
Top Wildlife Safaris & National Parks in Akure, Nigeria
1. Ipele Nature Park
Experience diverse flora and fauna in this serene park, home to several monkey species and vibrant birdlife.
- Unique Fauna: Home to rare primates like the Red Colobus Monkeys
- Birdwatching Paradise: Over 150 species of birds reside in the park
- Eco-tourism Opportunities: Educational and environmentally friendly tours available
2. Afonja Forest Reserve
Explore the lush Afonja Forest Reserve teeming with wildlife such as elephants and various primate species.
- Wild Elephant Sightings: Situated on the migratory route of elephants
- Primate Diversity: Home to multiple primate species including chimpanzees and baboons
- Guided Tours: Professional guides lead visitors through the forest
3. Obafemi Awolowo Wildlife Park
Witness a variety of African wildlife including lions, elephants, and giraffes at this expansive park.
- Iconic African Wildlife: Houses Africa's Big Five: Lions, Elephants, Rhinos, Leopards, and Cape Buffaloes
- Cultural Experience: Features traditional Yoruba artworks and sculptures
- Educational Programs: Offers workshops and talks on conservation efforts
4. Irule Forest Reserve
Venture into the dense Irule Forest Reserve to observe diverse wildlife such as chimpanzees, duikers, and various bird species.
- Chimpanzee Sanctuary: One of the few places in Nigeria with a thriving population of chimpanzees
- Birdwatching Opportunities: More than 200 bird species reside in the forest
- Guided Expeditions: Professional guides lead visitors on expeditions into the heart of the forest
5. Owo Forest Reserve
Journey through Owo Forest Reserve to observe the vibrant birdlife and various monkey species.
- Birdwatching Haven: More than 180 bird species reside in the forest
- Monkey Populations: Home to multiple monkey species including the Green Monkeys and Vervet Monkeys
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the forest
6. Ikare Hill Reserve
Hike up Ikare Hill to observe various bird species and take in stunning panoramic views of Akure.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: More than 100 bird species can be spotted from the hill
- Panoramic Views: Offers breathtaking vistas of Akure and its surroundings
- Hiking Trails: Well-marked hiking trails guide visitors up the hill
7. Idanre Hill Reserve
Explore Idanre Hill Reserve to witness diverse wildlife and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: More than 150 bird species can be spotted from the hill
- Historical Sites: Features ancient ruins and traditional shrines
- Hiking Trails: Well-marked hiking trails guide visitors through the reserve
8. Ijare Hill Reserve
Traverse Ijare Hill Reserve to observe diverse wildlife and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
- Birdwatching Opportunities: More than 100 bird species can be spotted from the hill
- Historical Sites: Features ancient ruins and traditional shrines
- Hiking Trails: Well-marked hiking trails guide visitors through the reserve
9. Ilesha Forest Reserve
Embark on a journey through Ilesha Forest Reserve to witness diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty.
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous bird species, primates, and small mammals
- Natural Beauty: Features lush vegetation, clear streams, and towering trees
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the forest
10. Owena River National Park
Visit Owena River National Park to observe diverse wildlife and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the river.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to numerous bird species, crocodiles, and other aquatic life
- River Cruises: Offers guided river cruises for wildlife viewing
- Natural Beauty: Featuring lush vegetation, towering trees, and the picturesque Owena River
11. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
Explore the spiritual Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, filled with Yoruba art and wildlife.
- Spiritual Significance: A sacred site for the Yoruba people
- Yoruba Art and Culture: Features numerous traditional sculptures and artworks
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Serves as a sanctuary for various wildlife species
12. Ikogosi Warm Springs
Marvel at the Ikogosi Warm Springs, where warm and cool waters coexist, and enjoy the surrounding wildlife.
- Geological Wonder: A natural phenomenon where warm and cool water mix
- Wildlife Sanctuary: Surrounded by a wildlife sanctuary teeming with diverse species
- Therapeutic Properties: Believed to have therapeutic properties for various ailments
13. Awobata Forest Reserve
Venture into Awobata Forest Reserve to observe diverse wildlife and take in the beauty of this pristine environment.
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous bird species, primates, and small mammals
- Natural Beauty: Featuring lush vegetation, clear streams, and towering trees
- Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through the forest
14. Ilesha Forest Reserve - Owa's Sugar Plantation
Discover the historical Ilesha Forest Reserve-Owa's Sugar Plantation, a unique blend of history and wildlife.
- Historical Significance: Once the site of a thriving sugar plantation during the colonial era
- Biodiversity: Home to numerous bird species, primates, and small mammals
- Natural Beauty: Featuring lush vegetation, clear streams, and towering trees
15. Ilesha River Basin Development Authority
Experience the Ilesha River Basin Development Authority, a hub for wildlife and scenic beauty.
- Wildlife Diversity: Home to numerous bird species, crocodiles, and other aquatic life
- River Cruises: Offers guided river cruises for wildlife viewing
- Natural Beauty: Featuring lush vegetation, towering trees, and the picturesque Ilesha River