Well, it may be sweet to explore some parts of the world, but the weather and other factors have to be considered.
For instance, the weather conditions in most Western cities are quite unfriendly at this period. This is because the western cities are not currently in summer, and many of such cities are experiencing extreme cold. The question is, would you love to enjoy your holiday in such “harsh” weather?
The PUNCH in this report highlights ten beautiful, cost-friendly places in Nigeria where you can enjoy your Christmas and New Year break with loved ones.
1. Yankari Game Reserve, Bauchi State
Yankari Game Reserve is a large wildlife park and former National Park located in the south-central part of Bauchi State, in northeastern Nigeria. It is home to several natural warm water springs, as well as a wide variety of flora and fauna.
According to a tourist who visited the game reserve, Ikechi Ugwoeje, the journey from Bauchi State capital to the Yankari Games Reserve is about 1hr:30mins, covering a distance of 110km.
We visited the museums and saw preserved skins, skulls, and skeletal systems of animals such as the wolf and cheetah. The reserve has hostel accommodation for researchers and tourists.
Another excursionist, Kingsley, the Yankari game reserve is a place he would recommend for nature lovers because there are about five natural warm springs in the reserve that would help one connect with nature, including the famous Wikki Warm Springs.
He further said that one will also find amazing trees and beautifully constructed huts alongside uncaged monkeys and baboons who are ready to break in and steal one’s food.
2. Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River State
Obudu Mountain Resort is known as Africa’s finest and one of the most beautiful places in Nigeria, the resort is located in the highlands and deep tropical forests of Cross River State.
Obudu has rich natural vegetation and a picturesque view, it is also becoming popular amongst tourists from all around Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
The ranch has numerous pleasant and beautiful mountain-area and country-side views, with a well-preserved and calm Serene to suit all our guests.
According to a tourist on Tripadvisor, Ajos G, who visited in September 2023, “Obudu is a great Resort and Holiday palace. Enjoy everything here. Beautiful! An amazing day and night. Very cold weather as though I am in London. I can’t wait for the next holidays to come for me and my family to visit once again.”
3. Ikogosi Warm Springs, Ekiti State
Ikogosi Warm Springs Resort & Conference Center is a haven of natural elegance and tropical luxury nestled in the enchanting town of Ikogosi in Ekiti State, Nigeria.
It has an awe-inspiring confluence of warm and cold-water springs, a rare and unparalleled gift of nature (where the warm and cold waters flow side by side but do not mix), which is the only one of its kind in the entire world, promising moments of astonishment and delight with every step.
According to a tourist on Tripadvisor, “Ikogosi is a tour for nature and history lovers. The environment is an awe. This place is budget friendly and there is a wait and get photographer. It is advisable to ask questions from the tour guides who are available and if they can not meet up with your queries, go to the reception and ask for the managers. This place is children-friendly.”
4. Idanre Hills, Ondo State
Idanre Hills is located in an ancient city set upon a hill in the city of Idanre Akure, Ondo State. Ensure you take the 682 steps it takes to get to the top of the hill and bask in the beautiful landscape of the city with your family.
A traveler, Livi King, on his experience of the hills, said, “Idanre hills is a destination of my heart. I have been there countless times, yet I never get tired of going back there. It is one of the destinations that puts together historical, cultural, traditional, and physical hiking experiences.
“Imagine a mountain with about 682 steps and five resting points. On the hills of Idanre lies a whole community that used to be the settlement region for the ancient people of Idanre; you’ll find a school that happens to be the first school in Idanre (St Paul’s Pry SCH), you’ll find a court, you’ll find a palace, you’ll find streams alongside many others.
“Idanre Hills is easy to navigate, and you’ll find hotels that meet your standards. Then most importantly, it’s a safe community, but visitors are always advised not to stay out late,” he added.
5. Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos State
LCC is a cool and nature-filled spot to hang out and picnic with friends and family.
Fun highlights include thrilling experiences on the longest canopy walkway in Africa, the famous 95-year-old giant tortoise, a giant chess board, nature-filled scenery with animals and plants, etc.
