National Children’s Park & Zoo, Abuja
‘I didn’t know we had a zoo in Abuja’ – said a friend who resides in the nation’s capital when she heard we were going there.
Heck we didn’t know too but since it was on our Abuja itinerary we knew there had to be something like that there.
Located in Asokoro behind the presidential villa lies a large expanse of land that has animals scattered around in various nooks and crannies, a play area for kids and a lake side cafe in an area designated as the National Children’s Park & Zoo.
One thing we noticed when we got there was how empty it was (I thought it might have been because of the day and time but our next stop on the itinerary proved me wrong). The explanation for it being empty is probably because only a handful of people know it exists and because apparently it’s been neglected for a while.
We paid our fees and started our tour of the park. We saw some animals like crocodiles, a buffalo and a rabbit. Not enough to make it a full fledged zoo but definitely adequate enough to pique children’s interest.
After meandering through the mini zoo, you’ll probably be tired so the lake cafe should be your next point of call. This is where guests can enjoy drinks and snacks. This was also the first place where we saw people. A family had brought their kids and were taking a break.
One of the beauties of the location of the lake cafe is the view of Aso Rock. This makes the perfect backdrop for pictures. We spent quite a lot of time here and a photo shoot came out of it.
A children’s park would be incomplete without a playground and there’s one quite close to the cafe. We’re ashamed happy to say this was a highlight for us and we got to be big kids for the day.
One thing we appreciated about this park was that the grounds were lovely and it has so much potential to be more than it currently is. From picnics to parties, retreats, family day out and more can be done here. Infact children could learn about animals by visiting if proper guides are put in place.
Generally it was a pleasant visit but a few tweaks here and there need to be made for it to reach its full potential. Bigger play area for kids, more restaurants, more animals and a tour guide would be a great start.
At a cost of N400 per adult and N200 per child, a day at the National children’s park & zoo in Abuja isn’t a bad way to spend the day.
Have you ever been to this National Park/Zoo?
Did you even know there was a zoo in Abuja? Let us know your thoughts!
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Disclaimer: This trip was sponsored by Travelstart Nigeria. Transfers, meals and experiences were organised by them. However, all views and opinions remain ours.
*Reviews are based on opinions and personal experiences, and may differ from person to person
*prices written are based on the time the visit was made and is subject to change by the owners.
I love all your pictures especially the last one. I visited the Zoo late last year with Globe Jaunters and I loved it. The lake cafe was my highlight. Definitely a nice place to spend a day in Abuja.
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Wawu… lived in Abuja for 5 years and never once heard about a zoo. *covers face*
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Hahaha. It’s in such a poor state though. Big shame.
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I’ve had a mental note for years to go by. I certainly will go this year! smh. Thanks for sharing this.
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Don’t expect too much though as it can be faaaar better than its is now.
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The only good thing there is the Lake and the Aso view.
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That was cute! I will love to have your number so I can bring my students over for an excursion.
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