You may not believe me, but Nigeria is the best country in the world to visit. At the risk of sounding too patriotic, there is no shortage of the best places to visit in Nigeria. Visitors can now enjoy ecotourism, hiking, rich cultural heritage and an unforgettable local cuisine that will have you extending your stay. Not only are we the giant of Africa and have over three hundred ethnic groups and cultures for you to explore, but we are also very hospitable and down to earth. Ask anyone! Let Nigeria surprise you with its lively energy, natural beauty and genuine warmth.
Lagos
Lagos State. Home to over 20 million citizens. It is seen as Nigeria’s most electric coastal city, and the scenery will blow you away. There are majestic beaches, non-stop nightlife, galleries and many delicious local cuisines to choose from.
Practical tip: avoid weekday rush hour, and use trusted ride-hailing apps to skip the notorious traffic jams.
Abuja
Federal Capital Territory. This is the capital of the country, and a must-visit on your list. You can enjoy the Aso Rock views, enjoy a chill day at Millennium Park, explore the National children’s park and Zoo, and visit the grand National Mosque.
Practical tip: book accommodation in Maitama or Wuse for easy access to restaurants.
Calabar
Cross River State. Calabar is a premier tourist destination, renowned for its fascinating museums, Kwa Falls, marina resorts, a lively carnival culture and gateways to rainforest ecotourism.
Practical tip: visit in December for the famous carnival, but reserve accommodation and tour operators early.
Obudu Mountain Resort
Cross River State. Obudu mountain resort is a stunning highland escape in the Sankwala Mountains, offering luxurious accommodations, exciting outdoor activities and serene natural beauty. Guests enjoy spring-fed pools, sports facilities, scenic cable car rides and nature tours.
Practical tip: travel during the dry season, and always book your stay well in advance.
Yankari Game Reserve
Bauchi State. This reserve is viewed as the country’s richest wildlife oasis and also comes with an outdoor pool and international cuisine. It is mainly famous for endangered lions, elephants, baboons and the warm Wikki Spring; this game reserve is a wildlife highlight.
Practical tip: visit between November and March for the best animal sightings.
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Olumo Rock
Ogun State. You can hike and explore this ancient fortress rock in Abeokuta for caves, shrines, panoramic city views and deep cultural heritage. It also has a museum, art gallery, and a fountain.
Practical tip: wear sturdy walking shoes and hire a knowledgeable local guide.
Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls
Osun State. This seven-tiered cascade is among the loveliest waterfalls in Nigeria, ideal for swimming, hiking and photos.
Practical tip: bring grippy water shoes, since the wet rocks get very slippery.
Ikogosi Warm Springs
Ekiti State. This spring resort is reputed to be the only mixture of warm and cold waters in the world, creating a naturally blended pool perfect for relaxing.
Practical tip: pair it with Erin-Ijesha waterfalls in one travel itinerary.
Zuma Rock
Niger State. This towering monolith is 725 meters above sea level and nicknamed the Gateway to Abuja. It rewards early-rising photographers with a breathtaking view of the majestic national treasure and is known to be a great spot for picnics.
Practical tip: hire a car or tour operator from Abuja, because public transport is limited.
Idanre Hills
Ondo State. The hills are roughly 3000 feet above sea level and serve as a cultural landscape that includes Owa’s Palace, ancient shrines, and old burial grounds. They are also listed on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2007, making it a hiking and cultural heritage gem.
Practical tip: expect hundreds of steps, so start early.
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Gashaka Gumti National Park
Adamawa and Taraba States. Nigeria’s largest national park spanning approximately 6,731 square kilometres. With its soaring mountains, pristine forests and savannahs, it is seen as a mosaic of wilderness that protects some of the most ancient forests on the continent. It is a shelter for chimpanzees, buffaloes and birds across rugged terrain.
Practical tip: go with a licensed guide, and check current safety tips first.
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
Osun State. This UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005 is roughly 75 hectares and protects dense forest, two palaces, 20th-century sculptures and roughly 40 shrines dedicated to the river goddess. Visitors walk shaded paths to see riverside sanctuaries and monumental artworks.
Practical tip: attend the annual August festival, and dress modestly and respectfully.
Kano City Walls
Kano State. These medieval earthen walls, completed in the 14th century with around fifteen gates, once protected a major trading hub, and nearby markets reveal living history. Visitors can admire the Hausa architecture of the Gidan Rumfa Palace built in the 15th century, hike the Dala Hill, and explore the cultural Kurmi market.
Practical tip: visit during cooler mornings, and explore with a local guide.
Benin City
Edo State. Famous for its ancient bronze artistry and powerful royal history, the city is living history in modern times. Guests can visit the Oba Palace, museum and Ogba Zoo and Nature Park.
Practical tip: browse the bronze workshops on Igun Street, and budget for authentic souvenirs.
Lekki Conservation Centre
Lagos State. More than just a park, this is an ecosystem teeming with lush vegetation and wildlife. Walk one of Africa’s longest canopy walkways among monkeys, crocodiles and birdlife, an easy half-day ecotourism escape.
Practical tip: arrive early and carry insect repellent and drinking water.
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Quick Comparison Table
Place | State | Best For | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
Lagos | Lagos | Nightlife, beaches | Year-round |
Abuja | FCT | Modern landmarks | Year-round |
Calabar | Cross River | Carnival, history | December |
Obudu Mountain Resort | Cross River | Hiking | Nov–Mar |
Yankari Game Reserve | Bauchi | Wildlife | Nov–Mar |
Olumo Rock | Ogun | Cultural heritage | Nov–Mar |
Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls | Osun | Waterfalls | Nov–Mar |
Ikogosi Warm Springs | Ekiti | Relaxation | Nov–Mar |
Zuma Rock | Niger | Photography | Nov–Mar |
Idanre Hills | Ondo | Hilltop history | Nov–Mar |
Gashaka Gumti National Park | Adamawa/Taraba | Primates | Nov–Mar |
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove | Osun | UNESCO heritage | August |
Kano City Walls | Kano | History | Nov–Feb |
Benin City | Edo | Bronze art | Nov–Mar |
Lekki Conservation Centre | Lagos | Ecotourism | Nov–Mar |
Travel Tips
The best time to visit is the dry season, from November to March, when roads are smoother and wildlife is easier to spot. Follow safety tips, check government travel advisories, avoid night driving, and use trusted tour operators. Book accommodation early in popular areas, especially during festivals. Use ride-hailing apps in cities, and group nearby stops so the best places to visit in Nigeria fit one practical itinerary.
Nigeria truly rewards curious travellers with lively culture, thrilling wildlife and stunning scenery. Use this Nigeria travel guide to choose the best places to visit in Nigeria, plan around the dry season, and book your next adventure today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best places to visit in Nigeria for first-time visitors?
Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, Olumo Rock and Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls suit beginners because they offer good infrastructure, helpful tour operators and easy access.
What is the best time to visit Nigeria?
The dry season, November to March, is ideal for wildlife, hiking and road travel. December is perfect for Calabar’s carnival.
Is Nigeria safe for tourists?
Safety varies by region. Check government advisories, avoid night travel, hire local guides, and ask your accommodation for current updates.
What are the top tourist attractions in Nigeria for nature lovers?
Nature lovers should choose Yankari Game Reserve, Gashaka Gumti National Park, Lekki Conservation Centre, Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls and Ikogosi’s hot springs.
