Idanre

Understand

People Idanre is mainly a Yoruba-speaking town, and as with many other towns of its nature, majority of the population are engaged in farming and trading. Not only are they engaged in farming, they also farm mostly in the area of cocoa, and as a result, Idanre is the largest cocoa producing area of Nigeria. It is important to bear in mind that though majority of the people speak the general Yoruba language, they commonly communicate in their local dialect.

Getting there

By plane From Lagos to Akure by plane then take a cab. The journey is approximately 1hr or a little over and costs 70,000-150,000 Naira. It is the most expensive but fastest route to the city.

By taxi Shared cabs from motor parks or chartered, the journey last about 4 hrs and could be fun as you see lots of landmarks and chat with fellow passengers. The cost ranges from 5000-25,000 Naira, depending on the location.

By train Ride a train from Lagos to Oshogbo then take a taxi to Idanre from Osogbo. This is the longest way to get to Idanre at 9hrs 30 mins.

Getting around

Motorcycles Also referred to as bikes. This is the most popular means of transportation, and the fastest to move around town.

Tricycle

See

1 Idanre Hills. The Idanre Hills are one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in Nigeria. The hills reside at about 3,000 ft (910 m) above sea level and host a unique ecosystem upon which the cultural landscape has been integrated. It includes such cultural sites as "Owa's Palace, Shrines, Old Court, Belfry, Agbooogun footprint, thunder water (Omi Apaara) and burial mounds and grounds". 2 Owa of Idanre Monumental Palace, Idanre. The residence of the present Owa Of Idanre, the paramount ruler and monarch of Idanre His Royal Majesty Oba Fredrick Adegunle Aroloye Arubiefin IV who is the twenty-sixth (26th) Owa of Idanre. The Palace used to be on the hill as the town but they all relocated down the hill years ago. (updated Jun 2021)

Do

1 Idanre Hill Peak, 1 Nice St, Elebisere Rd, Idanre (take Akure-Idanre Road out of Akure to location), ☏ +234 9050852156. 8AM-6PM. Located about 25 km outside of Akure, this popular hiking destination allows you to ascend 667 steps to an elevation of nearly 3000 feet, among dome-like hills that are steeped in folklore and supposedly listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Sight due to its presence of prior human habitation. Here you can find the Owa's (king's palace), Belfry, Old Court, Agboogun footprint, shrines, etc., and the scenery is really quite awe-inspiring. You may have to pay a "guide" at the entrance, but there is no need to book ahead. Bring a bottle of water, shades, sunscreen, sneakers and insect repellent. (updated Jul 2020)

Buy

There are two major markets in Idanre where all kinds of products ranging from farm produce, house utensils, e.t.c. Alade market located at the town central, and Ojota market.

Sleep

1 Royal River Suite, Oke Irowo. Check-out: noon. 2 Hilltop Hotel, Hilltop Road, ☏ +234 7032336777. Check-out: noon.