Ogun State Travel Guide
Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Ogun State, Nigeria with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip today!
- Introduction to Ogun State
- List of Places to Visit in Ogun State
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Ogun State
- Best Things to Do in Ogun State: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Ogun State
- Day 1: Arrival in Abeokuta
- Day 2: Olumo Rock and Adire Market
- Day 3: Explore Omo Forest Reserve
- Day 4: Visit the Kuti Heritage Museum and Fela’s House
- Day 5: Yemoji Natural Pool
- Day 6: Explore the Ancient City of Ibadan
- Day 7: Departure from Ogun State
- Food and Drink Scene of Ogun State
- Where to Stay in Ogun State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Ogun State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Ogun State
- Best Time to Visit Ogun State
- Do’s and Don’ts of Ogun State
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Ogun State: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around Ogun State
- Where to Go Next from Ogun State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Ogun State
Located in the south-west region of Nigeria, Ogun State is a popular travel destination known for its rich heritage, diverse cultural attractions, and scenic landscapes. The state is bordered by Lagos, Oyo, Osun, and Ondo states and has a population of over 7 million people. This comprehensive tour guide will provide you with everything you need to know to plan a memorable trip to Ogun State.
List of Places to Visit in Ogun State
With its diverse range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions, Ogun State offers a variety of experiences for tourists. Here is a list of must-visit places when in Ogun State.
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Ogun State is renowned for its cultural heritage, and there are many museums and historical sites that allow you to experience this firsthand. Some of the top cultural attractions in Ogun State include:
- Olumo Rock - a massive rock formation with a history that dates back to the 19th century.
- Abeokuta Museum - an establishment that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Egba People.
- Alake’s Palace - built-in 1854, this is the official residence of the Alake of Egbaland.
- Kuti Heritage Museum - The former home of the legendary Afro-beat musician, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
Natural Attractions of Ogun State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Ogun State is home to a diverse range of natural attractions, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. Some of the top places to visit include:
- Omo Forest Reserve - This forest encompasses over 130 km² and is home to over 200 animal species.
- Yemoji Natural Pool - Located in Ijebu Ode, this pool is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it perfect for relaxation and picnics.
- Adire Market - located in Itoku, Abeokuta, this is the largest Adire market in Nigeria.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Ogun State
Ogun State is known for its idyllic scenery, making it perfect for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the top hiking/biking routes to explore include:
- Olumo Rock climb: You can take the steps up the hill all the way to the top of the rock, which offers an incredible view of the city of Abeokuta.
- Omo Forest Reserve Trail: You can explore the vast expanse of the reserve by hiking, mountain biking, or horse riding.
Best Things to Do in Ogun State: Activities and Tours
There are many exciting things to do in Ogun State, ranging from cultural events to outdoor activities. Some must-do activities and tours include:
- Agodi Gardens Tour: A day tour of the famous Agodi gardens in Ibadan, Oyo State.
- Afrobeat Music Festival: A festival which holds yearly in the city in remembrance of the legendary musician, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti.
- Olumo Rock Tour: A tour of the famous Olumo rock, where tourists get to learn the history of the rock formation and the city of Abeokuta.
Week-Long Itinerary for Ogun State
The following is a week-long itinerary for Ogun State that covers the best cultural, historical, and natural attractions that this state has to offer:
Day 1: Arrival in Abeokuta
Day 1 is spent settling in and exploring the city of Abeokuta. Visit Alake’s Palace and the Abeokuta Museum.
Day 2: Olumo Rock and Adire Market
Take a day trip to Olumo Rock and get a sense of the local culture by exploring the Adire Market.
Day 3: Explore Omo Forest Reserve
Spend the day hiking, mountain biking, or horse riding through Omo Forest Reserve.
Day 4: Visit the Kuti Heritage Museum and Fela’s House
Discover the rich cultural heritage of the late Fela Anikulapo-Kuti by visiting his museum and former home.
Day 5: Yemoji Natural Pool
Spend a day relaxing at Yemoji Natural Pool by going picnicking and swimming.
Day 6: Explore the Ancient City of Ibadan
Take a day tour of the ancient city of Ibadan, which is famed for its rich history and culture.
Day 7: Departure from Ogun State
Spend your last day souvenir shopping and taking in any activities you missed.
