7 Days NIGERIA – South West Tour

Introduction

Exploring Nigeria’s South West region offers a fascinating blend of history, spirituality, and vibrant culture. While I haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the comprehensive details and glowing review paint a compelling picture of what travelers can expect.

What I love about this experience is the opportunity to trace the roots of the Yoruba people, enjoy authentic cultural sights like Ile-Ife, and visit profound sites like the Osun Sacred Grove. The luxury accommodations and transportation promise comfort after long days of exploration, and the well-curated itinerary ensures a balanced mix of history, spirituality, and local life.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour covers quite a bit of ground—so expect some long travel days, especially when moving between towns. But if you’re a history buff or someone eager to experience Nigeria beyond its surface, this tour will suit you perfectly.

If you’re interested in engaging deeply with Nigeria’s cultural and historical landscapes while enjoying comfort and expert guidance, this 7-day South West adventure is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Visit sacred sites, markets, and historic landmarks that showcase Yoruba traditions.
• Comprehensive Itinerary: Combines history, spirituality, and local customs across multiple cities.
• Luxury Comfort: Staying in five-star hotels with transportation in a luxury SUV enhances the travel experience.
• Expert Guided Tours: Knowledgeable guides ensure you gain meaningful insights at each stop.
• Value for Money: All entrance fees, meals, and logistics are included, making for a hassle-free experience.
• Authentic Encounters: Opportunities to see traditional crafts, local markets, and participate in cultural rituals.

Exploring Nigeria’s South West: An In-Depth Review

Starting Point: Lagos to Badagry and Abeokuta

Your journey begins in Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub, Lagos. After breakfast, the tour departs for Badagry, a town with a haunting but vital history. Located along the coast, Badagry was a major port during the transatlantic slave trade. Here, the Badagry Slave Route tour takes you to key sites like the old slave market, the slave trade museum, and relics such as the Seriki Abass compound with its slave barracoons.

Expect to spend approximately half a day exploring these powerful landmarks. The Gberefu beach, known as the slave embarkation point, is especially poignant for its historical significance. Our guide, whose in-depth knowledge brought these stories to life, helped us understand the scale of the trade and its lasting impact on Nigerian and global history.

From Badagry, the tour proceeds to Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State. Famous for Olumo Rock, it’s a city that marries history with resilience. The climb up Olumo offers stunning views and a look into the city’s fortress-like past, built to protect from invasions. The Itoku Market offers a taste of local craftsmanship and the iconic Adire textile, a fabric dyed with resist techniques that reflect Yoruba artistry.

Day 2 & 3: From Abeokuta to Ibadan and Beyond

Traveling towards Ibadan, the largest city in Nigeria’s southwest, the journey includes a stop in Abeokuta for more cultural insights. At Obasanjo Library, the former president’s legacy shines, but it’s the stories from the guides and locals that make this stop special.

In Ibadan, the tour stays at a luxury hotel, providing a comfortable base for exploring key sites. Here, the focus shifts to the city’s history and culture, with visits to markets and traditional spots, like the vibrant Itoku Market. If you love textiles, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see and possibly purchase authentic Adire fabrics, crafted by skilled Yoruba women.

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Day 4: Ile Ife – The Cradle of Yoruba Culture

One of the highlights of the tour is a trip to Ile Ife, often called the spiritual heart of Yoruba land. This ancient city is believed to be where the gods Oduduwa and Obatala began creation, making it a sacred site.

Visiting the Palace of the Ooni of Ife, the spiritual leader of the Yoruba, gives insight into the traditional leadership and religious practices still alive today. The Ife Museum displays artifacts and sculptures, including the legendary Oranmiyan monolith, which marks the city’s historic significance.

Day 5: Oshogbo and the Sacred Osun Grove

Continuing south, the tour reaches Oshogbo, renowned for the annual Osun Festival and its sacred forest. The Osun Sacred Grove, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a lush, dense forest dotted with shrines, sculptures, and sanctuaries dedicated to the river goddess Osun.

Walking through the sacred grove, we saw firsthand how nature and spirituality are intertwined in Yoruba tradition. The guides explained that these sanctuaries are some of the last primary high forests remaining in southern Nigeria, making them invaluable both culturally and ecologically.

Logistics, Accommodation & Meals

Throughout this journey, travelers stay in luxury five-star hotels, ensuring restful nights after busy days. The transportation, a luxury Lincoln Aviator SUV, guarantees a smooth, safe, and comfortable ride across often bumpy roads—an often-overlooked aspect but crucial for a pleasant experience.

Meals are thoughtfully curated, with a focus on continental dishes at top restaurants, accommodating dietary restrictions. The inclusion of all park and museum entrance fees, plus drinks at bars or clubs, simplifies budgeting and keeps focus on the experience itself.

The Value Proposition

At $3,700 per person, this tour offers excellent value considering the level of comfort, the depth of cultural engagement, and the expert guidance. All logistics, accommodations, and meals are covered, which means no surprises or hidden costs. Based on the glowing review stating “they took excellent care of us all the time,” it’s clear that attention to detail and customer satisfaction are priorities for BHG Tours.

What Reviewers Say

Our source of feedback includes a traveler who called the tour “amazing” and appreciated the attention to detail and excellent care provided by the guides. They also mentioned the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to enjoy the authentic culture and history of Nigeria, which is exactly what this itinerary offers.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This 7-day journey is best suited for travelers who are curious about Nigeria’s history, especially the transatlantic slave trade, and those eager to connect with Yoruba spirituality and culture. It’s ideal if you value luxury, comfort, and expert guidance as part of your cultural exploration.

While the itinerary is immersive and detailed, expect some long travel days—so patience and an interest in history are key. If you’re after an authentic, well-organized tour that balances learning, sightseeing, and comfort, this Nigeria South West experience fits the bill.

It’s a well-rounded introduction to a complex, vibrant region, making it perfect for history buffs, culture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a meaningful, educational adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
All accommodations at 5-star hotels, transportation in a luxury Lincoln Aviator SUV, three-course meals, entrance fees to parks and museums, and drinks at bars or clubs are included.

Are meals vegetarian or customizable?
Meals are primarily continental, with accommodations for dietary restrictions. You’ll have access to a variety of dishes suited for different preferences.

Do I need a Nigerian visa?
You might want to apply for a Nigerian visa at your local embassy. Alternatively, a Visa on Arrival can be arranged through the tour provider, with a pre-application process.

How much free time will I have?
Most days are packed with meaningful visits, but the evenings at the hotels provide opportunities for relaxing or exploring nearby areas at your leisure.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, traveling in a luxury Lincoln Aviator SUV ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, even on less-developed roads.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, markets such as Itoku and local craft stalls offer textiles, traditional medicines, and crafts, but souvenirs purchased are not included in the tour price.

Whether you’re captivated by history, spirituality, or simply want to experience Nigeria in style, this tour offers a thoughtful and immersive journey into the soul of the South West region.

You can check availability for your dates here: