Top 6 Road Trips to Explore in Nigeria

You might already know that Nigeria is home to a rich tapestry of over 250 ethnic groups, and what better way to glimpse this diversity than embarking on a road trip?

Thanks to the government’s recent focus on improving road infrastructure, traveling on the highways is much smoother now compared to ten years ago. You can start your adventure from the southern region, perhaps from Lagos, and journey northward, or begin in the historic city of Kano in the north and head south.

Whichever route you choose, expect delightful surprises. Crossing state borders or regional boundaries reveals transitions from lush forests to rugged landscapes, with savannahs giving way to creeks, mangroves, and wetlands. Both northern and southern regions boast vibrant markets, alive with the warmth of friendly locals. During the dry season, you might observe people gathering firewood or preparing the land for the upcoming planting season.

As you travel, you’ll notice variations in architecture, traditional clothing, and weather. If your journey takes you through the Niger Delta’s riverine regions, you’re likely to spot distinct differences in fishing huts, boats, and equipment used by local fishermen.

If you’re new to Nigeria or haven’t spent much time here, you might find the local road etiquette a bit confusing. In such cases, it's wise to let a seasoned local take the wheel. Plus, being a passenger allows you to truly enjoy the scenery. Here are some of Nigeria's most rewarding routes to drive.

1. Olumo Rock, Abeokuta

Ideal road trip for culture enthusiastsLagos–Abeokuta; 101km (63 miles)

If you plan to spend most of your time in Lagos, consider taking a trip to one of the historic towns in Yorubaland—Abeokuta. Established in the 1830s as a refuge during wartime, its rocky landscapes provide a striking contrast to the flat terrain of Lagos.

Head to the Alake’s palace, where the newly inaugurated Egba Museum showcases the history of past kings along with their vibrant traditional attire. Don’t miss the chance to hike up Olumo Rock, where the earliest inhabitants lived nearly a century ago. After your hike, enjoy a meal at a nearby canteen, featuring jollof rice or Ofada rice with stew, both local specialties. On your way in or out, make a stop at the Adire International Market (also known as Adire Mall) to appreciate the town's rich heritage in indigenous fabric.

Planning tip: This is ideally suited as a day trip from Lagos. Be sure to arrive early for the climb up Olumo, which takes about two hours, and plan to spend at least six hours at the site.

2. Ikot Abasi

Ideal road trip for enthusiasts of colonial historyUyo–Ikot Abasi; 76km (47 miles)

The journey from Uyo to Ikot Abasi is as invigorating as the time spent exploring the town. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by lush, untouched forests and tranquil streets adorned with colonial architecture, much of which remains remarkably well-preserved. The calm Imo River adds a unique charm to the landscape.

Here, you can visit a slave bunker built in 1795 and a warehouse connected to a now-defunct tramline. Take a few steps onto the concrete Bridge of No Return, then descend into the somber chambers of the bunker, designed for 30 enslaved individuals but often overcrowded. Guides at the warehouse will share stories about the lives of those who were forced into servitude before being shipped off to the coast for their harrowing journey across the Atlantic.

On your return to Uyo, make a stop at Abak, once a prominent palm oil production center during colonial times. While output has diminished, watching the locals at work offers a valuable experience. If that doesn't interest you, visit the Tilapia Resort in Abak, where you can treat yourself to some palm wine and catfish pepper soup.

Detour: Take a turn off Abak Road towards Ikot Ekpene (22km/14 miles), famous for its charming raffia-palm crafts and souvenirs. The shops overflow with raffia bags, purses, wallets, footwear, and more.

3. Wase Rock

Ideal road trip for rock climbing enthusiastsJos–Wase; 211km (131 miles)

Throughout much of the journey from Jos to Wase, you'll encounter houses nestled at the foot of towering rock formations, expansive grassy fields, and cacti lining the fences. Depending on the season, both sides of the road are often dotted with vast farmlands growing groundnuts, millet, guinea corn, cabbage, and corn, with some ridges visible even on the rock faces.

The silhouette of Wase Inselberg (968ft) can be spotted from Yola Waka, about 20km (12 miles) away. If you arrive early, you might catch a glimpse of monkeys frolicking nearby, and in the sweltering afternoon heat, join the locals in seeking shade beneath the trees. The Plateau State Tourism Corporation (on Yakubu Gowon Road) can offer helpful advice and assist with arrangements for climbers. This area also serves as a bird sanctuary, so don’t forget your binoculars.

