This guide offers insider tips, travel safety, budget advice, and detailed activity insights to help you plan an unforgettable trip with confidence and ease.
Why Visit Nigeria in December?
December is one of the best months to explore Nigeria. The pleasant weather, festive vibes, and the abundance of holiday activities make it an ideal time to escape the daily grind.
Whether you seek serene nature, beach luxury, cultural immersion, or adrenaline adventures, Nigeria’s vacation spots have something special waiting for you.
Almat Farms – A Serene Agricultural Escape in Abuja
Located in the quiet enclave of Kuje, Abuja, Almat Farms provides a unique blend of relaxation and rustic charm. It’s a sprawling agricultural resort featuring greenhouses, a petting zoo, and stables with rare Sudanese horses. Visitors here engage in activities from lawn tennis to camel rides and quad biking.
Entrance fees vary from ₦4,000 to ₦6,000 depending on the day, with activities charging extra (from ₦3,000 to ₦20,000 each). For overnight stays, modern and traditional chalets offer comfort from ₦38,000 up to ₦107,000. Expect a cashless environment; payments are done by card or bank transfer only.
Insider Tip: Plan your visit between the daily tours at 10 am, 12 pm, or 2 pm to beat the heat and capture vibrant photos.
KAP Film Village & Resort – Nigeria’s Cinema and Culture Hub in Oyo State
This Nollywood-themed resort in Igbojaye, Oyo State, is a fantastic stop for cinephiles and relaxation seekers alike. You can wander through actual film sets, watch live shoots, and even participate in Nollywood workshops. Alongside the cinematic experience are luxurious lodges, cultural performances, and art exhibitions.
KAP offers exquisite blending of traditional beauty with modern comforts, and the resort hosts events, weddings, and corporate retreats. Dining is a highlight with authentic Nigerian cuisine and international dishes, emphasizing Yoruba flavors.
Personal Insight: At my visit, I found the staff remarkably hospitable and the environment peaceful, ideal for unwinding after exploring film sets.
Yolo Island – Lagos’ Private Luxury Beach Escape
Hidden from the hectic Lagos bustle, Yolo Island offers a private island resort experience in Ibeshe. Reached only by a scenic 45-minute boat ride from Lekki, it features seven swimming pools, including a stunning terrace pool with ocean views.
Adventurous guests can enjoy jet skiing, kayaking, quad biking, basketball, and spa relaxation. The food scene is vibrant with local delicacies and fresh seafood on offer. It’s perfect for holidaymakers looking for luxury, peace, and fun combined.
Pro Tip: Reserve boat rides and accommodation early, especially during the holiday season, as the island limits visitors for exclusivity.
Obudu Mountain Resort – Nature’s Tranquil Mountain Retreat
Obudu Mountain Resort in Cross River State is a top choice for nature lovers and adventurers. Beyond gorgeous mountain scenery and cool weather, it offers thrilling activities: a lengthy cable car ride, canopy bridge walk, hiking, horseback riding, and a nine-hole golf course.
Accommodation is cozy, featuring African round huts and chalets with panoramic views. Prepare warm clothing, as the altitude brings cool temperatures even in December. Booking ahead for accommodations, especially during holiday season, is recommended.
Must-Do: Experience the cable car ride for breathtaking views of Nigeria and Cameroon’s border.
IITA Forest Reserve & Lodge – Eco-Friendly Nature Retreat in Ibadan
The International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA) Forest Reserve in Ibadan offers a lush, green escape with a forest lodge and recreational activities including basketball, football, cycling, and nature walks. Guest accommodation is comfortable and affordable, with rates around ₦31,680 per night for a two-bedroom flat.
Visitors speak highly of the serene atmosphere, good food options onsite, and access to guided forest excursions featuring a picturesque lake and abundant wildlife. It’s an excellent spot for families or solo travelers wanting nature close to a bustling city.
