Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Nigeria: Locations & States (2025)

Nigeria is home to some of the most beautiful tourist attractions in Africa—from ancient rock fortresses to misty mountain resorts—yet let’s be honest, most of us have never explored these places in our own backyard. We often dream of Dubai or Paris, but from the ancient Olumo Rock in Abeokuta to the cold, misty mountains of Obudu, there is so much “enjoyment” waiting for us right here at home.

In this guide, we are not just listing places; we are taking you on a tour of the top 10 tourist attractions in Nigeria. We’ll cover their exact locations, the real reasons why they are special, and the practical “street smarts” you need to visit them without stress. Unlike basic top 10 tourist attractions in Nigeria Wikipedia entries, this guide gives you insider tips, current 2025 prices, and real street-smart advice you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you are looking for tourist attractions near Lagos, checking for places to visit in Abuja this weekend, or planning stress-free weekend ideas closer to home, this guide is your roadmap to the prettiest places in Nigeria.

Why Nigeria is a Must-Visit Tourist Destination

Before we jump into the list, you might be asking: “Is it worth the stress?” The answer is yes. Nigeria has everything: waterfalls, rainforests, savannahs, and giant rocks that make you wonder how nature did it.

Did you know that Enugu and Kwara States lead the pack with over 17 tourist sites each? Lagos is not far behind with 13 major tourist centres. But tourism here isn’t just about snapping pictures. It is about the taste of hot Suya in Abuja, the colourful festivals, and that unique Nigerian energy you can’t find anywhere else.

Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Nigeria and Their Locations

So, where should you start? Here are the best places to visit in Nigeria that offer real value for your time and money.

1. Yankari National Park, Bauchi State

• Location: Mainamaji Village, Alkeleri LGA, Bauchi State.
• Best Time to Visit: November to May (Dry Season).

Tucked away in the savannah of Bauchi State, Yankari National Park is Nigeria’s premier biodiversity hotspot. It is widely recognized as Nigeria’s richest wildlife oasis, covering a total area of 2,244 km².

It offers something many other destinations can’t—the chance to spot the largest surviving elephant population in Nigeria, currently estimated at about 100-150 individuals by conservationists. Furthermore, it supports one of the few remaining populations of the critically endangered West African lion. With global lion populations having declined by half in the last quarter-century, a visit here is a support for vital conservation efforts.

But wildlife isn’t the only draw. The park is famous for the Wikki Warm Spring and other natural attractions, a geological wonder with crystal-clear water that maintains a constant, naturally occurring temperature of 31°C all year round.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Abuja (1 hour), then take a connecting flight to Bauchi (if available) or hire a private vehicle for the 4-5 hour drive. Alternatively, fly to Jos and drive 2-3 hours to the park.
• From Abuja: The most popular route is by road via Jos, which takes about 4-5 hours.
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Abuja, then continue by road or connecting flight as described above.

Practical Info (2025 Updates):

• Entry Fees: Very affordable. ~₦500 for Nigerian adults and ~₦1,000 for foreign nationals.
• Safari Truck: To see the animals, you’ll need to rent a safari truck, which costs approximately ₦15,000 per trip (can be split among a group).
• Accommodation: Options range from Student Hostels (starting ~₦9,000/night) to the luxurious Corporate Villas (~₦80,000+/night).

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: Safari drives typically run from 7:00 AM – 10:00 AM and 3:30 PM – 5:30 PM. The Wikki Warm Spring is open until late for lodge guests.
• Network Coverage: Poor. Signal is generally weak inside the reserve. MTN has the strongest signal near the reception/lodge area, but expect to be offline during safari drives.
• Accessibility: Low. The safari trucks are high-clearance vehicles requiring one to climb up. The path to the spring has stairs and uneven ground, making it difficult for wheelchair users.
• Contact: Official booking channels are often offline. It is highly recommended to book through a certified Bauchi-based tour agent or visit the Bauchi State Tourism Board office if in the city.

2. Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River State

• Location: Obudu Plateau, Cross River State.
• Best Time to Visit: October to January (for the best weather).

