5 (more) places I can’t wait to explore in Nigeria

When I first started this blog a few years ago, I penned down a list of 5 places I was looking forward to visiting in Nigeria. They included Obudu Mountain Resort, Ikogosi Warm Springs, Yankari Game Reserve, Awhum Cave & Waterfalls and Osun Oshogbo Grove.

Obudu Cattle Ranch1

As you have probably guessed from the locations I included a hyperlink for, I have visited only two places from that list. I don’t feel too bad though because I have ended up visiting so many other places that weren’t on my initial list. (Including Kajuru Castle in Kaduna, Oowu Waterfalls & environs in Kwara, Epe Mangroves in Lagos, just to name a few…)

Update: Visited Osun Oshogbo Grove now 🙂 Read about my trip here

I have decided to revisit my former list and in addition to the three other places I haven’t been to yet, here are 5 more places I can’t wait to visit in Nigeria…

Zaria, Kaduna

Durbar
Photo Credit: Suzan of Waka Waka Chronicles

I want to visit Zaria for several reasons. The Durbar Festival and the beautiful walls of the Emir’s Palace are just some of them. I also think the Northern Nigeria landscape and architecture are gorgeous. When I was younger, I spent some holidays in Jos and Minna. My memories of these places are priceless. I’m definitely looking forward to revisiting them.

River Ethiope, Abraka, Delta

river ethiopePhoto Credit: Enefa for Artsy Moments

When I saw pictures of River Ethiope on Enefa’s, and Unravelling Nigeria travel blogs, I knew it was going on my ‘to-visit’ list. The river looks so serene, Enefa’s pictures make me want to jump right in. But I think a boat ride will suffice when I get the chance to visit.

Gurara Waterfalls

Gurara Falls
Photo Credit: Social Prefect

I can’t tell you enough how much I love waterfalls. It would be a dream come true to visit Gurara. Fortunately, this falls is only about one hour away from Abuja. I’m looking forward to my next trip to the country’s capital and hopefully, I can make a detour to see one of Nigeria’s most impressive waterfalls.

Tarkwa Bay, Lagos

Tarkwa Bay Lagos
Photo Credit: Enefa for Artsy Moments

Tarkwa Bay has been on my list for quite a while now. I think it’s time I checked it off, especially seeing as I live very close by. My main interest isn’t the beach – which is weird, but for reasons I can’t explain, I’m really keen on seeing the old lighthouse there.

Tarkwa Bay 1I also want to learn to surf at some point and Tarkwa Bay is probably the best place to do that in Lagos.

Ngwo Pine Forest, Enugu

ngwo pine forest
Photo Credit: Enefa for Artsy Moments

I haven’t explored Eastern Nigeria as much as I would love to, even though I have visited nearly all the states there. I am hoping the next time I visit Enugu, I would have enough time to make a stop at the Ngwo Pine Forest and the caves close by.

So there you have it; a list of 5 additional places I can’t wait to visit in Nigeria. Have you been to any of these places before? What was your experience like?

And if not, what places are you looking forward to visiting in Nigeria? Let me know in the comment section below…
Places to visit in Nigeria

21 comments

  1. Hi Amarachi,

    I’m a photographer based in Lagos. I’d love us to work together hopefully. Kindly contact me via mail

    Thanks.

  2. Love the list! I haven’t been to any of these places, but from your list I would love to visit Zaria…kindly drag me along when you are going!

    Then I also want to visit Calabar and Jos before the year runs out…seeing as that is like 7 weeks away…fingers crossed for the stunt I will have to pull.

    Kajuru Castle is def on the list, Ilorin and finally Port Harcourt (I will like to see an oil rig)

    1. You can do it! haha.. Besides, Calabar is buzzing in December, that’s one of the best times to visit. When the election season drama dies down, we could embark on a Northern Nigerian tour.

