Nollywood Tourism: Film Locations as Travel Destinations

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If you’ve ever watched a Nollywood movie and thought, “Wow, I want to see where that was filmed,” you’re not alone. Over the last two decades, Nigeria’s Nollywood industry has transformed from a homegrown film phenomenon into a global cultural powerhouse, producing stories that resonate far beyond the country’s borders. 

And while the actors and plots draw the limelight, the locations themselves are quietly becoming tourist destinations. From bustling city streets to serene waterfalls, from historic northern towns to international backdrops, these filming spots now double as travel hotspots for the curious and the adventurous.

Whether you’re a fan hoping to walk the paths of your favourite characters or a traveller simply looking for cultural immersion, here’s a guide to some of the most iconic Nollywood film locations, both in Nigeria and abroad.

Local Nollywood Film Locations

1. KAP Film Village & Resort, Oyo State

Nestled in the serene countryside of Oyo State, KAP Film Village & Resort is a must-visit for anyone interested in the heartbeat of Nollywood. Founded by acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan, the village blends creativity, history, and vibrant Nigerian culture. 

Movies like Aníkúlápó and Ijogbon have been filmed here, drawing visitors eager to see the behind-the-scenes magic.

Walking through the village, you’ll find film sets that transport you to different eras and stories. You can stroll past recreated ancient towns, traditional Yoruba compounds, and scenic open spaces that filmmakers use as backdrops for historical dramas. 

The air carries a mix of creativity and everyday life. Sometimes, you’ll hear actors rehearsing lines or crew members adjusting cameras, giving you a sense of being part of the filmmaking process.

Nearby, you can explore Oyo’s rolling hills and local markets, making the visit more than just cinematic. For anyone passionate about film, KAP Film Village is like stepping into a live Nollywood set, where every corner tells a story.

2. Tinapa Studios, Calabar, Cross River State

Tinapa Studios is a hub for film, commerce, and culture. Located in the scenic city of Calabar, it’s a sprawling complex that has hosted films like Half of a Yellow Sun and Black November. 

Walking through Tinapa, you’ll see a mix of modern production facilities and open spaces perfect for sweeping cinematic shots.

What makes Tinapa especially appealing for tourists is that it doubles as a leisure destination. After exploring film sets, visitors can enjoy shops, cultural exhibitions, and the nearby Calabar River, offering a chance to combine film tourism with relaxation. 

Imagine watching the scenery from a movie you’ve seen come alive around you; it’s a reminder of how deeply Nollywood taps into Nigeria’s landscapes.

Local guides often share insider stories: which scenes were difficult to film, how local extras contributed to authenticity, and sometimes even tales of unexpected on-set moments. 

For film fans and casual tourists alike, Tinapa offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and cultural immersion.

3. Erin Ijesha (Olumirin) Waterfalls, Osun State

If your idea of Nollywood travel includes nature, Erin Ijesha Waterfalls, also known as Olumirin Waterfalls, is a must-visit. This cascading waterfall has appeared in numerous films, offering a dramatic natural backdrop that’s both cinematic and peaceful.

Visitors can hike the trails leading up to the falls, where each level presents a new vista, perfect for photography or just soaking in the lush greenery. The sound of water cascading down the rocks, combined with the cool mist, makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a movie scene. 

It’s easy to imagine a film hero dramatically appearing on one of the trails or a romantic scene unfolding by the water.

Beyond its cinematic allure, Erin Ijesha is part of Osun’s rich cultural landscape. Nearby villages allow you to experience traditional crafts, local cuisine, and friendly communities, making it a full-day excursion that combines Nollywood charm with cultural exploration.

4. Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Osun State

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is more than just a filming location; it’s a spiritual and cultural landmark. 

Several Nollywood films exploring Yoruba myths and traditional stories have shot here, taking advantage of the grove’s dense forest, sacred shrines, and iconic sculptures.

Walking through the grove, you’ll notice the intricate artwork and shrines dedicated to Osun, the goddess of fertility. The grove is a place where history, religion, and culture converge, and seeing it through the lens of a Nollywood story makes the experience even more compelling. 

Guides often share tales from the films, explaining which spots were used for rituals, ceremonies, or dramatic scenes. 

For tourists, it’s a rare opportunity to experience Nigerian storytelling through both film and real-world heritage, a combination that feels almost magical.