Local tip: As you travel, you’ll find a range of local delicacies to sample. Make sure to grab some suya in Mangu, a top spot on the Jos Plateau for this tasty treat, or try yar’ya (deep-fried millet and beans).

4. World Ifa Temple, Ile Ife

Ideal road trip for exploring African traditional religionIbadan–Ife; 76km (47 miles)

Ile Ife, the ancestral heart of the Yoruba-speaking community worldwide, is filled with a network of shrines and temples. The drive from the university town of Ibadan is straightforward, though the highway itself offers little in terms of sights—mainly prayer cities and camps. However, Ife is rich in cultural and archaeological treasures.

With roots tracing back to the 12th century, Ife boasts a pantheon of 201 deities, celebrated through various festivities and rituals. Senior chiefs, acting as custodians, warmly welcome visitors to numerous sites, including the Ifa and Oduduwa temples, as well as the Oranmiyan shrines. The World Ifa Festival takes place in the first week of June, attracting Ifa priests and practitioners from across the globe. Celebrations culminate in late October when His Imperial Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, presides over the grand Olojo festival, centered around the Ooni’s palace.

Detour: Whether you’re heading to Ife or making your way back, take a turn off the highway at Gbogan junction. This road leads to the Osun-Osogbo Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where thousands of devotees gather every August to honor Osun, the goddess of fertility.

5. Confluence Town, Lokoja

Perfect road trip for breathtaking scenery and historical explorationAbuja–Lokoja; 199km (124 miles)

Abuja, Nigeria’s capital, is just a road trip (3–5 hours) away from some of the country's most significant attractions, spanning ancient emirates in the north to the picturesque landscapes and vibrant lifestyles of the Middle-Belt towns and cities.

A two-hour drive south will take you to Lokoja, where the Rivers Niger and Benue – two of West Africa’s most prominent rivers – converge. The fishing communities of Ohono and Gbebe have thrived here for generations; at dawn, you can witness them roasting their catch from the previous day. Consider spending the night to fully enjoy the area's historical landmarks. Your visit wouldn’t be complete without a hike up Patti Hills (1500ft), which is easily recognizable from the surrounding lowlands. The panoramic view from the summit is breathtaking—time your ascent to witness a stunning sunset.

If you're curious about the history of pre- and post-independence Nigeria, take a moment to explore the photographic exhibition at the National Museum of Colonial History (Lugard Road), housed in a prefabricated wooden structure that dates back to colonial times. You might also want to visit the World War Cenotaph (Murtala Mohammed Way), which bears the names of British and African soldiers who lost their lives. After your sightseeing, indulge in a delicious meal of grilled fish, fried potatoes, and drinks at one of the open-air bars around the city.

Detour: On the Lokoja–Okene route, take a moment to watch skilled artisans carve mortars and pestles from tree trunks.

6. Ore Highway

Ideal road trip for nature, wildlife, and traditional craftsOre–Benin; 94km (58 miles)

Ore is a bustling gateway town that connects travelers from Nigeria’s western region to the Niger Delta and Eastern Regions. With numerous restaurants available, you'll easily find places to eat or grab refreshments for your onward journey.

Driving along the newly paved Ore Highway offers one of the smoothest journeys you'll experience in Nigeria. Throughout most of the route, you’ll be surrounded by an impressive expanse of lowland forests and vast oil-palm and rubber plantations. Make a stop at Okomu National Park (located at Okada junction, 45km west of Benin City), where you'll find well-marked nature trails and abundant birdwatching opportunities, including from a treehouse perched 140ft above the ground.

Continue your journey to Benin City, the epicenter of the ancient Benin kingdom, renowned for its expertly crafted bronzes created by artisans for the royal courtyard. As you approach the city center, you’ll notice the ancient palace walls, which have stood for 700 years and are made of solid clay. Visit Igun Street, where the tradition of bronze casting has been passed down through generations and where bronzes are still produced today. The national museum is just a short walk away, and along the way, take some time to explore Ring Road, Nigeria’s most artistically adorned city center, showcasing public sculptures that reflect Bini royalty, folklore, and heritage.

In recent years, the Benin bronzes have gained international attention. Taken by British colonial officers in 1897, there have been ongoing demands for their return.

Planning tip: To tour the palace, you must obtain permission in advance from the Benin Traditional Council, which has an office within the palace grounds. For a deeper understanding of Benin’s rich culture, consider visiting in late December during the Igue festival, a grand royal celebration.