One Faith Njoku who has been there declared the place good, adding, “Travel friends, I kid you not, this conservation center holds hidden gems in the crux of its center. What is initially perceived as a form of an African-style safari soon becomes an adventure in waiting! My family and I truly enjoyed our time!
“We arrived a little after 11 am and were invited to sit in a quaint and cozy seating area. Within the rotunda-inspired bungalow, we enjoyed a brief history of the founding members who collectively invested in and created this private conservation center. Hitherto, we then connected with a local ice cream entrepreneur, and when I tell you the ice cream was melt-in-your-mouth savory goodness, I exaggerate not! The fresh cream is prepared from a nearby farm, and words cannot express how glad I am that these entrepreneurs were there,” she claimed.
6. Zuma Rock, Abuja
Zuma Rock is a large monolith near Abuja. Sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Abuja from Suleja”, Zuma rock is a large natural monolith located immediately west of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja. Be sure to go along with an experienced hiker when visiting this beautiful place in Nigeria.
A traveler, Iguana, said, “Zuma Rock is a large monolith near Abuja. Sometimes referred to as the “Gateway to Abuja from Suleja,” Zuma Rock is a large natural monolith located immediately west of Nigeria’s capital, Abuja. Be sure to go along with an experienced hiker when visiting this beautiful place in Nigeria.
7. Olumo Rock, Ogun State
Olumo Rock is located in the city of Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Historically, the rock was a natural fortress for the Egbas during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. It protected the Egba people when they needed it and is now held in high esteem by the members of the clan. The mountain, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria, sits in the heart of Abeokuta – a name that means “Under the rock” in the Yoruba language. The rock is 137 meters above sea level. Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the Egbas, whom the rock provided with sanctuary and gave a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance, leading to eventual triumph in war. The town of Abeokuta eventually grew as these new settlers spread out from this location.
Vicki, a tourist who visited in June 2023, noted that the place is highly recommended for those who want to see nature at its peak and learn about history.
She said, “Finally visited this famous Rock with Family and was really impressed. It was interesting to learn so much about how it came to be. We had a guide who led us up the Rock and told us the background and history behind it. There were some challenging places whilst climbing up but it was worth it when we got to the top where we could see the whole of Abeokuta and the views were fantastic. Lovely photos captured there as well. Highly Recommended!”
8. Awhum Waterfalls, Enugu State
The Awhum Waterfall is formed out of a massive outcrop of granite rock with water flowing at the top, forming a stream. The best time to visit is during the rainy season, so be sure to pack comfortable clothes and shoes and be prepared to get a little wet as you explore this beautiful place in Nigeria.
An anonymous traveler said, “Awhum waterfall is about four meters plus high, falling from the rock, it creates a part way for the waters. When we finally made our way to the waterfall, I was awed, so I thought to myself, how is this possible? This is the most astonishing thing I have ever seen. Oh my! The waterfall was majestic, magical, and gratifying. While we immersed ourselves in the Awhum charm, we didn’t feel like going again.”
9. Mpape Crushed Rock, Abuja
Mpape Crushed Rock is an abandoned quarry in Abuja. This beautiful place in Nigeria is such a picturesque location, perfect for a picnic with the family, a photoshoot, or a refreshing hike.
A tourist, Linda Michael, who visited the site three years ago, said, “I had an amazing rock climbing experience here. This is a beautiful spot for a picnic. It was such a beautiful view. However, the road is not so pretty, but endure till you get there. Just follow the map, and it will take you there.
“You would be expected to pay a token of N200 for tickets by the indigenes there. Aside from that, you are allowed to take in your food and drinks. You can also buy there as you would see individuals selling from food to drinks to snacks, shisha, etc.
“The experience won’t be complete without the rock climbing. That’s the fun and getting pictures. Be careful with your kids to avoid falls. I personally won’t advise taking your kids there, except you can keep a close eye on them. There is also a Waterside there. I attached pictures for you to see.
10. Nike Arts Gallery, Lagos State
Located in the Elegushi area of Lekki, the four-storey building showcases creative art pieces and a textile museum.
The state-of-the-art gallery is estimated to have 7,000 art pieces by various artists and curators.
A travel agency, Arinka, declared the gallery to be a very nice place to be.
