African Things To Do
Nigeria Travel Guide

Things to Do in Nigeria

Nigeria is a country of huge energy and variety: world-famous city life in Lagos, modern Abuja, beach escapes, powerful cultural heritage, and nature experiences from waterfalls to savannah wildlife. The best trips are built around a clear theme: City + Culture, City + Nature, or a short route focused on one region.

Lagos City Life Culture & Heritage Nature Escapes UNESCO Sites Food & Music
Important: Security conditions can vary a lot by state and can change quickly. Always check current official travel advisories before planning routes and activities.

Top Destinations in Nigeria

Pick 4–7 stops depending on your time. Nigeria is best when you keep the route simple and well-planned.

Lagos

Nigeria’s global city—music, food, nightlife, beaches, and nonstop energy.

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Abuja & Zuma Rock

Modern capital with easy day trips—Zuma Rock is one of Nigeria’s most famous natural landmarks.

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Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove (UNESCO)

A sacred forest landscape and cultural site recognized by UNESCO.

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Sukur Cultural Landscape (UNESCO)

A UNESCO-listed cultural landscape with deep history and traditional settlement patterns.

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Calabar

Friendly coastal city vibes and a popular base for exploring Cross River State.

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Obudu Mountain Resort Area

Cooler mountain scenery and a different side of Nigeria—best as a planned mini-escape.

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Olumo Rock (Abeokuta)

A classic landmark experience—great for history, views, and a simple day trip from Lagos.

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Erin Ijesha Waterfalls

One of Nigeria’s best-known waterfall escapes—fresh air, hiking, and nature photos.

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Idanre Hills

Dramatic hills and cultural landscapes—great for hikers and travelers who love viewpoints.

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Yankari Game Reserve

Savannah wildlife experience—best for travelers who want a nature-focused chapter.

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Lagos

Lagos is the heartbeat of modern Nigeria—big energy, big food, big culture. Plan your days around traffic and keep activities clustered by area.

  • Best experiences
    Food spots, city tours, beaches, arts & music nights
  • Best for
    First-time visitors who want “Nigeria’s energy”
  • Recommended time
    2–5 days
  • Good to know
    Start early, plan by neighborhood, and build buffer time

Abuja & Zuma Rock

Abuja feels more open and organized than Lagos, and it’s a great base for short scenic drives. Zuma Rock is one of the most recognizable natural landmarks near the capital.

  • Best experiences
    City viewpoints, relaxed restaurants, Zuma Rock photo stop
  • Best for
    Travelers who want a calmer city base
  • Recommended time
    1–3 days
  • Good to know
    Keep your day trips short and well-planned

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove (UNESCO)

A sacred forest on the outskirts of Osogbo with shrines, sculptures, and cultural paths along the Osun River—recognized by UNESCO.

  • Best experiences
    Guided walk, cultural interpretation, calm forest atmosphere
  • Best for
    Culture travelers and photographers
  • Recommended time
    Half-day to 1 day
  • Good to know
    Visit respectfully—this is a living sacred site

Sukur Cultural Landscape (UNESCO)

Sukur is a UNESCO-listed cultural landscape in Adamawa State. It’s a heritage destination that needs careful planning and strong local guidance.

  • Best experiences
    Cultural landscape, heritage context, traditional settlement views
  • Best for
    Heritage travelers (route planning matters)
  • Recommended time
    1–2 days (as part of a wider route)
  • Good to know
    Always check current travel guidance before planning this region

Calabar

Calabar is known for a friendly feel and is often used as a base for exploring Cross River State. It’s a good option for travelers who want a coastal atmosphere and local culture.

  • Best experiences
    City strolls, local cuisine, nearby nature and culture stops
  • Best for
    A calmer Nigeria chapter
  • Recommended time
    2–4 days
  • Good to know
    Plan transport in advance for day trips

Obudu Mountain Resort Area

Obudu is a popular “cooler climate” escape with mountain scenery—best for travelers who want a change from city heat and a nature-focused break.

  • Best experiences
    Mountain views, scenic relaxation, nature walks
  • Best for
    Couples, families, slow travel
  • Recommended time
    2–4 days
  • Good to know
    Confirm road conditions and logistics before you go

Olumo Rock (Abeokuta)

Olumo Rock is one of the easiest landmark day trips—great for views, history, and simple travel planning from Lagos.

