Things To Do
in Owo
Owo is a historic Yoruba town in Ondo State, Nigeria, famed for its ancient palace and rich cultural heritage. Nestled inland, it combines traditional crafts, vibrant markets, and a welcoming community. The surrounding landscape offers rural charm, with nearby forests and hills that invite day trips and photography.
Visitors can experience a blend of heritage, local cuisine, and warm hospitality in this smaller but culturally rich city.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Owo Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history of the town. Marvel at ancient artifacts and learn about the cultural heritage of the Owo people. Afterward, take a stroll through the historic streets, admiring the unique architecture that dates back to the colonial era.
For lunch, head to a local eatery to savor traditional dishes like pounded yam and egusi soup. In the afternoon, visit the impressive Owo Palace, where you can take guided tours to understand the significance of the royal family in the community. Engage with locals who share stories about the rich traditions and customs of the Owo people.
As the sun sets, enjoy a peaceful walk at the nearby Owo River, where you can watch the serene waters reflecting the twilight sky. For dinner, try a local restaurant known for its delicious grilled fish and spicy pepper sauce. End your day by attending a cultural dance performance if available, immersing yourself in the vibrant rhythms of Owo.
Begin your day with a visit to the Owo Traditional Council, where you can learn about the governance and traditional practices of the area. Engage with local chiefs and elders who will share fascinating tales about their customs. Enjoy a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, sampling local delicacies that energize you for the day ahead.
In the afternoon, head to the famous Arigidi Akoko, a nearby town, to witness traditional craft-making, particularly the weaving of beautiful textiles. Participate in a hands-on workshop where you can try your hand at making your own fabric. Afterward, visit local markets to experience the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps purchase some authentic souvenirs.
As night falls, return to Owo and enjoy a casual dinner at a popular local spot known for its jollof rice. Spend the evening relaxing at a local lounge, where you can sip on palm wine while listening to live music. Engage with other travelers and locals to share your experiences from the day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🍽Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| 🛏One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚕Local transport (short taxi ride) | $2-5 |
| 🥪Street snacks and small bites | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and welcoming communities
- Near to scenic hills and forest trails for day trips
- Limited nightlife and some areas quieter after dark
- Rural roads can be variable in condition and signage may be sparse
- "Bawo ni" - Hello / How are you?
- "E se" - Thank you
- "Jọwọ" - Please
- "Mo n koju ede Yoruba" - I’m learning Yoruba
- "Ẹ jọwọ sọrọ kekere si mi" - Please speak a little slower
Places to Visit in Owo
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic courtyards and traditional architecture ideal for capturing regal lines, daily life, and ceremonial spaces.
Bustling market lanes with colorful textiles, traders, and vibrant life—great for street photography and candid portraits.
Dignified exteriors and daily worship scenes offering atmospheric light and cultural context.
Dramatic limestone hills and sweeping vistas; a rewarding location for panoramic landscape photography.
Food in Owo
Owo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple pairing of smooth pounded yam with a rich egusi (melon seed) soup, typically enjoyed with leafy greens and sometimes meat or fish.
Must-Try!
A thick, mucilaginous soup made from wild mango seeds, often served with fufu or pounded yam.
A classic leafy soup combo featuring ewedu and a flavorful vegetable stew, served with pounded yam.
A comforting, tomato-rich yam porridge that can be paired with small portions of meat or fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant, busy market where you can sample fresh fruits, roasted plantains, puff-puff, yam, and locally prepared soups from stalls.
Puff-puff, fried yam, roasted plantain, and fish skewers commonly found along market streets; ideal for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a respectful nod or greeting; use polite Yoruba phrases like 'Bawo ni?' and 'E se' when appropriate.
Dress modestly in public spaces, especially in religious or ceremonial settings.
Ask permission before photographing people or certain ceremonies; some places may restrict photography.
Accept invitations with gratitude; traditional etiquette often emphasizes hospitality and sharing meals with neighbors.
Safety
Tipping in Owo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service in restaurants and for guided tours; commonly around 5-10% if service isn’t included. Small tips for street vendors and transport drivers are customary but discretionary.
Cash in Nigerian naira is widely used, especially in markets. Some restaurants and hotels may accept cards or mobile payments, but carry cash for small purchases and street food.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny days with cooler mornings and clear skies; ideal for outdoor activities and photography, but evenings can be cool and dusty.
Frequent rain, lush vegetation, and higher humidity; carry a light rain jacket and waterproof gear. Trails can be slippery after rain.
Owo at Night
Hiking in Owo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic limestone hills with a well-known staircase and viewpoints; a must-do for hikers and photographers.
Forest trails offering shade, birds, and a different natural landscape near Idanre.
Airports
How to reach Owo by plane.
Domestic airport serving Ondo State; approximately 60-90 minutes from Owo by road, depending on traffic.
Regional gateway with broader connections; longer drive from Owo but useful for access to wider Nigeria.
Lagos' international airport offering overseas connections; several hours’ drive from Owo but a major entry point for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly Yoruba-speaking residents with farming, trading, and artisan livelihoods shaping the community.
Small numbers of Edo, Igbo, and Hausa traders contribute to the local economy and cultural mix.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport, played informally on streets and in community pitches; local talent and community events common.
Family and community activities featuring board games and informal races that are popular with children and adults.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Owo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many traditional dishes can be prepared without meat; ask for vegetable-based soups and yam-based staples, and request no meat stock or fish sauce. When ordering egusi or ogbono, specify 'no meat' if needed.