Imo State Travel Guide

Imo State is a must-visit destination in Nigeria. This travel guide covers the best places to visit, things to do, food scene, where to stay, local culture, and more.


Imo State is a prominent cultural and tourism hub located in the south-eastern part of Nigeria. This beautiful state is known for its vibrant history, rich culture, and diverse tourist attractions. From natural wonders to cultural sites, Imo State has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures or exploring history, Imo State should be on your bucket list.

Introduction to Imo State

Imo State is one of the 36 Nigerian states, located in the south-eastern region of the country. The state capital is Owerri, and it’s the fourth most populated state in Nigeria. The state is known for its unique topography, which consists of hills, valleys, and water bodies. It’s home to over 3 million people, from various ethnic groups and religions, making it one of the most diverse states in Nigeria.

List of Places to Visit in Imo State

Imo state has an array of tourist attractions that are worth exploring. The tourist attractions can be classified into two categories- the culturally important and the natural attractions.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Mbari Cultural and Art Centre - This center showcases traditional Igbo art, history, and other cultural artifacts that represent the state’s rich history.
  2. National Museum of Colonial History - This museum has a collection of colonial artifacts, weapons, and portraits that depict the history of Nigeria during the colonial era.
  3. Oguta Lake - This lake is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse aquatic life, making it a great place for a relaxing boat ride.
  4. Owerri Amusement Park - A fun park that has different rides for kids and adults. It’s great for family outings and perfect for fun lovers.
  5. Nekede Zoo - The Nekede Zoo is home to several exotic animals, including lions, tigers, and monkeys.

Natural Attractions of Imo State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Ada Palm Plantation - This plantation is the largest palm plantation in Nigeria and Africa. It covers over 10,000 hectares of land, with palm trees as far as the eyes can see.
  2. Oguta Lake - This lake is also known for its stunning sunsets and crystal blue waters that provide a calming atmosphere for visitors.
  3. Nekede Botanical Garden - The Nekede Botanical Garden is filled with a diverse range of plants and trees, all labeled for visitors’ education.
  4. Ngwo Pine Forest - The Ngwo Pine Forest is a beautiful destination for hikers and nature lovers. The forest also has a waterfall that is great for relaxing and unwinding.
  5. Imo River - The Imo River is a primary river in the state, and its banks are great for picnicking and family outings.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Imo State

Imo State is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes are:

  1. Ngwo Pine Forest Trail - This trail takes you around the Ngwo Pine Forest and provides a great opportunity to explore nature and enjoy the scenery.
  2. Waterfall Trail - This trail starts from the Ngwo Pine Forest and leads to the waterfall located within the forest. It’s a great place for pictures and fun with nature.
  3. Imo River Trail - This trail takes you around the banks of the Imo River and provides a great opportunity to enjoy nature’s beauty and refresh your mind.

Best Things to Do in Imo State: Activities and Tours

  1. Visit the Mbari Cultural and Art Centre to explore traditional Igbo art and history.
  2. Take a boat ride on the Ada Palm Plantation lake and enjoy the serene environment.
  3. Take a tour of the Nekede Botanical Garden
  4. Go mountain biking on the Ngwo Pine Forest Trail
  5. Visit the Nekede Zoo and see a range of exotic animals.

Week-Long Itinerary for Imo State

If you’re planning to spend a week in Imo State, we recommend the following itinerary:

Day 1

  • Arrive in Owerri, the state capital
  • Check into a hotel in Owerri, and explore the city center.

Day 2

  • Start the day early by visiting the Mbari Cultural and Art Centre
  • Take a walk through the city center and explore some local art galleries
  • Drive to Nekede Botanical Gardens for a guided tour

Day 3

  • Take a boat ride at Oguta Lake and explore the lake’s surroundings
  • Visit the National Museum of Colonial History

Day 4

  • Hike the Ngwo Pine Forest Trail
  • Visit the waterfall within Ngwo Pine Forest
  • Visit the Nekede Zoo

Day 5

  • Take a day trip from Owerri to Oguta and enjoy the Oguta Lake breeze and the cultured village settings.
  • Visit the Amusement Park located in Owerri.

Day 6

  • Drive to Ada Palm Plantation for a guided tour of the largest palm plantation in Africa.

