Did you know Nigeria loses over 350,000 hectares of forest every year due to deforestation? That’s more land than the entire Lagos metropolis—gone annually. As climate change and environmental degradation continue to rise, more Nigerians and global travellers are embracing a new kind of journey: eco-tourism.
More than just a trend, eco-tourism in Nigeria is a lifestyle that helps you experience our country’s stunning natural wonders—waterfalls, forests, wildlife sanctuaries—while protecting them for future generations.
Whether you’re an eco-conscious adventurer or simply tired of crowded, overbuilt vacation spots, these top 10 eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria offer memorable, sustainable travel experiences.
What Is an Eco-Friendly Destination?
An eco-friendly travel destination supports the environment, wildlife, and local communities. These places promote sustainability in several ways:
Environmental Conservation: Protects forests, water bodies, and wildlife habitats through conscious land use and biodiversity programs.
Low Carbon Footprint: Uses renewable energy, reduces pollution, and encourages green practices like recycling and minimal waste.
Community Empowerment: Supports local artisans, creates jobs, and uplifts indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage.
Wildlife Protection: Preserves endangered species and encourages respectful human-animal interaction through conservation efforts.
Top 10 Eco-Friendly Tourist Destinations in Nigeria
- Agbokim Waterfall
- Andoni Elephant Park
- Ise Forest Reserve
- Upper Orashi Forest Reserve
- Ngwo Pine Forest
- Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary
- Gashaka-Gumti National Park
- Matsirga Waterfalls
- Omo Forest Reserve
- Falgore Game Reserve
1. Agbokim Waterfalls
Agbokim waterfall is located in Etung Local Government Area in Cross River State. It is roughly 25 kilometres from Ikom and 250 kilometres from Calabar, the state capital. At Agbokim Waterfalls, seven separate streams rush down a tall cliff. It gets deafening in the rainy season, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a rainbow.
For those who enjoy the outdoors, Agbokim waterfalls are one of the eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria. They provide a lovely and tranquil setting and are ideal for a romantic evening getaway.
2. Andoni Elephant Park
Andoni Elephant Park is located on Andoni Island in Rivers state, Niger Delta. It is known as a habitat for endangered elephants and other marine species. The park encourages community involvement and conservation. Although admission costs vary, the money raised goes towards protecting wildlife. This park is a must-see for eco-tourists and animal lovers.
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3. Ise Forest Reserve
Ise Forest Reserve is situated in Ekiti State in southwest Nigeria. It’s an imperative natural sanctuary that spans over 142 km². It is home to over 660 kinds of butterflies, chimpanzees, Nigerian white-throated guenons, and Mona monkeys. The Ise Forest holds great importance for the Yoruba people, who believe that deities and spirits inhabit it.
If you want to explore Nigeria’s cultural diversity, this is one of the eco-friendly destinations you should visit. However, to stay safe and prevent injuries while exploring the reserve, it’s best to wear comfortable shoes and insect repellent.
4. Upper Orashi Forest Reserve
Upper Orashi Forest Reserve is located in Ahoada, Rivers State, near Kodi village. This reserve has rare and endangered species like the Nigeria-Cameroon chimpanzee, forest elephants, and a wide variety of tropical birds and reptiles. It isn’t your average well-kept national park.
It’s a lush, humid jungle with little human interference, which makes it a real sanctuary for researchers, nature lovers, and birdwatchers. This is definitely one of the best eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria for environmentalists and researchers alike.
5. Ngwo Pine Forest
Ngwo Pine Forest is located in Ngwo-Asaa, a serene town about 20–30 minutes from Enugu city. This eco-friendly destination is known for its dense forest of tall pine trees, providing shade, clean air, and a peaceful environment ideal for low-impact tourism. The soft forest floor, covered in fallen pine needles, is suitable for a relaxing picnic or a quiet walk.
But it doesn’t end there. The forest has a limestone cave with a waterfall flowing right through it. Also, after a short walk through the woods, you’ll reach a cool, shaded area where water pours into a shallow pool surrounded by smooth rock walls. The Ngwo Pine forest is a must-see for sustainable travellers. However, you’ll be required to pay an entry fee of about 500 to 1000 Naira to gain access to the forest.
6. Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary,
Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the southern part of Cross River State. It is popular for providing a vital ecosystem for the endangered Cross River gorilla, one of the world’s rarest and most elusive great apes. The sanctuary also shelters other primates like chimpanzees, drills, and monkeys, which are often seen swinging through the dense tropical forest canopy.
Beyond its rich biodiversity, the sanctuary offers stunning mountain views and rugged trekking trails that appeal to adventurous travellers. It’s an ideal destination for researchers, photographers, eco-tourists, and nature lovers looking to reconnect with the wild.
7. Gashaka-Gumti National Park
Gashaka-Gumti National Park is located in Adamawa and Taraba States. It’s Nigeria’s largest national park and a top destination for eco-tourism. Often referred to as Nigeria’s version of a safari, the park is rich in biodiversity, with over 1,000 plant species and hundreds of bird species. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot chimpanzees, elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and more in their natural habitat.
If you love adventure, the park has exciting hiking trails. The most famous is the trek to Chappal Waddi, Nigeria’s highest mountain, often called the ‘Mountain of Death’ because of its toughness.
8. Matsirga Waterfalls
If you’re ever in Kaduna State, Matsirga Waterfalls is one natural spot you don’t want to miss. It’s just outside Kagoro town in Kafanchan and is surrounded by green hills and quiet forest paths.
The waterfall pours down a rocky cliff into a deep pool, creating a cool mist and a relaxing sound that feels like nature’s music. It’s a great place to visit if you love hiking, taking pictures, or just want some quiet time in the wild. Also, Matsirga waterfall is an excellent example of eco-tourism, helping to protect nature while enjoying it.
9. Omo Forest Reserve
Omo Forest Reserve is located in Ijebu-East LGA of Ogun State. This protected area spans over 130,500 hectares. It’s home to rare and endangered wildlife, including forest elephants, white-throated monkeys, pangolins, and over 200 species of birds. The forest is also packed with ancient trees, colourful orchids, and plants used for medicine.
It’s one of the eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria you should visit if you’re into nature and wildlife, or even if you’re just curious to see something real and wild. However, when exploring, go with a guide, be sure to participate in conservation programs, and support local initiatives to help preserve this forest.
10. Falgore Game Reserve
The Falgore Game Reserve, located in Doguwa local government area, Kano State, is a stunning example of the fusion of culture and environmental consciousness. If you’ve ever considered visiting northern Nigeria to witness savannah wildlife, then the Falgore Forest, sometimes called the Falgore Game Reserve, is the destination to go. Falgore is home to antelope species, monkeys, and baboons.
Falgore is great for anyone who loves adventure and wants to see nature up close. You can take long walks, watch animals in their natural habitat, and even learn how local communities work with nature instead of against it. It’s one of the best eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria for eco-tourists and nature lovers.
Eco-Friendly Travel Tips for Nigeria
Make your trip count with these sustainable travel practices:
Book locally owned hotels and eco-lodges that use solar power and water-saving technologies.
Reduce water usage—especially in water-scarce areas like Afi Mountain or Upper Orashi.
Skip plastic bottles and carry a reusable water container.
Respect wildlife and natural spaces: no feeding animals, picking plants, or straying from trails.
Share your trip responsibly on social media to inspire others to travel consciously.
Conclusion on Eco-friendly Destinations in Nigeria for Sustainable Travellers
Nigeria has so many beautiful places to explore, from waterfalls and forests to parks full of wildlife. But to keep these spots safe for the future, you need to travel in ways that protect nature and help local people.
By visiting eco-friendly destinations in Nigeria, you’re not just having a fun trip, you’re making a real difference. So travel light, be kind to the environment, and support the communities you visit.
“Explore more eco-tourism adventures in Nigeria” over at our dedicated section on sustainable travel experiences
Frequently Asked Questions About Eco-Friendly
What is The Most Eco-Friendly Travel?
Walking and cycling is great for local exploration, best for short distances in eco-tourist areas. But if flying is unavoidable, book non-stop flights and consider carbon offset programs.
What is The Meaning of an Eco-Tourism Destination?
An eco- tourism destination is a location known for providing eco-friendly, nature-based tourism experiences that keep the environment intact. It also encourages local communities, education and appreciation for cultural differences.
What are Eco-Tourism Sites?
An eco- tourism site is a place where tourism is conducted in a way that preserves the environment and helps the local population, such as a forest, park, wildlife sanctuary and waterfall.
Is Eco-Tourism Sustainable Tourism ?
Not exactly. Eco-tourism is a type of sustainable tourism, but it focuses more on nature. It involves protecting natural places like parks, forests, and wildlife, while also supporting local communities. All eco-tourism is sustainable, but not all sustainable tourism is eco-tourism.
