Things To Do
in Akure
Akure is a vibrant city located in the southwestern part of Nigeria. It serves as the capital of Ondo State and is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals. The city is home to numerous educational institutions, including the Federal University of Technology Akure.
Akure has a bustling market scene, offering a wide variety of goods and produce.
- "Bawo ni" - How are you
- "I appreciate" - Thank you
- "Wetin dey happen?" - What's happening?
- "Make we go" - Let's go
- "No wahala" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Akure Central Mosque to appreciate its stunning architecture. Take time to interact with local worshippers for a cultural exchange.
After lunch, head to the Oluwa Rock, a breathtaking site with great views and a rich history. Take a leisurely walk around the area to soak in the serene environment.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional meal at a local restaurant. Try some pounded yam with your choice of delicious soup.
Begin your adventure with a hike at the Owo Waterfalls, surrounded by lush vegetation. The early morning is the best time to enjoy the cool breeze and fresh air.
Grab lunch at a nearby restaurant and then visit the natural reserve at Idanre Hill. Experience the stunning views and encounter diverse wildlife.
Spend your evening enjoying a bonfire at your accommodation. Share stories with fellow travelers under the starry sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with numerous festivals and celebrations.
- Strategic location within Nigeria, facilitating trade and transportation.
- Access to educational institutions, including universities and polytechnics.
- Biodiversity and natural attractions, including mountains and lush landscapes.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, trade, and tourism.
- Limited infrastructure development, leading to challenges in transportation and utilities.
- Occasional security concerns in certain areas of the region.
- Unemployment rates can be high, especially among the youth.
- Health care facilities may be lacking in advanced medical services.
- Access to reliable internet and telecommunications can be inconsistent.
Best Activities in Akure
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the Deji of Akure's Palace and the Owo Museum of Antiquities to learn about the local culture and history.
Hike or climb the Idanre Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located near Akure, and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the Dome Resort, an eco-tourism site with beautiful natural scenery, caves, and a freshwater pool for swimming.
Embark on a nature walk or birdwatching in the Owo Forest Reserve, which boasts diverse flora and fauna.
Tours
Uncover the best of Akure with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Akure
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers picturesque views of the reservoir and surrounding landscape.
Scenic spot with the river flowing through beautiful natural surroundings, perfect for photography.
Home to stunning panoramic views and unique rock formations, ideal for capturing memorable photographs.
Food in Akure
Akure Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Amala, a smooth and soft porridge made from yam flour, is often served with Ewedu Soup, a delicious and slimy soup made from jute leaves. This dish is a must-try for its unique texture and flavor.
Must-Try!
Obe Oloyin, a stew prepared with honey beans, is a local delicacy usually enjoyed with Pounded Yam. The creamy consistency of the pounded yam pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of the stew.
Akara, also known as Bean Cakes, is a popular street food made from peeled beans, onions, and spices. It is deep-fried to perfection, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Akure better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Akure, Oja Oba Market is a bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can explore a variety of local snacks and dishes, such as roasted plantains, suya (grilled meat), and moin moin (bean pudding).
Isinkan Market is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and a wide array of street food options. Here, one can savor local delicacies like roasted corn, boli (grilled plantains), and deliciously spiced roasted yams.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Upon meeting someone in Akure, it is customary to greet them with respect. Handshakes are common, and it is polite to use titles such as 'sir' or 'ma' when addressing elders or individuals in positions of authority.
In Akure, respect for elders is highly valued. It is important to show deference to older individuals through words and actions, and the opinions of elders are often sought and valued in decision-making processes.
Respecting and adhering to local customs and traditions is crucial in Akure. This includes participating in community events and ceremonies, as well as showing reverence for cultural practices and beliefs.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Akure with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Akure
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Akure, Nigeria. It is not expected or required in most situations. However, in upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
In Akure, Nigeria, cash is the most commonly used form of payment. Credit and debit cards are becoming more widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. It's important to have cash on hand for smaller transactions and at establishments that do not accept cards.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Akure.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit for clear skies and dry weather, ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Expect heavy rains and high humidity, with lush green landscapes and occasional thunderstorms. May experience occasional flooding in low-lying areas.
Akure at Night
Hiking in Akure
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot characterized by its stunning vistas and diverse flora and fauna. It offers challenging trails that are perfect for both beginner and experienced hikers.
Located in the heart of Akure, this park offers a serene environment for hiking and leisurely walks amidst scenic landscapes.
A picturesque spot for hiking along the banks of the river, featuring beautiful views and a serene atmosphere.
Though a bit further from Akure, Idanre Hills is renowned for its historical significance and breathtaking landscapes, attracting hikers seeking adventure and cultural experiences.
A local park with developed trails, ideal for casual hiking and outdoor activities. It provides a welcoming space for families and hiking enthusiasts.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Akure through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Akure by plane.
Located in Lagos, approximately 320 kilometers southwest of Akure, it is the busiest airport in Nigeria and serves as a major gateway for international travel.
Situated in Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, this airport is around 460 kilometers north of Akure and serves as another key hub for international flights.
Located approximately 572 kilometers southeast of Akure, this airport serves the oil-rich region and provides several international flight options.
Located in Kano, about 800 kilometers north of Akure, this airport offers international connections predominantly to Middle Eastern destinations.
Located in Akure itself, this is a regional airport that primarily serves domestic flights but has limited international connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group in Akure, primarily speaking the Yoruba language.
A significant ethnic group present in Akure, known for their diverse culture and language.
A smaller but notable demographic in Akure, engaging primarily in trade and commerce.
A minority group in Akure, known for their pastoral lifestyle.
Includes various other ethnic groups and migrant populations residing in Akure.
The Soul of Akure
Discover the essence of Akure through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Akure, often played in local clubs and schools, attracting a large number of fans and players.
A growing sport in Akure, with schools and local courts promoting basketball among youth.
Includes running, jumping, and throwing events, popular in schools and among athletes competing in regional meets.
A cultural sport that showcases local traditions, often featured at community festivals and events.
Played in various schools and clubs, gaining popularity as a team sport among youths.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Akure.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat-centric dishes are predominant in Akure's cuisine, several restaurants and cafes, such as Relish Restaurant, offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly meals prepared with fresh produce, beans, and flavorful spices.
For those with gluten restrictions, establishments like Relish Restaurant are attentive to dietary needs and provide gluten-free alternatives, ensuring a delightful dining experience while accommodating such preferences.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Akure with these cultural adventures.
