South East Nigeria Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to buy in South East Nigeria. Learn about the culture, customs, safety, and transportation options in this comprehensive guide.
- Introduction to South East Nigeria
- List of Places to Visit in South East Nigeria
- Hiking/Biking Routes of South East Nigeria
- Best Things to Do in South East Nigeria: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for South East Nigeria
- Food and Drink Scene of South East Nigeria
- Where to Stay in South East Nigeria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in South East Nigeria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of South East Nigeria
- Best Time to Visit South East Nigeria
- Do’s and Don’ts of South East Nigeria
- Safety and Health
- Getting to South East Nigeria: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in South East Nigeria
- Where to Go Next from South East Nigeria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to South East Nigeria
South East Nigeria is a fascinating region, known for its cultural heritage, natural wonders, and vibrant local communities. This area covers five states, including Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo. Each state has its unique attractions and characteristics that make South East Nigeria a must-visit destination for travelers.
From museums and historical sites to outdoor adventures and scenic views, the region boasts a variety of places to explore. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll list the top places to visit, activities to do, and where to stay in South East Nigeria.
List of Places to Visit in South East Nigeria
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
South East Nigeria has a rich history and cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums and historical sites. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions:
- National War Museum, Umuahia: This museum tells the story of the Nigerian Civil War (1967-1970) and houses a collection of war artifacts, including tanks, aircraft, and weapons.
- Mbari Cultural and Art Center, Owerri: This center showcases the traditional arts and crafts of the Igbo people, including wood carvings, pottery, and sculptures.
- Arochukwu Long Juju Slave Route: A historical site that sheds light on the slave trade route, where slaves were transported from the hinterland to the coast for sale to European slave merchants.
Natural Attractions of South East Nigeria: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
South East Nigeria is blessed with natural wonders that offer outdoor adventures and scenic views. Here are some of the top natural attractions:
- Ngwo Pine Forest and Cave, Enugu: A beautiful natural forest with a man-made lake, waterfalls, and a cave system that stretches for over a kilometer.
- Ogbunike Cave, Anambra: A sacred cave that features a flowing river and several rock formations, making it an ideal spot for swimming and exploring.
- Agulu Lake, Anambra: a serene, picturesque freshwater lake that offers fishing and canoeing activities.
Hiking/Biking Routes of South East Nigeria
South East Nigeria is also an excellent place for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes:
- Mount Okwaukpa, Enugu: A popular hiking trail that offers scenic views of Enugu and the surrounding areas.
- Awgu Hills, Enugu: Another hiking trail with stunning views of the surrounding hills, waterfalls, and natural forests.
- Owerre Ezukala Hills, Anambra: A biking route that passes through scenic views of natural hills with excellent spots for photography.
Best Things to Do in South East Nigeria: Activities and Tours
South East Nigeria offers a variety of activities and tours that tourists can enjoy while exploring the region. Here are some of the best things to do:
- Attend a Cultural Event: South East Nigeria is famous for its cultural festivals, including the New Yam Festival in Enugu, the Ofala Festival in Anambra, and the Ikeji festival in Imo.
- Visit a Local Market: The region is known for its bustling markets, including the Ogbete Main Market in Enugu, the Ochanja Market in Anambra, and the Ekeonunwa Market in Imo.
- Explore Local Food and Drinks: Sample local dishes and drinks, including Ofe akwu, Nkwobi, Palm wine, and Abacha.
Week-Long Itinerary for South East Nigeria
A week-long itinerary for South East Nigeria could include:
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit National War Museum, Umuahia |
| 2 | Explore Ngwo Pine Forest and Cave, Enugu |
| 3 | Hike Mount Okwaukpa, Enugu |
| 4 | Attend Ofala Festival, Anambra |
| 5 | Visit Ogbunike Cave, Anambra |
| 6 | Visit Mbari Cultural and Art Center, Owerri |
| 7 | Shop at the Ekeonunwa Market, Imo |
Food and Drink Scene of South East Nigeria
Must-Try Dishes
South East Nigeria is famous for its delicious cuisine, which includes:
- Ofe Akwu: A delicious soup made from palm nuts, vegetables, and meat or fish.
- Nkwobi: A spicy goat meat dish that is often served as an appetizer.
- Abacha: A salad made from cassava and served with vegetables, meats, and fish.
Local Beverages
South East Nigeria’s local beverages include:
- Palm wine: A refreshing drink made from the sap of palm trees.
- Star beer: A lager beer brewed in Nigeria and popular in the region.
- Zobo: A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, sugar, and spices.
Where to Stay in South East Nigeria: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
South East Nigeria has several accommodations options, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some popular options:
- Randolph Hotel, Enugu: A luxury hotel with a spa, gym, and swimming pool.
- Jevinik Hotel, Owerri: A mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
- Zion Guest House, Anambra: A budget-friendly guest house that offers basic amenities and excellent service.
What to Buy in South East Nigeria: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Here are the top souvenirs and local products to buy when visiting South East Nigeria:
- Wood carvings, pottery, and sculptures: The region is known for its traditional arts and crafts that make excellent souvenirs.
- Kola nuts: A popular snack and cultural symbol in the region, often used in ceremonies and celebrations.
- African fabrics: From Ankara to Adire, South East Nigeria has a long tradition of weaving and dyeing beautiful African fabrics.
Local Culture and Customs of South East Nigeria
South East Nigeria’s culture is diverse, and each state has its customs and traditions. However, some common cultural practices in the region include:
- Traditional Music and Dance: The Igbo people have a vibrant music and dance tradition that celebrates their culture and history.
- Family Values: Family is an essential aspect of Igbo culture, and respect for elders is highly valued.
- Religion: The region is predominantly Christian, with a significant number of Muslims.
Best Time to Visit South East Nigeria
The best time to visit South East Nigeria is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. At this time, the weather is pleasant, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Do’s and Don’ts of South East Nigeria
Do:
- Respect local customs and traditions
- Try local dishes and drinks
- Learn some basic phrases in Igbo or other local languages
Don’t:
- Wear revealing clothes in public
- Engage in illegal activities
- Disrespect local customs and traditions
Safety and Health
Safety in South East Nigeria
South East Nigeria is generally safe for tourists, but it’s still advisable to take precautions, such as:
- Avoid traveling alone at night
- Stay in well-lit areas
- Use reputable transport companies
Health in South East Nigeria
Tourists should take precautions to protect their health, such as:
- Drink bottled water
- Avoid street food
- Get vaccinated before traveling
Getting to South East Nigeria: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near South East Nigeria
The region has several airports, including:
- Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu
- Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, Owerri
- Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar
Bus Stations Near South East Nigeria
Travelers can get to South East Nigeria easily using several bus companies like Chisco transport and Young Shall Grow.
Other Options
There are also several transport modes, including:
- Taxis: Taxis are readily available and affordable in most areas in South East Nigeria.
- Trains: There are two train stations in the region, including the Enugu Train Station and the Onitsha Train Station.
How to Get Around in South East Nigeria
Travelers can get around South East Nigeria using several transport modes, such as:
- Taxis: Taxis are available in most urban areas in South East Nigeria and are affordable.
- Buses: Buses are affordable and available in most areas.
- Car rental: Car rental companies are available in most urban areas.
Where to Go Next from South East Nigeria: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
South East Nigeria is close to other exciting destinations and attractions, including:
- Obudu Mountain Resort, Cross River
- Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort, Ekiti
- Cross River National Park, Cross River
Conclusion
South East Nigeria is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of culture, history, and natural wonders. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your trip to explore the region’s top attractions, taste the delicious cuisine, and experience the warm local hospitality.
