When you hear Ekiti State, the first thing that usually comes to mind is its reputation for moulding the most perfectly crafted pounded yams in the country. I assure you, however, that this state is more than just pounded yam and efo riro.

Ekiti State is located in southwestern Nigeria, totally in the tropics. It is noted for its rich cultural legacy, stunning scenery, and agricultural prowess, which earned it the nickname “Fountain of Knowledge.”The capital of Ekiti state is Ado-Ekiti and the state is surrounded by Kwara, Kogi, Osun, and Ondo states. Ekiti State is mostly inhabited by the Yoruba ethnic group, and its economy is largely involved with farming, serving as the principal profession and main source of income of the population. No wonder their amazing strides in the pounded yam industry hehehe. The state also has various educational institutions, which contributes to its position as Nigeria’s intellectual powerhouse, and houses a few historic places that’ll leave tourists in awe.

Having spent a few weeks there, I’ll be sharing with us my experience and a few places you should definitely visit on your next holiday.

Ikogosi Warm Springs

One thing is certain: if you want to visit Ikogosi warm and cold springs on a day trip, you should either bring your own car or arrange for a drop. The road to Ikogosi is extremely nicely done, but it is not very popular. We ended up taking motorbike taxis back and forth, and although it was exciting, it was also dangerous because you are quite exposed at high speeds if something goes wrong. We didn’t spend overnight at the resort, so I can’t say much about it, but their staff was quite helpful in getting us back to town so we could catch a car to Akure.

To visit the meeting of the waters, walk 5 to 10 minutes from the reception building via a thatched gate, then a few meters to the site entry. A guide told us the history, or traditional story, of how the warm and cold springs came to be. We noticed the historic city gates, as well as a glimpse of the location. Overall, an excellent destination for a day trip, but bring 2 – 3 hours to make the most of relaxing at the spring.

Nature’s Miracle In Yoruba Land

This location is child-friendly and also provides a nice tour for naturalists and history enthusiasts. The natural surroundings are breathtaking. This location is reasonably priced, although there is a wait to be photographed. It is recommended that you ask questions of the available tour guides, and if they are unable to answer your inquiries, go to reception and request the management. 

Orosunta and Orole Hills of Ikere

These two hills are located in the northern and southern parts of town (Ikere Ekiti), respectively. Both are steep-sided hills but are excellent vacation destinations for tourists to visit and see for themselves what God has done for the State of Honour, Fountain of Knowledge. The two hills are overseen by deities, and both are worshipped appropriately by locals. According to local beliefs, the Olosunta and Orole deities reside in the hills. Both goddesses are attributed with exploits such as providing offspring for infertile mothers and protecting Ikere from conflict. They are said to be responsible for the town’s well-being. Ikere Ekiti is commonly referred to as the lone unconquered town in Ekiti.

Ero Water Dam

Ero Dam and Lake are man-made tourist attractions in the state. This dam is located in Ikun Ekiti, Moba Local Government of the State. The lake covers several kilometers. In truth, it was originally intended to cover only five kilometers, but it eventually covered eleven kilometers. because the dam provides drinking water to three local governments, including Oye, Ido-Osi, and Moba itself. This means that the dam provides piped water to over a hundred cities and villages around the state.

According to experts, the dam can supply all of Ekiti State’s potable water. This Ero lake is used for fishing by the town’s indigenous people, neighbors, and even Hausas. These fishermen employ local canoes and boats, as well as advanced flying boats. This dam helps people to practice irrigation (farming) in their communities.

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Finally, Ekiti State, often known as the “Fountain of Knowledge,” has a richness of natural beauty and cultural heritage for visitors to learn about. From the charming Ikogosi Warm Springs to the sacred Orosunta and Orole Hills of Ikere, the state presents a diverse range of activities. The Ero Water Dam is both a testimony to human ingenuity and a valuable resource for the region. With its rich beauty, colorful traditions, and friendly residents, Ekiti State welcomes visitors to completely lose themselves in its charms, leaving them with memories that last a lifetime.