40+ Must-see Tourist Attractions in Nigeria and their Locations

tourist attraction in Nigeria

Nigeria, the most populous country in Africa, stands as an undiscovered gem for tourists, boasting extensive coastlines, verdant mountains, rich cultural traditions, and captivating attractions.

From sacred sites to historic cities in the north, from serene river deltas to the vibrant Yoruba kingdoms and Igbo territories, Nigeria offers a plethora of diverse landscapes and experiences to enthral every visitor. Here, we unveil 30 top tourist attractions across the country:

1. Ibeno Beach

Located in Ibeno, Akwa Ibom State, Ibeno Beach stretches over 245km along a pristine sandbank. It offers a tranquil retreat for leisure seekers, with its roaring waves, sunbathing spots, unpolluted mangrove forests, and refreshing sea breeze.

2. Obudu Mountain Resort

Located atop the Oshie Ridge in the Sankwala Mountains of Cross River State, Obudu Mountain Resort offers breathtaking views, a temperate climate, and a serene ambience, making it a sought-after destination for tourists.

3. Ngwo Pine Forest

Situated in Ngwo, Enugu State, Ngwo Pine Forest is a captivating natural wonder, characterized by its unique forest landscape, meandering streams, and picturesque pine trees, providing an ideal setting for adventure and relaxation.

4. Awhum Waterfall

Located in Awhum, Enugu State, Awhum Waterfall is renowned for its pristine lakes, cascading waters, and serene monastery surroundings, offering visitors a tranquil and spiritual retreat.

5. Arochukwu Long Juju Slave Route

In Arochukwu, Abia State, the Long Juju Slave Route beckons tourists to explore its sacred altar, ancient temple, and historic landmarks, including the shrine of Ibn Ukpabi and the cult monument of Kamula.

6. The Giant Footprint of Ukhuse Oke

Embedded in a sacred grove between Ukhuse-oke and Ukhuseosi villages in Owan, Edo State, the Giant Footprint of Ukhuse Oke features prehistoric footprints permanently etched on flat granite rocks, bridging the gap between ancient lore and modern fascination.

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7. Port Harcourt Tourist Beach

Situated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach offers a tranquil retreat from city life. With its stunning natural beauty and sandy shores along Kolabi Creek, it provides the perfect setting for relaxation and leisure activities.

8. Gashaki-Gumpti National Park

Situated within the Chappal Wadi, Mountain, and Windy Mountain ranges in Taraba State, Gashaki-Gumpti National Park offers a glimpse into Nigeria’s medieval history and diverse wildlife, spanning vast landscapes and ecosystems.

9. Alok Ikom Monoliths

Location: Ikom, Cross River State The Alok Ikom Monoliths stand tall in Ikom, Cross River State, captivating visitors with their awe-inspiring presence. Comprising approximately 300 carved stones adorned with intricate images and texts, these monoliths are a testament to ancient civilizations and serve as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

10. Isaac Boro Garden Park

Located in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, the Isaac Boro Garden Park is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Situated near the Mile One Bridge along the old GRA, it offers recreational activities, cultural events, and a tranquil ambiance, making it a must-visit attraction in Nigeria.

11. The Tinapa Free Zone & Resort

Nestled in Calabar, Cross River State, the Tinapa Free Zone & Resort blends the charm of Calabar with rich cultural experiences. Offering entertainment venues, retail spaces, and a vibrant nightlife, it provides visitors with a memorable and immersive experience.

12. Osun-Osogbo Grove

Located along the Oshun River in Oshogbo, Osun State, Osun-Osogbo Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its sacred shrines, sculptures, and artworks dedicated to the goddess of fertility, Osun.

13. The Emotan Statue

Dominating the landscape opposite Oba Market in Benin City, Edo State, the Emotan Statue stands as a symbol of royalty and cultural heritage, attracting visitors with its majestic presence.

