Ibadan

Nigeria, Africa

Ibadan, one of Nigeria's largest cities, is rich in history and culture. Known for its stunning landscapes, it features the popular Cocoa House, the first skyscraper in West Africa, and the University of Ibadan, Nigeria's first university. The city boasts beautiful botanical gardens, traditional markets, and a vibrant cultural scene, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking both education and adventure. With warm hospitality and historical significance, Ibadan offers a unique glimpse into Nigeria's past and present.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Ibadan

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

13 Best Things to Do in Ibadan

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Cocoa House

Explore Nigeria's first skyscraper and cocoa history.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore University of Ibadan

Wander through Nigeria's oldest university campus.

No booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Ibadan National Museum

Discover rich Yoruba culture and artifacts.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at Bodija Market

Experience the vibrant local market scene.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour Agodi Gardens

Relax in a beautiful landscaped garden and park.

No booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden

See diverse wildlife in a serene environment.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Mapo Hall

Visit this iconic colonial-era town hall.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy local cuisine at a restaurant

Savor delicious Yoruba dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ibadan Golf Club

Play golf or relax in a scenic setting.

Booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a cultural festival

Experience vibrant local traditions and performances.

No booking required
11

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Iyaganku Estate

Explore the stunning architecture of this residential area.

No booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Check out the Bower's Tower

Climb for panoramic views of Ibadan city.

No booking required
13

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Cocoa Research Institute

Learn about cocoa farming and its significance.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Not expected

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Very Low

LGBTQ+ safety score

-17 (#205 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Naira

Majority religion

No majority

Language

Hausa

(50-80% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Jollof Rice

VE

Spicy rice dish with tomatoes. (National dish)

Egusi Soup

VE

Melon seed soup with vegetables.

Suya

Grilled spicy meat skewer.

Pounded Yam

VE

Starchy dough made from yam.

Akara

VE

Fried bean cakes, crispy outside.

Phrases to learn

English

Hausa

Hello

Sannu

(Sahn-noo)

Yes/No

I / A'a

(Ee / Ah-ah)

Thank you

Nagode

(Nah-go-day)

Excuse me

Gafara dai

(Gah-fah-rah dai)

How much?

Nawa?

(Nah-wah)