Osun-Osogbo Grove, Sacred grove in Osogbo, Nigeria
Description
Osun-Osogbo Grove is a protected forest along the Osun River in southwestern Nigeria spanning a substantial natural area. The woodland contains numerous art installations, stone shrines, and ancient trees connected by walking paths.
History
The grove grew from ancient Yoruba traditions but fell into decline during the 1900s. An Austrian artist helped restore and protect the site starting in the 1950s, reviving traditional practices and artistic expression.
Culture
The grove honors Osun, a Yoruba river deity, through sculptures and shrines created by artists and believers over many generations. You can see how these works reflect the community's deep bond with the flowing water.
Practical
Visitors can explore the area during daylight hours with local guides, and wearing sturdy shoes and light clothing helps due to moisture and vegetation. The annual August festival brings special visiting rules and limited access times that visitors should plan around.
Did you know?
Each year the festival is led by a woman from royal lineage who carries ritual gifts along secret paths through the forest. This tradition represents a living link between royal lineage and spiritual practice.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Osogbo).
Nigeria encompasses waterfalls, historic sites, national parks, and archaeological locations that document the country's natural and cultural heritage. The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove and Sukur Cultural Landscape are UNESCO World Heritage Sites, while geological formations like the Olumo Rock in...
Osun State
28.9 km
Ikogosi Warm Springs
52 km
Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls
44.2 km
Esiẹ Museum
61.6 km
Asejire Reservoir
63.1 km
Igbara-oke
67 km
Ido Ekiti
70.5 km
Iba, Osun State
29.2 km
Ife National Museum
30.3 kmOba Hills Forest Reserve
47.9 km
Oshogbo Stadium
4.9 km
Adras Arts Production
49.2 km
Odeomu Central Mosque
29.4 km
Ife Museum
29.8 km
Ikogosi warm and cold springs
52 km
Opa Oranmiyan
31 km
Shrine of Osun in the King's market
3.8 km
Igbara Oke Petroglyphs
64.2 km
IITA Forest Ibadan
78 km
Carved Stone Figure at Igbajo
33.4 km
Shrine of Osun at Afin Ataja
3.8 km
Ooni's palace
30.4 km
Omidiran Art Gallery
29.4 km
Ooni of Ife palace
30.4 km
St. Augustine Catholic Chaplaincy, Iree
22.1 km
Orò Palace 01
318 m
NYSC Permanent Orientation Camp Osun State
13.2 km
Ogbomosho Palace
53.4 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes