Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

A Savanna Escape

Today was an immersion into the heart of Nigeria's natural beauty. Leaving the familiar landscapes of Gashaka Gumti behind for a day, my family and I ventured to Yankari Game Reserve. It was a day filled with wildlife sightings, relaxing in warm springs, and savoring delicious local cuisine. The change of scenery was refreshing, and the experiences we shared today will undoubtedly be etched in our memories for years to come.


Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Yankari Game Reserve, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Nigeria.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by excitement and a quick breakfast at the Famous Cafe Restaurant and Lounge. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and local pastries filled the air, setting the tone for an adventurous day. Aisha, ever the organized one, made sure we had everything we needed – binoculars, sunscreen, and of course, plenty of water. Tunde, with his youthful energy, was eager to spot the first animal, while Funke, armed with her camera, was ready to capture every moment. I felt a sense of pride, watching my children embrace their Nigerian heritage with such enthusiasm.


Savor delicious fast food at Famous Cafe Restaurant and Lounge in Ugi Majowel—where vibrant flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.

As we entered Yankari Game Reserve, the landscape transformed into a vast savanna, dotted with acacia trees and vibrant green foliage. The air was filled with the sounds of nature – birds chirping, insects buzzing, and the occasional rustling in the bushes. It was a symphony that reminded me of my childhood in Wamba, where nature was an integral part of daily life. Driving through the reserve, we were on high alert, scanning the horizon for any signs of wildlife. It didn't take long before Tunde shouted, Elephants!

And there they were, a herd of majestic elephants grazing peacefully in the distance. We watched in awe as they moved gracefully through the savanna, their large bodies contrasting against the backdrop of the African landscape. Funke snapped away with her camera, capturing every detail of these magnificent creatures. I couldn't help but feel a sense of responsibility to protect these animals and their habitat for future generations. It's moments like these that reinforce the importance of conservation efforts and sustainable tourism.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and the best memories are made when you least expect them.

After the elephant sighting, we continued our drive, encountering various other animals along the way. We spotted antelopes gracefully leaping through the tall grass, baboons playfully swinging from tree branches, and a variety of colorful birds soaring through the sky. Each sighting was a thrill, and we felt like we were truly immersed in the heart of the African wilderness. Aisha was particularly excited to see the different bird species, as she has always been fascinated by ornithology. She shared interesting facts about each bird we encountered, adding an educational element to our adventure.

By lunchtime, we were ready for a break, so we headed to 355 Steakhouse & Lounge for a hearty meal. The restaurant offered a mix of local and international cuisine, and we decided to try some traditional Nigerian dishes. The flavors were rich and spicy, and we savored every bite. It was a culinary experience that reminded me of my mother's cooking, and I felt a sense of nostalgia as I shared stories of my childhood with my family. Tunde and Funke, who are more accustomed to Canadian cuisine, were pleasantly surprised by the bold flavors of Nigerian food. Aisha, being a seasoned cook herself, appreciated the complexity of the spices and ingredients used in the dishes.


Experience luxury dining at 355 Steakhouse & Lounge in Abuja, where Mexican flavors meet elegant ambiance for an unforgettable culinary journey.

After lunch, we made our way to the highlight of Yankari Game Reserve – the Wikki Warm Springs. The springs are a natural wonder, with crystal-clear water that maintains a constant temperature of 31 degrees Celsius. As we approached the springs, we could feel the warmth radiating from the water, creating a soothing and inviting atmosphere. We wasted no time in changing into our swimsuits and plunging into the warm embrace of the springs.

The feeling of the warm water against our skin was incredibly relaxing, and we spent hours soaking in the therapeutic benefits of the springs. Tunde and Funke splashed around playfully, while Aisha and I enjoyed a leisurely swim. It was a moment of pure bliss, as we let go of our worries and embraced the tranquility of our surroundings. I couldn't help but think how fortunate we were to be able to experience such a unique and natural wonder. It's moments like these that make all the planning and effort of travel worthwhile.

As the sun began to set, we reluctantly emerged from the springs, feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. We changed back into our clothes and prepared for our journey back to our camp near Gashaka Gumti National Park. Before leaving Yankari, we made a quick stop at ZARA'S LOUNGE for a refreshing drink. The lounge had a vibrant atmosphere, with music playing and people laughing and chatting. We enjoyed a round of local beers, toasting to our unforgettable day at Yankari Game Reserve.


Discover Zara's Lounge in Kundi: where premium drinks, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere come together for an unforgettable night out.

For dinner, we decided to try HSE Gourmet, known for its exquisite dishes. The restaurant offered a fusion of Nigerian and international flavors, providing a delightful culinary experience to end our day.


Discover a world of flavors at HSE Gourmet, Lagos' premier fusion restaurant blending culinary traditions into unforgettable dishes.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to share such incredible experiences with my family. Seeing my children connect with their Nigerian heritage and appreciate the beauty of our natural world is something I will always cherish. Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Okomu National Park, another gem in Nigeria's rich tapestry of biodiversity. I am eager to see what adventures await us there, and I am confident that it will be another day filled with unforgettable memories.

As I prepare for bed, I am reminded of a quote by the great Nelson Mandela:

Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.

This trip is not just a vacation; it's an opportunity to educate my children about their heritage, the importance of conservation, and the power of cultural understanding. It's an investment in their future and a way to instill in them a sense of responsibility towards our planet.

Goodnight from Nigeria, and stay tuned for more adventures from Okomu National Park! We were so tired that we all fell asleep as soon as our heads hit the pillows. I am looking forward to seeing what Okomu National Park has to offer. I am planning on having breakfast at The Barlance, lunch at Michael Garden Restaurant, and dinner at Duo Restaurant. If we have time, I would like to visit FoLiXx Lounge for a nightcap.