Lekki Conservation Centre
Urban nature reserve with Africa's longest canopy walkway....
PlaceYankari National Park, established in 1956, is Nigeria's most popular wildlife destination, covering 2,244 square kilometers in Bauchi State. The park hosts one of West Africa's largest surviving elephant populations (over 300), plus lions, African buffalo, waterbuck, bushbuck, hippopotamus, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. The Wikki Warm Springs, naturally heated to about 31°C year-round, is the park's jewel—a crystal-clear pool surrounded by vegetation where visitors swim alongside fish. Marshall Caves, ancient rock formations with archaeological significance, reveal evidence of human habitation dating back thousands of years. Cave paintings document early human activity. The park's commitment to conservation protects these species from poaching. Yankari generates revenue through eco-tourism while employing local communities as rangers and guides. Climate change and encroachment threaten the park, making conservation efforts critical. Yankari demonstrates that Nigeria can balance tourism development with wildlife protection, creating sustainable livelihoods while preserving natural heritage for future generations.