As the festive season approaches and the year winds down, many people are on the lookout for budget-friendly travel destinations to make the most of the December holidays.
Contrary to the common belief that December vacations come with hefty price tags, there are numerous destinations around the world that offer captivating experiences without breaking the bank.
From beautiful landscapes to rich cultural experiences, these 10 affordable places provide an ideal escape for budget-conscious travellers seeking adventure, relaxation, and memorable moments without compromising on quality. Here are the 10 cheapest places to visit this December.
1. Yankari National Park
This national park, situated in Bauchi, is among the largest in Nigeria and Africa. Observing the profusion of wildlife in their natural habitat would be a pleasure. You can also explore the Marshall cave system and the Wikki warm springs, and other local tourist attractions.
There are reasonably priced lodging options available at the park as well. This is the place to go if you want to have a safari experience.
2. Tinapa resort
Located in Calabar, the stunning capital of Cross River State in the South-South, Tinapa is a resort for business and pleasure.
Aside from a casino and kid’s arcade, the resort has an amphitheatre, retail and wholesale stores for your shopping needs, and an 8-screen digital movie theatre.
Situated in the Calabar Free Trade Zone, you can take advantage of the chance to look at potential business opportunities and purchase electronics at extremely low costs.
3. Whispering Palms
One of Nigeria’s most popular resorts is this one, which is situated in Badagry, Lagos. There is a small zoo and palm trees all around it.
You can also visit the Agia Tree Monument, the location of Nigeria’s first-ever story building and the site of the first Christian sermon delivered in the country while you’re in Badagry. Along with the Point of No Return Slave Route, you should also visit the notorious and active Vlekete Slave Market from the slave era.
4. Olomo rock
The Olumo rock is situated in Ogun state, in the ancient city of Abeokuta, and is 137 metres above sea level.
The Egba people, originally from Abeokuta and ruled by the Oyo Empire, used it as a fortress in the early 1800s. During intertribal conflicts in the 1800s, they sought safety at the rock. Eventually, as these new settlers moved out of this location, the town of Abeokuta—”under the rock”—grew.
5.Obudu Ranch Resort
One of Nigeria’s wonders, the Obudu Ranch Resort is undoubtedly the greatest place to go on vacation for anyone looking to unwind in a setting that perfectly combines modernity and nature.The resort offers a nightclub, a water park, a golf course, horseback riding, and bonfires. Walking through Obudu’s forest allows you to get closer to the natural world while taking in the lovely sounds of singing birds.
Obudu is the ideal destination if you’re searching for a trip that will strengthen your relationship with your partner or family.
6.Yankari Game Reserve
Originally established as a game reserve in 1956, this sizable wildlife park in Bauchi State became a national park in 1991.
With a total area of roughly 2,244 square kilometres, the park is home to over 350 different species of colourful birds and about 50 different species of wildlife, including lions, leopards, hippopotamus, antelope, elephants, and waterbucks.
The reserve also takes pride in offering guests comfortable and reasonably priced lodging. Remember to take a plunge in the warm spring when you visit Yankari over the Christmas holiday. But always remember to keep an eye out for baboons and protect your valuables!
7. Port Harcourt Tourist Beach
As its name suggests, this white sand beach in Port Harcourt is a well-liked tourist destination. The beach is situated beside Kolabi Creek and was established in 1988. This serves as a reminder to visit this beach if you haven’t already.
Visit the Rivers State Museum and the Rivers State Cultural Centre while you’re in the city to learn more. On Sundays, the Port Harcourt Zoo hosts a lion-feeding show that you can watch.
8.Ikogosi Warm Springs
This spring, which combines a hot and cold spring, is located in Ekiti State’s dense forest, which is encircled by hills. There is also reasonably priced lodging available at The Spring.
You can go hiking and see the well-known Idanre hills while you’re in Ekiti. Additionally, you can explore the Fajuyi Memorial Park and the fabled Erin Ayonigba River, a revered body of water whose fish are not supposed to be killed or eaten. Remember to take a look around Ikere Ekiti’s expansive Orole and Olosunta hills.
9. Abraka Turf and Country Club
In Abraka, Delta State, the Abraka Turf and Country Club is located on the peaceful Ethiope River’s bank.
The expansive and immaculately maintained gardens with horses grazing on the lawn greet guests as soon as they arrive and instantly instil a sense of peace and tranquillity.
The resort offers top-notch lodging, catering services for a range of budgets, horseback riding, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and swimming in the enigmatic, gin-clear River Ethiope, where fish are visible swimming.
The Abraka resort is the ideal destination to spend Christmas if you enjoy the great outdoors.
10. Kofar Gamji Amusement Park
The first amusement park constructed in the centre of Kaduna City was Kofar Gamji Amusement Park. During holidays like Christmas, it is undoubtedly the most popular location along the Shooting Range New Extension.
It features large lawns for lounging, dining areas, a pool, and a terrace where couples can stroll hand in hand. The Kaduna River traverses the park, providing a picturesque, enjoyable vista.
Additionally, Kofar Gamji hosts the CD World Play Club, which features comedians, dancers, and other entertainers to entertain patrons.