Now, if you prefer cold weather to the heat of the savannah, Obudu is your spot. Often called “Obudu Cattle Ranch,” this resort consistently ranks high among the top 10 tourist attractions in Nigeria due to its unique climate. The weather here is unique—it is misty and rarely goes above 20°C, often dropping to single digits at night. It feels more like a village in the Swiss Alps than West Africa.

Obudu Mountain Resort is perfect if you need to plan a reset day away from city noise—the cold weather and mountain views help you disconnect and recharge completely. It sits within the Cross River region, which is a UN-acclaimed biodiversity hotspot containing one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, evolved over 60 million years ago.

• Important Update (December 2025): Obudu Mountain Resort is undergoing a major restoration after years of decline. In March 2025, Governor Bassey Otu revoked the previous concession agreement and declared the resort’s revival a top economic priority. The Federal Government has committed N5 billion, and UNIDO is installing a 2.5-megawatt power plant to solve chronic power issues. While remedial repairs are ongoing and some facilities have reopened, the famous cable car was non-operational for several years and restoration was promised for late 2025. It is strongly advised to contact the resort or a Cross River tour operator to confirm current operational status before traveling.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Enugu or Calabar. From Enugu, it is a scenic 4-5 hour drive. From Calabar, the drive is longer (approx. 6-7 hours).
• From Abuja: Fly to Enugu (Akanu Ibiam International Airport), then hire a taxi for the 4-5 hour drive up the mountain.
• From Port Harcourt: It is a long road trip (approx. 6-7 hours) via Enugu or Calabar. It is best planned as a weekend trip rather than a day trip.

Pricing & Accommodation (2025 Estimates):

• Resort Rooms: Staying at the resort itself is premium. Standard rooms start around ₦25,000, while Mountain Villas can go up to ₦180,000 per night.
• Budget Option: If the resort is too pricey, look for guest houses in Obudu town (like Evergreen Hotel or Valley of Beracah) which can be as low as ₦6,000 – ₦10,000, though you’ll need to drive up the mountain to visit.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: The resort is open 24/7 for guests.
• Network Coverage: Fluctuating. Due to the high altitude and weather, signal can come and go. Glo and MTN tend to have a presence, but data speeds may be slow.
• Accessibility: Moderate/Difficult. The terrain is hilly with many stairs. While you can drive to most viewpoints, moving around the resort grounds without walking is challenging for wheelchair users.
• Contact: Direct booking lines are notoriously unreliable. It is safer to book through a reputable Nigerian travel agency like Hotels.ng or local Cross River tour operators to ensure your reservation exists upon arrival.

3. Olumo Rock, Abeokuta, Ogun State

• Location: Ikija Road, Abeokuta, Ogun State.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season is easier for climbing, but it’s open year-round.

Speaking of adventure, let’s head to the South West. Olumo Rock isn’t just a rock; it is a symbol of unity and freedom. Standing at 137 meters above sea level, Olumo Rock is more than just a geological wonder. Archaeological studies suggest the site has been inhabited for thousands of years, though it gained historical prominence as a fortress for the Egba people during 19th-century inter-tribal warfare.

The experience here is deeply historical. As you climb (either by stairs or the elevator), local guides will show you the exact caves where warriors hid their families during the inter-tribal wars. You will see ancient grinding stones used for cooking and holes in the rock floor used for pounding yams.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: It is one of the best tourist attractions near Lagos for a quick trip. The drive from Lagos to Abeokuta takes about an hour and a half—create a good playlist to make the journey as enjoyable as the destination. Alternatively, take the new Lagos-Ibadan train from Mobolaji Johnson Station (approx. 1 hour).
• From Abuja: Fly to Lagos, then take the train or a taxi to Abeokuta.
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Lagos, then proceed by rail or road.

Practical Info:

• Entry Fees: Note that the “Free Entry” promo ended in August 2025. Budget approximately ₦2,000 per person to cover entry, the elevator ride, and a small tip for the guide.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM Daily.
• Accessibility: Good (Conditional). Olumo Rock is one of the few natural sites in Nigeria with a functioning elevator specifically for the elderly and those with mobility issues. Note: Always confirm the elevator is powered/working before paying if this is critical for you.
• Network Coverage: Excellent. Being in the heart of Abeokuta city, you will have strong 4G coverage on all major networks (MTN, Airtel, Glo).
• Photography: Allowed everywhere. The guides will happily help you take photos at the summit.

4. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Osun State (UNESCO)

• Location: Osogbo, Osun State.
• Best Time to Visit: August (during the festival) or quieter months for peace.

If you are interested in culture and spirituality, this site is non-negotiable. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005, it is one of the last remaining sacred forests in Yoruba land and the home of Osun, the goddess of fertility. Unlike many other forests that have been cut down for urbanization, this grove has been protected for centuries.

The forest feels alive and mysterious. It is an open-air museum filled with giant, strange, and beautiful sculptures created by the late Suzanne Wenger (Adunni Olorisha) and local artists.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: A road trip takes about 3-4 hours via the Lagos-Ibadan expressway.
• From Abuja: You can fly to Ilorin or Akure (both approx. 1.5 – 2 hours drive to Osogbo) or drive the full distance (approx. 7 hours).
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Lagos, then hire a vehicle or take an interstate bus to Osogbo.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daylight hours).
• Photography Rules: Strict. While you can photograph the sculptures and nature, taking photos of devotees, worshippers, or ongoing rituals without express permission is disrespectful and often prohibited.
• Accessibility: Low. The paths are unpaved forest trails with tree roots and uneven ground. Not suitable for wheelchairs.
• Network Coverage: Good. The grove is on the outskirts of Osogbo city, so MTN and Airtel usually have decent service.

5. Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos State

• Location: Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning (around 9 AM) to avoid the heat.

Need a break from the Lagos “wahala” and traffic? As a modern addition to the top 10 tourist attractions in Nigeria, this 78-hectare mangrove reserve is exactly what you need when the Lagos madness gets too much. The Lekki Conservation Centre isn’t just for nature lovers—it’s also one of the best stress-free photography spots in Lagos for content creators and families looking to capture memorable moments.

The undisputed highlight is the Longest Canopy Walkway in Africa. This 401-meter-long suspended swinging bridge takes you right over the treetops. It gives you a thrilling bird’s-eye view of the swamp and forests below.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: It is located on the Lekki-Epe Expressway, opposite Chevron. It is accessible by Bolt, Uber, or Danfo bus from anywhere in the city.
• From Abuja: Fly to Lagos (MMIA), then take a taxi to Lekki (approx. 1 hour depending on traffic).
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Lagos, then proceed by taxi.

Budget Note (2025): Budget approximately ₦4,500 – ₦5,000 per person (2025 estimate). This typically covers the gate fee (~₦2,000) and the separate ticket required for the Canopy Walk (~₦2,500). Confirm current prices at ncfnigeria.org or call ahead, as entry fees are adjusted periodically. Note: You must wear sneakers to go on the canopy walk.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM Daily. Tip: Arrive before 3:00 PM to ensure you have enough time for the canopy walk before they stop admitting people to the bridge.
• Accessibility: Mixed. The wooden boardwalk at ground level is flat and can accommodate wheelchairs to a certain point (Family Park). However, the Canopy Walkway itself is NOT wheelchair accessible and involves climbing several flights of stairs.
• Network Coverage: Excellent. 4G and 5G are widely available on all networks.
• Contact: Official Website: ncfnigeria.org.

6. Zuma Rock, Niger State/Abuja

• Location: Madalla, Niger State (Along the Abuja-Kaduna Expressway).
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (April to October).

You have definitely seen this rock on the 100 Naira bill, but seeing it in real life is awe-inspiring. Standing over 700 meters tall, Zuma Rock is a monolith (a single piece of rock) that dominates the landscape. It is often called the “Gateway to Abuja.”

