Exploring the University of Ibadan Zoological garden – Ibadan Zoo
Ibadan is arguably the largest city in Nigeria and it is home to some of the best tourist attractions in Nigeria including one of the best zoos in Nigeria, the University of Ibadan Zoological garden. It is also known as the UI Zoo or Ibadan Zoo whichever you wish to call it. The Ibadan zoo is one of the most popularly visited zoos in Nigeria. Over the years the University of Ibadan Zoological garden has received a major facelift and upgrades which has made it a major tourist centre in Nigeria. It is an arm of the University of Ibadan under the Zoology Department. The zoo is host to a variety of wildlife and it is one of the biggest zoos in Nigeria spanning several acres of land and collections of several animals. Ibadan Zoo Ibadan is blessed with a lot of natural parks, reserves and tourist attractions and the Ibadan Zoo is a notable tourist attraction in Nigeria. The University of Ibadan zoo is located in Ibadan, Oyo State Nigeria in the heart of The University of Ibadan lies the University of Ibadan Zoological garden. It was founded in 1948 as a research and educational centre, however, it became a full-fledged zoo in 1974 with the introduction of other exotic and endangered animals. The Ibadan zoological garden serves as a research centre for educational purposes and also a conservation centre for endangered wildlife. It has been at the forefront for the preservation and conservation of the wildlife in Nigeria. It is a well-maintained zoo with utmost security and safety of lives and properties. Due to its popularity, The Ibadan Zoo experience hundred of thousand visits yearly and it has witnessed improved patronage over the years. The Ibadan zoo is divided into different sections which include the reptiles, primates, carnivore, herbivore, Avian and small animal section. One thing that you cant take away from the zoo is the level management that has been maintained at the facility. They have put in a lot into maintaining the facility. The facility is clean and well taken care of. The UI Zoo has undergone a major facelift to meet with the ever-changing 21st century ICT standards. It is a well-secured place with twenty-four hours security, well-trained zookeepers and ample parking space for guest. Opening time at Ibadan Zoo The University of Ibadan opens 8 am to 6:30 pm daily Mondays to Sundays and on public holidays and the facility runs three hundred and sixty-five days a year. Ibadan Zoo Gate fee The University of Ibadan Zoological garden gate fees is as follows Adults 500 Naira ($1.5) per individual 300 Naira ($0.85) for school students on an excursion You pay 200 Naira ($0.5) extra to use a Small Phone Camera, iPads, Tabs etc 1,000 Naira ($2.85) additional if you are using a professional DSLR camera 1,000 Naira ($2.85) for tour guides per 50 people and below. Things to do at the zoo There are several activities you can do at the University of Ibadan Zoo: Organise a picnic See the live animals Interact with nature Learn more about the animals Take photos and videos Organise an Excursions Go on a Family hangout Enjoy the games at the children arena. Location of the University of Ibadan Zoo The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden (Ibadan Zoo) is located at Appleton Road, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, South-west Nigeria. How to get to the Ibadan Zoo Firstly you need to get to the city of Ibadan, then locate Oduduwa way Ibadan. However, to make your journey smooth, you can either take a local cab or Bolt (formerly Taxify), you can get free or cheap rides using these code List of Animals at the zoo Ibadan zoo boasts one of the highest collections of wild animals and exotic birds. The zoo features animals like the reptiles, birds, mammals, amphibians etc. Here are then lists of animals at the University of Ibadan zoo. Lions Ostrich Hogs Alligators Giraffes Monkeys Tortoise Camel Hyenas Snakes Ducks Birds Goose Pig Budgerigar birds Parrots African Civet cat vulture Donkey Horses Crocodiles Monitor Lizard Python Cobra Peacock Monitor Lizard Black Mamba Tortoise Monkeys Chimpanzee Things That are not allowed at Ibadan Zoo You are not allowed to feed the animals Do not throw objects at the animals You are not allowed to touch the glass where the reptiles are kept Do not scare, annoy or make the animals agitated. Facilities at Ibadan Zoo Children playground Sitting area Restaurant and snack area Neat restrooms Other tourist centres close to the zoo Mapo Hall Agodi Gardens University of Ibadan Captain Bowers Tower Trans Amusement park Cocoa House National Museum Ibadan List of Other Zoos in Nigeria Audu Bako zoo. Kano. Enugu zoo. Enugu Jos wildlife park. Jos Port Harcourt zoo. Port Harcourt. Sanda Kyarimi zoo. Maiduguri. Omu Resort Origin Gardens FUNAAB Zoo –Abeokuta Abuja Children’s Park and Zoo – Abuja
Top Places to Visit in Badagry – Lists of Things to do in Badagry
Top Places to Visit in Badagry – Lists of Things to do in Badagry – Badagry is a coastal city that shares a border with the Benin Republic. There are lots of places to visit in Badagry. Apart from the places to visit in Badagry, the city also boast of several adventurous and cultural events. Visit the Ancient Slave Trade Route in Badagry History of Badagry The history of Badagry can be dated as far back as 1720 when migrants from Dahomey moved to the location during a war within the region. In 1820 a British trading post was founded in Badagry to encourage international trade between Nigeria and Great Britain. When it was built, it was a palm oil port which was used to export palm oil from Nigeria to Europe, however, it later became a major slave trade port. About Badagry Badagry is one of the oldest city in Lagos, Nigeria. It is an ancient city with a history dating back as far as the 15th Century. It shares a border with the Benin Republic through Seme border, in the Benin Republic. the city was a host and one of the earliest settlement of the colonial masters, missionaries and the slave traders. No wonder it hosts one of the most popular slave markets during the slave trade era. A visit to Badagry will help you connect with history. Why You Should Visit Badagry There are many reasons why you should visit Badagry because the city of Badagry is the first of many things in Nigeria. It has the first storey building in Nigeria, it also has the first Primary School, the