So this is the 5 top local travel destinations this Christmas for the wanderers! This is written in no particular order just a random selection of really cool destinations (I have my own top pick). So let’s begin shall we..?
5. Le Méridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort
Le Méridien Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort, the pride of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, welcomes you with open arms. Situated amidst rich palm forest vegetation, this magnificent hotel on 174 hectares of land connotes peace and serenity complemented by its original atmosphere.
The lush greens of the world-class 18-hole golf course, creates the right atmosphere, for the most challenging, memorable golfing experience. Each time you visit this unique hotel in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, discoveries await you. It is a beautiful place with beautiful and amazing ambience!
Image Credit : Le Meridien Ibom Resort
4. Gashaka Gumti National Park
Gashaka Gumti is less developed but it is totally underappreciated I think. It is the largest game reserve in Nigeria located in the eastern parts of Taraba and Adamawa (it shares borders with Cameroon). The southern part of the park is part of the Mambilla Plateau, and is home to Chappal Waddi, the highest mountain in Nigeria and West Africa. There are 103 recorded mammal species including buffalos, cats, chimpanzees, elephants, hippos etc. In fact the Gashaka Primate Project was launched to protect the chimpanzee population which is the largest in Nigeria. It is also labeled as one of Africa’s ‘Important Bird Areas’. Like I said, it is totally underappreciated, but that means it will also be a more ‘rugged’ vacation (do I hear camping anyone?). To get here we would have to fly to Taraba and then drive (I have heard it is a looong and steep drive—think Obudu).
Image Credit : Hotels.ng
3. Kajuru Castle, Kajuru.
Kajuru Castle is an exclusive and luxurious total getaway built in an early medieval style at Kajuru village in the trade city of Kaduna, a major commercial hub in the northern part of Nigeria. This gorgeous architectural masterpiece with breathtaking ambience is set upon elevated peaks with staggering views. Kajuru Castle is styled in a European and clearly German way with a baronial hall, complete with suits of armour.
This castle operates on an exclusive basis and can only accommodate 12 individuals or 5 couples at a time. This tourist delight which has been the setting of popular music videos has a live crocodile while gorgeous peacocks are known to move around.
The rooms are spread across the castle’s three floors which feature four dungeon rooms, a central building with an authentic knights’ hall and a master’s bedroom fitted with air conditioners, televisions, sofas, beds and private bathrooms, as well as a dragon tower well guarded by ‘dragons’.
Source: Hotels.ng
2. Yankari Game Reserve
1.Christmas in Calabar and Obudu Mountain Resort
For the past few years, the government of Cross River state have showcased the beauty of their state with the Calabar Carnival. It is a beautiful and vibrant carnival and attracts people and tourists from around the continent. The carnival begins on the 1st of December and runs till the 31st of December. It’s been tagged “The Biggest Street Party in Africa” and showcases the beauty and creativity of the state.
Be sure to make travel arrangements early as hotels tend to fill up fast because of the popularity in the carnival!
Do not leave Cross River State without visiting Obudu Mountain Resort! Obudu is 5,200ft above sea level and is in the Northeast part of the state, close to the Cameroonian border. There are cable cars available to get to the resort or a crazy zig zag ascent by car. There are a few outdoor activities like hiking, horse-riding and swimming available at Obudu but ultimately, the resort is a place for relaxation a place to get away from the noise of the city and just relax.
So that’s it! Our top five local destinations for Christmas 2018! Go forth and explore…!
