Abuja is the capital city of Nigeria and there are so many tourist attractions in Abuja. It is popularly referred to as “ABJ” which is the short form for Abuja. Abuja is the political powerhouse of Nigeria. It is located in the middle of the country and home to Aso Rock, the official home of the Nigerian first family.
Abuja as the centre of unity welcomes guests from every nation regularly. This is because there is a sight for you to behold. The landscape of the city alone will birth a lot of questions in your mind. You will develop a curious standpoint that will most likely drive your search for answers.
Although Abuja has a rocky terrain, several developments have taken place in this wealthiest part of the country. This is enough to add that Abuja is a home for religious and administrative structures. Due to its central location and space for prospective expansion, Abuja became the capital of Nigeria in 1991. Nevertheless, Abuja has continued to grow in prestige and number of inhabitants.
The capital city hosts major sporting and political events, gatherings of different religions and business events. Prominent cities in Abuja, such as Asokoro, Gwarimpa, Wuse, Maitama, and so on, will spur you to visit over and over. Furthermore, unlimited entertainment and historical exhibitions are a spotlight of the city of Abuja. This begins from the bush bars where you can get regular Nigerian meals and snacks and local drinks like suya, pepper soup, bush meat, shawarma, palm wine, pounded yam, and so on.
Also, it extends to the existence of the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, a major stadium, art galleries, Eagle Square, the National Assembly, resorts and parks. The cultural concepts of Abuja are visible in the national buildings. It is easier to understand what Nigeria stands for by touring her capital city. To quench your thirst and desire to learn more about the cultural heritage of Nigeria, there are various tourist attractions in the city of Abuja.
Places to Visit in Abuja
Your visit to Nigeria is incomplete without a tour of the following places:
Aso Rock
The name ” Aso” was punched out of the name “Asokoro”, an ethnic group in the region. The name signifies victory, and it is a spot for presidential buildings such as the Nigerian National Assembly, Presidential Complex and Supreme Court. Situated on the outskirts of Abuja, the Nigerian capital, is this enormous protrusion. The Aso Rock is a 400-meter boulder that dominates the city and it is the most recognizable landmark.
The Commonwealth Heads of Government met at Aso Rock to sign the Aso Rock Declaration in 2003, in Abuja. Aso Rock stands as a prominent feature and it is a place that you should see whenever you come to Abuja.
Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja
The Moshood Abiola stadium is a facility that accommodates 60,000 spectators and was opened in 2003. It is another popular tourist attraction in Abuja. It is located at Constitution Avenue, Abuja. The stadium serves as a home for major sporting, religious and cultural events. This is due to the large capacity, structures, terrains and parking space. Moshood Abiola stadium has hosted major sporting events in the country such as the All African Games and FIFA World Cup in 2009.
It is a very nice place for tourists to keep fit and also gain access to the world-class structure. The stadium meets the requirements of the Federal International Football Association and International Association of Athletics Federation. Moshood Abiola stadium provides a perfect view of an outstanding sports centre and is continually improved to give visitors an adventure.
Jabi Lake
Jabi Lake was created by an artificial earthen dam that was initially constructed to deliver water to Abuja, Nigeria. The surface of the lake is over 1,300 hectares. This has got to be one of the most visited tourist attractions in Abuja.
Water for about 100,000 people might have been stored in the reservoir at its beginning. However, following the construction of the larger dam, the reservoir gained popularity as a fishing and tourist destination. In addition to boating and other fun activities on the lake, social gatherings take place in the park. The Jabi Boat Club is also a boat rental service that offers water recreation services to tourists. It costs about 10,000-20,000 Naira to have a jet ski and a 30minute pedal boat ride is about 2500 naira The lake has a park and a mall where you can be entertained with several sights, such as a lounge, bar, cinema, restaurants, spa, game centres and so on.
Jabi Lake is a pleasure for everyone. From taking a walk in the park to hosting a picnic and swimming in the lake or playing games, you will be engaged. Jabi Lake is the closest you can have to a beach experience in Abuja. You can access Jabi Lake by direct flights at the airport from popular cities then land at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. The airport has straight taxis to take you to Jabi Lake.
BMT African Garden, Abuja
BMT African Garden is located at Wuse, Abuja. It is a private garden with a zoo and a vast area for premium entertainment. The garden is in a secluded spot and has amazing facilities that are continuously improved. Facilities such as a pool, a zoo, a library and a spot to relax are the highlights of the BMT African Garden.