Food and Drink Scene of Ogun State
When it comes to local cuisine, Ogun State is famed for its traditional dishes and local beverages. Some must-try dishes and drinks include:
Must-Try Dishes
- Amala and Ewedu: This is a soup made with yam flour and leafy greens and is a staple food in Ogun State.
- Egusi Soup: Is a Nigerian soup made with ground melon seeds, and it’s a local favorite in Ogun State.
- Suya: This local delicacy consists of grilled meat with a spicy peanut sauce and is served with onions and tomatoes.
Local Beverages
- Palm Wine - This is a local wine made from fermented palm tree sap and is a local favorite for celebrations.
- Zobo - This is a refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus flowers, and it’s popular across Nigeria.
- Kunu - This is a local drink made from groundnuts, millet, and spices and is served hot or cold.
Where to Stay in Ogun State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Ogun State has many accommodation options that cater to all budgets. Some of the top hotels, hostels, and guest houses include:
- Park Inn by Radisson Abeokuta
- De Rigg Place
- Hilltop Guest House
What to Buy in Ogun State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
From local fabrics to traditional art pieces, Ogun State has many unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring home. Some of the top items to consider buying include:
- Adire Fabric: The Adire fabric originated in Ogun State and is a textile with unique patterns and colors.
- Wood Carvings: Ogun state is home to many skilled wood carvers who make intricate carvings of traditional symbols and figures.
- Beads: Ogun State’s beads are known for their intricate patterns and designs.
Local Culture and Customs of Ogun State
The culture of Ogun State is diverse, with over 20 ethnic groups living within its borders. However, some notable aspects of their culture include:
- Dress code: The traditional attire in Ogun State is the Buba and Soro (a loose-fitting blouse and skirt).
- Religion: Christianity and Islam are the most popular religions in Ogun State, but traditional religion also plays a significant role.
- Language: Yoruba is the most widely spoken language in Ogun State.
Best Time to Visit Ogun State
The best time to visit Ogun State is between November and March, which is the dry season. During this period, the weather is mild and less humid, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ogun State
To make the most out of your trip to Ogun State, here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.
Do:
- Respect local culture and customs.
- Get approvals before taking photographs of people or places.
- Try local dishes and delicacies.
Don’t:
- Dress inappropriately.
- Litter in public spaces.
- Engage in public displays of affection (PDA).
Safety and Health
When traveling to Ogun State, it is essential to take necessary safety measures to ensure a hassle-free trip. Here are some safety and health tips to keep in mind:
Safety in Ogun State
- Avoid walking in dimly lit areas at night.
- Keep your valuables close to you.
- Be cautious of your surroundings when traveling in public transportation.
Health in Ogun State
- Drink only bottled water.
- Get vaccinated before traveling to Ogun State.
- Protect yourself from mosquito bites to avoid contracting malaria.
Getting to Ogun State: Transportation Options and Logistics
There are several transport options available to get to Ogun State, including air, road, and rail transport.
Airports Near Ogun State
The closest airport to Ogun State is the Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos, which is about an hour’s drive from Ogun State.
Bus Stations Near Ogun State
Ogun state is served by many bus stations, including:
- Ijebu Ode bus station
- Sango Ota bus station
- Abeokuta bus station
Other Options
You can also take the train from Lagos to Ogun State, with the railway line passing through Ijoko, Obafemi Owode, and Kajola.
How to Get Around Ogun State
The most popular means of transportation in Ogun State are taxis and buses. But for tourists, car rentals are also available.
Where to Go Next from Ogun State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
If you want to extend your Nigerian journey, here are some nearby destinations and excursions:
- Osun State - Known for its cultural attractions like the Oshogbo Sacred Grove and the Osun River.
- Lagos State - Known for its bustling city life and tourist attractions like the Lagos Island Market and Lekki Conservation Centre.
- Oyo State - Known for its historical landmarks like the old Oyo National Park and the palace of the Alaafin of Oyo.
Conclusion
Ogun State is a perfect destination for those looking for a blend of cultural immersion and outdoor adventures. This comprehensive travel guide highlights some essential tips, must-visit places, and things to do when visiting Ogun State. With this information, you can plan your journey with the confidence that you will have a memorable and unforgettable time in this state. So why wait? Start planning your trip to Ogun State today!