Top Things to Do in Ibadan

Ibadan, Nigeria

About the City

Ibadan, Nigeria: A City of Contrasts Wrapped in the arms of seven hills, Ibadan is a city where the rhythm of traditional drums echo against the backdrop of modern hustle. While the sun scorches, casting a spotlight on the brown roofs that crown this ancient city, you’ll find residents engaged in a daily dance of resilience and resourcefulness. Street markets buzz with the symphony of haggling voices and the aroma of suya spices waltzing through the air. Here, the University of Ibadan stands proud, a beacon of education amidst a sea of academic seekers. You're just as likely to encounter a parade of rich Yoruba culture as you are a chaotic traffic jam – a test of patience for every commuter. Yet, in every corner of Ibadan, the power outages play hide and seek, and tales of infrastructure woes are shared like folklore. But the inhabitants face these with an unyielding spirit and a smile, crafting joy from the simplicity of daily life. From the legacy of its historic cocoa house to the fresh adventures awaiting in its unexplored hills, Ibadan is a narrative of contrasts, waiting for the curious to unfold its pages.

Things to Do in Ibadan

Warankasi

Food & Drink

Cheese lovers, brace yourselves for Warankasi, a local Nigerian cheese that tickles the taste buds with its rich and creamy texture. Find it fresh in markets and enjoy it as a snack or in various loca...

Jungle Paintball Showdown

Outdoors

Gear up for some adrenaline-pumping action as you dive, dodge, and dash through a paint-splattering battle among friends. May the best marksman, or the sneakiest stealth artist, win!

Street Food Hunt

The Unexpected

Turn into a street food connoisseur and navigate the maze of Ibadan's bustling streets for the ultimate snack attack. From fiery kebabs to sweet puff-puff, you're in for a tasty treasure hunt!

Garden Photography Exploration

The Unexpected

Grab your camera and click your way through Ibadan's lush gardens. It's a flora and fauna frenzy as you capture the essence of nature's own artwork. Plus, you'll leave with a gallery of green to gawk ...

Vintage Cinema Experience

The Unexpected

Flashback to old-school movie magic at one of Ibadan's classic cinemas. Feel the nostalgia as you munch on some popcorn and get lost in a flick without all the high-tech hubbub of today's theaters.

Sculpture Scene Discovery

The Unexpected

Get artsy and uncover the hidden secrets of Ibadan's many sculptures. Whether they're tucked away in roundabouts or standing tall in parks, these stone and metal craftsmen are whispering stories just ...

Cycling Exploration at U.I.

Outdoors

Hop on a bike and let those two wheels whisk you around the historic University of Ibadan. Whiz past academic giants, wave at the residential halls, and ring your bell to the rhythm of the collegiate ...

Sunrise Yoga at the Hilltop

Outdoors

Salute the sun and embrace inner peace with a rejuvenating yoga session high up on a quiet hilltop. Stretch, breathe, and open your heart to the incredible vista of a sleepy city waking up.

Local Cuisine Picnic Extravaganza

Outdoors

Why grab a meal indoors when you can spread a mat under the sky? Pack a basket with Ibadan's tastiest treats like Amala, Gbegiri, and some chilled Zobo to wash it all down. A true foodie fiesta under ...

Canopy Walk Challenge

Outdoors

Walk among the treetops on a thrilling canopy walkway, where you'll be hanging out with the birds! Get a load of the lush greenery from a bird's eye perspective, and hey, don't forget to breathe in th...

Pepper Soup

Food & Drink

Turn up the heat with Pepper Soup, a fiery broth that's sure to get your senses tingling. Made with an assortment of meats and spiced to perfection, it's a warm hug in a bowl!

Ancient Footsteps at the Cocoa House

Sights

Stand in awe at Cocoa House, the skyscraper born from the riches of cocoa farming. It’s a testament to both the city's commercial history and the sweet (chocolatey sweet!) success of agriculture.

Savor the Nightlife at Palms Shopping Mall

Sights

Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Ibadan with a trip to the Palms Shopping Mall. Whether it's a cinema date, a shopping spree, or just people-watching at the food court, this place is poppin' when th...

Tranquility and Tee Time at Ibadan Golf Club

Sights

Tee off amidst the serenity of sprawling greens at Ibadan Golf Club - the perfect place for both golf pros and enthusiastic newbies. Just don't let the beauty of the place mess with your swing!

Buzzing Marketplace Adventures at Bodija Market

Sights

Gear up for a sensory overload at Bodija Market, where you'll haggle like a pro, mingle with the locals, and maybe even pick up a few phrases in Yoruba. It's the kind of place where you can find every...

Explore Ancient Maps at the National Museum of Unity

Sights

Take a walk on the historical side with a visit to the National Museum of Unity! You'll find yourself time-traveling through Nigeria's past with ancient maps, artifacts, and more. It's a treasure trov...

Ofada Rice and Ayamase

Food & Drink

Revel in the harmony of Ofada Rice, the local, unpolished, aromatic rice served with Ayamase sauce - that spicy green delight that welcomes you into a world of flavor with every bite!

Akara

Food & Drink

Join the early morning hustle for the freshest Akara - these bean fritters are small, fluffy, and totally addictive. They're the superheroes of street food, best devoured with creamy pap, bread, or ga...

Iyan and Egusi Soup

Food & Drink

Get ready for an arm workout and a mouth party with Iyan - the legendary pounded yam that'll give your muscles a run for their money. Partner it with Egusi Soup, a melon-seed masterpiece that throws i...

Ludo Master Challenge

The Unexpected

Time to bring out the board games! Challenge locals to a game of Ludo at a park and let the good times roll...literally! Just remember, it's friendly competition, but bragging rights are eternal!