. Yankari National Park, Bauchi State
If you want to experience wildlife in Nigeria, Yankari is the place.
Expect to see:
Elephants roaming freely.
Natural warm springs where you can swim.
Safari tours that make you feel like you’re in Kenya or Tanzania.
Note: It’s better to visit during the dry season when animals come out more often.
6. Olumo Rock, Abeokuta
Growing up, this was one of the first tourist sites I ever visited. Climbing Olumo Rock gives you both adventure and a deep sense of history. It was once a refuge for the Egba people during tribal wars.
Tips for visiting:
Wear comfortable shoes because of the climb.
There are tour guides that explain the cultural significance.
At the top, you’ll see the entire Abeokuta city view.
7. Idanre Hills, Ondo State
If you’re a hiking lover, Idanre Hills will challenge and reward you. It’s about 682 steps to the top, but along the way you’ll find ancient ruins, shrines, and even an old palace.
This is one of those places that make you appreciate Nigerian heritage.
8. Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls (Olumirin), Osun State
This is a magical spot. The waterfalls have seven levels, and if you’re daring enough, you can climb all the way to the top. The higher you go, the fresher the water feels.
Many people go here for picnics, swimming, and hiking.
9. Kano – Ancient Walls and Markets
Kano is one of Nigeria’s oldest cities with deep cultural roots.
Top attractions in Kano:
Kano City Walls – Historic walls built centuries ago.
Emir’s Palace – A place of tradition and authority.
Kurmi Market – One of the oldest markets in Africa, perfect for buying leather goods and traditional fabrics.
10. Jos Plateau, Plateau State
If you like cool weather and scenic landscapes, Jos is your go-to place.
Things to see in Jos:
Jos Wildlife Park – Home to lions, buffalos, and baboons.
Shere Hills – Great for hiking and rock climbing.
National Museum – Learn about Nigeria’s ancient Nok culture.
Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Nigeria
To make your trip stress-free, here are some practical hacks from my own experience:
Plan around seasons – Dry season (November–March) is best for outdoor trips. Rainy season makes travel tough in some areas.
Budget wisely – Some places like Lagos and Abuja are expensive, but destinations in the north and east can be very affordable.
Transport options – Use local airlines for long distances; for city movement, Bolt, Uber, or trusted local taxis work best.
Stay safe – Always move with a trusted guide in unfamiliar areas and check local security updates.
FAQs About the Best Places to Visit in Nigeria
Q1: What is the most visited tourist attraction in Nigeria?
A: Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos and Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River are among the most visited.
Q2: Is Nigeria safe for tourists?
A: Yes, but like every country, safety varies by region. Stick to well-known tourist spots and travel with guides.
Q3: Which state is the most beautiful in Nigeria?
A: That depends on what you like—Cross River (nature), Lagos (city life), or Plateau (cool weather and mountains).
Q4: Can I travel around Nigeria on a budget?
A: Absolutely! You can find affordable hotels, local food joints, and cheap buses. Just plan ahead.
Q5: What’s the best time of year to visit Nigeria?
A: Between November and February when the weather is cooler and festivals like Calabar Carnival are happening.
Final Thoughts
Exploring the best places to visit in Nigeria is more than just sightseeing—it’s about connecting with the culture, food, and people. From Lagos beaches to Obudu’s mountains and Calabar’s carnival, Nigeria has something for everyone.
If you’ve been wondering where to start your adventure, use this list as your personal travel map. And remember, every trip in Nigeria teaches you something new
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