slave port, the slave market, the point of no return and many others. The city of Badagry will help you connect with history and educate you of what our ancestors went through during the slave trade. You can not talk about history, independence and missionary in Nigeria without mentioning Badagry. Badagry is a historic city and one of the biggest tourist attractions in Nigeria. It is dated as far back as 1800. It is one of the earliest destinations for Europeans and Missionary in Nigeria. Badagry boasts of the First Storey building in Nigeria, the first primary school in Nigeria, the first administrative building, Slave Port, the first city where Christianity was first preached in Nigeria, it is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Nigeria. How to get to Badagry Badagry is an Iconic city, you will barely miss it, It is located along the Lagos Badagry Expressway. A whopping 3 hours drive from the Lagos mainland. One of the popular landmarks in Badagry is the Badagry roundabout. The Badagry roundabout has the statue of a drummer also known as Sator drum which is about 8 feet tall. The Sator drum is a huge drum that is relative to the people of Badagry and the drum is only beaten on special occasions and festivals. Travel Tips when Visiting Badagry Make sure you hold enough cash that will cover all your trips. Wear something smart and comfortable Make sure you eat something before going on this journey Make sure your phones are well charged if possible come with a power bank along It’s a long journey, make sure you bring water that will last you for the day or buy water before going to the point of no return You may also come with extra clothes, change of clothing is advised What to wear to Badagry Wear something sporty and comfortable Avoid wearing heels as this tour involves lots of walking, flats, trainers and sports shoes are advised Do not forget to wear a hat, cap or sunshades as this will come in handy during a sunny day. Adventurous Things to Do In Badagry – List of Top Places to Visit in Badagry Badagry offers lots of adventures, from hiking to boat ride t6o sightseeing. It offers you the rare chance to explore some historical values, culture and tradition of the people of Badagry and so many other activities. List of Tourist Destinations in Badagry There are lots of things to see and do in Badagry. If you are looking for a city within Lagos to escape the hustle and bustle of Lagos while sipping a cup of palm wine or coconut juice either by the lagoon or beachfront, then Badagry is your perfect destination. Here are some of the things you can do in Badagry Go shopping at the Badagry Market Your journey to Badagry will not be complete without visiting the Badagry market. You can get beautiful native wears. Jewellery, food items, seafood, artworks, souvenirs etc at amazingly cheap rates. Enter the First Storey Building in Nigeria The first storey building holds so many historical events in Nigerian history. It is one of the top places to visit in Badagry. The first storey building in Nigeria was built by Reverend Henry Townsend of the Church Missionary Society (CMS) in 1846. It also serves as the official residence of St. Thomas Anglican church missionaries. The first storey building in Nigeria features the room of the first teacher in Nigeria, it also housed Bishop Ajayi Crowther, the man that translated the bible from English to Yoruba. The major part of the translation was done within this building. It also has relics of some building materials used to construct the house including a chair which was constructed in 1915 and still in existence till today. This building also features the Miracle well which was the first well to be dug in Nigeria which is still springing till date since it was dug in 1842. Other things to be found in this building are the safe box which still contains old currency used in the colonial era. The translated Yoruba bible etc Fetch Water From the Miracle well – The First well in Nigeria The Miracle well has been in existence since 1842 and is still exists. The water is known for its purity. It
Travelwaka Tour to Lekki Conservation Centre
On 20th July 2019, Travelwaka tours organised a tour to Lekki Conservation Centre. We climbed the Longest Canopy Walk in Africa, we interacted with nature, we sang, we played, we danced and it was all fun from beginning to the end. we walked majestically along the elevated boardwalk that leads to the Canopy Walk area. Then we did the Canopy Walk and it was the bomb. One Last photo before the walk Then we began the Canopy Walk. it’s time to overcome your fears. Courage is not the absence of fear of acting in spite of fears. Still on the Canopy walk More Pictures from the platforms and the beautiful ladies are not left out. After climbing the longest canopy walk in Africa, you deserve to celebrate, innit? And we saw this cute guy chilling in the sun, you say what? Well they are in their natural habitat minding their businesses. A tour is never complete without food. There is always a lot to eat and drink. Say Cheese And the full picture Gallery of Travelwaka to Lekki Conservation Centre
Five Cowries Terminal – An Ultra Modern Boat Terminal In Lagos, Nigeria
Five Cowries terminal – LASWA Head Office jetty The Five Cowries Terminal is an ultra-modern and multipurpose twenty-first-century terminal located in Lagos. The facility was built by the largest telecommunications network in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria and donated to the Lagos State Government. The five Cowries terminal was commissioned on August 30, 2018, in a glamorous ceremony organised by MTN. The Five Cowries Terminal also doubles as the LASWA (Lagos State Waterways Authority) head office. The world-class terminal features a jetty, restaurant, bar, administrative blocks, ticketing offices, waiting area, restrooms and ATM Gallery. The terminal also comes with a multi-level car park that can accommodate over 800 cars. The car park is located within the terminal. The architecture was designed in 2009 by ACCL, nautical references Abound: curved façade, porthole windows and large volume interior space. The first of its kind in Nigeria. It was constructed to encourage the use of the waterways and to decongest the Lagos road and also encourage investors to inverts in the Lagos waterways. The new terminal will facilitate easy water transportation system in Lagos State, Nigeria. History