By Isaac Atunlute
Nigeria is home to stunning tourist destinations not often spoken about. You don’t need a passport or high budget to experience adventure, natural beauty and cultural richness. For the budget-conscious explorer, here are 8 must-visit destinations in Nigeria that guarantee unforgettable experiences without breaking the bank.
Kwa Falls – Cross River State.
Located in the tranquil Aningeje town, KwaFalls is a breathtaking waterfall hidden in the canopy of a lush tropical rainforest. The 234-step staircase cascades to the base, where the falls plunge into a sparkling, crystal-clear pool.
Gate fee: ₦500
Total trip (from Calabar): About ₦5,000 – ₦10,000 (transport + food)
Best for: nature lovers, hikers, and vloggers.
Erin Ijesha Waterfalls (Olumirin) – Osun state
This seven-step waterfall in Erin Ijesha offers an adventurous walk, refreshing water, and religious heritage.
Gate fee: ₦1,000
Guide fee (optional): ₦2,000
Total budget: ₦6,000 – ₦10,000 depending on distance of travel
Best for: group outings, adventurers, and religious tourists.
Idanre Hills, locally known as “Oke Idanre”, is a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This ancient settlement offers a grand view and experience, physical as well as spiritual.
Gate fee: ₦1,000
Tour guide: ₦2,000 – ₦3,000 per group
Total budget: ₦7,000 – ₦12,000
Best for: History buffs, photographers.
Awhum Waterfall & Cave – Enugu state
A natural and religious marvel tucked away in the serene hills of Amaugwe village, Awhum Waterfall is a captivating blend of natural beauty and spiritual significance. The water is believed by locals to possess healing properties and the ability to ward off evil spirits, making it a site of both natural wonder and spiritual pilgrimage.
Gate fee: ₦500
Monastery donation (obligatory): ₦500
Total cost: ₦5,000 – ₦8,000
Best for: Pilgrims, solo travellers and peace seekers.
This mediaeval-style castle perched on a hilltop, Kajuru is ideal for group trips and romantic getaways. While more expensive than others on the list, it becomes affordable when costs are shared.
Gate Fees (day visit): ₦20,000 per group (shared fee)
Accommodation: ₦25,000 – ₦50,000 per room
Recommended for: Groups, couples, architecture enthusiasts.
Tip: Go in a group to split costs.
A spiritual and historical landmark nestled in a rainforest, Ogbunike Caves are centuries old and recognised on UNESCO’s Tentative World Heritage List.
Gate fee: ₦3000
Guide fee: ₦1,000 – ₦2,000
Total budget: ₦6,000 – ₦9,000
Best for: explorers, students, adventurers.
Obudu Mountains Resort – Cross River state
Although pricier than the rest, Obidu offers cool weather, cable cars, beautiful scenery and relaxing mountain air perfect for a weekend escape.
Entry fee: ₦2,000
Lodging: From ₦15,000 to ₦30,000/night (depending on room category)
Total trip (budget version): ₦25,000 – ₦40,000
Best for: Couples, hikers, nature lovers.
Nike art gallery – Lagos state
One of the largest art galleries in Africa, Nike Art Gallery is filled with vibrant, inspiring art. It’s free to enter.
Entry: Free
Cost: ₦1,000 – ₦3,000 for souvenirs or paintings
Total budget: ₦3,000 – ₦5,000
Best for: art lovers, tourists, and photographers.
Bonus travel tips:
- Travel in groups to share bills, especially for transportation.
- Avoid peak holiday seasons to save costs and beat the crowd.
- Carry your snacks and water to avoid overpriced vendors.
- Use local transport or carpooling apps for cheap commuting.
Nigeria offers enchanting tourist destinations that are both affordable and captivating. Kwa Falls in Cross River State is a stunning waterfall hidden within a tropical rainforest, ideal for nature lovers and hikers. Erin Ijesha, a seven-step waterfall in Osun state, provides adventure and religious heritage. In Ondo State, Idanre Hills are a mix of natural beauty and history, enthralling photographers. Awhum Waterfall in Enugu blends nature's beauty with spiritual significance, making it a site for pilgrims and peace seekers.
More adventurous sites include Kajuru Castle in Kaduna, a medieval-style hilltop castle great for group or romantic trips, and Ogbunike Cave in Anambra, a spiritual and historical site recognized by UNESCO. Obudu Mountains Resort offers cool weather and scenic views, perfect for couples and hikers. In Lagos, the Nike Art Gallery is a vibrant art space attracting photographers and art lovers. Tips for a budget-friendly trip include traveling in groups, avoiding peak seasons, carrying snacks, and using local transport.
