Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

Day 1: Touching Base with Nature's Grandeur

After years of living in Ottawa, I felt a deep yearning to reconnect my family with our Nigerian roots, specifically the raw, untamed beauty of our homeland. Gashaka-Gumti National Park, Nigeria’s largest, seemed like the perfect place to start. It promised an escape from the digital world and a chance to immerse ourselves in nature. So, here we are, on day one of our eleven-day adventure, ready to explore and share our experiences with you all.


Explore Gashaka-Gumti National Park, Nigeria’s largest national park, featuring diverse ecosystems, rare wildlife, and breathtaking hiking trails in a serene natural setting.
The journey began with a flight from Ottawa to Abuja. Aisha, the kids, and I managed to keep our spirits high, despite the long hours in transit. Tunde, ever the tech enthusiast, kept himself busy with his gadgets, while Funke, with her vibrant personality, entertained us with stories and laughter. Aisha, my ever-supportive wife, used the time to catch up on some much-needed rest before her nursing duties called again.

After landing in Abuja, we picked up our rental vehicle and began the drive towards Gashaka Gumti National Park. The landscape transformed from bustling cityscapes to serene countryside, offering glimpses of rural Nigerian life. The drive itself was an experience, with vibrant markets, roadside vendors, and the warm smiles of the locals greeting us along the way.

The earth has music for those who listen.

Our first order of business was to satiate our hunger. Abuja offered a plethora of dining options, and we decided to sample a few local favorites before heading into the park's depths. For breakfast, we stopped at BluCabana Restaurant & Cafe. The ambiance was immediately striking, reminiscent of a Mediterranean getaway. The kids were thrilled by the poolside setting, and Aisha appreciated the relaxed atmosphere after her hectic work schedule. While the setting was great, I thought the food was overpriced. I opted for a traditional Nigerian breakfast of moi moi and pap, while the rest of the family enjoyed inter-continental dishes.


Discover the flavors of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines at BluCabana Restaurant & Cafe in Abuja - a must-visit culinary destination.
For lunch, we chose Jevinik Restaurant, known for its authentic West African cuisine. The restaurant's warm and inviting atmosphere, adorned with traditional decor, made us feel right at home. We indulged in a variety of dishes, from spicy jollof rice to savory suya skewers. Funke particularly enjoyed the seafood Okro stew, while Tunde couldn't get enough of the coconut rice. Aisha and I savored the flavorful Chapman drink, a local favorite. The generous portion sizes ensured that everyone left full and happy.


Experience authentic African cuisine at Jevinik Restaurant on Victoria Island – where every dish is crafted with passion and tradition.
As evening approached, we decided to have dinner at African Spicy Grill & Restaurant. The restaurant lived up to its name, offering an array of mouthwatering dishes crafted from authentic recipes. The spicy grilled meats were a hit, and the live music added to the vibrant atmosphere. It was a perfect way to immerse ourselves in the local culture and unwind after a long day of travel.


Discover authentic African flavors at African Spicy Grill & Restaurant in Abuja - where tradition meets taste.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we made a pit stop at Last Gate Restaurant and Bush Bar for some drinks. The place had a serene setting, in touch with nature, ideal for family hangouts. It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our first day in Nigeria. Tunde and Funke enjoyed playing games while Aisha and I reminisced about our early days in Wamba, before our move to Canada.


Discover the vibrant flavors and lively atmosphere at Last Gate Restaurant and Bush Bar in Abuja, a perfect spot for food and nightlife enthusiasts.
Finally, we made our way to Gashaka Gumti National Park. Arriving at the park was like stepping into another world. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of lush vegetation and damp earth. The sounds of the city were replaced by the symphony of nature – the chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the distant calls of wildlife. We set up camp, a new experience for the kids, and quickly learned the importance of having all our gear in order, especially after discovering we'd forgotten the portable phone charger and rain ponchos.

Gashaka Gumti National Park, Nigeria’s largest, sprawls over 6,000 square kilometers and boasts an impressive array of ecosystems, from savannah grasslands to montane forests. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including chimpanzees, elephants, leopards, and various bird species. Knowing that we were in a place teeming with such biodiversity filled us with excitement and anticipation for the days ahead.

August in Gashaka Gumti means the heart of the wet season. The park comes alive with vibrant greenery, but it also brings its fair share of challenges. The roads can be muddy and difficult to navigate, and the humidity can be quite intense. We learned that August sees the highest number of rainy days, so being prepared for wet conditions is crucial.

As we settled into our campsite, the park rangers shared some insights about the park's history and conservation efforts. Gashaka Gumti was established in 1991, merging two game reserves to protect the area's unique biodiversity. The park is named after two of the region's oldest settlements: Gashaka village in Taraba State and Gumti village in Adamawa State. It is an important water catchment area for the Benue River, sustaining millions of Nigerians downstream.

The park's diverse terrain includes savannah grasslands, montane forests, and rugged mountainous regions. This variety of ecosystems supports a wide range of species. Gashaka Gumti is also recognized as one of Africa's Important Bird Areas, with over 500 species of birds.

One of the rangers shared a harrowing tale of how rampant hunting had once threatened the park's biodiversity. In 1966, a land systems survey highlighted the urgent need to protect the watersheds of the forested mountains. Despite facing challenges like budget cuts and outbreaks of diseases, conservation efforts have continued, and the park remains a vital sanctuary for numerous threatened species.

As night fell, we gathered around a crackling campfire, sharing stories and roasting traditional Nigerian snacks. The kids were fascinated by the sounds of the night, and Aisha and I felt a sense of peace we hadn't experienced in a long time. It was a moment of true connection, a reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Ngel Nyaki Forest Reserve, known for its unique montane ecosystem and diverse primate population. We are eager to see the chimpanzees and other wildlife that call this forest home. We also plan to visit Naija Gift Land to pick up some souvenirs.

As I write this, lying in my tent, I can't help but feel grateful for this opportunity. It’s more than just a vacation; it’s a chance for us to reconnect with our heritage, to appreciate the natural beauty of Nigeria, and to create lasting memories as a family. Gashaka Gumti National Park, with its stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife, has already captured our hearts. I am excited to share more of our adventures with you in the days to come.

For now, goodnight from Gashaka Gumti National Park. May your dreams be filled with the sounds of the African wilderness.