Information
Landmark: Lekki Conservation CentreCity: Lagos
Country: Nigeria
Continent: Africa
Lekki Conservation Centre, Lagos, Nigeria, Africa
Overview
Tucked away in Lagos, Nigeria, the Lekki Conservation Centre spreads out like a green sanctuary, its boardwalk winding through tall palms and quiet marshland.Run by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the centre works to protect wildlife, conserve the environment, and teach people about biodiversity and sustainable living-sometimes right in the shade of towering rainforest trees.Here’s a closer look at the Lekki Conservation Centre-picture raised wooden walkways winding through lush greenery: 1.Founded in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the Lekki Conservation Centre offers a safe haven for wildlife and a hub for research and environmental education, where birds call from the treetops above.The LCC’s main goal is to protect and keep alive the rare ecosystems of the Lekki Peninsula, from its winding mangroves to the calls of birds at dawn.Its goal is to safeguard Nigeria’s rich biodiversity and spark awareness about why protecting the environment matters, using activities that blend recreation, hands-on learning, and field research-like guided forest walks where you can hear birdsong echo through the trees.Step two.The Lekki Conservation Centre blends wildlife preservation with leisure, giving visitors a chance to stroll its long, swaying canopy walkway and enjoy a variety of activities and attractions.Africa’s longest canopy walkway stretches 401 meters and rises 22.5 meters above the forest floor, offering one of the area’s biggest draws and a sweeping view of green leaves swaying in the breeze.You get to stroll high among the treetops, feeling the boards sway underfoot, with sweeping views of the forest and everything beyond.Safety rails line the walkway, yet visitors should still watch their step-especially if the sight of the ground far below makes their palms sweat.It’s just the letter “b,” small and curved like a stem with a single leaf.The centre teems with life-Mona monkeys swing through the trees, bushbucks slip quietly between shadows, crocodiles bask on muddy banks, and monitor lizards flick their tongues in the heat.Hornbills, parrots, and kingfishers flash bright colors overhead, while butterflies and dragonflies drift through the air.The reserve’s plant life is just as rich, with mangroves, dense swamp forests, and tall savannah grasses swaying in the breeze.From dense forests to quiet wetlands, these varied ecosystems give wildlife the perfect place to thrive-and they’re key to keeping nature in balance.CThe center runs guided walks along quiet forest paths, where visitors can spot ferns under the trees and learn about the local ecosystem, native plants, and the wildlife that calls the area home.Ecological Zones: Wander through swamp forests with damp, earthy air, cross open grasslands, and step into tangled mangroves, each alive with its own mix of plants and wildlife.It was just the letter “d,” small and plain, sitting quietly on the page.At the conservation centre, you can spot herons gliding over the pond-it’s a perfect place for birdwatching.The park’s mix of wetlands, tall grasses, and shady groves draws in both passing migratory birds and year-round residents, turning it into a favorite spot for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.The centre offers bird hides and marked lookouts where you can watch herons lift off over the reeds.The letter “e” sat alone, small and neat, like a drop of ink on white paper.The Environmental Education Library and Auditorium offers a bright, book-lined space and a welcoming hall where the centre hosts environmental programs, hands-on workshops, and lively seminars.We regularly host educational tours for schools and universities, sometimes filling the halls with the chatter of excited students.At the centre, you can roll up your sleeves and learn about conservation and wildlife management, maybe even feel the rough bark of a tree as you study its role in the ecosystem.The LCC partners with local communities, rolling up its sleeves to spread sustainable living habits and build environmental awareness, from planting street trees to hosting neighborhood workshops.Number three.You can find the Lekki Conservation Centre at Km 19 on the Lekki–Epe Expressway, Lekki Peninsula II, Lagos, Nigeria-right where the road bends past tall coconut trees.It’s about a 15‑minute drive from Victoria Island, Lagos-just enough time to pass palm‑lined streets and catch the breeze off the water.Getting to the centre’s easy-you can drive your own car, grab a taxi, or book a ride through Uber with just a tap on your phone.The closest bus stop is at Chevron Estate, and from there it’s just a quick walk past the tall iron gates to the entrance.The centre welcomes visitors every day, even on weekends and public holidays, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Entry costs ₦1,500 for adults and ₦500 for children, and if you’d like to walk the canopy high above the trees, there’s an extra charge.Canopy Walk Fee: You’ll need to pay a small extra charge for the walkway-about ₦1,000 per person, though it can change-before stepping onto the swaying wooden planks.The ideal time to go is in the dry season, from October to March, when trails stay firm underfoot and you can easily spot wildlife rustling through the trees.On weekdays, you’ll dodge the big crowds if you head over early-think crisp air and quiet streets just after sunrise.Wear something light and comfortable, and don’t forget sturdy shoes-think breathable cotton and soles that grip.Wear shoes you can walk in-think sturdy sneakers-since you’ll be on your feet, and skip the high heels or flip-flops.Since you’ll be out in the open, throw on a hat and smooth on some sunscreen-your skin will thank you when the sun’s beating down.Number four.The Wildlife Conservation and Research Biodiversity Centre helps keep Lagos’ rich natural life thriving, working to protect endangered species like the gentle pangolin and rare forest birds.The LCC runs environmental research programs, studying the local ecosystem, tracking wildlife like herons along the riverbank, and testing new conservation techniques.The NCF uses the centre to run public awareness campaigns that draw people in and encourage them to embrace sustainable habits-like recycling bottles instead of tossing them-and to take part in protecting the environment.Five.Picnics and relaxation: The centre offers shaded picnic spots where you can spread a blanket and enjoy a family day together.Photography: Towering pines, shifting light, and a mix of wildlife make this spot ideal for nature photographers.At the Lekki Conservation Centre, eco-friendly efforts take shape in projects like careful waste sorting and small sustainable farms, all aimed at easing the strain on the environment.Number six.If you’ve got high blood pressure or struggle with heights, take it slow-especially when stepping onto the swaying canopy walkway.First Aid: The center’s got a small first-aid station, and trained staff ready to patch up a scraped knee or deal with an emergency.Covid-19 Guidelines: The centre might adjust its health rules based on the situation, so visitors could be asked to have their temperature checked and use the hand-sanitizing station by the front door.Seven.In the end, the Lekki Conservation Centre brings together nature, learning, and a dash of fun-imagine strolling under tall, swaying palms while spotting bright butterflies.You can wander the canopy walkway for a thrill, watch for a flash of fur or feathers in the trees, or just sit back and breathe in the damp, mossy air-there’s something here for everyone.Ranked among Nigeria’s top eco-tourism spots, it draws wildlife lovers, conservationists, and anyone who just wants to breathe fresh air under Lagos’ wide, sunlit sky.
