Top Things to Do in Ilorin

About the City

Welcome to Ilorin, the traditional yet bustling capital of Kwara State in Nigeria, where the scent of Wara (local cheese) wafts through the air and the skyline is punctuated by ancient mosques and the University dome. Here, `Okada` (motorcycle taxis) zoom by in a frenetic dance with `Keke Napep` (tricycle taxis), weaving through traffic with an energy that defies the calm of the Emir’s Palace. In Ilorin, the culinary scene is a spicy delight; `Amala` and `Gbegiri` battle it out for the title of local favorite, while the streets resonate with haggling voices at the Oja Oba Market. End the day with a walk by the flowing Asa River, but be sure to outpace the mosquitoes keen on an evening feast of their own. Be aware, though, that Ilorin's charm is a double-edged sword. While the hospitality is second to none, the pace can be a bit slow for those used to a megacity's buzz. The infrastructure has its own story of highs and lows, with some potholes plotting surprise meetings with the ground. But fret not, for the warmth of the people and the peals of laughter from the ever-playful children will surely make any visitor overlook the occasional bump in the road.

Things to Do in Ilorin

Dig into Jollof Rice at a Local Eatery

Food & Drink

Jollof rice isn't just a dish; it's a celebration on a plate. With its smoky flavor, vibrant color, and the right amount of spice, this tomato-based rice sensation is a must-try. It's like a fiesta an...

Ramp Up Your Adrenaline with Paragliding at Pategi

Outdoors

Feeling adventurous? Strap in for some sky-high fun with paragliding off the Pategi cliffs. Soar like an eagle and catch breathtaking views of Ilorin's landscape. It's the closest you'll get to being ...

Navigate the Thrills of Offa's Dyke

The Unexpected

Get your Indiana Jones on and explore the wonders of Offa's Dyke, a monumental marvel with a story for the ages. This isn't just a hike; it's a journey through time!

Navigate the Halls of Knowledge at Kwara State University Library

The Unexpected

Take a dive into the world of books and academic prowess at the Kwara State University Library. This isn't your average book nook; it's a gold mine for your brain that's just waiting for you to hit th...

Master the Skill of Traditional Drumming

The Unexpected

Get ready to roll and rumble with the beats of Ilorin as you learn the ancient art of traditional drumming. Find your rhythm and let your hands dance to the beat of the talking drums!

Discover Flora & Fauna at the University of Ilorin Zoological Garden

The Unexpected

Fancy a wild time? Step into the world of lush greenery and mighty creatures in the University of Ilorin Zoological Garden. Experience nature like never before ' not through a screen, for real!

Mountain Biking at Oyun

Outdoors

Saddle up for a two-wheeled excursion over the hills and far away at Oyun! Mountain biking here means you get to gulp in fresh air, nab some stunning views, and pedal past local wildlife. It's your ch...

Glide in a Kayak at Asa River

Outdoors

Ready to paddle your way to some aquatic adventure? Kayak down the Asa River and feel the gentle rhythms of the water. It's all about the splash, the laughter, and just maybe, a mini race with your bu...

Set Off on a Cycling Tour around the Ilorin City Trails

Outdoors

Dust off that bike and pedal your way through a cycling tour of Ilorin's scenic outdoors. Bike through the beating heart of the city, wave to friendly locals, and feel the wind whipping through your h...

Discover the Beauty of Ilorin Reservoir

Outdoors

Grab your picnic basket, slap on some sunscreen, and head out to the Ilorin Reservoir for a day of chill vibes by the water. Whether you're aiming to catch the golden hour glow or just want to wiggle ...

Relish Wara at a Bustling Market

Food & Drink

Hop into the hustle and bustle of an Ilorin market and get yourself some Wara, the local tofu that's so fresh, it'll make you want to sing. This soft cheese-like snack is made from curdled soy milk an...

Get Cultural at Ilorin Durbar Festival

Sights

Whoop it up with the locals during the Ilorin Durbar Festival, a cultural extravaganza where you'll see horse riders decked out like you've never seen before. It's history, it's a party, it's everythi...

Admire the Dazzling Kainji Dam

Sights

Feast your eyes on the spectacular Kainji Dam, a man-made marvel that's powering up the nation with its hydroelectric hustle. Not just a pretty face, this dam's got power – literally!

Marvel at the Dallah Pottery Works

Sights

Get ready to be amazed by the spinning magic at Dallah Pottery Works, where the clay dances between skilled fingers to become stunning pots and artifacts. Feel the earthy connection as you watch the a...

Go on a Historical Journey at the Mungo Park Cenotaph

Sights

Step into a tale of adventure at the Mungo Park Monument, where you can almost hear the echoes of the renowned explorer's escapades. It's a history lesson without the classroom, mingled with a dash of...

Mingle with Nature at the Kwara State University Malete Edible Park

Sights

Escape the city buzz and listen to nature's whispers at the Edible Park. Picture this: You're surrounded by lush greenery, biting into juicy fruits, and everything's just peachy – quite literally!

Gobble Up Efo Riro with Tuwo Shinkafa

Food & Drink

Wrap your taste buds around Efo Riro, a rich spinach stew that's as vibrant as the streets of Ilorin, paired with some silky-smooth Tuwo Shinkafa - the kind of rice that sticks to your ribs in the bes...

Feast on Isi Ewu

Food & Drink

Dive hooves first into Isi Ewu, a goat head delicacy that's more than a meal, it's an experience! Feel like a local chief as you savor this spicy, palm oil-infused treat!

Revel in Ofada Rice & Ayamase

Food & Drink

Let the party in your mouth begin with Ofada Rice, the locally fermented, flavor-bursting rice delicacy, topped off with the hot and peppery Ayamase sauce that's bound to set your senses ablaze!

Take a Leap into Traditional Dancing

The Unexpected

Shake a leg and move those hips to the rhythm of Ilorin's traditional beats. No prior dance experience required, just a sense of fun and some energy to burn!