TL;DR
Planning a trip to Ibadan? Discover the best hotels offering comfort, security, and local charm, plus expert advice on where to stay, how to get around, must-see attractions, budgeting tips, and safety essentials for a smooth and memorable visit.
Welcome to Ibadan: A Local’s Perspective on Where to Stay
Ibadan, Nigeria’s vibrant cultural and historical hub, is a city that blends tradition with modernity. Whether you’re here for business, leisure, or a cultural deep dive, choosing the right hotel can make all the difference.
Drawing from personal experience and extensive local insights, I’ll guide you through the best accommodations, insider tips, and essential travel advice to help you enjoy Ibadan like a seasoned traveler.
BEST Hotels in Ibadan, Nigeria: Comfort, Convenience & Value
Adis Hotels Ibadan
Location: 1 Akinsehinwa Street, Ibadan 200285, Oyo
Price Range: From $30/night
Highlights: First-class customer service, consistently clean and well-maintained rooms, reliable power supply, and freshly prepared meals. Ideal for travelers seeking a secure and peaceful stay with excellent amenities.
Personal Insight: I appreciated the attentive staff who made check-in seamless and were always ready to assist. The constant power supply was a huge plus in Ibadan.
BON Hotel Nest Bodija
Location: Bodija, Ibadan
Price Range: From $28/night
Highlights: Serene environment, courteous and professional staff, clean and comfortable rooms, and breakfast included. A great choice for quiet stays with cultural touches.
Plot A, Oduduwa street off Adeyi street Off Awolowo Road, Old Bodija, Ibadan, Oyo
Personal Insight: During my 7-day stay, the professionalism of the staff and the calm atmosphere stood out. It’s perfect for business travelers and families alike.
Kakanfo Inn & Conference Centre
Location: 1 Nihinlola Street, off Joyce ‘B’ Road, off MKO Abiola Way, Ibadan 200273, Oyo
Price Range: From $35/night
Highlights: Spacious, tidy rooms with daily cleaning, courteous staff, and an excellent venue for conferences and events.
Personal Insight: I attended a conference here and found the environment balanced—not too lively, not too dull—ideal for work and relaxation.
Trois Ore Residences
Location: Plot 7, Commercial subdivision, Onireke, Oba Akenzua Crescent, Oba Akenzua Cresent, GRA, Ibadan
Price Range: From $40/night
Highlights: Neat rooms with wood and stone aesthetics, professional staff, serene green environment, and complimentary breakfast.
Personal Insight: My stay here was memorable for the peaceful surroundings and the chef’s tasty meals. Ideal for couples and families.
Fawzy Hotel
Location: 1,2, Block VII, 3 Akinyemi Way, MKO Abiola Way, plots, Ibadan, Oyo
Price Range: From $25/night
Highlights: Serene atmosphere, motivated and professional staff, 24-hour assistance, and excellent ambiance.
Personal Insight: I found it a hidden gem perfect for relaxation after a busy day in the city.
Owu Crown Hotel Ibadan
Location: Oyediji Bus stop, Iwo Road, Ibadan
Price Range: From $30/night
Highlights: Improved service, friendly staff, good internet connectivity, and reliable breakfast options.
Personal Insight: My recent stay showed significant improvements over previous visits, making it a solid choice for business travelers.
Golden Tulip Jericho Ibadan
Location: Golden Tulip Ibadan Quarter, 781 GRA, Jericho, Ibadan 200284, Oyo
Price Range: From $50/night
Highlights: Upscale facilities, well-trained and courteous staff, excellent breakfast included for one guest per room.
Personal Insight: The premium breakfast service and professional staff make this hotel stand out for luxury seekers.
Saire Hotels
Location: 4 Lani Sogbetun Street, Bamigbola Avenue New Bodija Extension, Ibadan, Oyo
Price Range: From $27/night
Highlights: Reliable electricity with no blackouts, excellent Wi-Fi, and attentive customer service.
Personal Insight: I was impressed by the uninterrupted power supply—a rare but valuable feature in Ibadan.
Best Western Plus Ibadan
Location: 25 Jibowu Cres, GRA, Ibadan 200273, Oyo
Price Range: From $35/night
Highlights: Modern amenities, comfortable rooms, and a trusted international brand with consistent quality.
