Yankari Game Reserve, located deep in the heart of Bauchi State, is arguably Nigeria’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary, a place where the savannah comes alive with the pulse of raw nature. Spanning over 2,200 square kilometers, it offers a perfect blend of adventure, history, ecology, and unforgettable safari experiences.
Originally established in 1956 and later designated as a national park in 1991 (before reverting to reserve status), Yankari has long been a symbol of Nigeria’s conservation efforts. But beyond its protected status, it’s a land that breathes wild, warm, and wide open.
The reserve is home to the largest surviving population of elephants in Nigeria, often seen roaming the plains or bathing in the crystal-clear Wikki Warm Spring—a natural thermal pool that’s become one of the most visited attractions in the park. This serene spring, with its constant temperature of 31°C, invites tourists to relax after a long day of wildlife spotting.
Yankari’s fauna is rich and diverse. It shelters buffaloes, antelopes, baboons, roan antelopes, patas monkeys, waterbucks, and more than 350 species of birds, making it a hotspot for bird watchers. Guided safaris in open-roof vehicles allow visitors to experience nature up close, especially during the dry season (November to April), when animals converge near the Gaji River and other waterholes.
But Yankari is more than just animals. Hidden within the reserve are ancient dug-out caves and archaeological relics, including iron smelting sites believed to date back over a thousand years. This blend of natural beauty and cultural history makes it not only a tourism magnet but also an educational hub.
Whether you seek the thrill of seeing elephants in the wild, the peace of warm spring waters, or the quiet wonder of ancient history, Yankari Game Reserve offers a timeless African experience right in the heart of Nigeria.