      As for rigs in PH, they are typically far out into the sea… (the drillships are the coolest) but you know, you could see those in Lagos as well? There are two jackup rigs just sitting idle in Marina. I have always wondered if they allowed visitors (or even students in the O&G field) to come check it out. Maybe we could try to make inquiries…

      1. Yayyyy to a Northern NIgeria trip…totally down for that.
        Will buzz you about the rigs in Marina.

  3. I’ve not been to any place on this list but I’d love to go to Ngwo Pine Forest, Enugu

  4. I’ve only been to Takwa bay; I will love to visit Zaria too, I saw it on Susuan’s Instagram page and I’ve been dreaming of how and when it’s going to be possible to experience the Durban festival, I also look forward to the pine forest in Enugu ever since I read about the place on the ajalabug blog.

    1. Thanks for your comment, Busayo. Susan captured Northern Nigeria and the festival beautifully. I just read about Maggie’s trip on her blog. Her account was hilarious! So many great tips though, will keep that in mind for when I visit.

  5. Lovely list but I look forward to visit gurara waterfall and kajuru castle is still on my list too… But about the river in Abrams, Delta I will check on it online to see how fascinating it is. Lots and lots of beautiful places to visit in Nigeria. Have you heard of Ayankulugba waterfall, you will love it but it in a very remote area. Have not been there either but on my list soon.

    1. Thanks for your comment, Makanjuola. I haven’t heard of that waterfall, which state is it in? I’ll try to check it out too. Thanks for the suggestion.

  6. Please I want to visit Kajuru castle Kaduna but I hear u have to rent the whole place which is about 250,000. Is there a tour company that organize for people to visit there at cheaper rates?

    1. Hi Nnenna, that price is for a group of 12 to stay overnight (may have changed by now too). You can find more info for day trips here: https://www.travelwithapen.com/kajuru-castle-need-know-plan-trip/

      Regarding tours going to Kajuru, none of the people I know currently have that but I’m sure if you look around the internet/Instagram, you might find an operator going there. Alternatively, you could contact Bauchi Friends on IG to ask if they can organize a private tour for you and your friends.

  7. I have been to Tarkwa Bay and hopefully should be visiting Ngwo Pine. I am also looking forward to climbing Mount Patti in Kogi State😊

    1. I’ll be texting you for tips on how to get to TB. Let me know when you plan to visit Mount Patti and Ngwo. If our schedules align, I could join you then.

I love to hear from you, Leave a comment here!

Close
Here's how I would spend 7 days in Thailand! ✈️🍃

Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
Day 2: Spend a day in Bangkok exploring the city and her temples
Day 3: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai + explore the temples and city 
Day 4: Drive to Chiang Mai and explore the city and night markets 
Day 5: More explorations in Chiang Mai
Day 6: Fly to Phuket
Day 7: Do an Island hopping trip

Head home! 🥰

----------------------

I spent 16 days in Thailand in March and it was amazing! Could have easily stayed longer. So if you can, plan for longer than 7 days 😉

How would you spend 7 days in Thailand? 👇🏾💬
Here's how I would spend 7 days in Thailand! ✈️🍃 Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok Day 2: Spend a day in Bangkok exploring the city and her temples Day 3: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai + explore the temples and city Day 4: Drive to Chiang Mai and explore the city and night markets Day 5: More explorations in Chiang Mai Day 6: Fly to Phuket Day 7: Do an Island hopping trip Head home! 🥰 ---------------------- I spent 16 days in Thailand in March and it was amazing! Could have easily stayed longer. So if you can, plan for longer than 7 days 😉 How would you spend 7 days in Thailand? 👇🏾💬
16 hours ago
View on Instagram |
1/9
So I "listened" to you all and revised this to a very high level guide.

Generally, it seems there are more options for shoulder season travel in February, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November).

July and August are typically busy times or have heavy rains in some places.