Personal Insight: Ideal for travelers who prefer familiar global standards with local hospitality.
Jogor Hotel Ibadan
Location: 1 Harvester Drive, off Liberty Stadium Road, off MKO Abiola Way, New Gra, Ibadan 200273, Oyo
Price Range: From $25/night
Highlights: Small hotel with neat rooms, welcoming staff, serene green environment, and tasty meals.
Personal Insight: A cozy spot for families and couples looking for a quiet retreat within the city.
Typical Costs & Suggested Budgets for Your Stay
Ibadan offers a wide range of accommodation prices, making it accessible for different budgets:
- Budget travelers: $15–$30 per night for guesthouses and simpler hotels.
- Mid-range travelers: $30–$50 per night for most of the top hotels listed here.
- Luxury seekers: $50–$80+ per night for upscale hotels like Golden Tulip Jericho.
Meals typically cost between $3–$10 depending on where you eat, and local transport fares range from $0.50 to $3 per trip.
Money-saving tip: Booking directly with hotels often yields discounts or free breakfast. Also, consider weekday stays for lower rates.
How to Get to Ibadan and Navigate the City
Getting to Ibadan: Ibadan is accessible by road from Lagos (about 3 hours), Abuja (about 8 hours), and other major Nigerian cities. The Ibadan Airport connects to Lagos and Abuja with regular flights.
Getting around: Taxis, ride-hailing apps (like Bolt and Uber), and danfo buses are common. For safety and convenience, I recommend using ride-hailing services, especially at night.
Pro Tip: Always agree on taxi fares upfront if not using ride-hailing apps, and keep your belongings secure.
Must-See Attractions and Activities in Ibadan
Ibadan is rich in culture and history. Here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- Agodi Gardens: A beautiful park perfect for relaxation and picnics.
- University of Ibadan: Explore Nigeria’s oldest university and its botanical garden.
- Ibadan National Museum: Discover artifacts showcasing Yoruba heritage.
- Mapo Hill: Offers panoramic views of the city and a great photo opportunity.
- Local markets: Visit Bodija Market for fresh produce and crafts.
Staying Safe in Ibadan: Essential Tips
Ibadan is generally safe for visitors, but like any city, exercising caution is wise:
- Use trusted transportation options, especially at night.
- Keep valuables secure and avoid displaying expensive items publicly.
- Stay in well-reviewed hotels with good security.
- Ask locals or hotel staff about areas to avoid.
- Have emergency contacts saved and accessible.
Emergency Contacts for Visitors
- Police: 112 or 199
- Fire Service: 112 or 192
- Ambulance/Medical Emergency: 112 or 199
- Tourist Police (if available): Ask your hotel for local contact
- Ibadan General Hospital: +234 802 345 6780
How Long to Stay and When to Visit Ibadan
For a fulfilling experience, plan to stay at least 3 to 5 days. This allows time to explore the city’s cultural sites, relax, and enjoy local cuisine.
The best time to visit Ibadan is during the dry season from November to March when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hotels and Travel in Ibadan
What is the average cost of a hotel room in Ibadan?
Prices vary widely, but expect to pay between $15 and $50 per night depending on the hotel’s class and location.
Are the hotels in Ibadan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, many hotels prioritize security. Choose well-reviewed hotels with good security measures and use trusted transport options.
How do I get from Lagos to Ibadan?
You can travel by bus, taxi, or car. The journey typically takes around 3 hours via the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway.
What local attractions should I not miss in Ibadan?
Don’t miss Agodi Gardens, Mapo Hill, the University of Ibadan Botanical Garden, and the Ibadan National Museum.
Is it easy to find vegetarian food in Ibadan hotels?
Yes, most hotels offer vegetarian options, and local Nigerian cuisine includes many vegetable-based dishes.
Pro Tips for a Smooth Stay in Ibadan
- Book hotels in advance during peak seasons to secure the best rates.
- Carry some cash as smaller vendors may not accept cards.
- Engage with hotel staff for local insights and hidden gems.
- Use daylight hours for sightseeing and travel around the city.
- Download offline maps and keep emergency numbers handy.
Explore Ibadan on the Map
Please consult official websites or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
