Ekiti State Travel Guide

Discover the top attractions, best things to do, where to eat, stay and shop, local culture and customs, safety and health, transportation options and nearby destinations in Ekiti State, Nigeria.


Introduction to Ekiti State

Ekiti State is a beautiful state located in South West Nigeria, in West Africa. It was created on October 1, 1996, from the former Ondo State, by the then military government of General Sani Abacha. The state is blessed with several historical, cultural, and natural attractions that make it a perfect destination for tourists seeking an authentic African experience.

List of Places to Visit in Ekiti State

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ekiti State Museum: Located in Ado Ekiti, the state capital, the Ekiti State Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and traditions of the Ekiti people. The museum houses a collection of artifacts, sculptures, and artwork from the pre-colonial and colonial eras.

  • Ikogosi Warm Springs: This is a natural wonder that attracts tourists from all over the world. The warm spring is located at the confluence of two distinct springs that have different temperatures. The warm and cold springs flow separately to a meeting point where they create a confluence of warm and cold water.

Natural Attractions of Ekiti State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Arinta Waterfalls: This majestic waterfall is located in Ipole-Iloro, a quiet town in Ekiti State. It is a sight to behold, as it cascades down a cliff into a pool of pristine water.

  • Olosunta Hills: Located in Ikere-Ekiti, the Olosunta Hills offer a great adventure for tourists who love hiking and trekking. The hills are about 721 meters high and offer a panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ekiti State

Ekiti State is blessed with several hiking and biking routes that offer a unique way to experience the natural beauty of the state. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Olosunta Hills Hiking Trail: This trail takes you through the Olosunta Hills and offers a great opportunity to enjoy the scenic view of the surrounding landscape.

  • Osun River Bike Trail: This trail takes you through the beautiful Osun River and offers a great opportunity to see several historical and cultural sites along the trail.

Best Things to Do in Ekiti State: Activities and Tours

  • Tour of Ado Ekiti: A tour of Ado Ekiti, the state capital, is a great way to experience the rich culture, history, and traditions of the Ekiti people. You can visit the marketplaces, museums, and monuments scattered across the city.

  • Visit to Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls: This is another natural wonder that should be on every tourist’s itinerary. The waterfall is located in Erin-Ijesha, a town in Ekiti State, and cascades down seven levels of rock cliffs into a pool of crystal clear water.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ekiti State

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival in Ado-Ekiti
Day 2 Tour of Ado Ekiti
Day 3 Visit to Ikogosi Warm Springs
Day 4 Hike to Arinta Waterfalls
Day 5 Visit to Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls
Day 6 Exploration of local food and drink scene
Day 7 Departure from Ekiti State

Food and Drink Scene of Ekiti State

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ekiti pounded yam: This is the famous pounded yam, a staple food in the region made from yam, served with different soups and stew.

  • Ekiti pepper soup: This is a spicy soup made from a blend of local herbs and spices, served with either fish, goat meat or chicken.

Local Beverages

  • Palm wine: This is a popular local beverage made from the sap of palm trees.

  • Zobo drink: Zobo is a refreshing drink made from the sepal of the hibiscus flower mixed with sugar and water.

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

Ekiti State has several accommodation options to suit the needs and preferences of all travelers. Some of the popular options include:

  • N25 Suites and Hotel: Located in Ado-Ekiti, this hotel offers comfortable rooms with modern amenities and great services.

  • Ekiti Hotel Annex: This hotel is located in the heart of Ado-Ekiti and offers beautiful rooms and great service.

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

  • Adire: This is a fabric that is unique to the Yoruba people of Ekiti State. It is hand-dyed with indigo and other natural dyes and has beautiful patterns and designs.

  • Pottery: Ekiti State is known for its unique pottery tradition. The pottery is made from local clay and has beautiful designs and patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Ekiti State

The Ekiti people have a rich cultural heritage that is expressed in their music, dance, festivals, and art. Some of the festivals that you can experience in Ekiti State include the Ogun Festival, Egungun Festival, and the Ekiti state Cultural Festival.

Best Time to Visit Ekiti State

The best time to visit Ekiti State is between November to February when the weather is cooler and more pleasant. The rainy season runs from March to October and can be quite wet and humid.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ekiti State

Do:

  • Respect the local customs and traditions.
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Bargain when shopping in the local markets.

Don’t:

  • Don’t be disrespectful to the locals.
  • Don’t litter the streets and the environment.
  • Don’t photograph people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ekiti State

Ekiti State is a relatively safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take the usual precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night, carrying valuable items with you, and being aware of your surroundings at all times.

Health in Ekiti State

It is advisable to make sure you are up-to-date with your routine vaccinations before traveling to Ekiti State. Malaria is common in the region, so it is advisable to take prophylactic medications and use mosquito repellents.

Getting to Ekiti State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Ekiti State

The nearest airport to Ekiti State is the Akure Airport, located in Ondo State. From the airport, you can take a taxi or public transport to Ekiti State.

Bus Stations Near Ekiti State

Ekiti State is easily accessible by road. The state is serviced by several private and public transportation companies that operate regular bus services from major cities in Nigeria to the state.

Other Options

You can also travel to Ekiti State by private car or hire a car from the major cities in Nigeria.

How to Get Around in Ekiti State

There are several transportation options available for tourists to get around in Ekiti State. These include taxis, private cars with drivers, and public transportation.

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

Some of the nearby destinations and excursions you can take from Ekiti State include:

  • Osun-Osogbo Groove: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Osogbo, Osun State.

  • Olumo Rock: This is a massive rock formation located in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Conclusion

A trip to Ekiti State is definitely worth it if you are looking for an authentic African travel experience. With its rich cultural heritage, natural wonders, and warm hospitality, Ekiti State is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.



    Ado Ekiti
    Efon-Alaaye
    Ikogosi Warm Springs
    Omuo
    Oye