Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

Into the Heart of the Rainforest

Today, our Nigerian adventure took us to Okomu National Park, a place teeming with life and natural beauty. Leaving the bustling city behind, we drove into the serene landscapes of Edo State, eager to immerse ourselves in the heart of Nigeria’s rainforest. I was particularly excited to share this experience with Aisha and the kids, hoping they would appreciate the rich biodiversity that Nigeria has to offer. After all, it's crucial for them to connect with their heritage beyond the stories I tell them.


Explore Okomu National Park - a hidden gem in Nigeria, where lush rainforests and diverse wildlife await every adventurer.

The journey to Okomu was an experience in itself. As we drove, the landscape transformed from urban sprawl to lush greenery. The air grew noticeably fresher, carrying the scent of damp earth and blossoming flora. Tunde, ever the tech enthusiast, kept snapping photos with his phone, while Funke, with her keen eye for style, admired the vibrant colors of the roadside stalls. Aisha, as always, was the calm center, ensuring everyone had water and snacks. It reminded me of our early days in Ottawa, exploring Gatineau Park, but this felt different, more profound, a return to our roots.

Our first stop was The Barlance for breakfast. The restaurant was alive with the chatter of locals and the aroma of freshly prepared Nigerian delicacies. We had akara and moi-moi, which the kids devoured with surprising enthusiasm. It was a delightful start to the day, setting the tone for the adventures that lay ahead.


Experience the best of Nigerian and international cuisine at The Barlance in Abuja's upscale Maitama district.

Nature always wears the colors of the spirit.

Upon arriving at Okomu National Park, we were greeted by the park's staff, who were incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about the conservation efforts. Okomu National Park, a fragment of the rich forest, is the last habitat for many endangered species. The park is located in the Ovia South-West Local Government Area of Edo State, about 60 kilometers northwest of Benin City. We learned that Okomu spans about 200 square kilometers and is home to diverse wildlife, including the endangered white-throated monkey, forest elephants, and various bird species. The park is part of the larger Okomu Forest Reserve, balancing conservation with sustainable resource use.

We started our exploration with a guided tour, venturing deep into the rainforest. The towering trees formed a natural canopy, filtering the sunlight and casting dappled shadows on the forest floor. The air was thick with humidity, and the sounds of the forest enveloped us – the chirping of unseen birds, the rustling of leaves, and the occasional call of a monkey.

As we walked, our guide pointed out various species of plants and explained their medicinal properties. Aisha, with her nursing background, was particularly interested in this aspect. We spotted several monkeys swinging through the trees, their playful antics bringing smiles to our faces. Tunde, armed with his camera, tried to capture the perfect shot, while Funke sketched the intricate patterns of the leaves in her notebook.

One of the highlights of our visit was climbing one of the park’s treehouses. From this vantage point, we had a panoramic view of the park's landscape. It was breathtaking to see the vast expanse of green stretching out before us, a reminder of the importance of preserving such natural treasures. The kids were thrilled, feeling like they were in a real-life adventure movie.

We then decided to try out the canopy walk, which was both exhilarating and slightly terrifying. Suspended high above the forest floor, we walked across a series of rope bridges, taking in the sights and sounds from a unique perspective. It was an experience that tested our courage and rewarded us with stunning views. I must admit, even I, a seasoned traveler, felt a surge of adrenaline as I stepped onto the swaying bridge.

After our rainforest adventure, we drove to Michael Garden Restaurant for lunch. This local eatery offered a range of traditional Nigerian dishes. We savored the flavors of pepper soup, pounded yam, and jollof rice. The food was rich and spicy, a true reflection of Nigerian cuisine. Even Aisha, who is usually cautious with spicy food, enjoyed the meal, though she did need a few extra glasses of water!


Discover the lush culinary haven at Michael Garden Restaurant in Port Harcourt - where great food meets beautiful surroundings.

In the late afternoon, we visited the Okomu Eco-tourist resort, located within the park. The resort offers modern facilities, including chalets, a swimming pool, and a restaurant. We took a refreshing dip in the pool, relaxing after our day of exploration. The kids splashed around, their laughter echoing through the serene environment. It was a perfect way to unwind and soak in the beauty of our surroundings.

As the day drew to a close, we made a stop at FoLiXx Lounge for a relaxing evening. The lounge had a laid-back atmosphere, with soft music and comfortable seating. We sipped on refreshing drinks and reflected on the day's adventures. It was a time for us to connect as a family, sharing our favorite moments and experiences. Tunde and Funke, usually engrossed in their digital worlds, were genuinely engaged in the conversation, a testament to the impact of our shared experiences.


Discover the vibrant nightlife at FoLiXx Lounge, where delicious food, refreshing drinks, and lively entertainment await in Lekki.

For dinner, we chose Duo Restaurant, known for its diverse menu and elegant ambiance. We enjoyed a mix of local and international dishes, savoring the flavors and enjoying the pleasant atmosphere. It was a fitting end to a day filled with exploration, adventure, and cultural immersion.


Experience exquisite continental cuisine at Duo Restaurant in Abuja – where local flavors meet international delights.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share this experience with my family. Okomu National Park is more than just a tourist destination; it’s a reminder of the importance of preserving our natural heritage. Seeing the kids connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of Nigeria filled me with hope for the future. As we drove back to our accommodation, I couldn't help but think about our plans for tomorrow – a visit to the Agbokim Waterfalls. I am already looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Agbokim Waterfalls, another natural wonder of Nigeria. We'll have breakfast at Himalaya bar restaurant, lunch at Fengiz Gabas, and dinner at Hard Rock Cafe. And perhaps, we'll end the day at Moussa Bar. It promises to be another exciting day, filled with new experiences and unforgettable memories.

As I prepare for bed, I am filled with a sense of contentment. Today was a reminder of the simple joys of life – family, nature, and shared experiences. It’s moments like these that make all the challenges of life worthwhile. And as I drift off to sleep, I dream of the adventures that await us tomorrow.