Things To Do
in Ibadan
Ibadan is a historic Yoruba city perched on rolling hills in southwestern Nigeria, renowned for its academic institutions and vibrant markets. It blends a strong scholarly heritage, anchored by the University of Ibadan, with a lively street culture and panoramic viewpoints. The citywide views from hilltop spots reveal a mix of colonial-era architecture, tree-lined avenues, and sprawling neighborhoods.
Visitors can enjoy traditional Yoruba cuisine, bustling markets, and a growing craft and music scene that reflect Ibadan's enduring energy.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Cocoa House, the first skyscraper in Nigeria, where you can marvel at its architectural beauty. Afterward, head to the nearby University of Ibadan, the oldest university in Nigeria, and explore its lush campus and the famous Zoological Garden. Enjoy a traditional Nigerian breakfast at a local eatery, savoring dishes like akara and pap.
In the afternoon, explore the Ibadan National Museum, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the Yoruba people through fascinating artifacts. After the museum, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby Mapo Hall, an iconic colonial-era building that offers panoramic views of the city. Grab lunch at a popular local restaurant and try some jollof rice or efo riro.
As the sun sets, visit the Agodi Gardens for a serene environment, where you can relax, take pictures, and enjoy the lush greenery. Consider dining at a local restaurant that specializes in traditional Nigerian dishes, allowing you to experience the vibrant flavors of the cuisine. After dinner, enjoy a cultural performance if available, showcasing local music and dance.
Begin your day with a visit to Bower's Tower, a prominent landmark situated on a hill that offers stunning views of Ibadan. The climb to the top is invigorating, and you'll be rewarded with breathtaking scenery. Take time to appreciate the history behind the tower and capture beautiful photographs of the landscape.
Afterward, head to the nearby Oyo State Cultural Centre, where you can immerse yourself in the local arts and crafts scene. Explore various art exhibitions and perhaps even participate in a workshop to learn about traditional Yoruba crafts. Enjoy lunch at the center's café, sampling local snacks and refreshments.
In the evening, visit a local market to experience the hustle and bustle of daily life in Ibadan. Engage with vendors and sample street food such as suya and puff-puff. Wind down by visiting a local bar or lounge where you can enjoy live music and mingle with locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-8 |
| 🚖One-way local transport | $0.25-0.75 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $40-90 |
| 🛍️Groceries (monthly estimate) | $150-300 |
| 🏠Rent (1-bedroom city center, monthly) | $250-500 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Yoruba culture and historic sites
- Strong academic presence with a youthful vibe
- Vibrant markets and affordable street food
- Traffic can be congested in peak hours
- Occasional service variability in informal markets
- Dust during harmattan can affect visibility and comfort
- "Bawo ni" - Hello / How are you?
- "E kaaro" - Good morning
- "Jowo" - Please
- "E se" - Thank you
- "Nibo ni... ?" - Where is... ?
- "Odabo" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Ibadan
Visit one of these nice places.
Panoramic city views from a historic vantage point; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour photography.
The city’s skyline from Africa’s first skyscraper provides a striking urban backdrop.
Historic quadrangles, tree-lined paths, and old architecture perfect for campus and heritage photography.
Lush greenery, lake reflections, and peacocks or birdlife in a well-kept park.
Food in Ibadan
Ibadan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple combo of amala (yam flour) served with a leafy ewedu sauce and bean-based gbegiri; widely available at local eateries.
Must-Try!
A classic swallow with a rich, nutty egusi or a smooth ogbono soup; common in most amala and fufu spots.
Fragrant, locally grown rice served with pepper sauce and a side of vegetables; popular in informal dining spots.
Spiced grilled meat skewers seasoned with pepper mix; widely found at street stalls, especially in market areas.
A hearty vegetable stew (banks on greens like spinach) paired with pounded yam or amala.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market known for fresh produce, spices, meats, and regional ingredients; great for observing daily life and sampling quick bites.
A key commercial hub with textiles, fabric stalls, and ready-to-eat street snacks.
Roasted plantain, fish skewers, puff-puff, meat skewers, and agege bread offerings found along major market streets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders first; use polite Yoruba phrases and a respectful tone. Use the right hand for giving and receiving items and avoid pointing with the index finger.
Dress modestly in public and seek permission before photographing people, especially in communities or family settings.
Maintain calm in crowded spaces, avoid raised voices in markets, and be mindful of local customs around sexuality and religion.
Safety
Tipping in Ibadan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% is appreciated for good service; cafes and bars may also welcome small tips for waitstaff.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets. Cards are increasingly accepted in hotels and larger eateries; mobile money and transfer apps are common in urban areas. Have some cash for street vendors and informal markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler mornings and clear skies, great for outdoor explorations; dust can be prevalent on still days.
High humidity with regular afternoon showers; landscapes become lush, but heavy rain can affect outdoor plans.
Dusty, cooler air with hazy skies; good for photography lighting but may irritate eyes and airways.
Ibadan at Night
Hiking in Ibadan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A famous rock formation with built trails and viewpoints; a day trip option about 1.5–2 hours from Ibadan.
Accessible hillside routes offering city views and nature walks close to Ibadan proper.
Airports
How to reach Ibadan by plane.
Domestic airport serving the city with regional flights; a short drive to central Ibadan. Useful for quick trips within the region.
Major international gateway about 100–140 miles from Ibadan; typically reached by road or rail and then onward transportation to Ibadan.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Yoruba residents with a rich cultural and linguistic heritage.
A sizable student population from UI and other institutions, plus professionals contributing to a dynamic urban culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely followed and played in schools, clubs, and local leagues; matches energize weekend crowds.
Growing in popularity with community courts and school programs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ibadan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many soups and stews can be prepared without meat; ask for gbegiri, ewedu, or egusi with plantain, yam, or rice to keep meals meat-free. Opt for bean-based dishes and vegetable sides, and communicate clearly about any eggs or dairy you wish to avoid.