Ondo

Ondo State is a state in south-western Nigeria, created in 1976. Its capital, Akure, is a major city on the road from Lagos to the north. The state is the homeland of the Yoruba subgroups: the Akure, Ondo, Owo, Ikare, and Ilaje peoples. It is the site of the Idanre Hills, a stunning mountain landscape and UNESCO tentative World Heritage site.

The state has an Atlantic coastline along the Bight of Benin and is a major producer of cocoa, palm oil, and rubber. The Owo Museum and the palace of the Olowo of Owo are significant cultural landmarks. Ondo State also has the Igbo Olodumare (Bush of the Almighty) grove, a sacred Yoruba forest.

The dry season (November–March) is the best time to visit.

The dry season (November–March) is best. The Owo Festival (July) and the Idanre Hills Festival are major events.

Akure Airport (AKR) has flights from Lagos and Abuja. Major roads connect Akure to Lagos (4 hrs), Ibadan (3 hrs), and Benin City (2 hrs).

• Akure — the state capital, with the Oba's Palace and the Akure Market
• Ondo — the second-largest city, the headquarters of the Ondo people
• Owo — a historic Yoruba town, with the Owo Museum and the Olowo's Palace
• Ikare — a town in the north, the headquarters of Akoko North LGA
• Okitipupa — a town in the south, a centre for the Ikale people
• Idanre — the home of the Idanre Hills, a stunning mountain landscape
• Ore — a major road junction town on the Lagos–Benin road
• Igbokoda — a town in the Ilaje area, a riverine settlement
• Ifon — a town in Ose LGA, a market centre
• Oka-Akoko — an Akoko town in the north
• Igbara-Oke — a town in Ifedore LGA

Ondo's cuisine is Yoruba: Amala with Ewedu and Egusi, Pounded Yam, Efo Riro, and Moinmoin. The Ilaje coastal area provides excellent fresh fish and seafood.

The Owo Festival (July) features the Eyo masquerade. The Idanre Hills Festival celebrates the heritage of the Idanre people. The Oba of Akure's Palace is a historic building.

• Climb the Idanre Hills — a spectacular mountain landscape with ancient settlements and panoramic views
• Visit the Owo Museum — one of Nigeria's best museums of Yoruba art and history
• Explore the Olowo's Palace in Owo — a magnificent traditional palace
• Visit the Igbo Olodumare sacred grove — a Yoruba spiritual site
• Relax on the Atlantic beaches of Ilaje — Ondo's coastline is one of Nigeria's least visited