1 safari lodges
    Northeast Savanna, Nigeria
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Safari in Gashaka-Gumti National Park

    This is Nigeria's largest national park, encompassing diverse landscapes from montane forests to savannahs. It's a biodiversity hotspot, home to chimpanzees, buffalo, roan antelope, and a significant number of bird species, offering a more rugged and adventurous safari experience.

    Best timeNovember to March (dry season) for game reserves in the north. Year-round for southern rainforests.
    Species
    5
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    1
    Area
    6.67 km²
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1991

    Gashaka-Gumti National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    Recent sightings at Gashaka-Gumti National Park

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    5 species recorded in Gashaka-Gumti National Park1 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Gashaka-Gumti National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Gashaka-Gumti National Park

    Nigeria's emerging safari scene offers unique experiences, and knowing when to go is key to maximizing your adventure. We generally recommend the dry season, from November to March, for classic...

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    This is one of the driest and coolest months, with comfortable daytime temperatures and crisp, clear nights. Humidity is low, making for pleasant conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. Predator activity is often high around these areas.

    We recommend Yankari National Park this month; the clear skies and concentrated wildlife around the Wikki Warm Spring offer sensational viewing opportunities.

    Yankari National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    Still very dry, with temperatures beginning to climb, especially towards the end of the month. Days are sunny and clear, with minimal rainfall.

    Animals remain concentrated at waterholes, providing fantastic photographic opportunities. Birding is also good, with many resident species active.

    For an authentic dry season experience, we love exploring Yankari's savanna plains, where elephants and baboons are frequently seen at the water's edge.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    March

    low

    Shoulder Season

    The hottest month, often dry and dusty, as the dry season gives way to the first sporadic rains. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing is still strong around water sources, though the heat can make midday game drives less comfortable. Migratory birds begin to arrive.

    We find this a good time to visit Cross River National Park before the heavy rains, offering a chance to spot primates in the dense forest.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    April

    low

    Wet Season

    The 'long rains' begin in earnest, bringing relief from the heat but also increased humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

    The landscape transforms into lush green, and many species give birth. Birding is exceptional as resident birds are in breeding plumage and migrants settle in.

    This is a superb month for birdwatching in Cross River National Park; the forest comes alive with vibrant colours and calls.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    May

    low

    Wet Season

    Heavy and consistent rainfall characterizes this month, with high humidity. Roads can become challenging, especially in remote areas.

    While large mammal viewing is tougher due to dense vegetation, the forests are teeming with life. This is prime time for spotting amphibians and reptiles.

    We recommend focusing on the unique forest ecosystems of Cross River National Park, where the Cross River gorillas are more active with abundant food.

    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season

    Rainfall continues to be heavy and widespread, particularly in the southern regions. Temperatures are warm, and humidity remains high.

    The 'Green Season' is in full swing, offering stunning photographic opportunities of lush landscapes. Birding remains fantastic, with many species nesting.

    For those seeking a truly immersive rainforest experience, we suggest exploring the less-visited trails of Gashaka Gumti National Park, though accessibility can be tricky.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains persist, though they might be slightly less intense than in May or June in some areas. The air is warm and humid.

    Forest animals thrive in the abundance of food and water. This is a good time for tracking primates and enjoying the vibrant insect life.

    We find the dense, verdant scenery of Cross River National Park incredibly beautiful this month, perfect for a quiet, reflective safari.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season

    Often experiences a brief, drier spell known as the 'August break,' particularly in the south. Otherwise, expect continued rains and high humidity.

    The landscape remains incredibly green and vibrant. This can be a good time for birding and observing the smaller, more elusive forest creatures.

    If the 'August break' holds, we recommend a visit to Yankari National Park to witness the savanna's brief respite from the rains, with animals spread out across the refreshed plains.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains begin to taper off towards the end of the month, though occasional heavy showers are still possible. Humidity remains high.

    The bush is still thick, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for patient observers. Migratory birds start to prepare for their journey south.

    We love the dramatic skies and rich colours of the landscape in Cross River National Park this month, perfect for photographers.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The rains largely subside, and the bush begins to dry out and thin. Temperatures are warm, and humidity starts to drop.

    Wildlife viewing improves significantly as vegetation thins and animals move more freely. This is a great transition month for both forest and savanna safaris.

    This is an excellent month to visit Yankari National Park as the bush opens up, making it easier to spot the large herds of elephants and buffalo.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season firmly establishes itself, with clear skies, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures. Rainfall is minimal to non-existent.

    Game viewing becomes superb as animals increasingly rely on permanent water sources. The thinning vegetation offers unobstructed views.

