5 Hidden Tourist Travel Gems in Nigeria

Since we were kids, most of the tourist attractions we hear of are the popular ones like Yankari Game Reserve, Obudu Cattle Ranch, Zuma Rock, Olumo Rock, etc. 

Those of us who are ‘Ajala, the traveler’, have visited some or all these places. The rest of us have had it on our bucket list for years. For those in the latter category, please let’s come together and decide, what year are we going to visit these places? 

While we are still deciding that, here is a list of some hidden travel gems in Nigeria you could either add to your bucket list or go see on your next adventure.

Marshall Caves

The Marshall Caves, located in Bauchi State, Nigeria, are a remarkable archaeological discovery made by P.J. Marshall in 1980. Located inside Yankari Game Reserve, these ancient caves feature 59 dwellings dug into sandstone escarpments. The unique cave showcases the ingenuity and resourcefulness of the people who once inhabited them. 

It was initially discovered by a man called Ahmadu Makama, and later brought to limelight by P.G. Marshall in 1980. The caves, which were named after him are adorned with rock paintings and engravings, offering a glimpse into the lives of the cave’s former occupants. 

Historically, the Marshall Caves are believed to have served as a refuge for local people fleeing from slave raiders. These include those associated with the Emir of Bauchi and Arabic slave traders from the Sahara region. This shows the significance of these caves as a symbol of resistance and resilience.

Katsina Gobarau Minaret

The Katsina Gobarau Minaret, located in Katsina, Nigeria, is a remarkable 15th-century architectural wonder. Built by Muhammadu Korau, the first Muslim king of Katsina, this 50-foot-tall minaret showcases the Timbuktu style of architecture.

Constructed from clay, straw, animal blood, mud, palm timbers, and conical bricks, the minaret’s three floors, connected by an interior staircase, demonstrate the ingenuity of its builders. 

It is a symbol of the city and a testament to the historical interactions between western and central Sudan, the Magreb, and the Middle East. The Katsina Gobarau Minaret stands as a significant National Monument. It is one of the underrated tourist travel gems in Nigeria.

Esie Figurines 

The Esie figurines, located in Kwara state, Nigeria, are a fascinating collection of steatite stone sculptures that date back to the 12th-15th centuries. 

With over 1,000 -1,500 pieces, the figurines depict men, women, children, and animals in sitting or kneeling positions. Each figurine weighs between 0.55-140 kilograms. 

Despite their unknown origins, the Esie figurines are believed to be associated with an ancient Yoruba kingdom. Their discovery in 1775 by a hunter has led to ongoing excavations, uncovering more of these intriguing artifacts. 

Today, the Esie figurines are housed at the Esie Museum, showcasing a remarkable aspect of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. If you’re a history buff, you’d definitely love this spot.

Alok Ikom Monoliths

The Alok Ikom Monoliths are an extraordinary collection of over 300 stone monoliths. Located in Cross River State, Nigeria, they have fascinated scholars and visitors alike. 

These ancient structures range from three to six feet in height. They are crafted from basaltic rock, sandstone, and shelly limestone. They feature stylized faces and geometric inscriptions that remain undeciphered. 

Arranged in approximately 30 circles, the monoliths are positioned to face each other, creating a sense of community and purpose. 

Despite their significance, the Ikom Monoliths have been on the list of endangered sites on the World Monuments Fund since 2008. This highlighted the need for conservation efforts to protect these remarkable artifacts of Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage. This is truly one of the must-see travel gems in Nigeria.

Gashaka-Gumti National Park

The Gashaka-Gumti National Park is one of the most underrated travel gems in Nigeria. Known as Nigeria’s largest national park, it spans more than 6,000 square kilometers across Taraba and Adamawa states, bordering Cameroon. 

This vast protected area boasts diverse landscapes, from savannah grasslands in the north to rugged terrain, montane forests, and deep valleys in the south. 

With a local steppe climate and minimal rainfall, the park supports a wide range of flora and fauna. These include 103 mammal species, such as buffalos, chimpanzees, and elephants, as well as various antelope, lions, leopards, and wild dogs. 

The park’s rich biodiversity also encompasses over 500 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Despite facing challenges, the Gashaka-Gumti National Park remains a significant destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. It offers attractions like the Hippo Pool, Game Trail, Primate Watching, and Bird Watch.

Nigeria has so many cool places to visit and these five are just a few of the unpopular ones. People who just stand up and decide to go check out tourist attractions, abeg where una dey see the money? 🤧 Even going to my backyard is expensive. 

Anyway, share this article with your fellow bucket-listers or Ajala friends! Also, don’t forget to join the Travel and Hospitality community on Fusion for more travel tips. If you’d love to travel and explore on a budget, join the Torrista community for amazing deals.