of Five Cowries terminal The Five cowries terminal was built at a formal dump site close to the Police Barracks and the Lagos Lagoon. The project was launched by MTN through a Public Private Partnership (PPP) with the Lagos State Government through the LSDPC (Lagos State Development Property Corporation). The terminal was commissioned and donated to the Lagos State Government on 30th August 2018. The State of the art facility was commissioned by the then Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode. Opening Hours The Five Cowries is opened seven days a week, Mondays to Sunday by 8.00am to 5.00pm daily. Where is the Location of Five Cowries Terminal? The location of the Five Cowries Terminal is the Lagos State Waterways Authority, LASWA Yard Falomo Jetty, Ikoyi Lagos, Nigeria. It is located opposite the MTN office under the Falomo Bridge. Facilities at the Five Cowries terminal The Five Cowries Terminal is a world-class standard Terminal and has the following amenities in the facility. Office Spaces: The Terminal also serves as the Head Office of LASWA (Lagos State waterways Authority). It offers well-furnished ultra-modern office spaces, board rooms, conference room etc Jetty: The ultra-modern terminal also comes with a jetty that can accommodate a different range of boats. Convenience: It contains a male and female restroom and also convenience for disabled. Artworks: It also has a section dedicated to artworks. Ticketing: It has a ticketing arena where you can buy tickets. Waiting area: It has a large multi-purpose waiting area for Arrivals and Departure. Restaurant: It also has a restaurant where you can order local and continental foods WBar and lounge: It also has a bar/lounge known as the Wbar and Lounge facing the Lagos Lagoon. Elevator: It has an elevator for easy accessibility within the facility. ATM Gallery: The facility also has an ATM gallery for cash withdrawals VIP Lounge: It has a VIP Lounge which can host important VIP and guest coming to the facility. Café: It also comes with a café where you can get snacks, coffee, tea and drinks The Five Cowries Terminal is a beauty to behold and it has become an iconic landmark in Lagos.
Captain Bowers Tower – A colonial Monument in the heart of Ibadan.
Captain Bowers Tower Ibadan – Within the city of Ibadan lies a colonial Tower which is about sixty feet tall and has been in existence for over eight decades. The Bowers Tower was strategically located and serves as a watch Tower which gives a three-sixty view of the city of Ibadan located in Southwest Nigeria. It is one of the most popular tourist attraction in Ibadan. At the top of Bowers tower, you get a panoramic view of the city of Ibadan. From the top of the tower, you can see some important landmarks such as the Cocoa House, the University College Hospital (UCH), Polytechnic of Ibadan, The University of Ibadan, Agodi gardens just to mention a few. The tower gives a 360 birds-eye view of the city of Ibadan. No wonder the locals call it Oke Layipo which can be translated as the Mount of turn around. This is because at the top lies a platform where you can make a three-sixty degrees turn. Why was It built? Bowers tower was built as a memorial monument in honour and memory of Captain Bowers the first resident and travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba. He was appointed by Queen Elizabeth in 1893 to oversee and put an end to the unending wars between the different Yoruba kingdoms. Bowers Tower was constructed in 1936 and unveiled in memory of Captain Robert Lister Bower the Resident and Travel Commissioner of interior Yoruba in Ibadan. The location was perfect because it is located on a hill which is the highest point in the city. From this hill, you can see almost every part of the Ibadan. Who Built Bowers Tower? Bowers tower was built by the same engineer that built and designed Mapo Hall. It has 47 spiral staircase which was designed by Taffy Jones that leads to the top of the tower. Taffy Jones is the same engineer that built Mapo hall, another historical monument in Ibadan. The Tower was named in honour of the first Resident and Travelling Commissioner of Interior Yorubaland Captain Ross L. Bower. Bowers Tower comes has two entrances which usher you to to a spiral staircase that leads to the top of the tower. Things to Do At Bowers Tower Though the main attraction here is the tower, however, there are a couple of activities you can do here Enjoy the panoramic view of the City Climb the 47 spiral staircase Identify major landmarks from the top Take beautiful pictures of the city Organise a picnic Things to Take Along Camera or camera phone Power bank Snacks and drinks What to Wear to Bowers Tower Since it involves climbing it is advisable to wear something comfortable or sporty Wear sports shoes, avoid heels or slippers if possible. Landmarks you can See from the top of Bowers tower University College Hospital (UCH) University of Ibadan Cocoa House Dugbe Market Agodi Gardens Iwo Road Ife Road Olorunsogo The defunct Lagos /Ibadan Toll Gate and guess Beere Mokola Lekan Salami Sports Complex Cultural Centre Oje Yemetu etc Location of Bowers Tower The sixty feet monument was built on Oke Are Hill at Igbo Agala in Ibadan, it is the highest of the seven hills surrounding the city. It is located at Oke Are, Ibadan North Local Government Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria Opening Hours Bowers Tower opens from 9 am to 5 pm Gate Fee to Bowers Tower The gate fee to Bowers tower is Two Hundred Naira (N200) about $0.45 per individual Other Things to Note If you are visiting this tower, make sure you come with your food and drinks, also do not stay late or come too early. It is located outskirt the main town with couples of development and along the lonely road that leads to the destination. Getting foods or drinks is almost impossible when you arrive here. Other Tourist attractions in Ibadan Close to Bowers Tower Mapo Hall Agodi Gardens University of Ibadan Zoo Cocoa House National Museum Ibadan If you are thinking of the next adventurous things to do or what to add to your bucket lists. Do not forget to add this and next time you visit Ibadan, do not hesitate to stop by at this colonial tower to catch a glimpse of the beautiful city of Ibadan. If you are looking for an adventurous trip to Ibadan. Travelwaka offers packaged and private tours. Feel free to send us a message.
