Things To Do
in Ondo
Ondo State sits in southwestern Nigeria along the Atlantic coast, blending forested highlands with rich agricultural lands. Its landscapes range from rolling hills to cocoa and kola-nut farming belts. The capital, Akure, is a vibrant hub of culture and commerce, while historic towns such as Owo and Idanre showcase Yoruba heritage and architectural charm.
Visitors can explore lively markets, ancient sites, and scenic viewpoints across the state.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Ondo State Cultural Center, where you can immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage of the region. Enjoy a guided tour of the center, which showcases traditional crafts, art, and historical artifacts that tell the story of Ondo. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby streets to admire the colonial architecture that reflects the city’s past.
Head to the local market, where the vibrant colors and sounds provide a sensory feast. Sample local delicacies such as pounded yam and egusi soup at one of the many stalls, mingling with friendly vendors. Spend some time visiting the local artisans and perhaps purchase a unique craft or two to take home.
As the sun sets, make your way to a local eatery to savor traditional Ondo dishes while enjoying live music. Experience the warmth of Nigerian hospitality as you share stories with locals, perhaps learning about their personal connections to the city. Conclude the evening with a peaceful walk along the streets, enjoying the lively ambiance of Ondo at night.
Begin your adventure with a visit to the Owo Forest Reserve, where you can enjoy a guided birdwatching tour. The lush greenery and diverse wildlife provide an immersive experience into Nigeria's natural beauty. Keep your camera ready as you may encounter various species of birds and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Continue your nature exploration at the nearby Idanre Hills, known for their stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Spend the afternoon hiking the trails, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views and the chance to explore ancient shrines along the way. Enjoy a packed lunch amidst nature, soaking in the tranquility and beauty surrounding you.
Return to Ondo and unwind at a cozy café, sipping on locally brewed tea or coffee while reflecting on your day’s adventures. Engage with fellow travelers or locals, sharing stories and tips about the wildlife you’ve encountered. As night falls, consider visiting a nearby cultural performance to experience the rhythm and dance of Ondo’s traditional music.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Meal for 2 at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
| 🚕Taxi or short local ride | $2-6 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment (monthly, city center) | $150-350 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and historic towns
- Warm, welcoming locals and vibrant street life
- Abundant opportunities for nature and hill-country photography
- Relatively affordable costs of living and travel in many areas
- Infrastructure gaps in some rural areas
- Limited high-end dining and nightlife compared to larger cities
- Seasonal weather can affect travel plans (rainy season)
- "Bawo ni" - Hello, how are you?
- "E kaaro" - Good morning
- "Jowo" - Please
- "E se" - Thank you
- "Odabo" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Ondo
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic limestone hill range offering dramatic landscapes, steep cliffs, and sweeping viewpoints—perfect for sunrise and landscape photography.
Historic Yoruba architecture with courtyards, murals, and ceremonial spaces that provide rich cultural photography opportunities.
Colorful riverside scenes, market activity, and daily street life that yield vibrant, candid photographs.
Food in Ondo
Ondo Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Yoruba pairing of smooth pounded yam with a hearty melon-seed soup. Widely served in homes and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A staple combination frequently enjoyed for lunch or dinner, pairing garri-based staples with rich soups.
A flavorful spinach-based stew cooked with peppers and palm oil, often served with pounded yam or fufu.
Freshly caught river fish grilled or fried, typically enjoyed with fried plantains and pepper sauce.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant markets where you can sample fried plantains, fish skewers, roasted yam, yams, and fresh fruit while bargaining with local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders with a smile and a handshake; use the right hand and a respectful tone when addressing others.
Dress modestly, especially in religious or traditional settings; avoid loud displays of affection in conservative areas.
Ask for permission before photographing people or sacred spaces to respect privacy and local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Ondo
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service: 5-10% in restaurants and hotels; rounding up taxi fares is common.
Cash is widely accepted; many urban places accept debit/credit cards. Mobile money services (e.g., Paga, Quickteller) are increasingly common in Akure and larger towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with cooler evenings; relatively low humidity but dusty conditions in some areas. Ideal for city exploration and hill views with clear skies.
Frequent heavy rain showers and lush greenery; humidity is high and afternoons can be wet. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and waterproof footwear.
Ondo at Night
Hiking in Ondo
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A premier hiking destination with steep steps and dramatic vistas, offering challenging hikes and photographic opportunities.
Rolling upland terrain in the Akoko region suitable for longer hikes and scenic viewpoints across rural landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Ondo by plane.
Domestic flights; gateway to Ondo State; taxis or arranged transfers available from the airport.
Major international hub with connections to Africa and beyond; about a 4–6 hour drive to Akure depending on traffic and road conditions.
Regional airport serving western Nigeria; practical option for quick connections to nearby regions; road transfer to Ondo is feasible.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents belong to Yoruba-speaking communities, including groups such as the Ondo and Ikale people in various towns.
Urban centers attract residents from other parts of Nigeria, contributing to a small but visible mix of Igbo, Edo, and other communities in cities like Akure and Owo.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across communities, with local leagues, street games, and school competitions.
Track and field events are common in schools and community programs.
Cultural demonstrations and local competitions are sometimes organized around festivals and markets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ondo.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Ondo, vegetarians can rely on vegetable soups (ewedun/eworo), plantains, yams, beans, and palms-free options; ask for palm-oil-free broths and confirm the absence of fish or meat where required.