Old Oyo National Park

Old Oyo National Park is a protected area in Oyo State featuring open plains mixed with granite rock formations and several river systems at varying elevations. The landscape combines grasslands with water systems that together support various animal species.

The area began as two separate forest reserves in the 1930s and 1940s and was later converted into wildlife protection status. This conversion marked the shift from simple forest preservation to active animal management and conservation.

The ruins of Oyo-Ile show remains of the ancient Yoruba capital, where visitors can explore old walls and foundations scattered across the landscape. Walking through the site gives a sense of the scale and power this city once held.

The best time to visit runs from October through April, when drier conditions make animal watching easier. The park administration is located in Oyo town and is easy to reach via main road connections.

The area contains several rivers such as the Ogun and Owu that support fish populations and attract visitors for fishing and boating. These waterways form an overlooked feature that many visitors miss when focusing only on land wildlife.