Also, there is a blend of the Northern African culture with a mini zoo where you can get to see animals and birds for a fee. Some of the animals and birds you will get to see at the zoo are hyenas, monkeys, baboons, pigs, sheep, jackals, tortoises, ostriches, ducks and so on. In addition, there is enough space for outdoor activities and personal leisure. This includes international cuisines and African delicacies, music, a gym and many more updated attractions.
National Arboretum, Abuja
Over 1,000 hectares in size, the National Arboretum is a well-known tourist destination in the city of Abuja. It is located in The Three Arms Zone, where people may witness a wide diversity of plants and woodlands.
The Arboretum was erected to preserve the surrounding forest and other plant life in their unaltered biological state. It was created to have a big influence on genetic reserve preservation for scientific, educational, medical, and other uses. This site provides a chance for tourists to observe nature in its finest form. The Arboretum is accessible from the Muritala Mohammed Expressway.
Millennium Park, Abuja
Millennium Park is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Abuja. It is located at 5, Usuma Street, Maitama, Abuja. The Millenium Park, Abuja, was inaugurated in 2003 by Queen Elizabeth II of England. It is the largest and most visited public park in Abuja. The amazing features of this 80 hectares park are all directed to provide a comfortable place to relax.
Amazingly, entrance is free and this does not affect your stay, you can access the park for as long as you want. The Millennium Park is a haven that welcomes both young and old to enjoy the ambience and feel of fresh air. The sound of rushing waters at the fountain and waterfalls is also a sight to behold.
Similarly, children are allowed access to the toys, horse rides and bouncing castles plus other game activities made available for them. In the same vein, adults are not left out of the entertainment and artistic settings in this highly recommended landscape. Also, because of the wide space in this park, it serves as a great events centre. This can accommodate thousands of people without chaos.
Well, I believe that constant renovation and maintenance are the backbones of this notable park. Millennium Park has continued to serve its purpose and to date, it is the most popular park in Abuja.
IBB International Golf and Country Club
IBB International Golf and Country Club is a famous leisure tourist attraction in Abuja located at 41, Udi Hill Street, Maitama, Abuja. The standard Golf Course was built by Julius Berger, one of Nigeria’s alliance companies and uncovered in 1992. It maintains a 250-acre site with 18 holes, adjacent to the National Arboretum.
There are several ponds, lakes and streams there. The golf course is one of the top best in Africa and is regarded as having one of the most picturesque parkland courses in sub-Saharan Africa. IBB International Golf and Country Club welcomes tourists to its green and lovely landscape. It also gives access to club bars, changing rooms, restaurants, a clubhouse and a driving expanse. IBB country club is also close to the Presidential Villa and the National Assembly of Nigeria. This means that it is very easy to locate.
National Children’s Park and Zoo, Abuja
Located along Kubwa Expressway is the popular National Children’s Park and Zoo. It is quite accessible from Aso Rock, by road. National Children’s Park and Zoo is a popular family destination with fascinating activities for both adults and children. This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Abuja.
The zoo has a variety of wildlife such as zebra, ostrich, donkeys, buffalo, python, crocodile, horses, monkeys and so on. This tourist attraction is open from Mondays to Sundays and it is a great place to relax and enjoy a peaceful state of mind. The cultural scope of the park and zoo provides a typical view of a ranch plus a lakeside and a large playground.
Majorly, the park is crowded on weekends and major public holidays or festive seasons. Though, you can visit anytime, depending on your choice.
Thought Pyramid Art Centre, Abuja
Thought Pyramid Art Centre has a mission to collect, study and conserve modern art in Africa. It is an exhibition of the contemporary art of Africa.
It is situated at 18, Libreville Crescent off Aminu Kano way, Wuse 2, Abuja and has existed since 2008.
This centre welcomes tourists interested in arts and crafts to share ideas and also view and buy the original collections of art. The Pyramid Art Centre offers free entrance and library facilities for you to learn about African culture through the perspective of the art.
Also, in case you do not have previous knowledge of arts or you are willing to know more, there is a ” learning through arts” program at the centre. Buying an original artwork souvenir from the Thought Pyramid Art Centre is not a bad idea. Most of the exhibitions there will keep your eyes glued anyway.
Abuja National Mosque
This long-existing mosque was built in 1984. The structure of this religious space is located at Independence Avenue in Abuja.
Abuja National Mosque has a complex and a conference centre that can accommodate up to 500 people. Also, there are residential facilities for the residing imam and muezzin in this mosque.
Though, an Islamic spot, the mosque is open to the non-Muslim public at specific times when prayers are not going on. The features available to tourists are the library and the conference room. Also, Muslim tourists can view the landscape and stop by to join prayer sessions at the mosque. The Abuja National Mosque which is managed by the residing imam was built to serve as a symbol of Muslim unity in Nigeria.
Maitama Amusement Park
As a prime spot for spending quality time, Maitama Amusement Park has a friendly atmosphere for people of all ages. It was established in 2007 on a 100,000 square feet area. The Maitama Amusement Park provides a phenomenal display of attractions and recreations. At the park, there is a milk shop that sells sweet yoghurt and the local “fura”.
Maitama Amusement Park offers excitement for the entire family, making it a thrilling day out for everyone. Facilities available at the park are the Tea Cup Rides, Bumper Boat ride, Pirate ship, Carousel whirl and the trill of the Space Gun and Frog Jump.
Discovery Museum, Abuja
Your tour to Abuja is incomplete without a visit to this museum. Here, you have the privilege to learn about Nigeria’s independence from the beginning. This dates back to the slave trade era, colonisation, independence, and military and civilian era.It has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Abuja.
The Discovery Museum has the artefact of Nigerian culture well preserved. It relates to the history of Nigeria, from an artistic perspective. Also present at this museum is a collection of old Nigerian music, a copy of the Nigerian Constitution, pictures of past presidents and a historical background.
Discovery Museum provides a virtual reality room for a gaming experience where you can play a variety of tech games for as low as 4000 Naira.
As a means to ensure maximum comfort for visitors, you have access to a variety of meals and snacks from restaurants like Amazonia and Lagos Bistro. Also, note that there is a fee to gain entrance to this museum. The digital museum ticks all the options you can hope to get in a well-developed educational and technology-advanced space.
Discovery Museum is situated at 7, Hombori Street, Ademola Adetokunbo Avenue, Wuse 2, Abuja.
Nike Art Gallery and Workshop, Abuja
Nike Art Gallery and Workshop is a place that offers the opportunity to view artistic thoughts and expressions. It is owned by Chief Nike Davies-Okundaye and situated at International Airport road, Abuja Central. It is another popular tourist attraction in Abuja.
The Workshop also has the original artists on site to guide you through your tour. At the gallery, a cultural highlight of the Nigerian heritage is exhibited. It displays clothing and ornaments like the tie and dye, batik, Adire, locally made beads, and Aso-Oke ( a traditional woven material).
Also, the Nike Art Gallery expresses culture through sculptures and metal works, paintings on canvas and other crafts. These artworks are sold at reasonable prices too. It is a great spot for lovers of arts, crafts and culture.
National Christian Centre, Abuja
Previously called the National Ecumenical Centre, this is an interdenominational centre located in Abuja. Asides from being a worship centre, the architectural design is a tourist attraction. It hosted the celebration of Nigeria’s 45th anniversary and also has amazing inner and outer features.
A large area leading to the altar is part of the church’s unique design, which also includes multiple pivoting arches. Every ten minutes, the altar in the centre of the church makes a full rotation.
Also, on the right wing of the church, a pipe organ is installed and the choir is seated nearby. The chapel is filled with stained glass windows that use a straightforward yet lovely combination of yellow, green, and red colours. When not being used for Christian events, it is accessible to the general public. You are encouraged to book a tour guide to take you around this beautiful edifice.
Crushed Rock, Mpape Abuja
The crushed rock was until now an abandoned quarry until it recently become one of the newest tourist attractions in Abuja. Crushed rock is a deserted quarry site in Abuja. During the construction of the city of Abuja in 1980, this rock provided stones that served as a building material.
In recent years despite the closure of the site in 2010, it has become a popular tourist attraction.
While gathering rocks and stones from this site, workmen struck an aquifer, causing the quarry to flood and create a quarry lake. As recently as late 2018, the location suffered rock tremors. The lake also contains some abandoned mining equipment.
It has recently gained popularity as a destination for city residents and visitors. It is a desirable trekking location due to the lake and tall rocks. The site gained popularity as a result of people being prohibited from travelling to farther-off locations as a result of a lockdown that was enacted worldwide due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Some paths lead to the quarry lake’s edge as well as to a high grassy plateau where people like to picnic.
Magic Land, Abuja
The first and largest most well-equipped amusement park in all of Nigeria is Magicland Amusement, a cutting-edge, world-class recreation facility. It is located right in the middle of Abuja, a short drive from the city’s centre, across from the National Stadium, and near the City Gate.
It covers an area of about 330,000 square meters. On March 1st, 2007, it was officially opened and commissioned by Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the Nigerian president at the time. This should be added to your bucket list of tourist attractions to visit in Abuja. m
The park offers leisure gardens for guests to unwind in, rides and games for kids and adults of all ages, a restaurant named the Fulani Ranch that serves continental Mediterranean and African cuisines, cafes all over, and stores scattered around for the convenience of visitors.