Once again, this is a rough guide, okay? 😅. Happy Travels!
So I "listened" to you all and revised this to a very high level guide. Generally, it seems there are more options for shoulder season travel in February, Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). July and August are typically busy times or have heavy rains in some places. Once again, this is a rough guide, okay? 😅. Happy Travels!
1 day ago
View on Instagram |
2/9
This staycation gave me everything I love about travel! Stunning views of Kilimanjaro, peaceful moments with wildlife, and an eco-luxury lodge, right in the heart of Amboseli! ✨️

A staycation that felt like a dream safari. No airport queues, no jet lag - just pure magic a few hours from home!

📍Tawi Lodge, Amboseli, Kenya 🇰🇪 
👉🏽 Save this if you're planning a local escape 👣
This staycation gave me everything I love about travel! Stunning views of Kilimanjaro, peaceful moments with wildlife, and an eco-luxury lodge, right in the heart of Amboseli! ✨️ A staycation that felt like a dream safari. No airport queues, no jet lag - just pure magic a few hours from home! 📍Tawi Lodge, Amboseli, Kenya 🇰🇪 👉🏽 Save this if you're planning a local escape 👣
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
3/9
🌤 Everyone visits and loves Chiang Mai! No hate here - I actually loved it too! But have you heard about Chiang Rai (and I don't just mean the White Temple alone)

We stayed here for two days and honestly loved it so much! Getting to visit the city's main temples and a few lesser known ones before the day trip crowd arrived was blissful!🍃✨️

We loved the beautiful cafés and restaurants and the slower pace of life. Most places were never crowded - even during peak hours. I would certainly revisit if I had the choice!

What about you? Have you been to Chiang Rai? Let me know in the comments!

‐---------------

Hi! 👋🏽 I'm a Nigerian Travel Blogger based in Kenya 🇰🇪, showing you how to travel well (even with your 9-5!). If you love underrated travel destinations, detailed travel guides and itinerary + cost breakdowns, you've found the right account! Let's explore together! ✈️
🌤 Everyone visits and loves Chiang Mai! No hate here - I actually loved it too! But have you heard about Chiang Rai (and I don't just mean the White Temple alone) We stayed here for two days and honestly loved it so much! Getting to visit the city's main temples and a few lesser known ones before the day trip crowd arrived was blissful!🍃✨️ We loved the beautiful cafés and restaurants and the slower pace of life. Most places were never crowded - even during peak hours. I would certainly revisit if I had the choice! What about you? Have you been to Chiang Rai? Let me know in the comments! ‐--------------- Hi! 👋🏽 I'm a Nigerian Travel Blogger based in Kenya 🇰🇪, showing you how to travel well (even with your 9-5!). If you love underrated travel destinations, detailed travel guides and itinerary + cost breakdowns, you've found the right account! Let's explore together! ✈️
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
4/9
Here's how I would spend 7 days in Thailand! ✈️🍃

Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok
Day 2: Spend a day in Bangkok exploring the city and her temples
Day 3: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai + explore the temples and city 
Day 4: Drive to Chiang Mai and explore the city and night markets 
Day 5: More explorations in Chiang Mai
Day 6: Fly to Phuket
Day 7: Do an Island hopping trip

Head home!

I spent 16 days in Thailand in March and it was amazing! Could have easily stayed longer. So if you can, plan for longer than 7 days 😉

How would you spend 7 days in Thailand? 👇🏾💬
Here's how I would spend 7 days in Thailand! ✈️🍃 Day 1: Arrive in Bangkok Day 2: Spend a day in Bangkok exploring the city and her temples Day 3: Fly from Bangkok to Chiang Rai + explore the temples and city Day 4: Drive to Chiang Mai and explore the city and night markets Day 5: More explorations in Chiang Mai Day 6: Fly to Phuket Day 7: Do an Island hopping trip Head home! I spent 16 days in Thailand in March and it was amazing! Could have easily stayed longer. So if you can, plan for longer than 7 days 😉 How would you spend 7 days in Thailand? 👇🏾💬
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
5/9
🧳✈️ Where to Travel Month by Month (Shoulder to Late Shoulder Season Edition) 🌍

Plan smarter with this month-by-month shoulder season travel guide! I've rounded up the best countries to visit when the weather is still great - without the tourist rush!

