Olumo Rock: If you pay a visit to Abeokuta without seeing the prestigious “Olumo Rock,” which is described as the fortress of the land, that means your visit is incomplete.
The record has it that since the 19th century, this rock called “Olumo Rock” has long served as a rock of offense and a fortress for the people of Egba Land.
You will get to see many interesting things and activities to do when you visit the Olumo Rock, such as natural tunnels, unusual trees, natural cantilevers, gardens on the rock, broken pathways, monuments of the belief system of the rock’s primeval settlers, e.t.c.
The rock is a bit easy to climb because it stands at a height of 137 meters above sea level, making it less than Zuma Rock, which stands at 725 meters.
There are many ways in which a visitor can use to climb the rock, such as using the, in fact, human-made stairs carved or using the elevator if you want to get to the zenith of the rock.
NOTE: Using any of these methods to climb will cost you a token
NOTE THIS;
When you are at the top of the rock, you will be able to see other tourist places in the city such as the Central Mosque, the River Ogu, the First Church of Nigeria, and the family house of the late Moshood Abiola.
However, if you want to visit the Olumo rock, you will have to know that there is an entrance fee of 700 Naira for those who would be climbing the stairs, while those would be using the elevator would pay 2000 Naira.
You will also pay a camera fee of 200 Naira if you want to snap pictures and a parking fee of 200 Naira if you come with your car.
What You Can Do at the Olumo Rock
There are a lot of interesting activities to do at the olumo rock center. The first interesting thing you can engage yourself in is to climb the human-made carved stairs in the rock. Climbing the rock may seem somehow hard coz it will leave you breathless as you are climbing it, and that’s why there are benches under the tree where you can sit down for a while and enjoy the direct hair from heaven.
Another thing to do is take a tour of the new museum and relax at the recreational park, which is at the rock’s foot.
Take a look at the beautiful environments, and you can take pictures by going to the taking a peek at the Ogun River flowing down the rock as the water will caress your skin with the soft therapy of Mother Nature.
If you feel hungry or want to see how the place looks, you can visit the fast-food restaurant located at the base of Olumo Rock.
In addition to the first activity, we listed here that you can do at Olumo rock and climb the uneven sized rocks on the narrow corridors leading to the rock’s peak. While climbing up the rock, enjoy the sight of the cowrie studded statues, the carvings on the rock, and bid greetings to the 131-year old priestesses (Iya Orisa) living under the rock.
Forgetting to visit the ancient Itoku market, which lies outside the Olumo Rock, will be the last thing you should forget to see.
It would also be an exciting thing for you to see how the local artisans and traders at the tye-and-dye (Adire) market will overprice with customers, who are always looking to buy goods at the lowest price. I believe you’d love to behold such a sight.
Best Season to Visit Olumo Rock
The best time anyone should consider visiting the Olumo rock is during the dry season (March).
What makes Olumo Rock so unique?
Olumo Rock is by far the most striking element of Egba nationality. It is a unique monument that is associated with their courage and independence. As a result, Olumo rock represents togetherness and independence for all Abeokuta citizens, not only the Egbas.
Who discovered Olumo Rock?
According to legend, Olumo Rock was found by a warrior named Adagba, who utilized it as a fortification during the 19th century inter – tribal fighting. Before the Oyo Empire fell apart, the Egbas were a part of it.
Is olumo a kind of rock?
That is one of the most common questions asked about the Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Olumo Rock is a large protrusion of prehistoric granite boulders that lent Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State, its name. The maximum height on the Olumo rock is approximately 137 meters above the rock’s base.
What are the major rocks in Nigeria?
From fascinating caves and swift rivers to massive mountains, the country has a long list of tourist sites to see. People who enjoy mountains would enjoy exploring Nigeria’s rocks, as some of these tourist attractions are bigger than Egypt’s famed pyramids!
The following are the top five major rocks in Nigeria:
- Olumo Rock
- Zuma Rock
- Aso Rock
- Riyom Rock
- Wase Rock
What is Nigeria’s tallest structure?
Chappal Waddi is a hill in Nigeria that is the country’s tallest structure at 2,419 meters (7,936 feet).
It is sited on the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State, close to the border with Cameroon, in the Gashaka Gumti Nature Reserve and Gashaka-Gumti National Forest.
It is a portion of Nigeria’s and Cameroon’s Bamenda-Adamawa-Mandara Mountain chain.
Tips for Climbing Olumo Rock
Before you climb, jog or do some cardio.
This is a good way to prepare your body for the steep climb by conditioning it and increasing your endurance. This is particularly crucial if you don’t regularly exercise because you do not want to distress your body with the strain it will be subjected to.
In the weeks preceding your climb, exercise a few times.
Carry two litres of water with you.
The climb must not cause you to become exhausted. You might experience weariness, headaches, and even disorientation as a result of dehydration. It will also be difficult to locate a supply of fresh, pure water.
Carry along your own water and ensure you get enough to drink. If you start to feel wobbly because to dehydration, you don’t wish to be a nuisance to your fellow hikers!
Bring carbohydrates and protein-rich snacks.
It’s important to remember that carbohydrate is the primary fuel source for physical activity. In order to complete your climb without exhaustion, you’ll need to consume plenty of carbohydrates and lipids, so try not to cut down too much.
To maximize your performance, make sure you’re getting enough carbs in your body. Bring party stuff, nuts, sweets, bread, and other snacks.