Ilashe Private Beach – Exclusive Coastal Paradise near Lagos
Ilashe Beach is a secluded luxury retreat on Snake Island, accessible only by boat from Lagos. This exclusive spot is perfect for travelers seeking privacy, luxury beach houses, and pristine coastline on both the Lagos lagoon and Atlantic Ocean sides.
Activities abound with swimming, beach sports, sand car rides, and relaxation by private pools. Beach houses range from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 per day, making it a premium option for an idyllic beach vacation.
Important: Ilashe requires guests to bring their own food and drinks as there are no eateries onsite, so plan accordingly.
Abraka Turf and Country Club – Nature, Horseback Riding, and Relaxed Luxury in Delta State
A gem nestled in Delta State, Abraka Turf and Country Club offers lush, well-maintained grounds where you can enjoy horseback riding, wine by the pasture, and quality time with friends. Accommodations feature cottage-style houses, some with modernized bathrooms but with a historic vibe.
Guest service is courteous and the environment calm, though the absence of amenities like intercoms in cottages can be slightly inconvenient. It’s a perfect choice for intimate getaways or group retreats.
Ibom Hotel & Golf Resort – Elegance, Golf, and Business in Uyo
Set within 174 hectares of lush palm forest in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, this first-class resort shines with a 9-hole golf course, spacious rooms with balconies, and fine dining that blends local and international cuisine. Its ample conference facilities make it suitable for both leisure travelers and business events.
The hotel operates with 24-hour room service, helipads, and extensive sporting facilities. Pricing varies but expect a premium experience consistent with quality and comfort.
Ikogosi Warm Spring Resort – Unique Warm Springs and Natural Wonders
Ikogosi Warm Spring in Ekiti State is famed for its rare warm and cold spring waters that meet in harmony. Visitors can hike scenic trails, relax in natural pools, and enjoy the resort’s peaceful setting.
It’s a captivating spot for nature lovers and those curious about geological phenomena. Insider guidance recommends weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds.
Planning Your Trip: Safety, Budget, and Travel Tips
Safety: Although these destinations are generally safe, always keep local emergency contacts handy. Avoid traveling at night on unfamiliar roads and use registered transport services.
Budget: A comfortable 7-10 day itinerary covering these locations would typically range between ₦200,000 and ₦600,000 depending on lodging choices and activities.
Getting Around: Domestic flights to hubs like Lagos, Abuja, Calabar, and Uyo, combined with car hires or ride-hailing apps, offer seamless travel. Ferries or private boats provide access to island destinations.
When to Visit: December is ideal due to the dry, cool weather and festive atmosphere, but book lodgings and tours early to avoid holiday rush.
Where to Stay & How Long to Stay
Each site offers a range from budget-friendly to luxurious lodging. Spending 2-3 nights per location allows time to fully explore the area and participate in activities without rushing.
Emergency Contacts & Pro Tips
- Dial 112 for general emergencies in Nigeria.
- Keep local police and hospital numbers for each state in your phone.
- Charge power banks and carry mosquito repellent.
- Respect local customs and dress codes, especially in rural and religious areas.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the best time to visit these vacation spots?
December is ideal for visiting most of these spots due to pleasant weather, fewer rains, and festive activities. Early booking is advised.
Are these destinations family-friendly?
Yes, locations like Almat Farms, IITA Forest Reserve, and Yolo Island offer family-friendly activities and accommodations suitable even for young children.
How do I get to Ilashe Private Beach?
Ilashe Beach is accessible only by boat from Lagos. You’ll need to book a private boat transfer from areas such as Lekki or Victoria Island.
What should I budget for daily expenses?
Daily costs vary widely by destination and activities but plan for approximately ₦15,000 to ₦30,000 daily excluding accommodation to cover meals, transport, and entrance fees.
Are there guided tours available at these spots?
Yes, many locations offer guided tours. For example, Almat Farms and IITA Forest Reserve provide guided experiences, and Obudu Mountain Resort offers tour packages covering cable car rides and natural attractions.
