Explore the Dense Forest of the Osun Sacred Grove

The dense forest of the Osun Sacred Grove, on the outskirts of the city of Osogbo, is one of the last remnants of primary high forest in southern Nigeria. Regarded as the abode of the goddess of fertility Osun, one of the pantheons of Yoruba gods, the landscape of the grove and its meandering river is dotted with sanctuaries and shrines, sculptures and artworks in honor of Osun and other deities. The sacred grove, which is now seen as a symbol of identity for all Yoruba people, is probably the last in Yoruba culture. It testifies to the once widespread practice of establishing sacred groves outside all settlements.

This World Heritage site located in Osun State, southwest Nigeria is considered to be the cradle of Yoruba cultural traditions. It is believed that Oso-igbo (Also known as Osun), the goddess of the Osun River was the Queen and original founder of Osogbo. The goddess of fertility, protection, and blessings, she possessed the ability to give children to barren women, could heal the sick with the medicinal water from the river and possessed magical powers that were used to help settle the city and build the region’s power.

The dense forest of the Osun Sacred Grove is one of the last remnants of primary high forest in southern Nigeria. It was customary for cities of the Yoruba people to have a sacred forest just outside their limits. Development and urbanization have seen the bulk of these forests destroyed. The sacred grove, seen by Yoruba people as their symbol of cultural identity is considered the last in Yoruba culture and, as a result, many Yoruba people travel to visit the grove. Osun-Osogbo is a unique opportunity to experience a near-pristine example of one of these sacred forests.

The forest holds an abundance of shrines, works of art, sanctuaries, and sculpture largely devoted to the goddess Osun. Meandering through the forest is the beautiful Osun River. Walking the site with a guide can be a most rewarding experience.

Osogbo, the town situated nearby has a fairly large ex-pat community and the locals are very welcoming of foreigners. The vibrant arts and culture scene is well established and provides many entertaining activities for visitors.

How to get to Dense Forest of the Osun Sacred Grove

The dense forest of Osun sacred grove is located 5 km from the main city of Osogbo and Osogbo is located 230 km from the main capital Lagos.

Where to stay while hiking the Dense Forest of the Osun Sacred Grove

Travelers can stay at the LAIM hotel Osogbo or does a day trip from Lagos.