Okomu National Park: Where Nature Speaks to the Soul
Have you ever found yourself craving an escape from the noise, a chance to reconnect with something pure and untouched? That was me when I first visited Okomu National Park, and what I found there was far beyond what I imagined.
Tucked away in Edo State, Nigeria, Okomu National Park isn’t just another nature reserve. It’s a sanctuary where time slows down, and every step feels like a conversation with the earth. But I know what you’re thinking: “A national park? That sounds like a lot of trees and maybe a few animals. Why should I care?” Trust me, I felt the same way at first. But what I experienced changed my mind entirely.
The Arrival: A Gateway to Another World
From the moment I entered the park, the air felt different; cooler, fresher, almost alive. The chirping of birds, the rustling of leaves, and the calls of monkeys made it feel like stepping into a world not by modern chaos. I couldn’t help but pause and take it all in.
The guides welcomed us warmly, sharing stories of the park’s history and biodiversity. Did you know Okomu is home to some of Nigeria’s last remaining patches of lowland rainforest? It’s a treasure trove of rare species, from the white-throated monkey to the majestic African forest elephant.
The Walk: A Journey of Discovery
As we started our trek, I’ll admit I was more focused on not tripping over tree roots than appreciating the scenery. But then, something magical happened. A sudden rustle in the trees caught my attention, and there it was; a troop of monkeys swinging effortlessly from branch to branch.
I stood frozen, mesmerized. The guide whispered, “Those are white-throated monkeys.” It hit me then: this wasn’t just a walk in the park but a front-row seat to nature’s theater.
We also spotted vibrant butterflies flitting around like flying jewels. We heard the hauntingly beautiful calls of hornbills echoing through the canopy. Every step revealed something new, something alive.
The Moments That Stay With You
One unforgettable moment was encountering the crested hornbill. As it flew overhead, its wings made the most unexpected sound; like someone was sawing a tree. It was so rhythmic and out of place that I scanned the trees for lumberjacks before realizing it was nature’s doing.
And then there were the squeaks, sharp, playful sounds that seemed to come from everywhere and nowhere. Whether it was the cheeky cry of a squirrel or the distant call of another bird, it felt like the forest was alive, talking to us in its own playful, mysterious way. It wasn’t just the sights that left an impression; the sounds and the personality of the place made it unforgettable.
Why Okomu Matters (And Why You Should Go)
Okomu National Park isn’t just for the nature enthusiasts or the adventure seekers. It’s for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected. It’s a place that reminds you of the beauty of slowing down, of listening, of simply being present.
You don’t have to be a wildlife expert to enjoy Okomu. You just have to show up. Whether it’s the thrill of spotting an animal in its natural habitat or the quiet joy of walking under a canopy of ancient trees, there’s something here for everyone.
Final Thoughts
As I left the park, I realized that Okomu wasn’t just about the sights and sounds. It was about perspective. It reminded me that life is bigger than deadlines, bigger than screens, bigger than myself.
So, if you’re ever looking for a break, a chance to breathe deeply and see the world through fresh eyes, I urge you to visit Okomu National Park. Who knows? You might just find a piece of yourself there too.
This article appears in Travel & Thrills magazine (Vol 1: Issue 2). It was submitted to More Cream Than Coffee by Temitope Osuntade, a student leader and advocate for sustainable tourism in Nigeria. As President of the Wildlife and Ecotourism Students’ Society at the University of Ibadan, Nigeria, she promotes conservation, cultural heritage, and industry innovation.
