Okomu National Park is one of the best places in Nigeria to experience real rainforest, not the “small garden” type. People come here for calm nature walks, wildlife spotting, and that rare feeling of being deep inside a protected forest.
It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy eco-tourism in Nigeria, bird lovers, photographers, and anyone tired of crowded city attractions. If you want a quiet, natural adventure close to Benin City, Okomu National Park is a strong choice.
About Okomu National Park
Okomu National Park started as a protected forest area long before it became popular with everyday travelers. Over time, parts of the wider forest reserve were formally conserved to protect the remaining rainforest ecosystem and its wildlife.
Today, Okomu National Park Nigeria is known as one of the last strongholds of lowland rainforest in the region, which is why it matters for conservation, research, and nature-based tourism.
See Also: Obudu Mountain Resort: Things to Do, Reviews and Location
Okomu National Park Location and How to Get There
Okomu National Park is in Edo State, within Ovia South-West Local Government Area. If you’ve ever asked “okomu national park is located in which state”, the simple answer is Edo, and it’s often visited as a nature trip from Benin City.
Many people also search “okomu national park benin” because Benin is the easiest major city base for transport, supplies, and accommodation before heading into the forest.
Directions by Road
- From Benin City: Drive out toward Udo area and continue toward Arakhuan, then follow local directions to the park entry. The trip is usually planned as an early start because the forest experience is better in the morning.
- From Lagos: Most visitors drive to Benin City first, then continue to the park the next day. This helps you avoid stress and arrive with enough time for activities.
- Road condition notes: Expect decent city roads leaving Benin, then more rural roads as you get closer. During rainy season, the last stretch can be slower and muddy in parts.
Public Transport Options
- Bus to Benin City: This is the common route for people coming from Lagos, Warri, Asaba, or other nearby cities.
- Taxi or hired car from Benin: This is the most practical way to reach the park because public transport directly to the gate is not always reliable.
- Tour group option: Some visitors join organized trips because it simplifies movement, guiding, and timing.
5 Amazing Facts About Okomu National Park
- It protects a rare piece of rainforest that once covered large parts of the surrounding region, so you’re walking through a landscape that has become uncommon.
- It’s one of Nigeria’s best-known habitats for the white-throated guenon, a monkey species many wildlife lovers travel specifically to see.
- Elephant sightings can happen but they are rare, which is normal in rainforest parks where animals move quietly and avoid humans.
- The forest can feel completely different within minutes of entering, cooler air, darker canopy, and a quiet that makes you forget you’re still in Edo State.
- Many visitors love the elevated viewpoint experience, especially the okomu national park tree house, which gives you a higher angle of the forest canopy.
Things to Do at Okomu National Park
Wildlife Spotting and Quiet Animal Watching
A big reason people visit is to learn about and possibly see animals in Okomu National Park, especially monkeys and forest birds. The best tip is to go early, stay quiet, and be patient. Rainforest wildlife doesn’t perform on command, so the “slow and steady” approach works best.
Climb the Treehouse for Canopy Views
The okomu national park tree house experience is one of the most memorable parts of a visit. It gives you a higher view over the forest and increases your chance of spotting movement in the canopy. If you like calm, scenic moments, this is where you’ll enjoy just standing still and looking.
Walk Forest Trails With a Ranger or Guide
A guided trail walk adds a lot because you’ll learn how to read animal signs, identify plants, and understand what makes the ecosystem special. This is also safer for first-timers, because it’s easy to underestimate how quickly rainforest paths can feel confusing.
Birdwatching and Nature Photography
Even if you don’t see big animals, the forest is still rich with photo moments, tall trees, filtered sunlight, and natural textures everywhere. Bring a power bank, keep your camera protected from moisture, and avoid loud movement so you don’t scare off wildlife.
Picnic and Relaxation at Safe Rest Areas
Some visitors plan a simple picnic after their walk. Keep it light, keep it clean, and store food properly so it doesn’t attract animals. This is a quiet park, so the best vibe is calm enjoyment, not loud partying.