The rock is shrouded in mystery and legends. The most famous feature is the natural contour on the rock face that looks exactly like a human face, complete with eyes, a nose, and a mouth.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Abuja. From the airport or city center, it is a 45-minute drive along the Kaduna expressway.
• From Abuja: This is one of the top places to visit in Abuja this weekend. It is a short 40-minute drive from the city center (Wuse/Maitama).
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Abuja, then take a taxi.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: Best viewed during daylight hours (7:00 AM – 6:00 PM).
• Accessibility: Good (for viewing). You view the rock from the ground level or the nearby resort, which is accessible. Climbing the rock itself is dangerous and generally restricted.
• Network Coverage: Very Good. Strong signal along the main expressway.
• Photography: Best photos are taken from the main road or the Zuma Rock Golf Resort.

7. Idanre Hills, Ondo State

• Location: Idanre Town, Ondo State.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season (The steps can be slippery when wet).

This one is for the fitness lovers and nature enthusiasts. Idanre Hills is currently on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status. To reach the ancient city on top, you have to climb 662 steps. It sounds tiring, but there are resting points along the way.

Once you reach the top, it feels like stepping back in time. You will see the ruins of the Old Palace (Owa’s Palace), the ancient court, and the primary school built by missionaries.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: A road trip takes about 4-5 hours.
• From Abuja: Fly to Akure (Ondo State capital), then take a 30-minute taxi ride to Idanre.
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Akure (if direct flights are active) or Lagos, then proceed by road.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily.
• Accessibility: Not Accessible. There are no elevators or ramps. You must be physically fit enough to climb 662 steps.
• Network Coverage: Variable. Signal can be spotty at the bottom but, surprisingly, MTN often has decent reception at the summit.
• What to Wear: Good grip sneakers are mandatory. Do not attempt this in sandals or crocs.

8. Gurara Falls, Niger State

• Location: Gurara LGA, Niger State.
• Best Time to Visit: Rainy season for power; Dry season for swimming.

Gurara Falls is one of the most famous waterfalls in Nigeria, located about an hour and a half from Abuja. The river spans about 200 meters across, creating a wide, curtain-like waterfall that drops about 30 meters.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Abuja, then hire a driver for the 1.5-hour trip.
• From Abuja: It is a popular day trip location, taking about 1.5 hours by road. If you are looking for places to visit in Abuja this weekend, a picnic here is perfect.
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Abuja, then proceed by road.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
• Accessibility: Low. The path from the parking area down to the riverbank is steep, rocky, and uneven. Not suitable for wheelchairs or those with severe knee issues.
• Network Coverage: Patchy. Service can be intermittent. Download offline maps before leaving Abuja.

9. Awhum Waterfall and Cave, Enugu State

• Location: Amaugwe village, Awhum, Enugu State.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season.

Moving to the East, we have a site that feels almost holy. Awhum isn’t just a standard waterfall; it is a geological masterpiece situated within a massive granite cave/canyon structure. The walls of the canyon are incredibly high, and the waterfall cascades down from the top, creating a serene and echoing atmosphere.

Visiting sites like this isn’t just about sightseeing—it’s also a form of self-care that helps you break from routine and refresh your mind.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Enugu (Akanu Ibiam Airport). From Enugu city, it is a 45-minute to 1-hour drive.
• From Abuja: Fly to Enugu, then take a taxi.
• From Port Harcourt: This is one of the few major attractions accessible via day trips from Port Harcourt by road (approx. 3-4 hours drive).

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM. Strict adherence to time is required as it is monastery property.
• Photography Rules: Restricted. You are generally allowed to photograph the waterfall, but photography of the monks, the monastery buildings, or prayer sessions is strictly forbidden.
• Accessibility: Not Accessible. The trek involves walking through water and sand for about 45 minutes to reach the falls.
• Network Coverage: Very Poor. There is almost no signal inside the canyon walls.

10. Kajuru Castle, Kaduna State

• Location: Kajuru LGA, Kaduna State.
• Best Time to Visit: Dry season.

Imagine seeing a European-style medieval castle with dragons and turrets in the middle of Northern Nigeria. That is Kajuru Castle. It looks like it was teleported from 12th-century Germany, but it was actually built in the 1980s by a German expatriate living in Nigeria.

Getting There from Major Cities:

• From Lagos: Fly to Kaduna (if flights are operating) or fly to Abuja and take the train.
• From Abuja: The safest and most scenic route is to take the Abuja-Kaduna train (approx. 2 hours) to Rigasa station, then hire a secure taxi to Kajuru.
• From Port Harcourt: Fly to Abuja, then take the train to Kaduna.

Visitor Need-to-Knows:

• Operating Hours: Private Access Only. You cannot just show up at the gate. You must have a confirmed booking (usually for overnight stays or specific group tour slots).
• Accessibility: Low/Moderate. The castle is designed like a medieval fortress with many spiral staircases and uneven stone floors.
• Network Coverage: Fair. Major networks work reasonably well in the area.
• Contact: Bookings are typically handled via direct referrals or specific travel curators online.

What Are the Top Three Tourist Attractions in Nigeria?

The top three tourist attractions in Nigeria are Obudu Mountain Resort (Cross River), Yankari National Park (Bauchi), and Olumo Rock (Ogun). These sites are prioritized for their developed infrastructure, historical significance, and unique natural features like the Wikki Warm Spring and temperate mountain climate.

Want more options? If you can only visit the top 5 tourist attractions in Nigeria, prioritize adding Lekki Conservation Centre (for a modern nature escape) and Idanre Hills (for an adventurous hike) to the three listed above.

What is the Most Visited Site in Nigeria?

The most visited tourist site in Nigeria is Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, receiving thousands of visitors weekly due to its accessibility and Africa’s longest canopy walkway. Olumo Rock in Abeokuta is the second most visited, particularly popular for school excursions.

Top 10 Most Beautiful Places in Nigeria by Region

If you’re planning a road trip and want to hit multiple spots in one region, here’s how Nigeria’s tourist attractions break down by zone:

• South-South: Obudu Mountain Resort & Agbokim Waterfalls (Cross River).
• North-West: Kajuru Castle & Matsirga Waterfalls (Kaduna).
• North-East: Yankari Game Reserve (Bauchi) & Mambilla Plateau (Taraba).
• South-East: Awhum Waterfalls (Enugu) & Ogbunike Caves (Anambra).
• South-West: Idanre Hills (Ondo) & Ikogosi Warm Springs (Ekiti).
• North-Central: Gurara Falls (Niger) & Farin Ruwa Falls (Nasarawa).

Complete List: 70+ Tourist Attractions in Nigeria and Their Locations

Here is the ultimate list of over 70 tourist centres in Nigeria, organized by state to help you discover hidden gems near you.

