Dapo was on our trip to Lokoja and we loved how adventurous he was. So when we found out he went to Jos and stopped by in Bauchi, we knew it would make a great story.
He is a finance expert, art lover, nature lover, sight seer, go-getter and a mind over matter kind of guy.
Feeling like a model in Wikki Warm Springs
Give us a brief description of where you went and what the trip was about.
The Trip was about exploring Plateau State. It is known as the home of Peace and Tourism. We also made a stop in Bauchi State, the Pearl of Tourism.
Since there was no way of getting to Bauchi without passing through Jos, the Plan was to stop by to see the captivating Rock formations, hills and Waterfalls that define Jos.
The first stop in Jos was Assop Water Falls which was one of the waterfalls in Jos. The other is Kura Waterfalls.
Assop Waterfalls flows around some magnificent rock formations. To get around it, you have to jump from one rock to the other (it’s not as difficult as it sounds). As with many other waterfalls in the country, during the rainy season the water turns brown but it takes nothing from the beauty to behold there. Just close your eyes and listen to the splash against the walls and the cool breeze associated with Jos. Oh Gosh! Please take me back.
When it rains, the water tends to be dirty due to sedimentation
Next we headed to the ‘three rocks’ (also known as Riyom rocks). This is a funny looking rock. Not at any time did we feel unsafe. We parked and took the path that led to the beautiful rock that stood there staring back at us. Our cameras began to put in the work to capture it as best as possible. It is beautiful to say the least. Be ready to tip the head of the villagers as you leave if you plan on visiting this place. (You always have to pay homage right?).
When in Jos, you must see the Museum. They have replica of almost all the ancient wonders in Nigeria.
Shere Hills was where we headed next. I am not sure if it was far or if I was just hungry but as soon as I saw the magnificent hills and landscape/topography I lit up instantly; it is a photographer’s delight. I put on my work-out gear and the climbing began. If you are an adrenaline junkie like me, you’ll enjoy it. The hills are easy to climb, with some rocky formation providing steps and balance.
The following day, we set out early to begin our journey of exploring Bauchi. After snapping along the way, dozing and waking up, I opened my eyes to our first stop in Bauchi; the massive Building that houses the Tomb of the Late Prime minister Abubakar Tafawa Balewa. We were there to pay our respects in the very colourful interior of the building.
The different colors represent the different tribes in Nigeria
Next Stop was Yankari, which is 2 hours away from Bauchi state. Jumping into the Wikki warm spring was a good way to cool our nerves after the long journey. Later on, we went sight seeing for animals in Sumu Wildlife Park.
Was accommodation required for this trip? If yes where did you stay and what was it like?
In Jos, we stayed in Qualer Apartments and hotels. It was clean and serene for a good night rest after the tours all day
Striking a pose at Qualer Apartments
In Bauchi, we stayed at Yankari Games Reserve.
What was the most surprising thing you saw or did?
Numerous security check points en-route Bauchi from Abj and vice versa.
What was your best moment of the entire trip?
Before then, I had never seen or jumped into any warm spring. I did all that on this trip.
We also caught a bit of the Durbar festival.
What was the scariest moment (if any)?
None. I’m an adrenaline junkie
Did you find any sights or activities a bit off the beaten track ie beyond the tourist traps?
Sincerely, no.
What are two interesting things about where you went that the average person doesn’t know?
The North is beautiful. From the hills to the rock formation, safaris and watching the sunset is bliss especially if you like stuff like that.
Jungle Jane: Getting ready for our safari
Did you meet any locals? If yes, what were they like?
The villagers at Riyom rock earlier described. They were funny buy friendly.
What was the funniest/strangest/most insightful thing a local said?
They did something strange or funny depending on how you look at it. At Riyom rock, we had almost the whole village accompany us to where we the rock was located and they watched us take pictures. I think it’s been a while since they had visitors.
What was the hardest or most frustrating part of the trip?
Searching for phone network in Yankari. Their wifi also goes off when the gen is turned off. The food there is also not great and Bauchi is 2 hours away from Yankari so we had to eat the food like that.
Some guys made barbecued food outside their hut though. I’m guessing it wasn’t their first time there.
Did anything go wrong that seems funny now?
Nah
Did you eat anything locally, if yes, what was your favorite?
Nah, you can’t go wrong with rice but I had them with different spices.
What were the cost implications of this trip?
Flight to and from Lagos cost between N40,000-N50,000.
One night in Jos, one night in yankari and feeding cost about N50,000
So in total it was about N100,000.
Now that you’ve been there yourself, when you think of your trip what’s the first image that comes to your head?
Water, Rocks, Hills, Nature, Bliss, Fun
Would you revisit or ever move there?
Revisiting Most definitely
*prices written are based on the time the visit was made and is subject to change by the owners.
*Reviews are based on opinions and personal experiences, and may differ from person to person
*all images were provided by the ‘horse’ interviewed.
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