Day 7

  • Checkout of your hotel in Owerri and head to Nekede Zoo for animal sightings.
  • Visit the popular Owerri mall, Shoprite, for a shopping spree

Food and Drink Scene of Imo State

Imo State is famous for a variety of dishes and local beers. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ofe Owerri - A traditional soup made with vegetables and assorted meats.
  2. Nkwobi - A delicious Igbo delicacy made with cow foot.
  3. Isiewu - A spicy goat head delicacy.

Local Beverages

  1. Palm Wine - A sweet wine made from the sap of palm trees.
  2. Star Lager Beer - A famous local beer that is widely enjoyed across Nigeria.
  3. Orijin Bitter - A traditional drink made from a blend of herbs.

Where to Stay in Imo State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Imo State has several hotels, hostels, and guesthouses that cater to the different budgets of travelers. Here are some recommendations:

Luxury Options

  1. Concorde Hotel Owerri - This hotel is known for its luxury amenities and great views.
  2. BON Hotel Tripod Owerri - This hotel offers comfortable rooms and great facilities.

Mid-Range Options

  1. Hotel Ibis Royale - This hotel offers great mid-range rates and comfortable accommodations.
  2. Villa Franca Hotel - This hotel offers value-for-money with a range of amenities.

Budget Options

  1. Imo Concorde Hotel and Casino - This hotel offers budget-friendly accommodations and basic amenities.
  2. Hotels.ng - This platform offers budget hotel booking for guests.

What to Buy in Imo State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Imo State is known for its vibrant marketplaces that sell a range of local products and souvenirs. Here are some products worth checking out:

Crafts and Artwork

  1. Wooden Statues
  2. Handmade Beaded Jewelry and bags
  3. Local Fabric prints

Food and Beverages

  1. Local spices such as seede
  2. Dried Fish
  3. Palm Oil

Local Culture and Customs of Imo State

Imo State has a rich culture and customs that are worth exploring. The primary language spoken in the state is Igbo, and the people are friendly and welcoming. Some of the cultural practices to note include,

  • Respect to elders is a vital part of the culture.
  • Traditional Igbo dances and music.
  • Traditional marriage practices.

Best Time to Visit Imo State

The best time to visit Imo State is between November and February, as the weather is mild and dry. The state also has a festival season in December, which includes the Owerri carnival, which is a sight to behold.

Do’s and Don’ts of Imo State

Do:

  • Respect the customs and traditions of the host community.
  • Try the local dishes and beverages.
  • Take guided tours of tourist attractions for a better experience.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing clothes in public places, as this is seen as disrespectful in the local culture.
  • Take pictures of people without their consent.

Safety and Health

Safety in Imo State

Imo State is generally safe for visitors. It’s advised to take basic precautions such as being vigilant in crowded places of low-light or during odd hours.

Health in Imo State

Healthcare facilities are available in the state, and tourists are advised to seek medical attention from reputable hospitals in case of emergencies. Yellow fever vaccination is required to enter into the state.

Getting to Imo State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Imo State

The Sam Mbakwe International Cargo Airport, popularly known as Owerri Airport, is the closest airport to Imo State. It connects the state to major Nigerian cities such as Lagos and Abuja.

Bus Stations Near Imo State

Major bus stations in Imo State can be found in Owerri and other major cities within the state. Several public transportation services run regular schedules within the state at affordable prices.

Other Options

Private car rentals are available to tourists, giving the advantage of flexibility and convenience.

How to Get Around in Imo State

Transportation within Imo State is mainly by commercial buses or taxis. Although public transportation services are available, car rentals remain the most convenient and reliable means of transportation in Imo State.

Where to Go Next from Imo State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Some of the nearby destinations to check out after exploring Imo State include:

  1. Akwa Ibom State - Known for its beautiful beaches and rich culture.
  2. Calabar - A historical and cultural city in eastern Nigeria.
  3. Abuja - The Capital city of Nigeria is the most popular destination for first-time visitors.

Conclusion

Imo State is an excellent destination for tourists who want to explore the rich history, culture, and natural wonders of Nigeria. With this guide, visitors can experience the best of Imo State while enjoying its beautiful scenery and friendly people. Plan your next getaway to Imo State today!



    Aboh Mbaise
    Ahiazu Mbaise
    Owerri