Things To Do
in Akure

Dramatic granite hills with stepped paths, historic structures and sweeping valley views—excellent for landscape and cultural photography, especially at golden hour.

Traditional Yoruba palace architecture, ceremonial regalia and sculptural details—good for cultural shots (ask permission before photographing people or sacred spaces).

Vibrant street scenes, colorful produce, fabrics and busy vendors—great for candid market photography and portraits.

Green university grounds, modern and older buildings, plus student life scenes—good for relaxed, everyday urban photography.

Amala (yam or plantain flour) served with ewedu (jute leaf soup) and a protein-rich soup such as egusi (melon seed) or gbegiri (bean soup). Widely available at local eateries and a must-try for authentic flavors.

Must-Try!

Smooth pounded yam paired with egusi (melon seed soup) or efo riro (spicy spinach stew). Common at mid-range restaurants and family-run bukas.

Spicy, aromatic broth often made with goat or fish; great for an evening meal. Grilled tilapia with peppers accompanies many roadside eateries.

Akara (deep-fried bean fritters) and moi moi (steamed bean pudding) are popular breakfasts or snacks sold by street vendors and market stalls.

The bustling central market is the best place to see local produce, spices, and street food stalls—try akara, roasted plantain (bole) and freshly brewed kunu or zobo here.

Small open-air eateries near bus stations and markets where you can get hearty, inexpensive lunches (e.g., amala, pounded yam with soups) and interact with locals.

Show courtesy to elders; greet them first and use polite forms of address. A handshake with slight nod or bow is customary.

Dress modestly in public, especially when visiting traditional or religious sites. For women, avoid very revealing clothing in conservative neighborhoods.

Ask permission before photographing people, religious events or sacred places. Some traditional ceremonies restrict photography.

Accept small refreshments when offered; if invited to a home, bringing a small gift (food or sweets) is polite. Public displays of anger are frowned upon.

Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; rounding up a bill or leaving 5–10% in restaurants is common. Tip hotel porters and drivers small amounts for good service.

Cash (Nigerian naira) is widely used, especially in markets and for transport. Mobile money and bank transfers are growing (USSD and apps), and some hotels or restaurants accept cards, but card machines can be unreliable—carry cash for smaller purchases.

Expect heavy afternoon rains and cloudy stretches; roads can become muddy and traffic slower. Bring a waterproof jacket and flexible plans for outdoor activities; Idanre Hills can be slippery when wet.

Generally sunnier and drier with comfortable mornings and hot afternoons. The dry season includes Harmattan (late December–February), when dusty northeast winds lower visibility and make mornings cooler.

Dusty, cooler mornings and evenings with potential throat and eye irritation; bring a light sweater and skincare items, and keep hydrated.

Local festivals and public holidays bring parades, ceremonies and increased crowds—great for cultural experiences but expect busy markets and higher demand for lodging.

Many Nigerian soups are meat- or fish-based, but it's usually possible to order efo riro or some vegetable stews without meat; ask vendors to omit stockfish or dried shrimp. Street snacks like akara are vegetarian-friendly.

Vegan options exist but require care—many stews use palm oil and sometimes fish stock. Communicate restrictions clearly (in English or via a local phrase) and choose vegetable-based dishes.

Staples such as pounded yam, amala (yam or plantain-based), and rice are naturally gluten-free. Be cautious with fried snacks and sauces that may include wheat-based thickeners.

Stick to cooked hot food and bottled water; avoid raw salads from uncertain vendors. Choose busy, well-trafficked stalls for better turnover and freshness.