Top Things to Do in Ibadan

• Cocoa House – West Africa’s first skyscraper (26 stories, 105 m high), built in 1965 with cocoa revenues. Offers panoramic views and includes the Odu’a Museum & Hall of Fame

• Mapo Hall – An iconic colonial-era city hall perched atop Mapo Hill, constructed from 1925–29. A landmark of political and cultural significance 

• Agodi Gardens – A 130–150 acre botanical garden and resort, with lake, zoo, playgrounds, and boat rides—ideal for relaxing and family outings 

• University of Ibadan & Zoological Garden – Nigeria’s oldest university, surrounded by lush grounds, featuring a zoo with native species like lions, monkeys, and crocodiles 

• Bower’s Tower (Layipo) – Built in 1936 atop Oke‑Are Hill to honor Captain Bower. Offers 360° views across Ibadan—short hike rewarded with stunning vistas 

• National Museum of Unity – Ethnographic museum housing artifacts from Yoruba, Igbo, Edo, Hausa cultures and historic relics like Mumuye masks and royal memorabilia 

• Bodija & Dugbe Markets – Lively markets for textiles, fresh produce, crafts, local street snacks, and everyday Yoruba commerce 

• IITA Forest Reserve & Eleyele Lake – Managed by International Institute of Tropical Agriculture, offering hiking, birdwatching, lake fishing and tranquil nature walks just outside the city 

• Trans-Amusement / Wonderland Park – A family-friendly amusement park within the city featuring rides, games, and food options 

 Eat & Drink: Local Flavors & Dining Recommendations

Sample Ibadan’s rich Yoruba cuisine and street eats:

• Traditional dishes: Lafun & Ewedu with Amala, Gbegiri, Moin Moin, Eko — available at local favorites like Amala Sky in Bodija Market 

• Local street foods: Enjoy akara, roasted coconut, plantain chips, and Lagos-style suya from market stalls.

• Modern dining: Charmed by Chinese-Cantonese at Golden Dragon (Premier Hotel); plus casual eateries around Bodija & Dugbe offering diverse options from continental to continental–local fusion 

 Where to Stay: Accommodation Suggestions

• Premier Hotel, Mokola Hill – A historic and prestigious hotel with over 80 rooms, stunning hilltop views, popular with dignitaries and business travelers 

• University of Ibadan Hotel – A unique campus-based hotel offering easy access to university grounds, zoological garden, and serene surrounds 

• Other useful areas: Bodija, Agbowo, and Challenge neighborhoods for local guesthouses and mid‑range stays near markets and eateries.

 Travel Tips & Local Advice

• Best time to visit: Dry season (November–March) is ideal—low rainfall, moderate temps (20–30 °C) for sightseeing; rainy season (April–October) brings lush greenery but more humidity and road disruption

• Visit duration: Allocate at least 3–4 days to explore the highlights; one week if adding nature sites or deeper cultural insight 

• Getting around: Use taxis, “keke” tricycles, local buses or “okada” motorcycles (except on highways/private estates). Ibadan traffic is lighter than Lagos, making it more navigable 

• Safety: Considered safer and more relaxed for visitors than Lagos according to user reports. Remain aware and hire local guides if needed 

• Dress & culture: Modest dress is advisable; respect cultural and religious norms—especially when visiting sacred sites and traditional events.

• Itinerary tip: Start at sunrise on Mapo or Mokola Hill for panoramic views; pair walking the University grounds with a zoo visit; reserve an afternoon for Agodi Gardens or Bower’s Tower climb.