UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nigeria

Nigeria UNESCO World Heritage Sites

The UNESCO Sites in Nigeria have resulted from the recognition of 2 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nigeria and 14 locations on the Nigeria UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Nigeria are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.

In addition to these 2 sites in the Nigeria UNESCO list, many other places to travel to Nigeria are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.

To help visitors discover these remarkable Nigerian tourist attractions, we have assembled an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Nigeria.

Nigeria UNESCO Map

Click markers to show information and photo.

World Heritage Sites in Nigeria Placeholder
World Heritage Sites in Nigeria

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nigeria

There is 2 UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nigeria. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.

  • Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
  • Sukur Cultural Landscape

UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Nigeria are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.

Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Osun State, Nigeria. It is a sacred forest with significant cultural and religious importance in the Yoruba tradition. The grove is dedicated to the goddess Osun, who is believed to be the deity of fertility, healing, and prosperity. The site features a stunning combination of dense forest, meandering streams, and sacred sculptures, including shrines, sanctuaries, and sculptures that depict Yoruba deities and mythical figures. The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a place of worship and pilgrimage and serves as a living testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people.

Sukur Cultural Landscape

The Sukur Cultural Landscape is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Nigeria. It is an exceptional cultural landscape that showcases the traditional and architectural practices of the Sukur people. Nestled on the Mandara Mountains, the landscape features terraced fields, a fortified settlement, and a palace complex. The Sukur Cultural Landscape is renowned for its unique blend of nature and human creativity, with its intricate stone terraces harmoniously integrated into the surrounding environment. This site is a testament to the ingenuity and craftsmanship of the Sukur people and provides insights into their social and cultural traditions that have been preserved for generations.

Nigeria UNESCO tentative list

  1. Benin Iya / Sungbo’ s Eredo
  2. Old Oyo
  3. Kwiambana and/or Ningi
  4. Oban Hills / Korup
  5. Niger Delta Mangroves
  6. Gashaki-Gumpti National Park
  7. Oke Idanre (Idanre Hill)
  8. Arochkwu Long Juju Slave Route (Cave Temple Complex)
  9. Ancient Kano City Walls and Asociated Sties
  10. Surame Cultural Landscape
  11. Alok Ikom Stone Monoliths
  12. Ogbunike Caves
  13. Cross River – Korup – Takamanda (CRIKOT) National Parks
  14. Lake Chad Cultural Landscape

Tours in Nigeria

Our choices of tours in Nigeria are divided into thematic features such as Lagos, Abuja, and Calabar Experience.