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Yankari National Park

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Animal habitat
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Yankari National Park (Nigeria)

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Yankari National Park, located in Bauchi State, is Nigeria’s most renowned and popular wildlife sanctuary. Originally established as a game reserve in 1956, it was officially designated as a national park in 1991. The park covers an area of approximately 2,244 square kilometers and is home to the largest surviving elephant population in Nigeria, as well as lions, buffaloes, and hippopotamuses. A primary geographical feature is the Wikki Warm Springs, a natural thermal spring that maintains a constant temperature of 31 degrees Celsius and is famous for its crystal-clear blue water. The landscape is a diverse mix of Sudan savanna, scrubland, and gallery forests along the Gaji River. Yankari serves as a critical refuge for endangered species and remains a premier destination for ecotourism in West Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242730312928262525262624
Rain mm0166678801382071263950

📋 Practical info

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Best season
The dry season from November to May is good, as elephants and other animals are often seen at waterholes. In the rainy season from June to October, vegetation is thicker and animals are more dispersed.
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Best time of day
Early morning is the best time to see elephants at water sources. Late afternoon also sees many active animals, while midday is quiet.
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Etiquette
Keep at least 50 meters from elephants and remain in your vehicle. Feeding animals and leaving the roads is not permitted for safety reasons.
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What to bring
Binoculars and a camera with telephoto lens are important for close-ups from a safe distance. Swimwear for the warm springs is a bonus if you plan to visit them.
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Getting there
The park is in northeastern Nigeria and can be reached on paved roads from Bauchi city. The drive takes about two hours; a 4x4 is not strictly necessary.
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What to expect
Elephants are often seen at waterholes, but it may take a while for them to appear. Plan quiet waiting times and enjoy the warm springs as a reward.

Geography

Coordinates
9.75000, 10.23330

Facts

  • The reserve was established in 1956 and became a national park in 1991.
  • It covers a vast area of roughly 2,244 square kilometers (866 sq miles).
  • It contains the largest elephant population remaining in Nigeria.
  • Wikki Warm Springs is a natural pool with a constant temperature of 31°C.
  • More than 350 bird species have been documented within the park's borders.
  • The Marshall Caves contain ancient rock paintings and human dwellings.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Wikki Warm SpringWikki Warm Spring14 km · NEExplore →
YankariYankari31 km · NExplore →
GongolaGongola40 km · NEExplore →
Bauchi OrchardBauchi Orchard74 km · SEExplore →
BauchiBauchi76 km · SEExplore →
GombeGombe119 km · NEExplore →
Shere HillsShere Hills137 km · SExplore →
Shere Hills (relief)Shere Hills (relief)137 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Best time to visit Yankari National Park?
The dry season from December to April is convenient for safaris and wildlife viewing.
Do I need to book a safari in advance?
Yes, it is recommended to book tours in advance through the park office.
Is there accommodation inside the national park?
Yes, the Wikki Warm Springs Camp provides accommodation for guests.
Are the warm springs accessible to guests?
Yes, swimming in the Wikki Warm Springs is a main attraction of the park.
Is the park family friendly?
Yes, but be mindful of safety rules regarding wildlife and plan for breaks.
Yankari National Park: where is it located?
Yankari National Park is located in Nigeria.
Yankari National Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Yankari National Park: why is it worth visiting?
Yankari National Park, located in Bauchi State, is Nigeria’s most renowned and popular wildlife sanctuary.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
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Nearby cities

Bauchi — Yankari National Park (Nigeria)
Bauchi
The peaceful city of Bauchi serves as the gateway to the Yankari National Park and has a rich Islamic heritage.
🗺️
Wikki Warm Spring
Wikki Warm Spring is a crystal-clear natural pool located within Yankari National Park, featuring a constant year-round temperature of 31°C.
Yankari — Yankari National Park (Nigeria)
Yankari
Nigeria's premier national park featuring rich wildlife and relaxing thermal springs.

Nature

Gongola — Yankari National Park (Nigeria)
Gongola
A significant tributary of the Benue.

More places

Bauchi Orchard — Yankari National Park (Nigeria)
Bauchi Orchard
A large orchard with a focus on citrus fruits.