Moro Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more in Moro, a cultural and natural gem in Nigeria.


Introduction to Moro

Nestled in the heart of Kwara State, North Central Nigeria, Moro is a picturesque and culturally rich destination for travelers seeking an authentic African experience. The town features stunning natural landscapes, historical landmarks, and a vibrant local culture that give visitors a taste of the region’s past and present.

From hiking to biking, exploring museums and historical sites, indulging in local cuisine, and learning about traditional customs, Moro has something to offer for every type of traveler. Plus, with easily accessible transportation options, venturing to Moro is an adventure that is both convenient and enjoyable.

In this tour guide, we’ll introduce you to Moro’s top attractions, food and drink scene, accommodations, and practical travel tips, so you can plan the perfect trip to this beautiful part of Nigeria.

List of Places to Visit in Moro

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Museum of Illorin Emirate: This museum provides a deep dive into the region’s rich history and is packed with artifacts, documents, and relics that showcase the emirate’s past glory. It is a must-visit destination for culture seekers.
  • Owala River: A spectacular scenic wonder that lies in the heart of Moro. The river provides an opportunity for visitors to take in amazing views, cool off in the water, or try their fishing skills.
  • Oke-Mesenger Hill: This hill has a breathtaking panoramic view of Ilorin, and on a clear day, visitors can see beyond the city. It’s a great location to take memorable photographs and enjoy nature.

Natural Attractions of Moro: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Esa Cave and Waterfall: This natural wonder is located in the heart of Moro and is a must-visit destination for lovers of nature. The hike to the waterfall is relatively easy and provides stunning views of the lush green forest along the way.
  • Okuokoko Hills: A haven for hikers and outdoors enthusiasts. The hills are about 500 meters in height, and the trails are surrounded by beautiful flora and fauna.
  • Ogunjokoro Olumo Rock: At over 120 meters above sea level, this impressive rock formation is a sight to behold. Climbing to the top of this rock is an adventure worth taking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Moro

  • Omi-Dam: A man-made dam located within the town, it is an excellent location for cycling and hiking.
  • Esa Cave and Waterfall: The hike to the waterfall is an easy route that leads through lush green forests and across a small stream

Best Things to Do in Moro: Activities and Tours

  • Go on a Safari Tour of the Guiana Game Reserve: Book a tour of the reserve, which is a sanctuary for African wildlife such as antelopes, monkeys, hyenas, and others. Visitors will be able to observe the animals from a safe distance, in their natural habitat.
  • Visit the Museum of Illorin Emirate: One of the most notable landmarks in Moro, the Museum is packed with artifacts and documents that highlight the region’s rich history.
  • Go Kayaking on Owala River: A great way to take in stunning views of Moro and get some exercise at the same time.

Week-Long Itinerary for Moro

Day Morning Afternoon Evening
1 Arrive in Moro, Check into Accommodation, Visit the Museum of Illorin Emirate Lunch in a Local Eatery Visit Oke-Mesenger Hill for Sunset Views
2 Hike to Esa Cave and Waterfall Lunch at the Waterfall Return to Accommodation
3 Safari tour of Guiana Game Reserve Lunch at Reserve Return to Accommodation
4 Spend the day Kayaking on Owala River Lunch at the Waterfront Return to the Accommodation
5 Visit Okuokoko Hills Lunch at the hills Return to accommodation
6 Explore Ogunjokoro Olumo Rock Lunch at nearby eatery Return to accommodation
7 Explore the town and buy souvenirs Have lunch at a local restaurant Depart Moro for next destination

Food and Drink Scene of Moro

Must-Try Dishes

  • Suya: A Nigerian dish consisting of meat that is marinated in spices and barbequed over an open flame. It is usually served with spicy pepper sauce, onions, and tomatoes.
  • Jollof Rice: A classic Nigerian dish made with rice, vegetables, and spices. It is often served at special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and other celebrations.
  • Pounded Yam: A popular West African dish made by boiling yam and pounding it until it is smooth. It is usually served as a side dish to soup or sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Zobo: A sweet and tangy drink made from hibiscus leaves, it is served chilled and is a refreshing drink to have on a hot day.
  • Palm Wine: This is an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of various species of palm trees, it has a slightly sweet taste and is enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Where to Stay in Moro: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Oma Hotel Limited: Located in the heart of Moro, this hotel offers air-conditioned rooms, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Adeniyi Guest House: A budget-friendly option in Moro, Adeniyi Guest house offers rooms with shared bathrooms, free parking, and complimentary breakfast.
  • Prestige Gold Crown Hotel: Located in the heart of the city, this hotel is ideal for travelers seeking comfort and luxury. It offers an outdoor pool, onsite restaurant, and complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Moro: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Traditional textiles: Moro is known for producing unique, high-quality textiles and fabrics that feature intricate designs and patterns.
  • Handmade wooden carvings: Visitors can take home beautiful wooden carvings such as masks or figures that are handmade by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Moro

Moro is steeped in cultural richness, and one of the most notable customs is the durbar festival, which takes place every year in Ilorin. The festival is a celebration of the Emir’s power and the end of the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan. Visitors can witness a colorful parade of horses and horsemen dressed in traditional attire during the festival.

Best Time to Visit Moro

The best time to visit Moro is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Moro

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Dress appropriately while visiting religious sites.
  • Learn basic phrases of the local language such as hello, thank you, and please.

Don’t:

  • Take photos without asking for permission first.
  • Disrespect locals or their culture.
  • Show affection in public.

Safety and Health

Safety in Moro

Moro is relatively safe for travelers. However, like any travel destination, visitors should take precautions by avoiding walking alone at night and not flaunting expensive jewelry or gadgets.

Health in Moro

Visitors should take precautions such as drinking bottled water, wearing mosquito repellent, receiving the necessary vaccinations, and carrying any necessary medication for pre-existing health conditions.

Getting to Moro: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Moro

Moro is located in the heart of Kwara state and is approximately 20km from Ilorin International Airport. From there, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to their accommodation in Moro.

Bus Stations Near Moro

The popular bus stop for traveling to Moro is located in Ilorin at the Old Motor Park. Buses are available from major cities in Nigeria such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt.

Other Options

There are many car rental services available in Ilorin that visitors can utilize to explore Moro and its neighboring towns.

How to Get Around in Moro

The best way to get around in Moro is by using local taxis or motorcycles, popularly known as Okada. However, visitors must negotiate a price before beginning their journey to avoid being overcharged.

Where to Go Next from Moro: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Tsaragi: Located about 30 minutes from Moro, Tsaragi is a small town with a vibrant local culture. The town is known for its traditional pottery and is a great place to visit for travelers interested in learning about traditional crafts.
  • Gurara Falls: Located about 2 hours away from Moro, Gurara Falls is a spectacular waterfall that is definitely worth the trip. Visitors can view the falls from various points, and the roar of the waterfalls is a sound that is not easily forgotten.

Conclusion

Moro is a hidden gem in Nigeria with natural landscapes, cultural landmarks, and a vibrant local culture that provides tourists with a unique experience that they will cherish long after their trip. With an array of activities, museums, natural wonders, and great cuisine, Moro should be at the top of any traveler’s bucket list of destinations in Africa.