Yankari 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.


WILDLIFE HAVEN:
Yankari National Park spans 2,244 square kilometres of savannah woodland in Bauchi State. It hosts one of West Africa’s largest elephant populations, alongside lions, African buffalo, roan antelope, and over 370 bird species.

ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES:
Visitors embark on dawn and dusk safaris, explore Marshall Caves with ancient rock paintings, and relax in the crystal-clear Wikki Warm Springs—maintained at 31°C year-round.

CONSERVATION HUB:
Yankari partners with Wildlife Conservation Society to combat poaching, train rangers, and rehabilitate habitats. Community outreach programmes provide alternative livelihoods and conservation education.

ECOTOURISM FACILITIES:
Accommodation ranges from eco-lodges to campgrounds. Interpretive centres display fossils and cultural history. The park’s research station collaborates with universities on wildlife monitoring and climate studies.

FAST FACTS:
- Established: 1956 as a game reserve; became national park in 1991.
- Location: Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State.
- Climate: distinct wet (May–September) and dry (October–April) seasons.
- Accessibility: 3-hour drive from Bauchi city; charter flights to Yankari Airstrip.