Discover Ibadan

Ibadan offers a range of cultural and natural history attractions to consider as you plan your trip. The National Museum of Unity is dedicated to Nigeria’s cultural diversity, the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden combines wildlife with educational activities, and Olubadan Palace brings together exhibitions and other events.

Culture and heritage

The National Museum of Unity is located in Aleshinloye, Ibadan. It was established in 1976 to promote Nigeria’s diverse culture and help Nigerians understand their heritage. The name “Unity” reflects this combination of cultural diversity and heritage: both are part of the museum’s purpose. For your trip planning, it is a cultural highlight distinct from the natural history themes of the Zoological Garden.

Wildlife and educational activities

The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden was founded in 1948, primarily as a menagerie to support teaching and research in the Department of Zoology. The garden is home to mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians. Its historic teaching and research purpose, combined with these animal groups, gives the garden both a scientific and a natural history focus. The living animal groups in the garden differ from the museum’s historical specimens and exhibits.

The zoo also offers the opportunity to meet zoo experts and get an up-close look at animals and exhibitions. Tours and school programs are available for adults, families, children, young people and schools; advance reservations are required for all zoo programs. If you plan to attend a tour or school program, make sure to reserve in advance.

The museum at the Zoological Garden

The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden museum complements its wildlife with a collection of historical interest. It houses taxidermied animals from the zoo’s former collection, including the famous gorilla pair Haruna and Imade. It also displays replicas of animal teeth and eggs, animal footprints and hides, as well as animal sculptures. The collection thus brings together animals from the former collection, replicas, traces and artistic representations.

Visitor program at Olubadan Palace

In Oke Aremo, Ibadan, the visitor program at Olubadan Palace includes exhibitions, classes, lectures, activities and private tours. As program details may change, confirm availability directly with the palace before making firm plans to attend a particular event.

Highlights for your trip

For a themed itinerary, the three places offer distinct experiences: the National Museum of Unity represents cultural diversity and heritage, the zoo combines wildlife with educational activities, and the palace adds a variety of event formats. Consider which of these highlights you would like to focus on most when planning your trip.

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