Ondo, the beautiful sunshine state that sits majestically in the Western part of Nigeria is one town one can never get tired of visiting. The atmosphere is calm and picturesque with a lot of hilly areas that gives beautiful views of the environment. Ondo has made it as our destination of the week owing to these reasons below.
It has Top 3 sites, one of which is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO
Mare Festival
Mare literally means ‘don’t fall’. Hence, to celebrate the heritage and history of the Idanre people and Ondo at large, an international climbing festival was launched in 2009 for this purpose. The festival which is usually held at the end of the year is an opportunity for tourists to check the tourist destinations in Ondo especially the Idanre Hills.
Idanre Hill
Idanre Hill, made up different hills in the ancient town of Idanre is undoubtedly the number one tourist destination in the state. One can soak in the scenery and inviting lush landscape, and the hill which is 3,000 ft. above sea level will definitely leave you gasping for breath.
Aside from the Idanre Hill other features of the Hill are the mysterious writings on the hill and Agbogun Footprint- a mystic footprint that fits any foot no matter the size.
If you are able to make it to the top of the Hill, you will be awed by the stunning view of the city of Idanre. The hill is listed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.
Ebomi Lake
This lake is enmeshed in mystery as it is described as a bottomless lake. In other words, the debt is infinite. According to the locals, the lake has spiritual and protective significance as people of Ipesi in Akoko believe that the lake can protect them from any harm. The lake is circled by rocks and untapped forest which adds more beauty to the lake.
Lodging
Ondo state is home to many hotel brands ranging from 2, 3, 4 to 5 star hotels. There are also chalets located in the countryside which are affordable and inexpensive. Some hotels in Ondo include Sunview hotel, Lapoint hotel, Royal Parklane Hotel & Suites, Emperor Hotel & Suites, Roberts Inn and Winners Guest House. You can easily find and book hotels in Ondo by visiting Jovago.com.
Eating
If you relish good food and want something really tasty to fill your belly, then there is enough for you to eat here. Pounded yam with Vegetable soup garnished with snails is the popular food among the people of Ondo. Fruits are also in abundance and very cheap. Pupurun - fermented Cassava meal is a cuisine that is popular among the Ilajes, Ikales and Apoi people of Ondo state. Some of the popular eating spots are Ise Oluwa unique restaurants, Concord restaurants and Ola Oluwa food canteen.
Shopping
From traversing the nooks and crannies of Ondo state, you will discover many shopping centres, markets and stores. Tourists can purchase souvenirs as well as perform some essential services. There are trendy malls in Akure. Some popular shopping centres are Eagles Resources Centre, Ijapo Market, and Olufunmilayo Shopping centre.