Attractions and Activities of Yankari Game Reserve

Yankari Game Reserve is in Bauchi State, Nigeria. It is a large protected area covering about 2,244 square kilometres. It is one of Nigeria's most famous places to visit, with many kinds of animals, including elephants, lions, baboons, hippos, warthogs, hyenas, and more than 350 types of birds.

Yankari Game Reserve lets people see the beautiful nature of Northern Nigeria and get close to amazing animals. Here is more about the reserve, its attractions, and the fun activities visitors can do.

History of Yankari Game Reserve

• Origins: Yankari started in the early 1900s when the British colonial government thought it could be a great place for wildlife. They set aside some land for animals.

• Establishment: In 1934, it began as a small reserve of about 2,800 hectares. It grew in 1956 with help from the Bauchi Emirate under Alhaji Muhammad Ngeleruma and became the Yankari Wildlife Sanctuary, covering 2,244 square kilometres.

• Opening to the Public: On 1 December 1962, the sanctuary opened to the public. In 1991, the Federal Government of Nigeria made it a national park to make it even better for visitors.

Main Attractions

1. Wikki Warm Spring

   • A natural swimming pool that stays warm at 31°C all the time.

   • It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the beautiful forest around it.

2. Marshall Cave

   • A site with 59 connected caves.

   • These caves were probably used as shelters during the time of slavery. They have rock paintings and carvings that show the area's history.

3. Dukkey Wells

   • Old wells used by slave traders as resting places during the slave trade.

   • These wells remind us of the past and help us learn about the people who lived during that time.

Wildlife at Yankari

Yankari Game Reserve has many types of animals that visitors can see:

• Elephants: Yankari has over 200 elephants, which is one of the largest groups in West Africa. Visitors can see these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

• Lions: There are fewer lions now than before, but you can still see some during game drives.

• Buffaloes: African buffaloes eat grass in fields and near water. They help keep the area healthy.

• Hippos, Baboons, and Waterbucks: Hippos and waterbucks are often found near water, and baboons are seen in large groups.

• Other Animals: Crocodiles, warthogs, hyenas, giraffes, and monkeys are also in the reserve.

Activities at Yankari Game Reserve

There are many fun activities to do at Yankari Game Reserve:

• Game Drives: Go on guided drives in the early morning or late afternoon to see animals.

• Walking Safaris: Walk around the park with guides who tell you interesting facts about the animals and plants.

• Bird Watching: With more than 350 kinds of birds, Yankari is perfect for bird lovers.

• Swimming: Swim in the Wikki Warm Spring, which is always warm and very relaxing.

• Cultural Tours: Learn about the area's history by visiting places like Dukkey Wells and Marshall Cave.

• Night Safaris: Go on a night safari to see animals like hyenas and civets that are active at night.

Accommodation

• Wikki Camp: Has cabins and tents with basic amenities, giving a close-to-nature experience.

• Yankari Safari Lodge: A more comfortable option with air-conditioned rooms, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.

• Yankari Game Reserve Suites: Large suites with private balconies that look over the reserve.

Restaurants and Cafes

• Wikki Camp Restaurant: Serves African and other kinds of dishes.

• Safari Bar: Offers snacks and drinks.

• Cafes and Food Kiosks: Found throughout the reserve, these are great for a quick bite.

Safety Tips for Visitors

• Wild Animals: Keep a safe distance from animals, and stay in your vehicle during game drives.

• Mosquito Protection: Use mosquito spray and take medicine to avoid malaria.

• Swimming Safety: Be careful while swimming in natural springs, as there can be strong currents.

• Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen, a hat, and drink lots of water to stay safe in the sun.

Getting to Yankari Game Reserve

• By Air: Fly into Abuja or Lagos, then take another flight or drive to Bauchi.

• By Road: Yankari is about 110 kilometres from Bauchi City, which takes about 2 hours by car.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (November to May): This is the best time to visit because the weather is dry, and animals gather around water, making them easy to see.

• Wet Season (June to October): Heavy rain can make the roads hard to use, and animals spread out, making them harder to find.

Costs

• Entry Fee:

  • Foreign adults: $20 per person

  • Nigerian adults: 2,000 Naira

  • Children under 12: Half of the adult fee

• Accommodation: Costs range from $10 per night for camping to $250 per night for luxury lodges.

Special Events at Yankari Game Reserve

• Yankari Carnival: Held every December, with cultural shows, music, and sports activities.

• World Tourism Day: Celebrated each year to support good tourism and raise awareness about protecting natural resources.

Conclusion

Yankari Game Reserve is an important part of Nigeria's natural and cultural heritage. Its amazing wildlife, beautiful attractions, and rich history make it a great place for anyone who loves nature and adventure. From the warm springs to the many animals, Yankari offers visitors a fun and memorable experience they will never forget.