Things To Do
in Awka
Awka is the administrative capital of Anambra State in southeastern Nigeria and a regional hub for government, commerce and Igbo culture. The city mixes a compact commercial center, residential neighborhoods, and nearby natural attractions such as lakes and caves, making it convenient for short day trips. Awka is known for lively markets, local craftsmanship and a warm, community-oriented atmosphere.
While infrastructure and services are improving, visitors should plan around intermittent power/water supply and expect a more relaxed pace than Nigeria’s larger cities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Awka Town Hall, where you can admire the architectural design and learn about its significance in the local governance. Continue your exploration to the nearby Eke Awka Market, bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. Don't forget to interact with the locals and sample some street food to get a true taste of Awka's culture.
After lunch at a local eatery, head to the Nnamdi Azikiwe University campus, where you can stroll through the beautiful grounds and appreciate the blend of modern and traditional architecture. Visit the university's library to learn more about the educational opportunities in the region and the impact of the institution on Nigerian education. Make sure to take some time to chat with students to gain insights into their experiences.
As the sun sets, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to savor some traditional Igbo dishes like jollof rice or nkwobi. The vibrant nightlife in Awka is evident as you hear music and laughter filling the air, so consider visiting a local bar for live music performances. End your evening with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the warm hospitality of the residents.
Begin your day at the Awka Cultural Festival Museum, where you can learn about the rich traditions and history of the Igbo people. Engage with the displays that showcase traditional artifacts, costumes, and art forms that have shaped the local culture. Take notes or photos for a deeper understanding of the heritage as you explore the museum's various sections.
After your museum visit, head to the nearby Ogbunike Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site that exemplifies the natural beauty of the region. Spend the afternoon hiking through the lush trails leading to the caves, where you can discover the fascinating history tied to the site. Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views and intriguing formations within the caves.
In the evening, return to Awka and enjoy a traditional dance performance at a local cultural center. Experience the rhythms and movements that tell stories of the past while enjoying the vibrant costumes worn by the dancers. Conclude your day with a hearty meal at a local restaurant, relishing the flavors of traditional Nigerian cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or soft drink | $1-2 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (within town) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel (per night) | $20-40 |
| 🍺Local beer | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic Igbo culture and friendly local communities
- Good base for day trips to caves, lakes and nearby natural sites
- Lower costs compared with larger Nigerian cities
- Vibrant markets and authentic local food experiences
- Limited international-standard services and nightlife compared with Lagos or Abuja
- Intermittent power and water supply in places
- Road conditions and traffic can be challenging
- Fewer direct flight connections—may require transfers
- "Ndeewo / Nnoo" - Hello / Welcome
- "Kedu?" - How are you?
- "Daalu" - Thank you
- "Biko" - Please
- "Ebee ka ... dị?" - Where is ...?
Places to Visit in Awka
Visit one of these nice places.
A dramatic series of limestone caves and forested trails ideal for landscape and nature photography—rich in cultural significance and accessible as a day trip.
A scenic freshwater lake with reflections, birdlife and local fishermen—sunrise or late afternoon provide the best light.
Colorful market scenes, textile stalls and lively vendor interactions offer candid street photography opportunities—ask permission before photographing individuals.
Awka’s churches and civic buildings feature striking architecture and are good for urban detail shots and capturing daily life in the city.
Food in Awka
Awka Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick, flavorful melon-seed soup cooked with leafy greens and assorted proteins (goat, fish or beef). Widely available in local eateries and hotel restaurants.
Must-Try!
Shredded cassava prepared with palm oil, stockfish, garden egg and utazi leaf—popular as a snack or light meal and sold in markets and roadside stalls.
A traditional Igbo soup made with bitter leaf, assorted meats and thickener (egusi or cocoyam); commonly served with pounded yam or fufu.
Spicy skewered and grilled beef or chicken sold by street vendors in the evening—perfect for a late snack with cold malt drink or beer.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main local market where you can find fresh produce, spices, palm oil, smoked fish and street food stalls serving breakfast and lunch staples.
In the early morning and evening, roadside vendors sell fried yam, akara (bean cakes), suya and grilled plantain—great for quick, inexpensive local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are important—always greet elders first and use formal greetings. A handshake with the right hand is standard; many people appreciate a warm, respectful approach.
Show deference to elders and local leaders; use titles and ask before taking photos of elders or sacred objects.
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural communities. Revealing clothing may attract attention.
Ask permission before photographing people, markets or private property. Some cultural or sacred sites restrict photography.
Safety
Tipping in Awka
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: small tips (5–10% or a few hundred naira) for good service in restaurants and for helpful guides are common. For street vendors and market porters, pay the agreed amount; small tips are a welcome gesture.
Cash (Nigerian naira) is king—especially in markets and smaller eateries. Banks, ATMs and mobile money/USSD payments are available in the city. Card acceptance exists at hotels and larger restaurants but is not universal, so carry cash for most transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy afternoon showers and occasional flooding in low-lying areas; some dirt trails become muddy and slippery. Bring waterproof shoes, a rain jacket, and plan outdoor activities for mornings.
Generally drier with warm days and cooler evenings; Harmattan (late Nov–Feb) brings dusty, hazy mornings and cooler nights—carry moisturizers and a light layer for evenings.
Awka at Night
Hiking in Awka
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails and steps through forest and limestone formations—suitable for day hikes, photography and exploration of caves and springs.
Gentle shoreline walks around Agulu Lake with birdwatching and picnic spots—best in the dry season to avoid muddy paths.
A bit further afield near Enugu, Udi Hills offers steeper trails, panoramic views and more challenging hikes for a full-day excursion.
Airports
How to reach Awka by plane.
The newly developed airport serving Anambra State; convenient for reaching Awka by road (short transfer required). Check flight schedules as services may be limited.
A regional airport about 1–1.5 hours by road depending on traffic—useful alternative for some domestic connections.
A larger regional airport (Enugu) approximately 1.5–2 hours by road—offers additional domestic flights and is a common arrival point for travelers to the southeast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Awka is predominantly Igbo; local language, culture and festivals reflect Igbo traditions.
Like much of Nigeria, the population skews young, with many students, market traders and small-business owners.
Mostly Christian (Catholic and Protestant denominations) with smaller Muslim and traditional-faith communities—religious life plays an important role in daily routines.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Awka and across Nigeria; local matches and community leagues are common and widely followed by fans.
Community athletics, school sports days and informal competitions are popular, especially during festivals and public holidays.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awka.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available but often limited to vegetable soups, beans, yam and rice dishes. Ask cooks to omit fish or meat stock; clearly explain vegetarian needs as many soups use fish stock by default.
Many eateries serve halal meat, but certification varies. Look for Muslim-owned restaurants or ask vendors directly if meat is prepared according to halal practices.
Communicate allergies clearly—peanuts, palm oil and seafood are common ingredients. Street food vendors may not have detailed knowledge about cross-contamination.