This List Of All The Top Tourist Destinations in African Countries will Blow Your mind
African countries has some of the most beautiful tourist destinations in the world offering beautiful views, crystal clear blue sky, sandy beaches, well-preserved wildlife, rich historical and cultural heritage that will leave you coming back for more. Guess what? Most of these tourist destinations are located in some of African countries that you probably haven’t heard before. African countries are popular for wildlife, nature reserve, historical monuments dated as far back as thousands of years. This article is focused on the best places to visit in different African countries. African countries are well known for their safari tourism which features parks and game reserves that host varieties of wildlife animals like the Elephants, Lions, Tiger, Hipopotaenous, Rhinocerous etc. However, there are other non-safari tourist attraction sites on the black continent that will blow your mind. Tourist destinations like the Pyramid of Egypt, the tallest mountain in Africa, beaches, slave trade routes etc Fact is, whatever your tourism fantasy or desire is, African countries has a number of attractions spanning every angle of its cardinal points that will most definitely grace your fantasies. This article brings you top tourist destinations for various tour expenditure like safari surveys, desserts expeditions, mountain climbing and dunes hike adventures. It also offers cultural diversity appreciation, volcanoes eruption views, canyons, wetlands and fresh aquatic discoveries, archaeological and ancient ruins, structural explorations and much more. Best Tourist Destinations in Different African Countries Here are some of the very best top tourist destinations in Africa for a safari survey. Also if you are looking for the safest places to visit in Africa, you can check some of the lists below. In as much as there is no safe place on earth, cautions however must be taken when visiting these places. Do not visit alone and always get the service of a trusted travel guide in those countries. Let’s get to it, The African Safari is also home to the Big five which are the Elephant, Lion, Leopard, Rhinocerous and the Buffalo. Here are some of the top tourist destinations in Africa, Visit Tanzania’s Top Tourist Destinations Tanzania is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa. Tanzania is home to some of the most beautiful tourist and National parks in Africa. It is most famous for its spectacular annual “great wildlife migration” that comprises millions of wild beasts from Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Reserve in January through the Serengeti National Park which is Tanzania’s oldest and currently largest national park to Masai Mara in Kenya. When you think about Safari and wild adventure, think Tanzania. The largest population of wildcats in Africa is also found here. There are so many places to visit in Tanzania. Tanzania has the king of the jungle (Lion) with an estimated population of about three thousand (3,000). Cheetahs and leopards regularly graze the central Seronera Valley. Other common wildlife includes elephants, buffalo, antelopes, giraffes, hyenas and the bat-eared fox. You might want to use the midrange or up-market lodges and tented camps, better still go with your own personal camping tent in order not to miss the sight of the incredible migration. – Tanzania: Take your mountain hiking adventure to the Kilimanjaro Mountain in Tanzania the world’s tallest free-standing mountain. Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro stands at 19,340 feet by 5,895 meters and takes an averagely healthy person between five and nine days to reach its pinnacle. Reaching the apex of mount Kilimanjaro is possible for anyone with a good level of fitness, as the climb doesn’t require specialized climbing equipment or expertise, therefore, basic pre-hiking exercises will help you as you tour this seemingly endless height. Another spectacular sight to behold in Tanzania is the Tanzania Waterfront building on the beach in the urban city of Zanzibar situated off the coast of the country and surrounded by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Zanzibar is famous for its magnificent beaches and fascinating spice trade history including slave trade of past generations that left indelible marks engraved in the architecture of Stone Town which also boasts of beautiful traditional houses, narrow alleyways, a Sultan’s palace, and several mosques and that has earned it a spot as A UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is no best time to visit Tanzania than now. Top Tourist Destinations in Tanzania 1. Mount Kilimanjaro 2. Serengeti National Park 3. Zanzibar Beaches 4. Ngorongoro Conservation Area 5. Lake Manyara National Park 6. Mafia Island 7. Tarangire National Park 8. Pemba Island 9. Lake Victoria 10. Stone Town 11. Katavi National Park 12. Selous Game Reserve 13. Gombe Stream National Park 14. Ruaha National Park 15. Arusha National Park 16. Mkomazi National Park 17. Mdubya Island 18. Ol Doinyo Lengai 19. Bongoyo Island Visit Kenya Kenya is also one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa offering a wide variety of tourist and adventurous activities. Kenya also has a well-structured tourism industry. The Masai Mara National Reserve is also associated with the wildebeest migration from Tanzania as the migrants’ final destination before they thump back south. Big wildcats (Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs), as well as buffalos, elephants, giraffes and even the almighty black rhino, are also resident of this awesome country. Maasai Mara has stunning sceneries, colourful culture, and offers unparalleled wildlife-spotting opportunities. The park connects to Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park and together, the parks serve the ultimate games tour. You also get opportune to view the games from the sky in a hot-air balloon. Situated in the valley between the dramatic slopes of Mount Kenya and the rolling peaks of the Aberdare Mountains is Solio Reserve serving as home to an estimated 250 black and white rhino and considered the best place to see these increasingly rare species. Kenya also prides herself of the Amboseli National Park which is the world’s tallest freestanding mountain and most sturdy land mammals. Hosting the world’s longest-running elephant study, where you get to behold the fascinating sight of interaction between elephants. Itis a conglomerate of seasonal marshes and semi-arid acacia savannah that serve for