  • Best experiences
    Viewpoints, local history, photo stops
  • Best for
    Day trip travelers
  • Recommended time
    Half-day to 1 day
  • Good to know
    Start early to avoid traffic

Erin Ijesha Waterfalls

A refreshing nature stop—waterfall levels, forest air, and simple hiking. Great for travelers who want a “green day” during a Nigeria trip.

  • Best experiences
    Hiking, waterfall photos, picnic-style day
  • Best for
    Nature lovers and weekend-style trips
  • Recommended time
    1 day
  • Good to know
    Wear proper shoes and bring water

Idanre Hills

Idanre Hills is for hikers and viewpoint lovers—dramatic scenery and a rewarding climb when conditions are right.

  • Best experiences
    Hiking, viewpoints, cultural landscape feel
  • Best for
    Active travelers
  • Recommended time
    1 day
  • Good to know
    Go early and avoid the hottest hours

Yankari Game Reserve

If you want a wildlife chapter, Yankari is one of the better-known options. Always plan with up-to-date local guidance and solid logistics.

  • Best experiences
    Nature drives, wildlife viewing, savannah scenery
  • Best for
    Nature-focused trips
  • Recommended time
    2–3 days
  • Good to know
    Confirm access and safety conditions before travel

Top Things To Do in Nigeria

Keep your plan focused: one big city base + 1–2 nature/culture day trips is often the best first experience.

  • Do a Lagos food & culture day
    Restaurants, markets, local art, and music vibes
  • Visit a UNESCO heritage site
    Osun-Osogbo for culture + nature in one place
  • Take a landmark day trip
    Olumo Rock or Zuma Rock for easy iconic photos
  • Plan a “green day”
    Waterfalls and hills for fresh air and hiking
  • Add a calm coastal chapter
    Calabar-style atmosphere for slower travel
  • Consider wildlife
    If you want nature travel, build a dedicated logistics plan

Sample Nigeria Itineraries

These are flexible ideas. Always adjust routes using current travel advisories and local guidance.

Trip Length Route Idea Best For
3–5 Days Lagos base + beach day + 1 day trip (Olumo Rock or nature) First-time quick visit
6–8 Days Lagos + cultural day + waterfalls/hills day + relaxed free day City + nature balance
7–10 Days Abuja base + Zuma Rock + 1–2 nature days + Lagos finish Capital + big city mix
10–14 Days Lagos + Osun-Osogbo (UNESCO) + Calabar + Obudu chapter Culture + coast + mountains

Best Time to Visit Nigeria

Nigeria can be visited year-round. Comfort depends on rainfall, heat, and your itinerary style.

  • City days
    Start early, cluster activities, and avoid peak traffic periods
  • Nature days
    Go early for cooler hiking and better photos
  • What to pack
    Light layers, sun protection, comfortable shoes
  • Route planning
    Build buffer time and confirm transport logistics

Nigeria Travel Tips

  • Check official travel advice
    Advisories can be region-specific and change quickly
  • Choose a strong base
    Lagos or Abuja + day trips keeps travel smoother
  • Plan transport carefully
    Pre-arrange drivers/tours for long routes
  • Keep valuables smart
    Normal precautions in busy urban areas
  • Respect local culture
    Dress and behavior should fit the local context
  • Don’t overpack your itinerary
    Nigeria is big—fewer stops feel better

FAQ – Nigeria Tours

How many days do I need in Nigeria?

For a first visit, 5–8 days is a strong start (one main city base + 2–3 day trips). For a multi-region trip (Lagos + Calabar/Obudu + heritage), plan 10–14 days.

What are Nigeria’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites?

Nigeria has two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Sukur Cultural Landscape and Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove.

Is Nigeria safe for tourists?

Safety can vary by state and can change quickly. Always check official travel advisories and plan with trusted local support before finalizing routes and activities.

Plan Your Nigeria Trip

Share your travel dates, number of travelers, and your style (city life, culture, nature, UNESCO heritage), and we’ll help you plan a smooth, realistic Nigeria itinerary.

Email

info@mtravelandtoursbi.com

Tell us: dates, travelers, preferred cities (Lagos/Abuja/Calabar), and your must-see highlights.

M Travel and Tours Burundi

Official website: https://mtravelandtoursbi.com

African Things To Do is owned and operated by M Travel and Tours Burundi.