By Chinedu Ebokam
September 25, 2024
This week, we explore Enugu State, Nigeria—a captivating hill city located in the country’s eastern region. Known for its stunning attractions, Enugu offers a delightful mix of luxury and affordable hotels, breathtaking waterfalls, intriguing caves, and some of the best local eateries for savouring authentic Abacha and Nkwobi.
Join me as I guide you through Enugu's vibrant local restaurants, traditional attire, delectable street food, shopping malls, and other fun spots that make this city worthy of your next weekend giveaway.
Fun Historical Facts About Enugu State
The name "Enugu" comes from two Igbo words, Enu Ugwu, meaning "top of the mountain." This reflects the city's hilly terrain.
Enugu earned its nickname "The Coal City" after the discovery of coal in the Udi Hills in 1909, following an exploration led by Albert Ernest Kitson. This discovery led to the construction of the Eastern Railway to transport coal to Port Harcourt, transforming Enugu into an industrial hub.
In 1967, the city briefly served as the capital of the Republic of Biafra before the capital was moved to Umuahia. Following the division of Anambra State in 1991, Enugu became the capital of the newly created Enugu State under Ibrahim Babangida's military regime.
Tourist Attractions and Sites to See in Enugu
These three tourist attractions in Enugu are a must if you ever find yourself in the hill city.
Nike Lake Resort
One must-visit destination is Nike Lake Resort, nestled in the serene Abakpa Nike town. This premier lake resort provides a tranquil escape. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or inspiration, Nike Lake Resort has something to offer. Enjoy boating, explore the lush surroundings, or simply unwind in the peaceful ambience. With comfortable accommodations and excellent customer service, this resort is a perfect choice for travellers on a budget.
2. Ngwo Pine Forest and Caves: A Nature Lover's Paradise
Ngwo Pine Forest lies nestled within the rolling hills of Enugu, offering a captivating retreat. This magical forest is adorned with towering pine trees, enigmatic limestone caves, a majestic cascading waterfall, and picturesque valleys. To fully appreciate its wonders, consider exploring the forest with a knowledgeable guide.
On the Ijeawele travel blog, Favour beautifully recounts her journey through Ngwo Pine Forest, sharing her experiences of its enchanting caves and stunning waterfalls. Her vivid storytelling has left me eagerly anticipating my own visit.
3. Awhum Waterfall: A Natural Marvel
Explore the extraordinary beauty of Awhum Waterfall, a hidden gem within the Awhum community of Enugu State. This unique cave waterfall offers an unforgettable adventure, reminiscent of something straight out of a movie.
Descend into the depths of the mountain, marvel at the stunning waterfall cascading within the cave, and encounter a captivating sight: a statue of the Roman Catholic Mother Mary surrounded by statues of children.
The mystery of the statue’s creator adds an intriguing element to your visit. These aren’t the only statues lining the path to Awhum Cave’s waterfall. Their presence adds an eerie, mysterious touch that elevates the sense of adventure.
Enugu's Culinary Delights: Must-Try Street Food and Restaurants
After a day of adventure, or while you're taking a break from all the excitement, here are my top recommendations to satisfy your hunger.
Popular Street Foods in Enugu
No visit to Enugu is complete without indulging in its vibrant street food scene. Okpa and Abacha are two local specialities that have gained widespread acclaim throughout Eastern Nigeria.
Okpa: This savoury snack is made from ground bambara nuts, mixed with red oil and solidified. For an extra flavour boost, try it with egg or fish. I hear they sell the best ones at 9th Mile.
Abacha: A refreshing salad made from cassava, Abacha is often enjoyed with fish and a variety of spices. Abacha is also known as African salad
Local Restaurants
Enugu offers a diverse range of dining options to suit every budget. Don’t miss the opportunity to savour authentic Enugu cuisine at these popular spots:
Foodopolis
Enjoy a wide range of delicious and affordable options. Whether you're in the mood for international favourites like pizza, burgers, and shawarma, or local specialities like meat/fish pies, Enugu has something for everyone. Explore the city's vibrant soup scene, featuring options like chicken pepper soup, okazi soup, onubu soup, egusi soup, afang soup, and edikaikong soup.
Open Sharaton
Indulge in a culinary adventure at this restaurant, offering a blend of local and international flavours. Savour traditional Enugu delicacies like achicha, roasted yam, abacha, ofe-akwu, and ukwa, or opt for international favourites like spaghetti, boiled plantain, garnished potatoes, and eggs.
Bush Bar
Escape the ordinary at Bush Bar, a restaurant with a thatched-roof ambience that evokes a traditional Nigerian setting. Enjoy a variety of grilled delicacies, from succulent meats to fresh seafood like lobster, crabs, and prawns. Unwind with friends and family while enjoying a game of snooker or catching live sports on TV.
Ntachi-Osa
Experience the flavours of Enugu and Southeastern Nigeria with its popular food delivery service. Savour dishes like ofada rice, Abacha, jollof rice, fried rice, and regional soups. Enjoy delicious pastries and refreshing palm wine.
Comfortable Accommodations in Enugu
Enugu offers a variety of hotels to suit every traveller's needs and budget. Whether you're here for leisure or business, you'll find comfortable and affordable accommodations.
Budget-Friendly Options
These hotels offer excellent value for money, providing basic amenities like breakfast, Wi-Fi, transportation services, swimming pools, bars, and mini football pitches. Prices range from 20,000 to 50,000 Naira per night. Note: Prices may vary, so check for the most current rates and availability.
Fun Places to Visit in Enugu City: Entertainment for All Ages
Enugu delivers a diverse array of entertainment options for every taste and preference. These are some fun places to visit in Enugu City:
Magic Garden: Immerse yourself in the charm of this whimsical park, featuring merry-go-rounds, horse rides, thrilling train adventures, swimming pools, restaurants, and bouncing castles—perfect for a fun-filled day for all ages.
Oakland Amusement Park: Embrace the thrill of high-octane adventures with go-karts, exhilarating roller coasters, and captivating pirate ship rides, alongside timeless favourites like the Ferris wheel.
Akwuke Beach: Unwind on the tranquil shores, soaking up the sun and enjoying the serene atmosphere.
Nike Lake Resort: Revel in a day of water activities and relaxation at this picturesque retreat.
Polo Park: Enjoy a scenic joyride that offers stunning views and a delightful experience.
Viva Cinemas: Catch the latest blockbuster or a beloved family favourite in style.
Enugu promises an unforgettable entertainment experience, whether you’re in search of family fun, exhilarating thrills, or a relaxing escape.
Shopping and Crafts in Enugu
New Market (Aria Market): Located in Coal Camp, this vibrant market is a hub for everything from household items to local foods, electronics, and more.
Ogbete Main Market: A bustling destination, perfect for finding groceries, clothing, electronics, and electrical equipment.
ShopRite: Situated on Polo Park Road, this modern supermarket offers a wide range of products, including groceries, electronics, toiletries, and even fast food.
Roban Stores: With multiple locations across the city, Roban provides a convenient shopping experience, offering a similar selection of products.
Getting Around Enugu
Getting around Enugu is convenient with several options available:
Taxi Services: Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber provide easy door-to-door transportation.
Tricycles (Keke Napep): A popular and affordable way to navigate the city streets.
Buses: Public buses offer a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers.
Conclusion
Enugu, a city nestled amidst hills and natural wonders, offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveller. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Enugu has something to offer. From exploring caves and riding thrilling attractions to enjoying serene landscapes and indulging in delicious local cuisine, Enugu is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.
Stay tuned for more exciting city escapes and travel recommendations!