Ahiara Travel Guide

Ahiara is a hidden gem in Nigeria with culturally rich attractions, breathtaking natural scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals.


Introduction to Ahiara

Ahiara, located in South East Nigeria, is a hidden gem with culturally rich attractions, breathtaking natural scenery, delicious food, and friendly locals. The town is named after a legendary warrior and has a vibrant history stemming from the colonial era. It offers attractions and experiences that cater to different interests and is an ideal destination for those who want to explore the unbeaten path. In this comprehensive tour guide, we will take you through every aspect of Ahiara, making it easier for you to plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Ahiara

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ahiara Civic Centre: Ahiara Civic Centre is a cultural landmark that hosts several cultural events throughout the year, such as the Ahiara Cultural Festival. The festival features dance, drama, and musical performances that showcase the town’s diverse culture.
  • Ahiara Heritage Centre: The Ahiara Heritage Centre is a museum that showcases the town’s history and culture. It features exhibits on the town’s founding, traditions, and customs.
  • Lord Lugard House: Lord Lugard House is a historical building that was once the colonial governor’s residence during the British rule in Nigeria. The building’s architecture is colonial and has excellent views of the town from its observation deck.

Natural Attractions of Ahiara: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Nwaorie River: The Nwaorie River is a scenic river that serves as a primary source of water for the town. You can take walks along its banks or hire a canoe to explore its waters.
  • The Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve: The Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve is a lush forest reserve that is home to a wide variety of birds and wildlife, including monkeys, squirrels, and antelopes. You can take guided walks or hikes through the forest, and enjoy its natural beauty
  • Ahiara Hills: Ahiara Hills is a series of hills that offer scenic views of the town and its surroundings. You can hike or bike through the hills, and enjoy the stunning panoramic views from the top.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ahiara

  • Ahiara Hills Hike: The Ahiara Hills hike is approximately three hours long and offers breathtaking views of the town and its surroundings. You can hire a guide or explore the trails yourself.
  • Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve Hike: The Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve Hike is approximately four hours long and offers scenic views of the lush forest and its wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Ahiara: Activities and Tours

  • Cultural Tours: You can take a cultural tour of Ahiara to explore its diverse culture and traditions. Ahiara Heritage Centre, Ahiara Civic Centre, and Lord Lugard House are excellent places to start your cultural tour.
  • Canoeing and Fishing: You can hire a canoe and explore the Nwaorie River, and engage in fishing activities with the help of a guide.
  • Birdwatching: The Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve is an excellent place for birdwatching activities. You can hire a guide and explore the forest, spotting different bird species and other wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ahiara

Day 1: Arrival and Check-In Day 2: Cultural Tour of Ahiara Heritage Centre and Ahiara Civic Centre Day 3: Hike through Ahiara Hills and a Visit to Lord Lugard House Day 4: Nwaorie River Canoeing and Fishing Day 5: Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve hike and Birdwatching Day 6: Free Day to Explore Ahiara’s town center Day 7: Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Ahiara

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ofe Aku: a traditional soup made with yam and the groundnut sauce served with meat and fish
  • Abacha: a popular local salad made with cassava and vegetables
  • Isi ewu: a spicy goat head soup

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: a popular drink among locals made from palm tree sap
  • Ogogoro: a local alcoholic drink made from the fermented sap of raffia palm trees.

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

  • Grace Gardens Guesthouse: a guesthouse located within walking distance of Ahiara Heritage Centre and Ahiara Civic Centre.
  • Ahiara Hotel and Suites: a hotel located in the center of town offering premium service with excellent food and beverage options.
  • Royal Suites: a hotel located in the tranquil suburbs of Ahiara, surrounded by tropical gardens.

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

  • Traditional Attires: You can buy traditional attires such as Ankara fabrics and other locally made clothing.
  • Art and Craft: You can buy locally made art and craft such as wood carvings, pottery, and sculptures.
  • Palm Wine: Purchase bottled palm wine to take back home as a gift.

Local Culture and Customs of Ahiara

Ahiara is a town with rich customs and traditions. Respect for elders is an essential trait in the town, and visitors are advised to dress appropriately and take off their shoes when entering any religious or cultural building.

Best Time to Visit Ahiara

The best time to visit Ahiara is between November and February during the dry season, when the weather is mild and suitable for outdoor adventures such as hiking, biking tours, and canoeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ahiara

Do:

  • Respect the local traditions and customs
  • Dress modestly according to the local culture
  • Engage with the locals and learn from their culture

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothing
  • Disrespect traditional or religious customs
  • Engage in unethical or illegal activities

Safety and Health

Safety in Ahiara

Ahiara is a relatively safe town, but visitors are advised to exercise caution, especially when hiking or exploring the Mbonu Ojike Forest Reserve.

Health in Ahiara

Visitors are advised to take necessary vaccination and precaution measures such as drinking bottled or boiled water and avoiding raw vegetables, especially during the rainy season.

Getting to Ahiara: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ahiara

The closest international airport is Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos. From there, visitors can take a local flight to Owerri Airport, a 45-minute drive from Ahiara.

Bus Stations Near Ahiara

There are bus stations in Lagos, Abuja, and Owerri that offer bus services to Ahiara.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Ahiara by private car or hire a taxi from Owerri Airport or Owerri Bus Station.

How to Get Around in Ahiara

Visitors can move around Ahiara by taxi or motorbike taxi services also known as okada. Visitors can also tour around Ahiara center by foot.

Where to Go Next from Ahiara: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Owerri City: The capital city of Imo State is only 30-minutes drive from Ahiara and is famous for its nightlife, colonial architecture, and cultural attractions.
  • Oguta Lake: A serene lake famous for its beautiful scenery and aquatic activities such as fishing and boat rides.

Conclusion

Ahiara is a hidden gem in Nigeria, offering a comprehensive blend of cultural attractions, natural scenery, friendly locals, and delicious food. Visitors can engage in various activities such as hiking, biking tours, and canoeing, making it an ideal destination for those who want to explore the off-the-beaten-path. Visitors can also take home souvenirs such as traditional attires, pal wine, and locally made art and craft. Planning your trip to Ahiara is now easier with this comprehensive tour guide.