The Forest Cafe and the Shisha Hut are two cafes that serve delectable meals with distinctive flavours. The Fountain Shop, Wonder Shop, Nina’s Candy, Zain Shop, and many more are a few of the stores. The Fountain Square, which has a lovely view, is one of Magicland’s many places for relaxation. The Fun City Arcade, another huge arcade structure, is located at Magicland. The park features restrooms and an administrative building for complaints and inquiries.
The entrance fee into the park is about 200-1000 naira.
Because it is a family-friendly park, Magicland Amusement Park is the place to be.
Splash Water Park
Splash Waterpark is a park that offers water play areas like a swimming pool, water slide, splash pad, and water playground, as well as areas for relaxation like picnic areas. It is one of the most popular waterparks in Abuja, therefore, it should be on your list of top tourist attractions to visit in Abuja.
While taking in the beauty of nature’s scenery and sound, tourists also have the chance to explore the area. Visitors can book a space for birthday events and excursions at the water park.
The entrance fee to the park is 5000 naira per head while the swimming pool facility is 500 naira per head at the time of writing this article.
Splash Water Park is located near Games Village in the Kaura neighbourhood, southwest of Abuja’s Central Business District.
Abuja Arts and Crafts Village
Abuja Arts and Crafts Village is located in Jabi, Abuja. It is one of the most sought-after tourist attractions and cultural centres in the city of Abuja.
A visit to the crafts village will give you an in-depth knowledge of the African culture. This begins with clothing, religion, historical contents, carved images, paintings and so on.
Artistic collections at the Abuja Arts and Crafts Village are gotten from local materials at Nigerian markets.
Artists portray the lifestyle of African countries before and after civilization and also sell cultural exhibits. At the centre, you can get souvenirs like wooden bracelets, carved images depicting ancient times and various clothes which represent the traditional perspective of Nigeria.
Abuja Arts and Crafts Village have welcomed tourists from all over the world in recent times and this has brought this beautiful place to the spotlight.
Central Park, Abuja
The Central Park in Abuja is a tourist and recreational edifice located at Plot 174, Muhammed Avenue, Central Area, Abuja.
It is a green land that offers visitors a free space to take a walk, relax, have picnics and host mini-events. The ambience is natural and quite serene. It is better described as a breath of fresh air.
Facilities available at Central Park include;
Mini golf course with 9 holes
Amazing restaurant, Tapas on the Green, to enjoy Nigerian, Indian and Chinese cuisines.
Paintball
Cycling adventures on the cycle trail, can be used to create mini cycling competitions.
Playgrounds
Arcades
Virtual Reality games for adults and children
A space for musical concerts, events and gatherings.
National Assembly, Abuja
This is the legislative building owned by the Federal Government of Nigeria. It was built in 1999 on a 40,000 m² floor area.
The National Assembly is located at the Three Arms Zone, Abuja.
This assembly serves as an architectural landmark of Nigeria with its unique shape and domeshaped roof. This design ensures that all political parties in Nigeria are well represented.
Its distinctive features include a massive, 3-meter-diameter spherical dome and two equal portions with polygonal roofs that are situated on the second-tier construction.
Another characteristic of construction is the abundance of rectangular windows in various sizes. In addition, soft green and white tones are predominant on the building’s exterior. A fascinating tiny balcony is located on the ground floor.
An independent and unifying sign in the form of a raised fist hand holding a spear firmly is displayed before entering the National Assembly building. This signifies the decision-making purpose of the National Assembly. Therefore, tourists are drawn to the construction’s overall aesthetic harmony.
Visit Abuja With Travelwaka
Generally, touring the city of Abuja is more fun as you progress. It is one experience that leaves you with quality information and background knowledge of Nigeria. Kindly note that to access certain areas, you will need to do this by road transport. A travel company will make it easier for you especially if it is your first time. You can contact Travelwaka for all Tours to Abuja. We will help you arrange tours to all the different tourist attractions in Abuja.
Kindly send us a message https://travelwaka.com/contact
Instagram – www.instagram.com/travelwaka_tours
Twitter – www.twitter.com/travelwakatours
Facebook – www.facebook.com/travelwakatours
In conclusion, adventures are peculiar to individuals, therefore you should make sure that you define the kind you want. This would lead you to choose the right tourist attraction and save you a lot of stress. The article has highlighted the most visited spots within Abuja, so you have a variety of options.
