Ondo state is blessed with some of the most impressive natural attractions in Nigeria. While it is mostly known for its massive rocks, the state also features beautiful waterfalls, beaches, lakes, and other things that will leave nature lovers stunned. From the mystery-shrouded Idanre Hills to the cave of ashes hidden deep in the forests of Isarun, here are the top natural attractions to visit in Ondo state. Most of these attractions can be easily accessed from Akure although some are more than 100 km away from the city. 

Idanre Hills (Oke Idanre), Idanre

Idanre Hills is a beautiful hilly landscape around 24 km from Akure. These hills surround the town of Idanre and the highest rises up to 914 m. In ancient times, an ancient civilization thrived in this location until the arrival of missionaries led by Rev. Gilbert Carter in 1894. This ancient civilization is said to have been founded by a descendant of Ododuwa who stole a royal crown and fled to the hilly landscape now known as Idanre. Idanre Hills is famous for its interesting myths which makes it more exciting to visit. These include the myth of the unreadable signs, the King’s Palace, Agboogun’s legacy, Agboogun’s footprint, the wonderful mat, Omi Aopara, Arun River, and Orosun hill. 

Today, visitors come from all over the world to climb more than 600 steps to the top of Idanre Hills to enjoy incredible views and ponder on the mysterious ancient stories that cloud this area.  

Related: 10 Mysterious Things You Should Know About The Edo Tribal Mark

Cave of Ashes (Iho Eleru), Isarun

The Cave of Ashes is a natural feature in Isarun, around 24 km from Akure. The cave is located in a forest and it became popular after it was discovered by a team of archaeologists led by Englishman Thurstan Shaw in 1965. The discovery unveiled bones of Stone Age men in the cave with the oldest dating to around 9200 BC (11,200 years ago) making it one of the oldest-known human settlements in this part of Nigeria. Other artifacts like pottery were also discovered in the cave and those have been dated to around 1000 BC suggesting that the site must have been inhabited for thousands of years before it was eventually abandoned. Artifacts and remains discovered in the cave are said to have been transported to the museum at the University of Ibadan while others were taken to London for further research. 

Araromi Beach, Araromi 

Araromi Beach is a hidden gem in Ondo that attracts people from all over the country. The beach is surrounded by beautiful palm trees and features soft sand that’s so pleasing to the feet. Unlike other natural attractions on this list, Araromi Beach is quite far from Akure but it is still worth a mention due to its reputation as one of the most beautiful beaches in Nigeria. The beach is located near the border between Ondo and Ogun state and is in the town of Araromi within the Ilaje local government area. 

Igbokoda Waterfront, Igbokada

Igbokoda Waterfront is a beautiful waterbody approximately 142 km from Akure. This attraction is located in the town of Igbokoda in Ilaje local government area and is considered one of the longest water bodies in the country where lots of water sports like fishing, boating, and swimming can be done. On the shores of the water, visitors can even have picnics while watching and taking pictures of other people engaging in exciting water activities. 

Igbo Olodumare (Forest of the Almighty), Oke-Igo

Igbo Olodumare is a dense forest preserve in Oke-Igo that looks and feels mythical. The forest is incredibly green and it also features mountains, sculptures, and interesting wildlife. It is a great place to enjoy peaceful walks while capturing gorgeous photos. Besides the natural features, Igbo Olodumare is also shrouded in mystery. This forest was the setting of two Yoruba novels written by D.O. Fagunwa between 1938 and 1949. In his writings, the author talks extensively about the mysteries that reside in the forest from witches, to wizards, and other mysterious creatures. Visiting this forest with such bizarre ideas is sure to be terrifying and that’s part of what makes it so memorable. 

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