Things To Do
in Ondo
Ondo, Nigeria is a state located in the southwestern region of the country. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional rulers. The state is famous for its thriving agricultural sector, with crops such as cocoa, palm oil, and yam being major sources of income.
Ondo is also home to beautiful landscapes, including pristine beaches and lush forests.
- "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): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ondo City Central Mosque, an iconic architectural masterpiece. Catch a glimpse of the local morning hustle and the vibrant market atmosphere.
Head over to the Olokun Shrine, a significant cultural site to understand Ondo’s rich traditions. Enjoy a local lunch at a nearby eatery, sampling traditional dishes.
As the sun sets, visit the Tunde Oshinowo Park for a relaxing stroll. Wind down your day with some local music at a nearby lounge.
Begin by exploring the Akeredolu Palace, home to the traditional Oba of Ondo. Learn about the history and significance of the palace in local governance.
Visit the Methodist Church, a historic site with beautiful architecture. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant specializing in Ondo delicacies.
Attend a cultural performance showcasing Ondo's rich heritage. This evening will be filled with traditional dances and local storytelling.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and traditions
- Diverse economic activities including agriculture and trade
- Friendly and welcoming local community
- Access to natural resources and scenic landscapes
- Growing infrastructure and development projects
- Challenges with infrastructure and public services
- Occasional issues with security and safety
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities
- Economic challenges including unemployment
- Environmental concerns related to deforestation and urbanization
Best Activities in Ondo
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the scenic Ogbunimora Waterfalls for a breathtaking natural experience.
Explore the ancient Idanre Hills and enjoy hiking, bird-watching, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Take a boat ride along the Igbokoda waterfront and experience the picturesque mangrove forests and local fishing communities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ondo with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ondo
Visit one of these nice places.
Idanre Hills offer breathtaking views and photo opportunities of the surrounding landscape, including unique rock formations and lush greenery.
The Igbokoda Waterfront provides a picturesque setting with views of water, traditional fishing boats, and the natural beauty of the area, making it a great photo opportunity location.
The Irele Hills offer stunning panoramic views of the countryside, with opportunities for capturing the natural beauty of the region in photographs.
Food in Ondo
Ondo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This popular dish consists of eba (fermented cassava flour) served with egusi soup made with melon seeds, leafy greens, and various meats. It can be found at local eateries like Mama Cass Restaurant and Iyun Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A delicious fish stew made with fresh fish, peppers, and onions, Obe Eja Tutu is a must-try for seafood enthusiasts. It's commonly available at Bukas like Tinuke Kitchen and Iya Niyanju Buka.
Amala (yam flour) served with Abula soup, a mix of ewedu, gbegiri, and assorted meats, is a staple dish that can be savored at local spots such as Iya Loja Buka and Ade Super Buka.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ondo better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a variety of street food options, including roasted plantains, suya (spiced meat skewers), and akara (bean cakes). Visitors can also explore the vibrant food stalls selling fresh fruits and local snacks.
Situated at Fiery Junction, these food stalls are known for serving up delicious local delicacies such as boli (roasted plantains), roasted yams, and corn-on-the-cob. It's a great spot to experience authentic street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ondo, Nigeria, it is important to show respect to elders through traditional greetings and deferential behavior.
It is customary to dress modestly, particularly for women, to show respect for the local cultural norms in Ondo.
Courtesy and hospitality are highly valued in Ondo, and it is important to be polite and considerate in interactions with others.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ondo with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ondo
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ondo, Nigeria, tipping is not a common practice, especially in local establishments. However, in some upscale hotels and restaurants, a service charge may be included in the bill, eliminating the need for additional tipping.
Cash is the primary mode of payment in Ondo, Nigeria. While some businesses may accept credit or debit cards, it is advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions. Additionally, mobile payment apps are increasingly becoming popular for certain transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Ondo.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Ondo, Nigeria, as the weather is sunny and pleasant. Expect lower humidity, clear skies, and minimal rainfall during this time.
During the rainy season, expect heavy rainfall and high humidity in Ondo, Nigeria. This may lead to lush greenery and vibrant landscapes, but travel may be affected by the wet conditions.
Ondo at Night
Hiking in Ondo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A lush forest reserve that offers hiking trails surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
A scenic area with waterfalls and hiking routes that provide beautiful views and a refreshing atmosphere.
A popular hiking destination featuring a series of hills, rich cultural history, and stunning viewpoints.
Known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking views, offering challenging trails for avid hikers.
A notable hiking spot with panoramic views, ideal for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a moderate trek.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Ondo through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Ondo by plane.
Located in Lagos, approximately 250 km from Ondo, it is the main international gateway to Nigeria.
Located in Abuja, about 370 km from Ondo, serving as another major international airport in Nigeria.
Situated in Port Harcourt, around 400 km from Ondo, it is one of the major airports in the Niger Delta region.
The closest airport, located about 40 km from Ondo, primarily serving domestic flights but with plans to expand its international services.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The dominant ethnic group in Ondo state, representing a significant majority of the population.
A notable ethnic minority group found in Ondo state, primarily located in the coastal areas.
Another ethnic group present in Ondo state, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
An ethnic group that resides in Ondo, although they are fewer in numbers compared to major groups like Yoruba.
A nomadic group found in Ondo, primarily involved in livestock rearing and agriculture.
This category includes various smaller ethnic groups and migrant communities in the state.
The Soul of Ondo
Discover the essence of Ondo through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Ondo, Nigeria, enjoyed by many at both amateur and professional levels.
Basketball is gaining popularity, especially among the youth, with various local teams and schools participating in competitions.
Volleyball is played widely in schools and recreational centers, contributing to the local sports culture.
Athletics, including track and field events, is encouraged in schools and local communities, fostering talent.
Traditional sports such as Ayo (a board game) and wrestling play an important role in the cultural heritage of Ondo.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ondo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Ondo's cuisine is meat-centric, several restaurants and bukas offer plant-based options like vegetable soups, moin moin (steamed bean pudding), and delicious fruit platters.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can opt for dishes like grilled fish, plantain porridge, and amala made from yam flour, which are naturally gluten-free. They can also find millet and rice-based snacks at local markets.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Ondo with these cultural adventures.
