Nigeria is known for its lively culture, bustling cities, multiple landscapes, rich history, and wealth of natural beauty and hidden gems. Nigeria is uncovered in this article as we explore the five hidden gems in Nigeria you need to add to your itinerary.
Aside from its appealing culture, extensive landscape, and exciting history, Nigeria also has a booming tourism industry beyond its well-known cities. You can discover a plethora of hidden gems and breathtaking natural beauty just waiting for you to experience them.
Come with us as we uncover Nigeria through these five hidden gems in Nigeria you need to add to your itinerary.
5. Turunku Hills – sits pretty in the centre of Northern Nigeria
The Turunku Hills is in the Igabi Local Government of Kaduna State, providing a phenomenal view of the surroundings. These hills offer strong backdrops for taking walks and nature tours because of their varied topography and unique geological formations.
If you are the type of person who enjoys relaxing and contemplating natural surroundings, Turunku Hills is the perfect place to add to your list of Nigerian itineraries.
Address: Turunku 800101, Kaduna, Nigeria
4. River Ethiope – a hidden gem located in Isoko, Delta State
Next on our list of Nigeria uncovered is a body of water unique for its cavernous size and unnaturally pure water called the River Ethiope. It is a hidden gem located in Isoko, Delta State.
The River Ethiope produces crystal-clean waters that flow through a lush greenery. Moreover, you can take boat rides to experience the riverbanks, where the fascinating flora and fauna create a picturesque setting.
Address: Ukwuani, Delta
3. Marshall caves – a network of caves situated in Bauchi State
The Marshall Cave is a network of caves in Bauchi State. It is considered to be the home to an array of bats and other creatures. These caves were discovered in the early part of the 20th century by a British historian known as P.J. Marshall in 1980.
Additionally, each cave has a length of 656 ft (200 m), a depth of 33 ft (10 m), and a width of between 98 ft (30 m) and 262 ft (80 m). The caves feature rock paintings and engravings in various lines, presumably created by their initial inhabitants.
No one knows who used the caves, though it is apparent humans once inhabited them and they served as a settlement many centuries ago, sheltering communities from wild animals and invaders.
Speculations are that local indigenous people used the caves to hide from slave raiders associated with the Emir of Bauchi or Arabic slave raiders coming down from the Sahara region.
Address: The Marshall Caves, located 7km east of Wikki Camp in Yankari
2. Dumi Hills – a mystery waiting to be uncovered
If you are someone who loves wildlife, then you absolutely must add Dumi Hills to your itinerary. Nestled in Bauchi State, Dumi Hills awaits exploration. Its vast grasslands and undulating hills offer a mystery that visitors simply must uncover.
This uncovered Nigerian hidden gem is for you if you want to experience nature in its most natural state. It is a must-visit for when you travel to Nigeria.
Due to the area having different hills, the adventurer or tourist can decide which of the hills to hike at a time. On average, each hill takes fifty minutes to hike up to the top, where you can view the sunset.
Address: Near Tirwun Road, Bauchi 740102, Bauchi, Nigeria
1. Alok Ikom Monoliths – mysterious tall stone constructions in Cross Rivers State
Alok Ikom Monoliths are mysterious tall stone constructions in Cross Rivers State that have great historical and cultural significance.
Most of the stones were skillfully carved in hard, medium-textured basaltic rock. Also, a few were carved in sandstone and shelly limestone. Ranging in height from 3 to 6 ft (0.91 to 1.83 m) and sculpted into a phallic shape, the stones share similar decorative features.
They depict stylised human features comprising two eyes, an open mouth, a head crowned with rings, a pointed beard, an elaborately marked navel, two hands with five fingers, a nose, and various facial markings.
While the stones share similar features, each monolith is unique in design and execution. It is an excellent place to take memorable pictures when you visit the country, as these stones have a great representation of Nigeria’s rich culture and art.
Address: 8J9X+W7H, Katsina Ala Calabar Rd, Alok 562261, Cross River, Nigeria
Nigeria is the home of so many hidden gems that are yet to be uncovered, and discovering more of these hidden gems has opened the gates for more tourist visits. book a trip and discover Nigeria.
