Olumo Rock Tourist Centre — Attraction in Ogun State

The newly revamped Olumo Rock tourist center is the best stop anytime you are in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Leaving your home country to visit a place like Olumo Rock, Abeokuta, Ogun State Nigeria, is a journey that worth it a million times. At Olumo Rock, culture welcomes you right from the car pack, you'll witness those who pack cars doing their best to give a warm welcoming and safe parking.

Greetings, a little smile, waving you down, directing you to the nearest available space is the marketing strategy of these simply dressed guys. As soon as you packed, stepped our and approach the first gate, you may be lucky to land in the hand of traditional drummers, giving you different rhythm and songs with the rich egba dialet😄😄, you'll be grinning from ear to ear as you may need to drop some Naira as a way of appreciation; and dancing to the song and beats will make these old men increase the volume and enthusiasm with which they bet their drums. Oh... culture is divine. My host had already paid, so I can't really tell you how the entrance fee is, but please bear in mind that you will definitely pay an entrance fee.

You'll savour the new art gallery which is my best connection point in the park. You'll see a section with olden days connection, both in colours and artwork. The nature artworks will blow your mind, there are enough of it there. There are artwork of legends in divers sphere of life; from music icon, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, to my writing idol, Prof. Wole Soyinka to other notable Ogun State personalities including the presently serving Democratic Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun. You can buy artistry works also at the art gallery. You must not miss the experience of climbing the Olumo Rock itself, a rock that became the shelter of its indigenous people during the olden days war. The staircase is over 200, but has been structured in such a way that makes it easy for visitors to climb. Safety measures has also been put in place for children, there must be an adult to each child climbing the mountain.

The staff of Olumo Rock has been strategically placed to render assistance to anyone who might need it. Climbing the mountain to the top is the climax of your enjoyment, as you'll be able to view Abeokuta town from the east, north, west and south and appreciate the beauty of the town, especially the brown roof.

Plan to be at Olumo Rock on your next visit to Nigeria and Ogun State in particular.

There should be someone who will tell the history behind that rock at a particular day or at a specially organized event sometimes within the year. The parking space also needs to be worked up on. There could also be a centralized system where the rush egba and other town song can be played to the relaxation of everyone. Olumo...

A visit to the Olumo Rock, famed as the founding site of Abeokuta;

Historically, the rock was a natural fortress for the Egbas during intertribal warfare in the 19th century, located in a town that owes its name to that very event, Abeokuta (under the rock).

Our tour guide told us a story of how a great hunter, following the disintegration of the Oyo Empire, led a group of Egba refugees, now the largest ethnic group in the state, originally under the Oyo Empire, by the name of Adagba to discover this mysterious rock while seeking refuge in the 19th century.

During this period, they constructed five rooms inside the cave, but only one is left there now. Inside the cave is a rock. On the rock, there are holes where they pound and grind their foods. After the war, they consulted the Ifa oracle again to see if they should go back to where they came from, but the Ifa said they should remain there. Hence, the nameOlumo (Olu, which means God and Mo, which means mold), God molded the rock for us.

There are about 220 steps to the peak, and about 120 steps from the foot of the rock to the first much-needed rest point, called the Lisabi Garden, named after their war hero who led the revolt against Oyo, Lisabi Agbongbo Akala.

The rock is beautiful, but don't just go there right away. Be sure to visit the gallery, which holds the true history of the Egba people. The gallery is a true definition of creativity, artists display their paintings and sculptures. There is a section dedicated to a collection of carefully crafted beaded jewelry, bags, masks and other antiques. One is sure to tickle your fancy. Consider it a starter, now back to the main courses.

From the peak of the revered rock, you are also able to see some other places of interest that Abeokuta has to offer, it’s like visiting five places at once, such as the first Church in Nigeria (Saint Peter's Cathedral, built by Reverend Andre Desalt Wilhelm), the beautiful Kobiti Central Mosque, MKO Abiola's family house, and of course, the Ogun river from which the state derives her name.

The river surrenders a great view of her serene self to the 137-meter-high ageless igneous rock that overlooks the rusty rooftops of the ancient city.

Also, among other Things, you’ll have the privileged to see and, perhaps, touch the Iroko tree that stands firmly on the rock from over 200 years ago.

Make sure you don't wear anything that might slide on the rocks, like I did. It drizzled the day I visited, and some parts of the rocks were super slippery, but be sure to get a tour guide like mine, otherwise, you will just be a site-seeing tourist.

It was a worthwhile experience for me and the kids...

My recent visit to Olumo Rock was an unforgettable adventure. Nestled in the heart of Abeokuta, Ogun State, this historical landmark is more than just a tourist attraction—it's a journey into the past, steeped in rich Yoruba history and culture.

Upon arrival, the first thing that struck me was the sheer majesty of the rock, towering over the city and offering a panoramic view that took my breath away. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and passionate, bringing the stories and legends of Olumo Rock to life as we ascended the ancient steps. Each stop along the way revealed something new, from the sacred shrines to the natural formations that have stood the test of time.

One of the highlights of my visit was the ongoing Ogun Adire exhibition, which started on Thursday and concluded today. The vibrant display of Adire, a traditional Yoruba indigo-dyed cloth, was a feast for the eyes. The exhibition was a celebration of creativity, culture, and heritage, showcasing the intricate designs and craftsmanship that go into making these beautiful fabrics. It was a wonderful complement to the natural beauty of Olumo Rock, reminding me of the deep cultural roots that connect the people of Ogun State to their land.

The climb to the top of the rock was both exhilarating and rewarding. As we reached the summit, the view of Abeokuta spread out beneath us was simply breathtaking. It felt like standing on top of the world, with the cool breeze and the sense of accomplishment, making the experience even more special.

For a gate fee of just ₦1,100, Olumo Rock offers incredible value. It's more than just a climb; it's a journey through history, culture, and natural beauty. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a mix of adventure and cultural enrichment. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun day out, Olumo Rock has something...