Things To Do
in Ado-Ekiti
Ado-Ekiti sits in the rolling highlands of Ekiti State, surrounded by green valleys and rich Yoruba heritage. The town serves as a gateway to Ekiti’s springs, hills, and craft villages while hosting a lively university community. Markets, eateries, and friendly locals give the city a warm, welcoming rhythm.
The climate is tropical, with a hot dry season, refreshing rains, and plenty of sunshine most of the year.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a visit to the Ewi of Ado Palace, where you can admire traditional Yoruba architecture and learn about the history of Ekiti royalty. Take a guided tour to hear fascinating stories about the lineage and customs of the Ewi people. The peaceful palace grounds provide a perfect setting to immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Ado-Ekiti.
Enjoy a traditional Ekiti lunch at a local eatery serving dishes like amala and ewedu soup. Afterwards, explore the nearby Ado-Ekiti Central Market, bustling with colorful stalls selling local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. Engage with the friendly vendors and perhaps purchase some handmade souvenirs to remember your visit.
Attend a cultural performance featuring Ekiti music and dance at a local arts center, where drummers and dancers bring Yoruba traditions to life. Savor street food delicacies as you mingle with locals, absorbing the vibrant evening atmosphere. Wind down with a leisurely stroll around the city’s illuminated streets, appreciating the blend of modernity and tradition.
Set out early for a refreshing trip to Ikogosi Warm Springs, located about an hour from Ado-Ekiti. Witness the unique natural phenomenon where warm and cold springs meet, offering a rare and beautiful sight surrounded by lush greenery. Take a guided nature walk along the trails to see diverse plant species and birdlife indigenous to the Ekiti region.
Have lunch at the resort’s restaurant, enjoying local cuisine while overlooking the serene springs. Afterward, take a dip in the warm spring pools known for their therapeutic properties, or relax on the sandy beach area adjacent to the springs. For the adventurous, hiking up the nearby hills provides panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Return to Ado-Ekiti and visit a local café where you can sample freshly brewed Nigerian coffee or hibiscus tea. Reflect on the day’s natural wonders as the sun sets, casting golden hues over the city skyline. End the evening with a quiet dinner at a popular local restaurant featuring Ekiti specialties like gbegiri soup and pounded yam.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at cafe | $1-3 |
| 🚎One-way public transport fare | $0.5-1.5 |
| 🧺Basic groceries for a day | $5-12 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and strong Yoruba culture
- Affordable base for exploring Ekiti State and nature nearby
- Rich markets, crafts, and traditional cuisine
- Easy access from major Nigerian cities by road
- Limited international flight access nearby
- Some infrastructure and road quality can vary
- Nightlife is more low-key compared to bigger cities
- "Bawo ni" - Hello / How are you?
- "E kaaro" - Good morning
- "Jowo" - Please
- "Ese" - Thank you
- "E joo" - Excuse me
- "Nibo ni..." - Where is...
- "Elo ni yi?" - How much is this?
- "Bẹẹni" - Yes
- "Rara" - No
- "Mo n wa..." - I'm looking for...
Places to Visit in Ado-Ekiti
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic confluence of two springs set in lush forest; ideal for sunrise or golden hour photography.
Glimpses of campus life with distinctive buildings, green spaces, and student activity.
Elevated spots offer sweeping views of the city skyline, especially at sunset.
Food in Ado-Ekiti
Ado-Ekiti Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple Yoruba combination widely served in local eateries and at homes.
Must-Try!
A traditional, flavorful trio popular in casual restaurants and markets.
A common, comforting dish found in most local joints and eateries.
A versatile, protein-rich option often available from street vendors or markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, yams, cassava, spices, and everyday staples; nearby stalls offer quick bites.
Evenings bring snacks like puff-puff, akara, roasted corn, and suya along major streets and near campus areas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with appropriate time of day greetings and a respectful tone; handshakes are common. Ask before taking photos of people and show appreciation for Yoruba culture.
Dress modestly in public, avoid loud displays of wealth, and remove hats or sunglasses when entering homes or places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Ado-Ekiti
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up bills and leave small tips (about 5–10%) for good service in restaurants and hotels.
Cash in small naira notes is widely accepted; many places also accept debit/credit cards or mobile payments where available. Have local currency on hand for street vendors and market stalls.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright, sunny days with lower humidity. Great for outdoor exploring and photography; occasional harmattan dust from December to February may affect visibility and comfort.
Lush greenery and frequent afternoon showers; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof gear; roads can be slick after rain.
Dusty, cooler mornings and hazy skies; good for dramatic light with proper protection for eyes and skin; dress in layers.
Ado-Ekiti at Night
Hiking in Ado-Ekiti
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic day hikes around the springs with opportunities for photography and wildlife viewing.
Easier climbs with city views and forest scenery suitable for a relaxed outdoor morning.
Airports
How to reach Ado-Ekiti by plane.
Nearest regional airport; typically a several-hour drive from Ado-Ekiti depending on traffic.
Regional airport with more flight options; reachable by road in a few hours.
Major international gateway; longer drive from Ado-Ekiti but many international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group with a strong cultural presence in the region.
Ekiti State University and healthcare facilities attract a steady student and professional population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport with local matches and community participation.
Active in schools and local events; opportunities to watch or join community runs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ado-Ekiti.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many soups and stews can be prepared without meat; request dishes without stock or meat and opt for plant-based sides like plantain, yams, or leafy greens.