Whispering Palms Resort, Badagry – Everything You Need to Know
Whispering Palms Resort is one of the most popular romantic getaways and popular tourist destinations in Nigeria offering maximum fun and serenity. Whispering Palms one of the best places for honeymoon, wedding anniversary, team bonding, church picnic etc Similarly, Whispering palms resort offers the perfect getaway experience. Treat yourself to a beautiful scenery overlooking the lagoon in the coastal town of Badagry while you seat by the seaside sipping your natural coconut juice, pina Collada or grace yourself with the intercontinental dishes that this resort has to offer. It is a conference resort on eight acres of land overseeing the lagoon. Whispering Palms Resort is also one of the most sought after destinations for honeymoons, vacations, getaways due to its great hospitality. What Whispering Palms offer Whispering palms is one of the oldest resorts in Nigeria and a highly sought after which has stood the test of time. It offers beautiful greenery surrounded with aesthetic stunning designs and artworks. Whispering palms boast of a modern facility that meets all budgets sizes. If you are thinking of a resort with beautiful palm fonds, coconut trees, white beach sand, unpolluted Atlantic breeze then whispering palms is your perfect getaway. It offers recreational and relaxation facilities which makes it a perfect tourist destination for all age range. It doesn’t matter whether you are young or old, Whispering Palms has something for everyone. One unique thing about the Whispering palms is it offers competitive hotel rooms for different budget sizes making it not just an affordable but also a preferred and top-rated resort in Nigeria. Since Whispering palms want you to have a perfect getaway, it offers a mini zoo with animals such as crocodile, turtles, monkey, baboons, peacock, etc, an art gallery, an open museum, a sports centre, a gym and many other facilities. Location of Whispering palms Resort Whispering Palms is located at Iworo Village, after Aradagun, off the Lagos Badagry Expressway. It is about thirty minutes drive from Agbara and about twenty minutes drive from the Badagry roundabout. Whispering Palms Resort Gate Fee The gate fee to Whispering Palms is 500 Naira for adults and 200 Naira for children Things to Do in Whispering Palms 1. Organise a picnic It doesn’t matter whether it is a family gettogether, friends hangout etc Whispering palms has everything to give you an amazing stay. 2. Enjoy the sporting activities Whispering palms have different sporting activities to enjoy, these include table tennis, basketball, football, etc 3. Go for a Honeymoon Love is a beautiful thing, If you are planning to spend your honeymoon in Nigeria and looking for the perfect spot for your honeymoon, Whispering palms is one of the hottest honeymoon spots in Nigeria. 4. Go on a date If you are looking for one of the places to go on a date or you just want to impress your date, Whispering Palms is the perfect destination for romantic dates. 5. Lodge in one of the beautiful chalets If you need a getaway from the hustle and bustle of Lagos, whispering palms offers a quiet and serene place to ease and unwind. 6. Organise a team bonding If you are thinking of team bonding for your team, Whispering Palms is made for events such as this, it has all the facilities needed for your team to enjoy the perfect bonding time. 7. Organise seminars, workshops etc It has a multi-purpose hall for different activities such as marriage, seminars, training, events, shows etc Organise an event at the multi-purpose banquet hall whether business workshops or seminars. 8. Sightseeing Whispering palms is a beautiful place with a lot to see. You could either go on a walk along the lagoon, watch the local fishermen doing their things or the beautiful scenery. 9. Enjoy Food and Drinks from The Restaurant Wine, Dine and Enjoy the food and drinks: You can order food or drinks from the open bar while you dine in tranquillity. Enjoy the tasty local and intercontinental dishes 10. Visit the Mini Zoo Enjoy the sight of the beautiful animals at the zoo. Catch a glimpse of the animals 11. Enjoy the boat ride To make your stay more memorable, you can take a boat ride to better have a feel of the coastal town of Badagry. 12. View the beauty of the Lagoon If you are a lover of nature, you will appreciate the beauty and the serenity Whispering palms has to offer. 