The only anomalies here are the December locations cos of the cold and holidays. But Christmas season in the US can be magical and early December (outside holidays) can be a great time to visit these places. So definitely worth going then if you have a more flexible budget.

Also, July and August are peak months virtually everywhere because of school holidays. So plan for early days or visit lesser known cities and attractions to get the most out of those months 🥰

This is how to travel with fewer crowds, better deals, and epic experiences all year round! 🌤🍃

Did I miss out on any fantastic destination to visit in shoulder season? Let me know below! 👇🏾💬
🧳✈️ Where to Travel Month by Month (Shoulder to Late Shoulder Season Edition) 🌍 Plan smarter with this month-by-month shoulder season travel guide! I've rounded up the best countries to visit when the weather is still great - without the tourist rush! The only anomalies here are the December locations cos of the cold and holidays. But Christmas season in the US can be magical and early December (outside holidays) can be a great time to visit these places. So definitely worth going then if you have a more flexible budget. Also, July and August are peak months virtually everywhere because of school holidays. So plan for early days or visit lesser known cities and attractions to get the most out of those months 🥰 This is how to travel with fewer crowds, better deals, and epic experiences all year round! 🌤🍃 Did I miss out on any fantastic destination to visit in shoulder season? Let me know below! 👇🏾💬
2 days ago
View on Instagram |
6/9
Is this you?

- You're a Nigerian passport holder 🇳🇬
- Tired of expensive and tasking visa applications 
- Looking to explore somewhere new or build your travel history 
- Exploring Asia soon?

Consider adding Hong Kong 🇭🇰 to your itinerary! HK currently issues evisas to Nigerian citizens and the best part? You pay nothing until it is approved! But be sure to apply early. Because even though the visa is cheap and easy to apply for, it can take a while to be processed!

Happy Travels! 🇭🇰
Is this you? - You're a Nigerian passport holder 🇳🇬 - Tired of expensive and tasking visa applications - Looking to explore somewhere new or build your travel history - Exploring Asia soon? Consider adding Hong Kong 🇭🇰 to your itinerary! HK currently issues evisas to Nigerian citizens and the best part? You pay nothing until it is approved! But be sure to apply early. Because even though the visa is cheap and easy to apply for, it can take a while to be processed! Happy Travels! 🇭🇰
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
7/9
Staying overnight in Hakone was the best decision I made during my trip to Japan! ⛩️

Lines? What lines??! I rode on the pirate ship without any - plus it was empty. No lines for the cable cars either! The Hakone pass came in handy for that! I visited the open air museum and it was delightful. 

And this shrine and torii? I watched a most gorgeous sunrise over the lake. Just me and a crow! It was magical! ✨️

A day trip from Tokyo is possible but an overnight trip? That's the way to do it!
Staying overnight in Hakone was the best decision I made during my trip to Japan! ⛩️ Lines? What lines??! I rode on the pirate ship without any - plus it was empty. No lines for the cable cars either! The Hakone pass came in handy for that! I visited the open air museum and it was delightful. And this shrine and torii? I watched a most gorgeous sunrise over the lake. Just me and a crow! It was magical! ✨️ A day trip from Tokyo is possible but an overnight trip? That's the way to do it!
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
8/9
How's this for a hotel send off?🥹
How's this for a hotel send off?🥹
3 days ago
View on Instagram |
9/9
Latest Posts
  • Slow Days in Fast-Paced Tokyo

  • A Serene Weekend at Tawi Lodge, Amboseli

  • Top 10 Easiest Countries for Nigerians to Visit (Visa-Free or Easy Visa)

  • 1000 Days of Learning Swahili – I Quit!

  • A Quiet Spring Day in Matsumoto

Translate
Become an Insider!
Archives
Close

Travel with a Pen

Seek out New Adventures, Travel Differently

Travel with a Pen © Copyright 2025
Close