The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden (UI Zoo), is a vibrant tourist attraction that provides visitors an alluring experience of the wonders of wildlife in a natural setting. This animal garden serves as a hub for conservation, research, education, and entertainment.
Established in 1948, the UI Zoo started as a menagerie for the Department of Zoology but it evolved into a full-fledged zoo by 1974. Today, UI Zoo is renowned for its diverse animal collection, featuring mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians.
Highlights
- Discover a wide range of wildlife, including majestic lions, playful baboons, reptiles such as crocodiles and snakes, and vibrant birds like ostriches and peacocks.
- Learn about the importance of wildlife conservation and the role of the zoo in preserving Nigeria’s natural heritage.
- Relax at picnic spots under shaded trees and let children enjoy the revamped play area with swings and slides.
- Stroll through the lush greenery of the University of Ibadan campus, blending learning with nature.
Things to do at the University of Ibadan, Zoological Garden
- Wildlife Exploration
- Guided Tours
- Picnicking
- Photography
- Educational Programs
- Relaxation
- Shopping for Snacks
- Family Fun
- Nature Walks
How to visit the University of Ibadan, Zoological Garden
The University of Ibadan Zoological Garden is located within the University of Ibadan campus, making it easily accessible by car, public transport, or on foot. To get there, you can take a bus or shared taxi from major bus stations in Ibadan such as Challenge or Dugbe, heading towards the University of Ibadan.
You can visit the UI Zoo any day as the zoo is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:30 PM. However, the best time to visit is during the weekdays as these times are less crowded, making them ideal for a more relaxed experience.
At the gate, you’ll be required to pay an entry fee to gain access to the zoo. As of this writing, the entry price for UI Zoo is NGN 1,500 for adults and NGN 1,000 for children. There are discounts for school children on excursions (in uniform), and UI students with valid I.D. cards.
Additionally, the zoo has a tour guide available to guide your experience for an additional fee. It’s also important to note that the use of cameras for photo and video shoots comes at a small price.
For a smooth visit, we recommend you choose comfortable clothes and shoes for walking around the garden. While the zoo offers snack shops, and kiosks for refreshments, you’re free to bring food and drinks for picnicking.
Looking for a complete Ibadan experience? Make UI Zoo part of your custom Ibadan adventure with our tailored tour packages. We’ll handle the planning while you enjoy a perfectly crafted itinerary combining the University of Ibadan Zoological Garden with other amazing Ibadan attractions.
