Olumo rock is a popular tourist destination located in the city of Abeokuta [meaning “under the rock”] in Ogun State (only an hours drive from the bustling city of Lagos). The city of Abeokuta was originally inhabited by the egba people who found refuge at the Olumo rock during inter-tribal wars in the 19th century. The rock acted as sanctuary to the people as well as a vantage point to monitor the enemy’s advance. The site was renovated in 2006 to include an elevator, a water fountain and a museum.
Below is my travel video to Olumo Rock {Click here to SUBSCRIBE to my YouTube Channel for more AMAZING ?? travel videos}, visual diary and tips on visiting Abeokuta and Olumo Rock.
WATCH MY TRAVEL VIDEO BELOW
[embedyt] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7mFEFgQO3fg[/embedyt]
VISUAL DIARY
At the fountain in front of the Rock
The elevator and garden at the base of Olumo Rock
The Cultural and Musical Heritage Centre at Olumo Rock
The small centre which was not opened during my visit
A view from the second landing whilst climbing the rock
In front of the “Orisa Olumo Chamber”, a shrine at the site. (Spot the sacrificed birds on the door of the shrine)
About to explore the Hide-Out cave in the Rock
The lady behind me is known to be the 132 year old Iya Orisa who lived most of her life under the rock (2017)
Another shrine at Olumo Rock
A representation of the deities
Manoeuvring between the rocks
Getting a helping hand from my tour guide to climb the rock
The view from at the top of my climb
TRAVEL TIPS
- Make sure to get a tour guide to take you up the rock. It is safer and I enjoyed the delivery of the history lesson. (My tour guides where incredibly knowledgeable and were very happy to take pictures and record my trip)
- Ensure to take a bottle of water up the climb in case you get dehydrated.
- Take your camera up the climb to capture the views at the top of Olumo Rock which showcases the beauty of Abeokuta
- Tour guides do not charge a standard price/they aren’t allowed to but feel free to tip them as you deem fit
- Make sure to dress appropriately (wear trousers/leggings and trainers for the climb
TRAVEL REVIEW
Costs: N700 to visit. N2000 to visit using the elevator (bear in mind the elevator wasn’t working during my visit).
Where did I stay: Abeokuta has many accommodation options. I stayed at the Daktad Suites and Event Centre (a lovely hotel). Tip would be to book your hotel in advance on Jumia travel.
Accessibility: If walking up a small hill is an issue for you, I would avoid visiting Olumo rock as I cannot guarantee the elevator would work (unless you are happy to admire the rock from the base).
My verdict: I had a great time visiting the rock. It was an impressive site with very knowledgeable guides.
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