14. The Royal Palace Of Oba Of Benin

Central to Benin City, Edo State, the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin is a UNESCO-listed heritage site housing a vast collection of sculptural pieces, ancestral shrines, and ivory artifacts, showcasing the rich history of the Benin Kingdom.

15. Sukur Cultural Landscape

Perched atop the Mandara Mountains in Madageli, Adamawa State, the Sukur Cultural Landscape features traditional cemeteries and terraced areas, offering a glimpse into ancient rituals and architectural marvels as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

16. Queen Amina’s Wall

Standing as a testament to ancient fortifications, Queen Amina’s Wall surrounds the city of Zaria, Kaduna State, reflecting the military prowess and strategic genius of Queen Amina of Zaria.

17. Surame Cultural Landscape

Located in Surame, Sokoto State, Surame Cultural Landscape showcases human ingenuity and civilization with its stone walls and village palace, serving as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to ancient architectural achievements.

18. Oban Hills, Cross River State

Bordering Korup National Park in Cameroon, Oban Hills in Cross River State is home to diverse wildlife and rare species, including the Xavier’s Green Bull and over 400 chimpanzees, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

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19. Oke-Idanre Hill

Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Oke-Idanre Hill in Ondo State boasts spectacular valleys, sacred sites, and the Owa’s palace, providing visitors with a glimpse into the region’s cultural and historical significance.

20. Ogbunike Caves, Enugu State

With its historical and spiritual significance, Ogbunike Caves in Anambra State feature intricate cave formations accessible via 317 steps, offering visitors a journey into Nigeria’s ancient past as a UNESCO Heritage Site.

21. Ancient Kano City Walls

Protecting the medieval city of Kano, the Ancient Kano City Walls stand as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, spanning 14km and embodying spiritual, cultural, and historical significance, alongside the Emir’s Palace.

22. Coconut Beach

Nestled in Badagry, Lagos State, Coconut Beach offers stunning ocean views amidst coconut trees, providing a tranquil escape and a glimpse into Nigeria’s colonial history.

23. Bar Beach

Located on Victoria Island, Lagos, Bar Beach offers a serene coastline experience, perfect for relaxation, oceanfront walks, and occasional events, drawing visitors with its scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere.

24. Millennium Park

As Abuja’s largest public park in the Maitama district, Millennium Park offers recreational activities, green spaces, and a serene environment for families and visitors, symbolizing Nigeria’s progress and unity.

25. Nana Living History Museum

Situated in Warri, Delta State, the Nana Living History Museum showcases the legacy of Chief Nana Olomu Ebrohimi, offering insights into Nigeria’s 19th-century history and cultural heritage.

26. The Ancient Nok Settlement

Located in Jaba Local Government Area, Kaduna State, the Ancient Nok Settlement houses archaeological treasures, including the iconic Terracotta figurines, providing a window into Nigeria’s ancient civilizations.

27. New Afrika Shrine

As the successor to the original Shrine, New Afrika Shrine in Ikeja, Lagos State, celebrates the musical legacy of Fela Kuti, offering live performances, cultural events, and a vibrant atmosphere for music enthusiasts.

28. Abuja Arts And Crafts Village

Situated in Abuja’s Central Business District, behind Silverbird Cinema, Abuja Arts and Crafts Village showcases local handicrafts, artworks, and cultural artifacts, providing visitors with a glimpse into Nigeria’s artistic heritage.

29. Kainji National Park

Established in 1978, Kainji National Park spans three sectors in Kwara and Niger States, offering diverse ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and recreational opportunities, including the scenic Kainji Lake.

30. Yankari National Park

Yankari National Park, located in Bauchi State, has established itself as Nigeria’s most developed wildlife park, offering an array of attractions year-round. From November to May, visitors can witness a diverse range of animals congregating around the Gaji River, including baboons, waterbucks, elephants, and crocodiles. The park’s highlight, Wikki Warm Springs, provides a refreshing swimming experience both day and night.

