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Top 10 must-do tourist activities in Abuja

Top 10 must-do tourist activities in Abuja

Welcome to Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital since 1991 and one of the best-planned cities in the country. Abuja may not be Lagos where you will see every every, but it sure boasts of must-do tourist activities that you definitely want to explore.

Abuja is the seat of government but may not be a commercially vibrant city like Lagos and Port Harcourt. However, what the city seemingly lacks in commerce, it makes up for in fun. So if you’re in Abuja or plan to visit, make sure you visit the top spots. Don’t know them? Don’t worry, we got you.

Top 10 must-do tourist activities in Abuja

1. Catch some movies

Catch some movies at Abuja cinemas

I’m a movie person so I’m going to start with that. If you’re not, well, allow me to convert you. You see, there is nothing better than watching a heart-thumping movie in a room full of enthusiastic movie lovers while you munch a bag of popcorn and wash it down with soft drinks. If you don’t like popcorn, you can alternate with shawarma, hot dogs, noodles, or any other edibles you can find at the box office area. Abuja offers different cinemas where you will have such a wonderful experience. Some of the cinemas include Silverbird Cinema located in Central Business District, Wuse, and Jabi.

ALSO READ: Top 10 must-visit sites in Abuja

2. Eagles Square and other national monuments

Eagles Square and other national monuments

If you’re a fan of national history and monuments, you should visit the Eagles Square and other national monuments like Abuja National Mosque, National Christian Centre, National Library, and the Ministry of Defence (built in the shape of a ship), ECOWAS Secretariat, and so much more. For instance, the Eagles Square was built in 1999 to serve as the platform for the official take-off of the 4th Republic of the Federation of Nigeria and has since been the venue for Swearing-in ceremonies, political rallies/programmes, religious crusades/rallies, and event musical concerts and shows.

3. Relax at the parks

Relax at the parks

The Millenium Park, designed by Manfredi Nicoletti, is one of the biggest and most beautiful parks in Abuja. Others include the Julius Berger Waterfront Park, Eden Parks, and Garden, Area 1 Recreational Garden, and many more. You can go there and take in the sun, read a book, quietly hang out with friends, and take some Instagram pictures. You can also exercise and play some football. You know, just have some fun.

ALSO READ: Top 10 fun places to visit in Lagos

4. Boat riding at Jabi Lake

Boat riding at Jabi Lake

Abuja doesn’t have a beach but does have the next best thing – a boat ride at Jabi lake. The Jabi Lake offers boat rides, different kinds of water sports, and beautiful shots, especially in the evenings.  The lake is situated around a mall where you can easily do your shopping and Jabi Park, where you can go horseback riding. You can also participate in one of the frequent dancing competitions, sit in a shade to enjoy your favorite book, or test the waters as you enjoy a boat ride.

5. Chase the waterfalls at Gurara Falls

Chase the waterfalls at Gurara Falls
Photo credit: Istockphotos

Gurara Falls is located at Suleja, Niger State. It is very close to Abuja which is why you should visit if you’re in the city. It’s a perfect place for a picnic or quiet time. You can also learn the myths surrounding the falls which is also a favorite of bird watchers. The picturesque views of rock formations together with beautiful flowers, trees, and bushes will make you not want to leave the place anytime soon.

6. Stop over at Zuma Rock

Stop over at Zuma Rock
Photo credit: Getty Images

Zuma Rock is also located in Suleja. So whenever you find yourself in Abuja, make sure you visit Zuma Rock for a great climbing experience. Zuma Rock is a 725 meters (2,379 feet) monolith considered to be the home for the spirits of the dead by the Koro peoples (original occupiers of the rock).

Speaking of rocks, you can also climb the Aso Rock, which is located just behind the presidential villa. In fact, the presidential villa is named after the rock. The rock has a magnificent view of the surrounding countryside.

ALSO READ: Top 10 tourist attractions in Lagos

7. Eat at a Five-Star Restaurant

top 10 best restaurants in Abuja

Abuja boasts numerous five-star restaurants where you can enjoy both local, intercontinental, and other foreign dishes. If you want, you can eat your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Hey, you’re a tourist, right? So you’re expected to spend money. Don’t be afraid to spend them on Nigerian, African, Asian, and European cuisines in Abuja. Trust me, it’s worth it. BluCabana, Bukka, Jevinik, Wakkis, Nkoyo, Chez Chris are some of the best five-star restaurants that will serve you the best dishes.

8. Eat street food

Eat street food

Wetin you gain if you visit Abuja and you don’t eat the street suya? O wrong naw. The five-stars are not the only places that offer you the best dishes. Street foods such as masa, milk curd/cheese (wara), akara, kilishi, and other different Nigerian dishes are available in numerous spots in Abuja.

9. Shop at the malls and open markets

Shop at the malls and open markets

There are many shopping malls in Abuja where you can do your shopping in a cool environment. Some of the most popular are the Ceddi Plaza, Jabi Lake Mall, Park ‘n’ Shop, Asokoro Shopping Mall, and many more. If you don’t care about cool environments, then visit the open market and join the madness of negotiating prices with loud shop owners. The Utako Market is the most lively, crowded, and considered a farmers’ market where you can get fresh fruits and vegetables for cheap. The Garki International Market is where you can buy clothes and confectioneries. Other markets are Garki Model Market, Wuse Market, Kado Fish Market, etc.

ALSO READ: Know the top 7 strip clubs in Abuja

10. Hit the clubs

Hit the clubs

If you enjoy wilding, then you should hit the nightclubs. Nightlife is amazing in Abuja. You get to enjoy a good time at lounges, pepper soup joints, and nightclubs. For instance, Skybar Rooftop Lounge has one of the best views and ambiance in the city. The Mashoria Arena has great cocktails and music. Caribbean Lounge and Nightclub as well as Cubana and Aramis have special services that will give you the best time of your life.

Finally…

What do you think about these tourist spots in Abuja? They sound fun, right? Visit these places and give us feedback, We can’t wait to hear from you. Enjoy!

ALSO READ: Top 5 strip clubs in Lagos

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Nonye is a Thespian, screenwriter, creative writer and an unapologetic lover of books, great movies and sports. She has over 10 years experience in content writing on entertainment, movies, sports and lifestyle. Nonye is currently a content writer at Blackdot Media and founder of litafrik.com
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