Gashaka Gumti National Park

Gashaka Gumti National Park is Nigeria's largest national park, covering about 6,400 km² in Adamawa and Taraba states. The park spans a remarkable range of habitats — from Guinea savannah and gallery forests at lower elevations to montane forests and grassy plateaus on the Mambilla Plateau. It is named after two traditional emirates: Gashaka in Taraba State and Gumti in Adamawa State.

The park is one of the most biodiverse areas in West Africa, home to chimpanzees, baboons, colobus monkeys, hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and over 500 bird species. It also contains the historic German fort on Gashaka Hill, a pre-1918 colonial outpost used as a watchtower by German military expeditions. The terrain is rugged, with steep valleys, fast-flowing rivers, and the Chappal Waddi — at 2,419 m, Nigeria's highest peak.

The best time to visit is during the dry season (November–April), when roads are accessible and game-viewing is at its best. The rainy season (May–October) brings heavy downpours that can make park roads impassable.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Yola International Airport (YOL), about 200 km north-west. From Yola, the park can be reached by road (4–5 hrs).

By Train

No rail access.

By Car / Road

The main entry point is from Yola via Ganye or from Jalingo in Taraba State. A 4WD is essential as the internal park roads are rough. The drive from Yola to the park headquarters at Gashaka village takes 4–5 hours.

Touring the park requires a 4WD vehicle. Park rangers can be hired as guides for hikes and game drives. Some areas are only accessible on foot.

• Chappal Waddi — Nigeria's highest peak (2,419 m), a multi-day trek for experienced hikers

• German Fort on Gashaka Hill — a pre-1918 fort and watchtower built by German colonial forces

• Gallery forests along the rivers — home to chimpanzees and primates

• The savannah plains — best areas for viewing antelopes, baboons, and elephants

• Birdlife — over 500 species including the crowned eagle and the green turaco

• Guided game drives — with park rangers through the savannah areas

• Chimpanzee trekking — the park has one of the last viable chimpanzee populations in West Africa

• Hike to Chappal Waddi — the highest point in Nigeria, a challenging 3–5 day trek

• Visit the German Fort — historical ruins on Gashaka Hill with panoramic views

• Birdwatching — exceptional biodiversity with many West African endemics

The park headquarters and lodges provide basic meals. Visitors should bring their own provisions for extended stays. Local dishes in nearby villages include yam, rice, and beans.

Bring bottled water. Streams and rivers in the park should be treated before drinking.

• Budget: basic park bandas and camping at designated sites
• Mid-range: simple guesthouses at Gashaka village and Serti
• Upscale: no upscale accommodation; visitors should be prepared for rustic conditions

Basic supplies can be purchased at Gashaka village and Serti before entering the park. Yola is the best place to stock up before the trip.

• Yola — 4–5 hrs north-west, the state capital
• Serti — the nearest town with supplies, 1 hr from the park
• Gembu — 3 hrs south, the highest town in Nigeria on the Mambilla Plateau