31.  Azumini Blue River Rose

Located in Abia State near its boundary with Akwa Ibom State, the Azumini Blue River has emerged as a popular tourist destination due to its serene and pleasant atmosphere.

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Tourists are drawn to the river’s crystal-clear blue waters, offering opportunities for canoe rides and strolls along its sandy beaches equipped with relaxation amenities such as chairs and tables. Additionally, visitors can indulge in delicious BBQ grills while enjoying a picnic by the beach.

32. The Long JuJu Shrine of Arochukwu

Arochukwu is renowned as a prominent tourist destination, with its Long JuJu Shrine serving as a focal point of interest. Believed to house the long metal pipe through which the gods communicate with the people, the shrine holds significant cultural and religious importance.

Visitors, especially those interested in traditional religion, can explore the shrine’s well-organized administrative structure led by a Chief Priest.

33. Yola Municipality

Yola, the capital of Adamawa State in the North-Eastern region of Nigeria, is characterized by its picturesque landscape dominated by hill chains, notably the iconic Three Sister Hills. These hills, standing side by side at the same height, add to the town’s scenic beauty.

Yola’s cultural vibrancy peaks between March and May during the annual fishing festival held at Lake Njuwa, offering visitors a unique cultural experience.

34. Rojenny Tourist Village

Rojenny Village, located on the outskirts of Onitsha in Anambra State, is a premier tourist resort offering a wide range of attractions. From amusement parks and joy rides to sporting facilities and relaxation amenities, the village caters to visitors seeking leisure and entertainment.

35. Igbo-Ukwu

Situated in an ancient town, Igbo-Ukwu in Anambra State has captivated tourists with its priceless bronze artifacts dating back to the 9th century. Discovered in 1938 and later excavated by English archaeologist Thurstan Shaw, these artifacts hold immense historic and cultural significance.

36. The Hills of Benue

Benue State, situated in the middle belt region of Nigeria, boasts a landscape adorned with hills of various sizes and scenic beauty. From the mild weather conditions of Ikyogen Hills to the historical significance of Swern Hills, each hill offers a unique experience for tourists and adventurers alike.

37. Lake Chad

Occupying a strategic location in Borno State, Lake Chad serves as a vital resource for agricultural and economic activities, attracting tourists from Nigeria and neighboring countries. Boating opportunities and visits to fishing villages are popular among tourists eager to explore the lake’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

38. Agbokim Waterfalls

Situated in Cross River State, Agbokim Waterfalls offers visitors a captivating sight amidst lush green vegetation. Less than 30km from Ikom, the falls provide an ideal setting for picnics and leisurely outings, surrounded by the soothing sounds of cascading water.

39. Sillicon Hill

Located near the Nkpologu campus of the Enugu State University of Science and Technology (ESUT), Sillicon Hill is a significant mineral deposit known for its silica content, used in the manufacture of glass. With its breathtaking views of hills, valleys, and plains, the surrounding environment adds to its allure.

40. Mbari Cultural Centres

Mbari Cultural Centre, located in Owerri and Aboh Mbaise, Imo State, showcases robust art manifestations depicting the social life and deities of the Igbo people. From symbolic sculptures to representations of earth goddesses and thunder gods, the centre offers visitors insight into Igbo aesthetics and culture.

41. Oguta Lake Holiday Complex

Situated in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, the Oguta Lake Holiday Complex is a freshwater lake renowned as the second largest natural lake in Nigeria. Boasting a golf course, a relic of war, natural confluence, cruise boat services, and recreational parks, the complex offers a range of attractions for visitors to enjoy.

42. Birnin Kudu Rock Painting

Birnin Kudu town in Jigawa State is famed for its ancient rock paintings, offering valuable insights into the styles and traditions of early settlers in the area. The diverse paintings serve as eloquent testimony to the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Source: Legit.ng, Travelstart.com.ng, Onlinenigeria.com

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