Most times, when we think of vacation destinations as Nigerians, popular places that always show up on our Instagram Explore like the Maldives, Santorini, Seychelles, Paris, Dubai, etc., come to mind. But there are so many other amaaaziing places we often overlook that are 100% worth adding to your travel bucket list. So as we begin the year, I thought to curate this list of 5 unexplored holiday destinations for Nigerians.
Let me know if you have visited any of the places I’ll list shortly, and which you look forward to visiting.
Namibia
Number one on this list has to be the picturesque, serene, scenic Namibia. Although Namibia is neighbor’s with South Africa’s- which is a popular travel destination, Namibia often gets skipped on the list of holiday or tourist travel destinations. This is sad because there are a lot of memorable experiences people who visit Namibia enjoy- from thrilling visits to the safari in Etosha National Park to the adventure of discovering ship rocks on the Skeleton Coast and the wonder of watching birds in their natural habitat.
Having over 650 species of birds with the likes of the African Skimmer and the African Gray Hornbill, Namibia is a dream destination for birdwatchers and nature lovers.
Bohinj, Slovenia
Snuggled in the heart of the Julian Alps, Bohinj is a hidden gem in Slovenia that beckons travellers with its pristine natural beauty and tranquil surroundings. This picturesque destination is centred around Lake Bohinj, the largest permanent lake in Slovenia, and is surrounded by lush greenery and majestic mountains. The iconic Church of St. John the Baptist, perched on the edge of the lake, adds a touch of history and cultural richness to the landscape.
As a tourist, you can indulge in several outdoor activities, from hiking and cycling along scenic trails to water sports such as kayaking and paddle boarding on the lake’s calm waters.
For adventure lovers, Vogel Ski Resort, situated on the nearby Mount Vogel, transforms into a winter wonderland during winter, attracting skiers and snowboarders. The cable car ride to the summit offers panoramic, Instagram-worthy views of the Julian Alps.
Bohinj is also a gateway to Triglav National Park, Slovenia’s only national park, where pristine alpine landscapes and diverse flora and fauna await exploration. Savica Waterfall, a short drive away, adds another natural marvel to Bohinj’s repertoire.
Whether you’re captivated by the allure of the outdoors, cultural discoveries, or the simple joys of a peaceful lakeside retreat, Bohinj invites you to experience the beauty and tranquility that Slovenia has to offer.
Read also: How to book cheap international flights in Nigeria.
Estonia
Beyond being a relatively budget-friendly travel destination, there are several things that make Estonia worth visiting.
Every year, Estonia hosts lots of festivals. From the traditional, century-old Song and Dance Festival and Night of the Ancient Bonfire to modern parties such as the Tallinn Music Week and Craft Beer Festival.
If you are an art and history lover, Estonia would certainly tickle your fancy as the country’s capital, Tallinn, is home to over 60 museums and galleries.
It’s also worth mentioning that Estonia is one of the first European countries to offer a digital nomad visa. So whether you are looking for somewhere to tour for a couple of days or a country you could call home for a few months as a digital nomad, Estonia should be on your travel bucket list.
Barbados
If Rihanna crossed your mind when you read Barbados, that makes the two of us😅. Beyond Barbados being widely known as Rihanna’s country of origin, it is also know for its annual festival- the ‘Crop Over Festival’. This celebration is used to officially mark the end of the sugar cane season and it usually takes place around July – August. So if you want to make travel plans for that time of the year, consider Barbados.
Being the only coral island in its region with all-white sand beaches, Barbados is the best place to get your surfs on. This iconic place happens to be the birthplace of rum and is home to the infamous but famous Flying Fish.
What’s even more encouraging about visiting Barbados as a Nigerian is that it is visa-free for us🥳.
You may also be interested in: How to Travel to Turkey on a Budget.
Ghana
Our favorite neighbor, Ghana😁. Ghana is not quite a hidden gem as it is a popular travel destination for Nigerians. But I thought to include it in this list because it is a budget-friendly travel destination that many people who are yet to achieve their goal of travelling can take advantage of.
One of the places I look forward to visiting when I go to Ghana is the Cape Coast Castle, simply because part of Yaa Gyasi’s (sad) book, Homegoing, was set here. (Have you read it?)
But the castle is not all there is to look forward to when you visit Ghana. The Lake Volta, the Mole National Park, the iconic Wli Waterfall (the highest waterfall in West Africa), the Arts Centre, and several festivals are some of the places and things that make Ghana worth visiting.
There’s even more.
If you are in search of engaging and adrenaline-pumping adventures, consider hiking on the Tongo Hills, or better still, visit the Kakum National Park and walk on its famous Canopy Walkway. This year, look beyond the Jollof rice and football banters and add Ghana to your travel list.
Unexplored Holiday Destinations for Nigerians FAQs
How long can a Nigerian stay in Barbados without visa?
Nigerians can stay in Barbados for 180 days/ 6 months without a visa.
Where do Nigerians go on holiday?
According to Business Day, South Africa, Egypt, and Rwanda have become the most visited holiday destinations by Nigerians following the increase in ticket prices and the need to look for cheaper holiday alternatives.
Which Caribbean countries are visa-free for Nigerians?
Barbados, Dominica, Haiti, Saint Kitts and Nevis are currently visa-free for Nigerian passport holders.
What other unexplored holiday destinations would you recommend for Nigerians? I would love to hear from you. Please leave a comment below.
