Nigeria

Situated on the Atlantic Ocean along the shorelines of Ibeno is the blissful Ibeno beach. The longest stretch of white sandy beach in West Africa fringed with unpolluted mangrove forests and palm trees, Ibeno is a sun-seeker's delight. Besides sunbathing and frolicking in the waves, attractions include boating, rafting, water skiing, camel (yes!) and horse riding on the beach. A fantastic destination for watersport and beach enthusiasts.

In the heart of Enugu, a city in the southeast of Nigeria, lies the idyllic Ngwo Pine Forest. Initially planted to combat erosion, the land now boasts thickets of tall pines with flowing streams. The highlight of a visit to Ngwo is the limestone cave sculpted with a small waterfall that's formed a shallow pool at its base. Ideal for winding trail walks, hikes and picnics with gorgeous views, the forest is well worth a visit for nature lovers.

Located in eastern Nigeria close to Enugu is the valley town of Awhum. Surrounded by rolling grass hills, valleys and caves, a very unique natural attraction for this picturesque region is the Awhum Waterfall and Cave. The water flows over an outcrop of granite where it forms a stream and lining the stream are several caves. The 30-metre-high waterfall has a section that remains warm all year round and is said to have healing powers that draw in religious worshippers from all over the world. There is a prayer centre and monastery close by. A moving and unforgettable site.

In the south of the country nestled between a village called Ukhuse-oke and Ukhuseosi is a sacred grove with a natural feature that's testament to the wonders of the ancient world. Prehistoric imprints can be seen embedded on flat granite rocks with their original unknown. According to local lore, the footprint was made when the world was still in its molten state.

Along the Kolabi Creek line in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, is the Port Harcourt Tourist Beach, a man-made beach designed in 1988 to provide a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. With its white sands, inviting water and cool breeze, it's a popular tourist destination and offers an array of exciting activities from watersports to horseback riding and there are a series of bistros and bars along the promenade for delicious dining. Explore a pleasant leisure hub along the creek for relaxation or adventure.

In the mountainous eastern provinces of Taraba and Adamawa to the border with Cameroon is Gashaki-Gumpti National Park, Nigeria's largest national park. The lush rainforests, flowing rivers, sweeping grassland, highland plateaus and rugged mountains play host to an abundance of wildlife and bird species. Spot elusive leopard, endangered elephants, lions, wild dogs, antelope, golden cats and 8 primate species including chimpanzee. The bird life is out of this world. Enjoy an epic wildlife experience: guided safari, wilderness trek, mountain hike, on-site museum visit.

In a forest sanctuary along the Osun River in central Nigeria is the UNESCO World Heritage Site known as Osun Osogbo, one of the largest surviving sacred groves and used as part of Yoruba religious practices today. The site is home to over 40 shrines and sculptures erected in honour of Osun, the goddess of fertility and other West African deities. The Osun Osogbo grove also includes an art village with paintings, wood carvings, drums and other arts and craft. A remarkable cultural site.

Housed in southern Nigeria in the ancient city of Benin in the Edo State, near the King's Square, is the majestic Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin. Rebuilt after Oba Eweka II after the original building was destroyed during the 1897 war with the British, the palace is a UNESCO Listed Heritage Site and is a true celebration and preservation of the rich Benin culture. Visited by history and culture buffs, curators and archaeologists who flock from afar to admire the bronze sculptures, ancestral shrine and ivory.

Located south of Maidaguri in northeast Nigeria at an altitude of 1000m within the Mandara Mountains, The Sukur Cultural Landscape was Nigeria's first UNESCO World Heritage property, inscribed in 1999. Populated with traditional cemeteries, ritual terraced areas, sacred symbols and the extensive remains of a former flourishing iron industry with the Palace of the Hidi (Chief) standing sentry, the landscape is a cultural and historical delight.