As the festive season draws near, travellers seeking a calm and scenic escape from the usual holiday rush should consider the hidden gem of Ikogosi in Ekiti State. Nestled in southwestern Nigeria, Ikogosi Warm Springs offers a one-of-a-kind natural wonder and the perfect setting for a Christmas retreat in nature.
Why Ikogosi is a standout winter holiday destination
Ikogosi is famed for the rare phenomenon where a warm spring and a cold spring flow side by side and meet at a confluence—each maintaining its distinct temperature. (Finelib) The warm source reportedly reaches about 70 °C at its origin and cools to around 37 °C after meeting the cold stream. (The Guardian Nigeria) The resort-area around these springs has been developed with hiking trails, picnic spots, a thermal swimming pool fed by the springs, and eco-lodge-style accommodation. (ikogosiresort.com)
Christmas season: the ideal time to go
The dry season in this part of Nigeria runs from November to April, making December a particularly suitable time to visit for clear skies, comfortable daytime temperatures and minimal rain disruptions. (ikogosiresort.com)
Around Christmas, the air carries a special stillness in the hills and forests of Ekiti—ideal for reflection, nature walks, family bonding or even a quiet solo escape.
The resort environment, with bonfires, nature-trails and peaceful lodging away from the city’s holiday bustle, allows visitors to unplug and reconnect with nature. (ikogosiresort.com)
Being a period when many Nigerians travel, you’ll find festive activities in the resort: evening fires, guided spring tours, communal dinners—and yet, unlike crowded beach resorts, Ikogosi retains a sense of spaciousness and tranquillity.
What to expect during your stay
Begin with the spring-tour: walk through the forest path up to the meeting point of the springs and feel the warmth and cold merging side by side. (Finelib)
Take a gentle hike to the hill-top viewpoint for panoramic views of the resort, the valley and the forest canopy at sunset. (Take your Backpack)
Enjoy the thermal pool—a safe, maintained pool using spring-water, ideal for relaxation after your walk. (ikogosiresort.com)
Lodge in one of the rooms or villas of the resort, surrounded by nature, and wake up to the sound of rustling leaves and birds. (ikogosiresort.com)
Around Christmas, you might catch special menus, nature-based activities for children, and festive bonfires under starlit skies, all within the serenity of the site.
Travel tips & practicalities
Ikogosi is located in Ekiti State; from Lagos it is roughly a 4 to 5-hour drive depending on road conditions. (Finelib)
Entry to the springs and resort, plus lodging, should be booked ahead especially during the December holiday peak.
Dress in layers: early mornings and evenings in the hills can be cool. Wear comfortable shoes for trails; some paths are rocky.
Bring your camera or smartphone—you’ll want to capture the unique confluence, forest surroundings and twilight scenes.
Respect the environment: stick to trails, avoid littering, and keep noise low—its charm is in its calm.
Consider combining your Ikogosi visit with nearby attractions in Ekiti State for a longer nature-escape.
Final word
For the Christmas season, when many are looking to combine celebration with rest, Ikogosi Warm Springs offers something different: a place where nature takes centre-stage, where you can feel the warmth of one spring and the cool of another, walk through forests, relax by the water and finish the year feeling refreshed. If you’re looking to trade the busy holiday crowd for quiet wonder, this may just be the travel story your year ends on.
