Top destinations in Nigeria for first time backpackers

Backpacking in Nigeria has not really caught on, which is really surprising given that the country has a myriad of destinations - beautiful lakes, tropical countryside, large rocks, hills and mountains, rural city views, desertified north, lush middle belt savannas and so much more that are a call to eco-travel backpackers and flash-packers anywhere. However, there are some people who have backpacked through various parts of Nigeria and had a lot of fun doing so. Many of them have shared their experiences which are really inspiring and interesting and so, I have collated some of the best destinations in Nigeria that future backpackers should visit on their road trips.

The Osun Grove

Now, the Osun grove has a natural call to anyone who has an artistic heart and a mind for adventure. Dozens of shrines filled with sculptures, bas-reliefs and idols, amidst a flowing stream all in a forest grove. Who wouldn’t want to see that? The roads to the grove wind through the rainforests of Osogbo, an old Yoruba city. Backpackers revel in the beauty that this site holds. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Abeokuta

One of the oldest cities in Yoruba land, this city is mainly known for the rock which dominates the landscape. The Olumo rock is a major destination of backpackers who hike through Nigeria. Climb the rock overlooking the city, take pictures of the houses built on boulders and sample the hot and spicy Yoruba soups and stews with pounded yam (iyan).

Sukur Cultural landscape

This natural landscape is located on the Mandara Mountains of Adamawa state. These mountains are the highest point of Nigeria. The landscape features a palace, several huts and a planned village complete with terraced fields for rice and grain farming. The Sukur Cultural Landscape is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and it is no surprise that many backpackers hike all the way up the mountain just to see this view.

Obudu

Located in the tropical paradise that is the state of Cross River, Obudu is the tourism capital of Nigeria. Located in this village is the Obudu Cattle ranch also known as the Obudu Mountain resort. You do not need to visit the resort, as many backpackers say, you could climb the rolling hills and swim in the streams that thread the valleys without being disturbed. Obudu is a great place to end your tour as you climb down from the mountains, according to many backpackers.

So, there it is, the top destinations favoured by backpackers hiking through Nigeria. When are you setting out on yours?