Discover Serenity and Adventure at Lekki Conservation Centre: Home to Africa’s Longest Canopy Walkway

Nestled within the ever-bustling city of Lagos lies an unexpected nature sanctuary known as the Lekki Conservation Centre. Spanning 78 hectares, this reserve is a hidden gem where one can trade the hustle and traffic jams for peaceful strolls through wetlands, savannahs and coastal environments. For those looking to reconnect with nature and wildlife while still in Nigeria’s largest city, Lekki Conservation Centre is an urban oasis not to be missed.

Upon entering the park, you’re immediately greeted by lush greenery and fresh air. The city’s noise fades away as you stroll down trails enveloped by vegetation and flowers. One of the first iconic sites is the Otamendi Lake, a large freshwater body that floods into smaller lakes and ponds around the reserve. Here you may spot numerous birds and other wildlife coming to drink and fish. Gray herons stalk slowly through the shallow water hunting for a meal, while saddle-billed storks wade through lily pads with their large distinctive beaks.

Continuing along the trails, you’ll get a glimpse of some of the native wildlife that call this place home. Small monkeys climb and leap through the tree branches overhead. Antelopes like bushbuck and Maxwell’s duiker graze calmly on grass and leaves. Keep an eye out for the occasional rock python curled up on a branch. Though the reptiles look imposing, they are usually docile.

The diverse ecosystems within the reserve provide the perfect environment for hundreds of avian species. Bring your binoculars and stop by one of the bird watching towers, where you can quietly observe herons, kingfishers, weaver birds, sunbirds and even migratory ducks. For the best chance to spot rare birds like the white-crowned robin-chat, be sure to come early in the morning when they are most active.

The absolute highlight of any visit to Lekki Conservation Centre is the canopy walk. Stretching 401 metre long canopy walkway across the reserve’s lush forest, this metal structure takes you up into the tree canopies for a bird’s eye view of the landscape. Nigeria’s and Africa’s longest canopy walk sways gently in the breeze, giving a thrilling yet safely enclosed feeling. Don’t forget to look down through the mesh floor along the way to admire the diverse vegetation below. The walk terminates at a comfortable wood-paneled gazebo, perfect for relaxing in while soaking up the sights and sounds of nature.

In addition to independent exploration, the Conservation Centre offers excellent guided tours for visitors to take full advantage of the expertise from staff. Join a Canoe Safari to paddle across the lagoons and get the best possible bird watching experience. The knowledgeable local guides will point out all the unique species and share facts about their behavior. Or take a leisurely Guided Nature Walk through forests and grasslands while learning about the native flora, fauna and ecology.

Frequent events at the park also provide opportunities to get involved and give back. Lekki Conservation Centre also organizes regular beach and wetland cleanups. Join other volunteers to collect and properly dispose of plastics and other waste that could threaten native species and ecosystems. For those looking to actively support conservation, volunteering is a great way to get involved. The Centre’s dedicated Volunteer Program matches locals and travelers with opportunities like habitat restoration, wildlife monitoring and community outreach. Volunteers assist with wetland cleanups, tree planting drives, bird surveys and more depending on their interests and skills.

For those traveling with children, the Conservation Centre has an abundance of educational opportunities to delight and teach the next generation of conservationists. The park organizes fun events for kids like nature-themed games and art contests focused on the local wildlife. Guided school group tours are also available, with activities like pond dipping to collect and examine insects and other invertebrates. In the picnic area, check out the Zoological Garden featuring reptiles like tortoises and snakes native to the region. Don’t miss the nearby Conservation Education Centre with engaging exhibits on the reserve’s ecosystems.

After a long day of exploring, refuel at the onsite cafeteria serving refreshments and local Nigerian dishes. Pick up a book or souvenir at the gift shop before heading out or relax a while longer centering yourself amidst nature. As evening approaches, you may even choose to spend the night right in the park at one of the secluded carefully-crafted mud huts blending into the surroundings. Waking up to the sounds of birdsong by the wetlands is an experience like no other.

The Lekki Conservation Centre provides the perfect escape from the endless motion of Lagos into the tranquility and splendor of the natural world. Here, wild monkeys, vivid birds, lush forests and sparkling lagoons delight both longtime nature enthusiasts and casual visitors. By preserving threatened savannah ecosystems and serving as a sustainability education center, the reserve not only entertains but also promotes conservation awareness. Visitors leave with refreshed spirits, broader perspectives and inspiration to protect the vital habitats and species around us.

The Lekki Conservation Centre offers both local and international tourists the unique opportunity to experience nature amidst the city. While Lagos continues to rapidly expand, development here focuses on preserving natural habitats rather than replacing them. The hope is that visitors foster a stronger connection with the wildlife and environment, which motivates involvement in conservation efforts.

The Lekki Conservation Center also prioritizes serving as an education center to cultivate environmental awareness, especially in youth. School groups can book educational tours, while Scout troops and summer camps hold retreats focused on learning about nature. Outreach teams also regularly visit schools in nearby communities to provide conservation education through primers, workshops and hands-on learning activities.

While entry fees support operations, the bulk of funding for Lekki Conservation Centre comes from grants, donations and corporate sponsorships. Major sponsors who have supported the Centre’s conservation mission include Shell Petroleum Development Company, Chevron Nigeria Limited, and First Bank Nigeria. Continued partnerships and patronage are essential for protecting this sanctuary.

Looking ahead, further development plans aim to enhance research facilities as well as community programs. There is also interest in collaborating with artists, academics and activists to expand programming on sustainability. The goal is to keep the reserve at the forefront of conservation efforts and environmental education in Nigeria and beyond.

For all who value nature, Lekki Conservation Centre provides the perfect oasis right in Lagos. Wander shaded trails, admire wildlife and ascend Africa’s longest canopy walk. Reflect on our complex relationship with the environment. Be inspired by the steps being taken to preserve nature amidst urbanization. Then continue that inspiration by getting involved however you can.

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