13. Have fun with the different sports activities Whispering palms offer some sports activities to make your stay an eventful one. 14. Visit the Museum Visit the mini-museum and enjoy great views of some of the relics of the slave trade and the Nigerian culture. Facilities at Whispering palms Resort Swimming Pool Football field Mini Golf course Mini Zoo Museum Art gallery Outdoor bar Basketball court Chalets Volleyball court Restaurants Event halls Pools and gym Bicycle Ride Spa Boat Ride Museum Water sports activities, bicycle boats, pedal boats etc Other Tourist Centres close To Whispering Palms Resort First Storey Building Badagry Slave Museum Point of No return The French Village Badagry Heritage Museum Seriki Abass Slave Barracoon The Agia Tree Monument Vlekete Slave Market Gberefu Island (Point Of No Return) Thomas’ Anglican Primary School (First Primary School In Nigeria) The Royal Palace Of The Paramount Ruler Of Badagry Kingdom Mobee Family Slave Relics Museum Agia Tree Memorial (first place Christianity was preached in Nigeria) Things not allowed at Whispering Palms 1. You are not allowed to bring food from outside 2. Pets are not allowed 3. Swimming is not allowed in the lagoon Pictures of Whispering Palms Badagry Need a Private tour to Whispering Palms Resort? Whispering palms offers all you need for a perfect getaway. It is perfect for the young, the old and the young at heart. The benefits of going on Vacation can not be overemphasized. Imagine the serenity of a resort facing the lagoon with the warm-cool breeze as you sit sipping your favourite drink. It
Gberefu Island Point of No Return, Badagry – The Original Slave Route
The Point of no return, Gberefu Island, Badagry – the original slave route The Point of No Return is the spot where slaves were shipped to an unknown destination during the colonial slave trade regime. It is located in Gberefu Island which is a few minutes boat ride from the Badagry Marina. Gberefu Island is located in the coastal town of Badagry. A city that shared a border with the Benin Republic via Seme border. The significance of this island cannot be overemphasized as it was a major Slave trade hub in the 20th Century. Badagry is a quiet and beautiful town with lots of history and it is also the home of Gberefu Island Point of No return. The Point of No Return is the original slave route to an unknown destination which is usually Europe or American where they serve as slaves. History of Gberefu island The history of Gberefu island can be dated as far back as 1473 when it was opened as a slave port. Ever since it’s a grand opening, the Point of No return witnessed the influx of thousands of slaves from Africa to different parts of Europe The Gberefu Island is about 5 minutes boat ride from the Badagry Marina which features some of the top tourist attractions within Badagry. The Gberefu Island also known as the Point of no return is an iconic island during the slave trade era. This Island witnessed slaves from different West African countries. A journey to the Point of no Return will bring you up to date with the history of what happened over 400 years ago. You will better understand the history behind slavery and gain more insights into how the slave trade business run. It will also help you appreciate freedom and see the wickedness of humanity towards humanity. Badagry is home to so many tourist destinations and historical sites which can be dated as far back as the days of the colonial and slave trade rule. Journey to the Point of No Return The Journey to the Point of No Return, Gberefu Island, Badagry starts with taking a boat ride from the Badagry Slave Port on the Badagry Marina. The boat ride from the Badagry Slave Port is less than a 5 minutes boat ride to the Gberefu Island port. From The Gberefu jetty, the hiking begins where you will do a fifteen to thirty minutes walk along the original slave route down to the Point of no Return. Along the route is the Attenuation well. This is one of the major attractions of Gberefu Island. The Slavery – The History of Slavery in Gberefu Island The Slave journey usually starts from the Vlekete Slave market where slaves are auctioned. Slaves are usually people that are kidnapped, captured, prisoners or spoils of wars. They are usually bargained and sold to slave masters who then sell them in exchange for guns, umbrella, mirror, canons, ceramic plates and jugs, porcelain, wine, brass, kettles, gin, alcohol etc The Journey usually begins from the Badagry Vlekete Slave market to the Seriki Barracoon where they are kept till the slave masters return to buy more slaves. Once the slave masters arrive and an agreement has been reached, then they take a boat ride across the lagoon to Gberefu Island where they have to walk with heavy chains tied around their necks, waists and legs. This is usually the hardest part of the journey because you could have up to 100 slaves being tied together using a single chain and made to walk long distance. This is done to prevent them from escaping. On the journey to the Point of No Return Lies the attenuation well where they will be forced to take a quick drink. Attenuation Well – Another School of Thought This is usually the final drink before heading into the ship. Legend and history have it that the Attenuation well has magical powers that will make anyone lose their memories when they drink of it. A school of thought explained this is why it is usually difficult for them to revolt or fight the slave masters during the trip since they outnumbered the slave masters since they. Another School of thought claimed the water was probably drugged with a substance that made them inactive during the journey making them weak to even revolt against the slave masters. This is usually because ships could take as high as 700 slaves which are only controlled by about ten to twenty slave masters. Whichever it is it doesn’t take out the fact that the slaves are hypnotized during the trip and then regain consciousness when they get to their final destination. Then they are taken to the Point of No Return where they are shipped off to an unknown destination. Once they get to the destination, they are traded and sold again to farmers and other