University of Ibadan, Zoological Garden — Attraction in Oyo State

The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden, also known as the UI Zoo, is one of Ibadan's hidden gems, offering a unique blend of education and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Situated within Nigeria's premier university, the zoo provides a serene environment that serves as a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle.

Overall Experience The UI Zoo is a peaceful sanctuary filled with a wide array of wildlife, ranging from big cats like lions and leopards to various species of primates, reptiles, and birds. As you walk through the well-kept paths, you'll find the environment relaxing, with plenty of shaded areas to sit and enjoy the view.

Animal Collection The zoo houses a variety of animals, and each enclosure is designed to closely mimic the natural habitat of its occupants. Highlights include the majestic lions, the playful baboons, and the massive African elephants. The bird section is also noteworthy, with vibrant peacocks, parrots, and other exotic species.

Educational Value UI Zoo excels as an educational resource. It's a popular destination for school trips, where students can learn about wildlife conservation and the importance of biodiversity. Informational signs near the enclosures provide interesting facts about the animals, making the visit both fun and informative.

Facilities and Accessibility While the zoo offers basic amenities, such as restrooms and a small snack bar, these facilities could use some upgrades. The zoo is wheelchair accessible, though some paths may be difficult to navigate due to uneven surfaces. The entrance fee is very reasonable, making it an affordable option for families and groups.

What Could Be Improved The UI Zoo could benefit from more interactive exhibits and educational programs to engage visitors more deeply. Also, while the animal enclosures are generally...

This place is referred to simply as; "Ibadan Zoo".

The Zoo is managed by the department of Zoology of the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, West Africa; One of the premier Universities in Nigeria.

You pay an entrance fee of 1000 naira as a Visitor.

Many kinds of animals can be found here;

Snakes which include; python, cobra

Monkeys

Baboons

Hyenas

Big Birds like the Ostriches and Peacocks Giraffe Hyena ( it was here I really got to know just how fast these creatures were! Like how can an animal move so quickly and within such a limited space?!!)

The King or the Jungle; the Lion

Donkey

Giraffe The Giraffe is given a special name. They call her Ajoke; a name in Yoruba language (one of the 3 indigenous languages in Nigeria) which means; we shall all pamper her!

I have always admired the giraffe so much that I have a blog post dedicated to this animal and what we as Humans should learn from it. Find the post here; https://ewaade.com/2019/12/20/queen-victoria/

My visit to this zoo was inspirational.

I was awestruck by the Donkey, which was kept in a barricade it could easily escape from but stayed put and I was taken aback by how many Humans are like this! Trapped in life's situations they could easily escape from but are too unwilling to even try but just resign to fate!!

If you are looking for a zoo that will both give you fresh insights and inspire you, this Zoo is one to visit!

The members of staff are friendly and the Zoo is very neat.

Even without a tour guide, each of the stops, have a signage, where you learn the name of the animal and other important details about it.

Visit to this place is both educating and...

It's alot better than when I visited in 2012, it's looks better and animals looked well cared for. Though they have less animals than previous years.

Good place for an intimate picnic or family relaxation. Unlike before, I think they let you bring in food but you would need to get a permit from the authorities. There are shops you can get drinks and snacks within and outside the zoo.

Use of mobile phones are prohibited but I think alot of people still use theirs discreetly but avoid the flash to avoid upsetting the animals.

Feeding of animals is highly prohibited, visitors are to stand behind the rails created because some of the animals are dangerous.

I loved watching the Lions,they got a couple of them and the giraffe is such a beauty to behold. Other animals you could find there include crocodiles,snakes(different types),soft shell turtles, African hard shell turtles, different kinds of birds, ostriches,horses,donkeys, Carmel,badger,baboons, monkeys,they used to have a gazelle but didn't get to see it on this visits and lots of other animals.

There's a playground for the kids, don't forget to take them along when you visit,plus go with cash if you have there's a man who sells old books at ridiculously affordable prices.

It's also wheel chair and strollers accessible, didn't go with my baby stroller because I wasn't sure and it was a bit difficult for me having to carry the baby the entire walk. Hope you enjoy...