Okigwe Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Okigwe, Abia State with our comprehensive travel guide. Find recommendations on the top attractions, activities, accommodations, and more.


Introduction to Okigwe

Located in Abia State, in South East Nigeria, Okigwe is a historic town that boasts a rich cultural heritage. Okigwe is surrounded by rolling hills and lush vegetation, making it an ideal location for outdoor enthusiasts who seek a natural setting for hiking and biking.

List of Places to Visit in Okigwe

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Okigwe Museum: This museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Okigwe. It houses a collection of artifacts and relics that tell the story of the town’s past and present.

  • The Ojukwu Bunker: This underground shelter was built by Biafra leader, Odumegwu Ojukwu as a protection during the Nigerian Civil War. It’s a fascinating historical site that offers a glimpse into the conflict that shaped Nigeria’s history.

Natural Attractions of Okigwe: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ngodo Hills: Located in the heart of Okigwe, Ngodo Hills offers breathtaking views of the town below. A hike to the top is definitely worth the effort.

  • Ogbaku Caves: One of the largest cave systems in Nigeria, Ogbaku Caves is a natural wonder that should be on every visitor’s itinerary.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Okigwe

  • Ngodo Hills Hike: This is a challenging hiking trail that takes you to the top of Ngodo Hills. The views from the top are stunning.

  • Iyamho Mountain Biking Trail: This challenging mountain biking trail follows a scenic route through the hills surrounding Okigwe.

Best Things to Do in Okigwe: Activities and Tours

  • Heritage Tour: This tour takes you through the historic landmarks of Okigwe, including the Ojukwu Bunker and Okigwe Museum.

  • Cultural Festival: Okigwe hosts an annual cultural festival in December that highlights the best of the town’s cultural heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Okigwe

Day Activity
Day 1 Okigwe Museum or Ojukwu Bunker
Day 2 Ngodo Hills Hike or Ogbaku Caves
Day 3 Iyamho Mountain Biking Trail or Ngodo Lake
Day 4 Heritage Tour or Cultural Festival
Day 5 Rest Day
Day 6 Local Market or Shopping District
Day 7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Okigwe

Must-Try Dishes

  • Nsala Soup: This spicy soup is made with goat meat and yam and is a traditional delicacy in Okigwe.

  • Akidi: Akidi is a local bean dish that is usually eaten with rice or pounded yam.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: This sweet wine is made from palm trees and is a popular drink in Okigwe.

  • Zobo: Zobo is a refreshing drink made from the hibiscus flower and is a must-try for visitors to Okigwe.

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

  • Ndidem Hotel: This hotel is located in the heart of Okigwe and offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms.

  • De Prince Hotel: This hotel boasts an outdoor pool and a fitness center and is a great option for travelers who want to stay active during their trip.

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

  • Handwoven Baskets: These colorful baskets are made by local artisans and are a great souvenir to take home.

  • Local Fabrics: Okigwe is known for its vibrant fabrics that feature intricate patterns and designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Okigwe

  • Customs: Visitors are expected to dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.

  • Language: The official language of Okigwe is English, but many residents also speak Igbo.

Best Time to Visit Okigwe

The best time to visit Okigwe is between October and March when the weather is mild and pleasant.

Do’s and Don’ts of Okigwe

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Dress modestly when visiting holy sites and mosques.
  • Try the local cuisine and explore the markets.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, stick to bottled water.
  • Travel alone at night.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Okigwe

Okigwe is considered relatively safe, but visitors should take normal safety precautions such as not walking alone at night and not carrying large amounts of cash.

Health in Okigwe

Visitors should ensure that they are up to date with their vaccinations before traveling to Nigeria. Malaria is prevalent in the area, so it’s important to take anti-malaria medication.

Getting to Okigwe: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Okigwe

The nearest airport to Okigwe is Sam Mbakwe International Airport in Owerri, which is approximately one hour by car.

Bus Stations Near Okigwe

Several bus companies operate services to Okigwe from major cities in Nigeria, including Lagos and Abuja.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car and drive to Okigwe or take a taxi from nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Okigwe

The best way to get around Okigwe is by taxi or hire a car. Alternatively, visitors can take public transportation, but this can be overwhelming for visitors who are not familiar with the area.

Where to Go Next from Okigwe: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Arochukwu: Arochukwu is a historic town that is home to the Arochukwu Long Juju Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

  • Calabar: The vibrant city of Calabar is known for its stunning colonial architecture and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion

Okigwe is a charming town with a rich cultural heritage and an abundance of natural beauty. From the historic landmarks to the outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Okigwe. Plan your trip today and discover all that this Nigerian gem has to offer!