people who buy them for various purposes. They ended up serving their masters for the rest of their lives. Tour to The Point of No Return Your visit to Badagry will not be complete without visiting the Point of No Return. The journey starts by getting to the Badagry roundabout you will see the Drummer Boy Statue. Drive to the Badagry Marina where the slave Port is located. Then you will take a three minutes boat ride to Gberefu jetty which leads to the Original Slave route. Along the original slave route, lies Attenuation well, which is still in existence today. You get a chance to see the well that has the power to make people lose their memory. After walking down the slave route, you will see the third sign with the inscription, The Original slave route of the Point of No Return. Then you start hearing the splashing of water this means you are finally getting to the point of no return. On walking some few kilometres is the sight is one of the most beautiful architecture welcoming you to the
Kalakuta Republic Museum – Music, Arts and Life of Fela Anikulapo Kuti
Visit To The Kalakuta Republic Museum – Celebration of a Great Icon Kalakuta Republic Museum – Just in case you are wondering how the home of the Late Fela Kuti was like or what it will be like to have a feel of his life when he was alive. Kalakuta Republic museum has answers to all your question. The Kalakuta Republic Museum is the exact Replica of the Home of the king of Afro Music Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The house is now a museum and a guest house located in Ikeja. A place where lovers of the great music legend, fun lovers, history enthusiasts or tourist can go to learn more about the life of the Late Abami Eda as he is fondly called. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lover of Afro music or the music legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. This museum represents the home to struggle, resilience against the military oppressors, activism and a hope for the future. It gives an insight into the life of the late Abami Eda as Fela was fondly called. The Birth of Kalakuta Museum The Kalakuta Museum was borne out of what used to be known as the Kalakuta Republic. The Home and studio of the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti. The Kalakuta Museum was the official residence of the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti, his 27 wives, band and his family. The Kalakuta RepubIic also features his studio and album covers. Most of his recordings happened here. More Stories The name Kalakuta was adopted from one of the prison cells he stayed during his conviction known as Calcutta cell on gaining freedom he decided to name his abode the Kalakuta Republic which he later declared a sovereign state which even angered the then Military Government. The museum features Fela’s trademark fashion items like shoes, clothes, underwears, musical instruments, fashion collections, photographs, artworks etc The journey to making this place a museum was conceived by his family and the contract awarded to Theo Lawson. Theo Lawson is the man responsible for converting Her Royal majesty Prison to Freedom Park. This was in partnership with the Lagos State Government under the leadership Babatunde Raji Fashola. History Of Kalakuta Republic, Now Kalakuta Museum The Kalakuta Republic Museum was an initiative of the former Governor of Lagos Babatunde Raji Fashola. It was rebuilt in 2012 to help people understand the life and struggle of the Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo Kuti. But before then it was just the abode of the Fela which he declared a republic and a sovereign state and Independent from Nigeria due to the corruption of the then Military Government of Nigeria. The Museum was officially opened on October 15, 2012, in commemoration of his 74th Birthday. It was renovated by the Lagos State Government and is being managed by Total Consult Limited. About Fela Anikulapo Kuti – Founder of Kalakuta Republic The late Fela Anikulapo Kuti was a freedom fighter who used his music to fight against corruption, the military and dictatorship rule which under the military rule. He was born on 15th October 1938 in Abeokuta and he died on 2nd August 1997. Facts About Fela Anikulapo Kuti He formed his own political party known as Movement of the People Fela Anikulapo Kuti invented the Afrobeat He changed his surname from Ransome to Anikulapo Kuti Fela married twenty-seven (27) wives in one day. His backup musicians and dancers were majorly his wives. Facilities at The Kalakuta Republic Museum Here are some of the facilities at the Kalakuta Museum. 1. Collection of Fela’s fashion apparel 2. Fela’s Collections of Shoes 3. A rare view of Fela’s bedroom 4. Relics of his musical Instruments 5. It has a 5 room Hotel 6. An open roof restaurant/lounge 7. Different Artworks 8. Enjoy great view and food from the open roof restaurant 9. Artworks of his album cover 10. Relics of Fela’s Musical Instruments 11. Fela’s Musical Studio Things to Do at the Kalakuta Republic 1. Lodge at one of the five rooms guesthouse 2. See Fela’s Tomb 3. See Fela’s clothes collections 4. See The covers to his albums 4. See some artworks 6. Get a souvenir from the gift shops 7. Get a nice view of the city from the rooftop 8. Business or casual meetings Things that are not Allowed at the Kalakuta Republic Museum 1. No Drugs 2. No Professional cameras, however, you can use your phone’s cameras 3. No slippers within the building. 4. Children are not allowed at the roof-top lounge Location of the Kalakuta Museum 9, Gbemiola Street, Allen Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria. Some of the height of the tour was his bedroom, rehearsal room, private photo collections, artworks and the Lounge. Other Tourist Attractions Close to Kalakuta Republic Museum The New Afrika Shrine Ikeja City Mall Lagos Airport Hotel JJT Park Kanu Nduibuisi Park Governors Office List of Other places you can visit within Lagos. For Private Or Group Tours Looking for a personalised Private tour Within Lagos? Contact us Photos From The Kalakuta Republic Museum