State	Tourist Attraction	Type	Highlights
Abuja (FCT)	Millennium Park	Park	Nature, relaxation, picnics
Abuja (FCT)	Jabi Lake	Lake/Mall	Boat rides, shopping, recreation
Abuja (FCT)	National Mosque	Religious	Golden dome architecture
Abuja (FCT)	National Christian Centre	Religious	Neo-gothic architecture
Abia	National War Museum	Museum	Civil war history, bunkers
Abia	Azumini Blue River	Nature	Crystal clear blue water
Adamawa	Sukur Cultural Landscape	Heritage	UNESCO site, hilltop settlement
Akwa Ibom	Ibeno Beach	Beach	Longest sand beach in West Africa
Akwa Ibom	Godswill Akpabio Stadium	Sports	Modern architecture (“The Nest of Champions”)
Anambra	Ogbunike Caves	Cave	317 steps, tunnels, spiritual significance
Anambra	Agulu Lake	Lake	Crocodile habitat, serene views
Bauchi	Yankari National Park	Wildlife	Elephants, warm spring, safari
Bauchi	Sumu Wildlife Park	Wildlife	Giraffes, zebras, wildebeests
Bauchi	Tafawa Balewa Tomb	History	Monument to Nigeria’s first PM
Bayelsa	Oloibiri Oil Well	Historical	First oil well in Nigeria (1956)
Benue	Ikyogen Hills	Nature	Green rolling hills, cattle ranching
Borno	Chad Basin National Park	Nature	Diverse wildlife (check security status)
Cross River	Obudu Mountain Resort	Resort	Cable car, cold weather, mountain views
Cross River	Agbokim Waterfalls	Waterfall	Seven streams falling over a cliff
Cross River	Tinapa Business Resort	Leisure	Shopping, water park, movie studio
Cross River	Mary Slessor House	History	Residence of the famous missionary
Cross River	Drill Ranch	Wildlife	Conservation of Drill monkeys
Delta	River Ethiope	River	Deepest inland waterway in Africa
Delta	Mungo Park House	History	Colonial history, monument
Edo	Benin National Museum	Museum	Benin Bronzes, royal history
Edo	Okomu National Park	Nature	Rainforest, forest elephants
Edo	Igun Street	Culture	Home of bronze casters
Ekiti	Ikogosi Warm Spring	Nature	Warm & cold water meeting point
Ekiti	Arinta Waterfalls	Waterfall	Scenic cascade near Ikogosi
Enugu	Awhum Waterfall	Waterfall	Cave setting, spiritual site
Enugu	Ngwo Pine Forest	Nature	Cave, pine trees, hiking
Enugu	Ezeagu Tourist Complex	Nature	Lake, cave, and waterfall complex
Gombe	Tangale Hill	Hiking	Volcanic rock formation
Imo	Oguta Lake	Lake	Blue & muddy water meeting
Imo	Mbari Cultural Centre	Culture	Traditional Igbo art and sculpture
Jigawa	Birnin Kudu Rock Paintings	History	Ancient rock art
Kaduna	Kajuru Castle	Architecture	Medieval style castle (private)
Kaduna	Matsirga Waterfalls	Waterfall	Scenic drop into a gorge
Kaduna	Nok Village	History	Site of ancient Nok terracotta
Kano	Kano City Walls	Historical	Ancient fortification ruins
Kano	Gidan Makama Museum	Museum	Hausa architecture, history
Kano	Kofar Mata Dye Pits	Culture	Ancient indigo dyeing pits (500+ years)
Katsina	Gobirau Minaret	History	Ancient 15-meter mud minaret
Kebbi	Argungu Fishing Festival	Culture	Site of famous fishing festival
Kogi	Mount Patti	Mountain	Panoramic view of Lokoja
Kogi	Lord Lugard’s Residence	History	Colonial history, first Governor-General
Kogi	Iron of Liberty	History	Site where slaves were freed
Kwara	Owu Waterfalls	Waterfall	Highest waterfall in West Africa
Kwara	Esie Museum	Museum	Soapstone images (oldest in Nigeria)
Lagos	Lekki Conservation Centre	Nature	Longest canopy walk in Africa
Lagos	Nike Art Gallery	Art	4 floors of contemporary African art
Lagos	Tarkwa Bay Beach	Beach	Surfing, swimming, boat access only
Lagos	Badagry Slave Museum	History	Slave trade relics, Point of No Return
Lagos	National Theatre	Culture	Iconic architecture, arts hub
Lagos	Freedom Park	History	Former colonial prison turned park
Lagos	Epe Mangroves	Nature	Canoe rides through silent mangroves
Lagos	Kalakuta Republic Museum	History	Home of Fela Kuti
Nasarawa	Farin Ruwa Falls	Waterfall	“White Water” spectacular falls
Niger	Zuma Rock	Nature	Monolith, “human face” contour
Niger	Gurara Falls	Waterfall	Picnic, swimming (seasonal)
Niger	Kainji Lake National Park	Wildlife	Wildlife, lake, hydro dam
Ogun	Olumo Rock	Nature	Caves, history, city view
Ogun	Bilikisu Sungbo Shrine	History	Legend of Queen of Sheba
Ondo	Idanre Hills	Nature/History	662 steps, ancient city ruins
Osun	Osun-Osogbo Grove	Culture	UNESCO, sacred sculptures
Osun	Erin Ijesha Waterfalls	Waterfall	7 levels of water, hiking
Oyo	Bowers Tower	Historic	360-degree view of Ibadan city
Oyo	Agodi Gardens	Park	Botanical garden, swimming pool
Oyo	Mapo Hall	History	Colonial style city hall
Plateau	Shere Hills	Mountain	Hiking, camping, rock formations
Plateau	Jos Wildlife Park	Wildlife	Lions, nature, pine trees
Plateau	Assop Waterfalls	Waterfall	Scenic picnic spot
Plateau	Jos Museum	Museum	Tin mining history, pottery
Rivers	Port Harcourt Tourist Beach	Beach	Relaxation, local food
Rivers	Isaac Boro Park	Park	Monuments, city center relaxation
Sokoto	Sultan of Sokoto Palace	Culture	Historical seat of the Caliphate
Taraba	Gashaka Gumti Park	Nature	Largest national park, rugged terrain
Taraba	Mambilla Plateau	Nature	High altitude, tea plantations

