Ibadan — the top tourist destination in Africa
Are you visiting Ibadan for the first time? And you seek to have maximum fun as a tourist, then planning your itinerary well is probably what’s on your mind right now. The ancient city is most times seen as a local place and most visitors expect less. But, you will be astonished to find out that Ibadan isn’t what it used to be before now.
Ibadan, the capital city of Oyo State is finally emerging as one of the top tourist destinations in Nigeria. For a city that is home to major landmarks in Nigeria, Ibadan is fast becoming a center of tourism. IB city, as it is fondly called, can today, boast of many art and cultural centers, hotels, restaurants, eco-tourism sites, shopping malls, entertainment hubs, recreational centers, and many other attractions you are sure to love.
However, as a tourist, your visit to Ibadan will be termed incomplete if you fail to visit any of these exciting tourist attractions. They include;
1. Ventura Mall
For exciting dining, gaming, and entertainment experience, Ventura Mall is easily the best place to get it in Ibadan. It is an easy access mall which you would easily find along Sango-Samonda road.
The mall features a cinema, an arcade game center, and a cafe and lounge, Latitude. Latitude has to be one of the best places to eat out in Ibadan at an affordable price. Ventura mall environment is equally serene for relaxing and unwinding.
2. Cocoa Mall
For an exciting shopping experience, you should visit Cocoa Mall. The mall which is not far off from the major road can easily be located at Dugbe. The Cocoa Mall houses Shoprite, PEP, Da viva, and many other stores.
From clothing to groceries and every other thing in between, you will get it all here at Cocoa Mall. Prices are also affordable as you need not break the bank to enjoy an exciting shopping spree.
3. National Museum of Unity
If you are a lover of art and culture, then you definitely should visit the National Museum of Unity. The museum is situated around Aleshinloye area of Ibadan. With about four galleries including the masquerade and pottery gallery, you will learn about the Yoruba culture at a glance. They are opened daily except Sundays and the entry fee is reasonably priced also.
4. University of Ibadan Zoological Garden
The premier university of Nigeria houses one of the favorite ecotourism attractions in Ibadan. The Zoological garden can easily be found at the Department of Zoology, University of Ibadan. You are sure to have a swell time viewing and learning more about animals native to Africa.
Some animals you are sure to view are Baboons, Lions, Palm-nut Vulture, Peacocks, Crocodiles, Snakes, Birds, Hyenas, Giraffe, and many more. You can also visit the Zoos’ natural history museum where you will view exciting things. With an entry of N500, you will enjoy relaxing in the serene and safe environment while you enjoy your snacks and drinks.
5. Agodi Garden
Agodi Garden is another ecotourism site in Ibadan which is located at Agodi. Agodi Garden is a nature-based fun-filled leisure park. Unlike the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden, Agodi Garden features more facilities like a water park, a swimming pool, a mini zoo, and ample space for picnicking.
This is one of the best places to relax in a serene environment as well as enjoy plenty of nature in Ibadan. The entry fee is also reasonably priced and will definitely not eat deep into your pocket.
Would you also like to enjoy tourism in Ibadan with newfound excitement while visiting? You can engage in other fun activities such as;
« Boat Riding. The Eleyele River is always ready to welcome you and give you the best of its boat rides.
« Birdwatching. IITA is a good place to enjoy nature with your binoculars and camera.
« Gastronomy Tourism. Ibadan is famous for a cuisine popularly known as Amala with Gbegiri soup.
« Monument visitations.
« Watching theatrical performances. You are sure to overdose on this if you are up to the task.
« Karaoke.
I guess you will take a cue from this list and have an exciting tourism experience in Ibadan. So what say I? Cheers! Happy touring!