OfadaBoy – Pan African Restaurant in the Heart of Surulere
OfadaBoy is an indigenous African themed Restaurant located In Lagos, Nigeria, Surulere to be precise. Ofada Boy offers different signature Ofada (local rice) delicacies. The restaurant has a Yoruba traditional feel which you would almost mistake for an African King’s palace. Everything about Ofada Boy has a traditional feel from its ambience, menu, décor, food presentation, to the waiters speaks beauty and attention to details. The waiters are dressed in African prints also known as Ankara and Yoruba styled hats which gives you a royal welcome. It is often hard to find a restaurant in Lagos mainland with such a serene and beautiful environment with good and affordable food, aesthetics, Afrocentric swag all in one package. The Ofada boy meets all of these criteria and will definitely blow your mind. Ofada Boy is truly a beauty to behold in terms of its aesthetics, graffiti, furniture, ambience and the environment. Who Owns OfadaBoy? OfadaBoy is owned by Tobi Fletcher a graduate of Microbiology and an indigene of Ofada Town. He decided to follow his family genealogy and take after his grandfather business who was among the earliest farmers that started Ofada rice farming in Africa. The Ambience Ofada Boy is located in a quiet and serene environment in a very cool neighbourhood within Lagos. The ambience is beautiful and it comes in Yoruba styled, African themed settings offering beautifully carved wooden tables, chairs, mats curtains and arts. OfadaBoy is definitely one of the best restaurants in Lagos. It is located in an estate off Adeniran Ogunsanya. There are no signs or banners outside. It is a building with a two wooden gate that you could easily pass by without paying much attention to what is inside. These doors lead to one of the best restaurants on Lagos mainland. Once you step into the gate, you are ushered into an aisle of beautiful artificial grass walkway which leads straight into the OfadaBoy restaurant. OfadaBoy has two sections the outside Restaurant that can conveniently seat over 25 people and the inner section that can also accommodate Another 20 people The Food at Ofada Boy Ofada boy seems to have done good research because the sauce was not too spicy, the meats were tender, the rice was well cooked and doesn’t have the annoying unprocessed Ofada rice smell. I was quite impressed the Ofada doesn’t have that smell nor was the sauce spicy and the era of eating Ofada rice with stones is a thing of the past. Do not get carried away with the Ofada menu, they also offer other indigenous Nigerian foods. Apart from the foods, OfadaBoy is also known for its soups which includes White soups, Afang, Ewedu, Ogbono, egusi, Eforiro, Edikiankong, Gbegiri, Ofensala etc One unique thing about Ofada Boy is they also serve natural palm wine which tops the list of the drinks. Ofada Boy has three variant of palm wine which includes the Palmwine, Palmo and Palma. The Palmwine contain the Palmpine, Palmwine and Pineapple Palmo (Palm wine and orange) Palma (palm wine and apple) Palmwine About OfadaBoy Restaurant Ofada Boy offers a beautiful and aesthetic ambience. If you are a lover of good food, arts, culture and tradition, you will be marvelled and impressed with the decorations both the interior and the exterior and everything Ofada has to offer. The windows are covered in mats giving it more of the traditional Royal feel. If you want to be blown away and lost in the world of old school music while sipping your palm wine or eating your local Ofada rice then this place is for you. However, there is no parking spot at Ofada Boy, you basically will have to park outside of the gated estate which seems secured. Ofada Boy Address Ofada Boy is located in the heart of Surulere off the popular Adeniran Ogunsanya Street Surulere. It is located at No 1 Mba Street, Close to Shitta Bus Stop, Off Adeniran Ogunsanya. Ofada Boy Boy Menu Ofada boy has a wide collection of Nigerian local Delicacies ranging from Ofada rice to pepper soup to swallows and different Nigerian soups. The Ofada Menu Ofada comes in different packages listed below Ofada Classic It contains Ofada Rice, Meat (Assorted), Beef, Ponmo, Egg (Optional) and Plantain Ofada Premium Ofada Rice, Meat (Assorted), Beef, Ponmo, Egg (Optional), Plantain and Moi-Moi Ofada Deluxe Ofada Rice, Bush Meat or Snail or Smoked Catfish Or Fresh Catfish or Goat Meat, Beef (Eran), Ponmo, Egg (Optional), Plantain Ofada Royale Ofada Rice, Bush Meat and Snail or Smoked Catfish or Goat Meat(2 of any of these), Beef (Eran), Ponmo, Egg (Optional), Plantain Ofada Yo Ofada Rice, Meat (Assorted), Beef (Eran), Ponmo, Egg (Optional), Plantain, Yo-yo fish and prawns Other Side Attractions They have board games like the Ayo game, ludo etc And do not forget to take lots and lots of photographs. Our Verdict It is hard to get something like this in Lagos Mainland. A great place with affordable food, great customer service and beautiful ambience. The only problem I had was the fact that there was no parking space. The food was nice, the ambience was great, the staff are well trained and highly professional. Food – 4/5 Ambience 4/5 Customer Service 4.5/5 Cleanliness 5/5 value for Money – 4.5/5 Ofada Boy Rating: I will give them 4.5 over 5 Have you been to OfadaBoy or need more information about this restaurant? Please comment below