Related: Lekki Conservation Centre: Fun Facts and Things to Do
Entrance Fees and Other Costs
Entrance Fee
Pricing can vary depending on whether you’re visiting independently, with a guide, or through a tour package.
- Adult: ₦5,000 – ₦15,000 (estimated)
- Children / students: ₦2,000 – ₦7,000 (estimated, where offered)
Additional Charges
- Guide or ranger support: ₦5,000 – ₦20,000 per group (estimated, depending on route and time)
- Treehouse access: Sometimes included, sometimes treated as part of guided activities (estimated)
- Parking: ₦500 – ₦1,500 (estimated)
- Accommodation inside or near the park: Varies widely by room type and season (estimated)
Is It Worth the Cost?
Yes, if you treat it like a real nature experience. The value is in the rainforest, the learning, and the peaceful atmosphere, not in entertainment-style facilities. Many okomu national park reviews tend to be better when visitors arrive early, use a guide, and don’t expect wildlife to appear instantly.
Best Time to Visit Okomu National Park
- Best months: November to March is usually easier for trails because it’s drier and movement is more comfortable.
- Dry vs rainy season: Rainy season makes the forest look richer, but trails can be muddy and slippery. Dry season is easier for walking and photography.
- Best time of day: Morning is best for wildlife activity and cooler temperatures.
- Crowd levels: Usually calmer than city attractions, but weekends can still be busier than weekdays.
Where to Stay Near Okomu National Park
Nearby Hotels and Resorts
Most visitors either stay in Benin City or use accommodation linked to the park area.
- Budget: Guest houses in Benin City or simple stays near the park (estimated ₦15,000 – ₦45,000 per night)
- Mid-range: Better hotels in Benin City, or resort-style options closer to the forest (estimated ₦50,000 – ₦120,000 per night)
- Luxury: Higher-end Benin hotels and premium resort-style stays (estimated ₦130,000 – ₦300,000+ per night)
Distance From the Attraction
- From Benin City: Often around 1 to 2 hours by road, depending on your starting point and road conditions.
- From Udo area: Shorter drive, often under 1 hour (estimated).
Safety Tips and Visitor Guidelines
- What to wear: Long trousers, comfortable sneakers, and light long sleeves if you want protection from insects and scratches.
- What to avoid: Avoid loud music, feeding animals, and wandering off trails. Also avoid late visits when daylight is fading.
- Health and safety tips: Use insect repellent, carry water, and keep your phone protected from moisture. If you have allergies, bring what you need.
- Rules visitors should know: Stay with your guide or ranger where advised, keep the forest clean, and respect wildlife distance.
- Suitability for children/elderly: Suitable for active children and adults who can walk comfortably. For elderly visitors, a shorter guided route and more rest breaks are better than long trails.
FAQs
What state is Okomu National Park in?
Okomu National Park is located in Edo State, which is why many people also search okomu national park edo when planning their trip.
How far is Okomu National Park from Benin City?
It’s commonly visited from Benin City as a day trip, usually taking about 1 to 2 hours by road depending on where you start and road conditions.
What animals can I see in Okomu National Park?
Wildlife sightings vary, but visitors often look out for monkeys, forest birds, and other small mammals. Big animals exist, but they are not guaranteed because rainforest animals move quietly and avoid people.
Is the treehouse in Okomu National Park worth it?
Yes, especially if you enjoy canopy views and quiet nature watching. The okomu national park tree house gives you a different perspective of the forest and makes the visit feel more complete.
Do I need a guide to visit?
It’s strongly recommended for first-timers. A guide helps you stay safe, understand the forest, and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
Is it open every day?
Visits are typically done during daytime hours, and many people plan for morning entry. If you’re traveling far, it’s smart to confirm current gate and ranger availability close to your visit date.
Conclusion
If you want real rainforest vibes without leaving Edo State, this is one of the best options you can plan around Benin City. It’s calm, natural, and rewarding for travelers who enjoy slow experiences and wildlife moments.
Go early, go with a guide, and keep your expectations realistic for animal sightings. Okomu National Park is a valuable Nigerian conservation site and a refreshing weekend getaway for nature lovers.