5. Ancient Walls of Kano, Kano State

In northern Nigeria, the Ancient Walls of Kano have long been used in Hausa-language films, known as Kannywood. These walls, dating back centuries, create a dramatic backdrop for historical and epic movies. 

Tourists visiting Kano can walk along these walls, take in panoramic views of the old city, and imagine the stories of warriors, kings, and everyday life portrayed in films.

Kannywood productions often highlight cultural attire, architecture, and local traditions, so touring Kano offers both cinematic nostalgia and cultural education. For international visitors, it’s a chance to see a part of Nigerian history brought vividly to life on screen.

6. Enugu & Coal City Area

Enugu, nicknamed “Hollywood of the East,” is one of Nigeria’s most active filming hubs. From bustling streets to colonial-era buildings, the city offers a range of settings for a wide range of films. Movies set in urban or semi-urban Nigeria often choose Enugu for its blend of old and new architecture.

Visiting Enugu, tourists can explore streets where famous scenes were shot, join local Nollywood-themed tours, and even meet some production crew members. 

The city’s combination of hills, parks, and historical buildings gives you a sense of stepping into multiple film worlds in one place.

READ MORE: Nollywood: Nigeria’s Cinematic Powerhouse Driving Tourism Growth

International Nollywood Film Locations

While Nollywood’s core is Nigeria, several films have gone international, giving fans a chance to follow their favourite movies abroad.

1. London, United Kingdom

Movies like Osuofia in London made the UK a minor pilgrimage site for Nollywood. Fans can visit areas of London featured in the film, retracing the protagonist’s adventures in a foreign city. 

It’s also a cultural bridge; seeing London through the eyes of Nigerian characters adds a layered, cinematic perspective to a familiar city.

2. New York & Los Angeles, USA

Some Nollywood films about life in the diaspora, such as When Love Happens, feature New York and Los Angeles. Tourists visiting these cities can spot filming locations, from iconic streets to coffee shops and parks. 

These trips let visitors relive parts of the story in real life, connecting the narrative to tangible places.

3. Dubai, UAE

Dubai’s modern skyline and luxury lifestyle have been featured in several Nollywood productions, particularly those that explore wealth and glamour. 

Visiting Dubai as a Nollywood fan gives you a chance to see iconic skyscrapers, luxurious resorts, and cinematic cityscapes just like the characters do on screen.

4. Johannesburg, South Africa

South Africa has been a convenient international filming hub. Films such as Merry Men 2 used Johannesburg’s city streets and surrounding landscapes to capture urban and scenic shots. 

Fans can walk the same streets, visit film-friendly districts, and even glimpse some behind-the-scenes spots with local guides.

Why Nollywood Film Locations Matter

1. Cultural Immersion: You experience Nigerian traditions, architecture, and local life firsthand. 
2. Behind-the-Scenes Access: Film villages and studios offer tours and insider stories. 
3. Supporting Local Economies: Tourism around film locations boosts restaurants, hotels, and local businesses. 
4. Connecting Stories to Places: Fans can visualise their favourite scenes while standing in real locations, making their travel experience memorable. 

Tips for Visiting Nollywood Film Locations

• 

  Photo: Lonely Planet.

  Plan Ahead: Some studios require permission for tours. 

• Hire Local Guides: They know the exact spots and can share insider stories. 
• Respect Sites: Sacred areas and heritage sites must be treated with care. 
• Combine Experiences: Many locations are near markets, rivers, or historic towns. 
• Check Filming Schedules: Some locations still host active shoots, which can be fascinating to observe with permission. 

FAQs: Nollywood film locations as travel destinations

Q: What are the top Nollywood film locations in Nigeria?

KAP Film Village (Oyo), Tinapa Studios (Calabar), Erin Ijesha Waterfalls (Osun), Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, Ancient Walls of Kano, and Enugu are must-visits.

Q: Are there international Nollywood filming spots?

Yes. London (Osuofia in London), New York & Los Angeles (When Love Happens), Dubai (luxury films), and Johannesburg (Merry Men 2).

Q: Can I see filming in progress?

Some film villages allow tours, but permission is often required.

Q: How can I combine Nollywood tourism with general sightseeing?

Many film locations are near cultural, natural, or historical attractions, for example, waterfalls, sacred groves, or historic towns.

Q: Is Nollywood tourism growing internationally?

Yes, fans from across the globe are visiting Nigerian and international Nollywood filming locations, blending film fandom with cultural exploration.