Budget-Friendly Tourist Destinations in Nigeria

Traveling doesn’t have to break the bank. If you are looking for affordable tourist attractions in Nigeria, try these:

1. National Museum, Lagos: Entry is very cheap (usually under N1,000). You can see the car Murtala Muhammed was assassinated in.
2. Badagry Heritage Museum: Very affordable. You can take a boat to the “Point of No Return” for a small fee.
3. Public Parks: Millennium Park in Abuja or Ndubuisi Kanu Park in Lagos are free. They are perfect for picnics—just bring your own cooler of drinks and food.
4. Budget Planning: Understanding the cost of living in Lagos can help you plan your tourism budget better—knowing what to expect for transport, food, and accommodation makes trip planning easier.
5. Student Travel: Even corps members can explore Nigeria’s tourist attractions. If you know how to save money on a tight budget, weekend trips to places like Olumo Rock or Millennium Park become very achievable.

Where is the Cheapest Place to Travel to from Nigeria?

The cheapest place to travel to from Nigeria for an international trip is the Benin Republic, accessible by road from Lagos. For domestic travel, Badagry (Lagos State) and Olumo Rock (Ogun State) offer the most affordable getaway experiences, reachable via low-cost rail and road transport.

How to Plan Your Visit: Street Smart Tips

Planning a trip in Nigeria requires you to be “sharp.” Here is what you need to know:

• Cash is King: Yes, we have transfers and POS, but network service can be terrible in remote areas like Idanre or Obudu. Always hold cash for gate fees and tips.
• Security First: Before traveling by road, especially to the North, check current news reports. Avoid night travel at all costs. Use big transport companies (like GIGM or ABC) rather than roadside buses—they are safer and more reliable.
• Digital Tools: Network coverage at places like Yankari or Obudu can be poor. Download apps that work offline before your trip so you can access maps and important information without data.
• Pack Right:
  • Obudu/Jos: Bring a sweater.
  • Yankari/North: Light cotton clothes and sunglasses.
  • Hikes: Good sneakers with grip.
• Hire a Guide: At places like Olumo Rock, paying a local guide (usually N1,000 – N2,000) makes the experience 100% better. They know the stories you won’t find on Google.

Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Attractions in Nigeria

What are the top 3 tourist attractions in Nigeria? Yankari National Park, Obudu Mountain Resort, and Olumo Rock are the big three.

Is Nigeria good for tourists? Absolutely. The culture and nature are incredible. Just make sure you plan your logistics well or have a local friend to guide you.

Which state has the most tourist attractions in Nigeria? Plateau, Cross River, and Bauchi are kings of nature. Lagos is the king of modern fun.

How much does it cost to visit Lekki Conservation Centre? Prices are subject to change, but as of 2025, budget around N3,000 – N5,000 per person.

Are these places safe for kids? Yes, places like LCC and Obudu are great for families. Just maybe skip the intense hiking at Idanre if you have toddlers!

Conclusion

Nigeria is full of hidden gems. Whether you want to conquer the 662 steps of Idanre Hills, swim in the Wikki Warm Springs, or just relax at Obudu, there is something for everyone.

You don’t always need to travel far to find happiness. Sometimes, small joys in everyday life combined with occasional trips to beautiful places create the perfect balance.

Don’t wait for “someday.” Start exploring the top 10 tourist attractions in Nigeria today. Which of these places will you visit first? Let us know in the comments!