    We highly recommend Yankari National Park in November; the conditions are ideal for classic savanna safaris, and the sunsets are sensational.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool, dry, and sunny days define December, with very low humidity. Nights can be surprisingly cool, especially in the north.

    This is peak dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities of the year. Animals are easily found around waterholes, and birding is excellent.

    For an unforgettable end-of-year safari, we suggest Yankari National Park; the lodge feels luxurious and timeless, and the game viewing is consistently rewarding.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    This is one of the driest and coolest months, with comfortable daytime temperatures and crisp, clear nights. Humidity is low, making for pleasant conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. Predator activity is often high around these areas.

    We recommend Yankari National Park this month; the clear skies and concentrated wildlife around the Wikki Warm Spring offer sensational viewing opportunities.

    Yankari National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    Still very dry, with temperatures beginning to climb, especially towards the end of the month. Days are sunny and clear, with minimal rainfall.

    Animals remain concentrated at waterholes, providing fantastic photographic opportunities. Birding is also good, with many resident species active.

    For an authentic dry season experience, we love exploring Yankari's savanna plains, where elephants and baboons are frequently seen at the water's edge.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    March

    low

    Shoulder Season

    The hottest month, often dry and dusty, as the dry season gives way to the first sporadic rains. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing is still strong around water sources, though the heat can make midday game drives less comfortable. Migratory birds begin to arrive.

    We find this a good time to visit Cross River National Park before the heavy rains, offering a chance to spot primates in the dense forest.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    April

    low

    Wet Season

    The 'long rains' begin in earnest, bringing relief from the heat but also increased humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

    The landscape transforms into lush green, and many species give birth. Birding is exceptional as resident birds are in breeding plumage and migrants settle in.

    This is a superb month for birdwatching in Cross River National Park; the forest comes alive with vibrant colours and calls.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    May

    low

    Wet Season

    Heavy and consistent rainfall characterizes this month, with high humidity. Roads can become challenging, especially in remote areas.

    While large mammal viewing is tougher due to dense vegetation, the forests are teeming with life. This is prime time for spotting amphibians and reptiles.

    We recommend focusing on the unique forest ecosystems of Cross River National Park, where the Cross River gorillas are more active with abundant food.

    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season

    Rainfall continues to be heavy and widespread, particularly in the southern regions. Temperatures are warm, and humidity remains high.

    The 'Green Season' is in full swing, offering stunning photographic opportunities of lush landscapes. Birding remains fantastic, with many species nesting.

    For those seeking a truly immersive rainforest experience, we suggest exploring the less-visited trails of Gashaka Gumti National Park, though accessibility can be tricky.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains persist, though they might be slightly less intense than in May or June in some areas. The air is warm and humid.

    Forest animals thrive in the abundance of food and water. This is a good time for tracking primates and enjoying the vibrant insect life.

    We find the dense, verdant scenery of Cross River National Park incredibly beautiful this month, perfect for a quiet, reflective safari.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season

    Often experiences a brief, drier spell known as the 'August break,' particularly in the south. Otherwise, expect continued rains and high humidity.

    The landscape remains incredibly green and vibrant. This can be a good time for birding and observing the smaller, more elusive forest creatures.

    If the 'August break' holds, we recommend a visit to Yankari National Park to witness the savanna's brief respite from the rains, with animals spread out across the refreshed plains.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains begin to taper off towards the end of the month, though occasional heavy showers are still possible. Humidity remains high.

    The bush is still thick, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for patient observers. Migratory birds start to prepare for their journey south.

    We love the dramatic skies and rich colours of the landscape in Cross River National Park this month, perfect for photographers.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The rains largely subside, and the bush begins to dry out and thin. Temperatures are warm, and humidity starts to drop.

    Wildlife viewing improves significantly as vegetation thins and animals move more freely. This is a great transition month for both forest and savanna safaris.

    This is an excellent month to visit Yankari National Park as the bush opens up, making it easier to spot the large herds of elephants and buffalo.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season firmly establishes itself, with clear skies, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures. Rainfall is minimal to non-existent.

    Game viewing becomes superb as animals increasingly rely on permanent water sources. The thinning vegetation offers unobstructed views.

    We highly recommend Yankari National Park in November; the conditions are ideal for classic savanna safaris, and the sunsets are sensational.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool, dry, and sunny days define December, with very low humidity. Nights can be surprisingly cool, especially in the north.

    This is peak dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities of the year. Animals are easily found around waterholes, and birding is excellent.

    For an unforgettable end-of-year safari, we suggest Yankari National Park; the lodge feels luxurious and timeless, and the game viewing is consistently rewarding.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    January

    Now
    low

    Dry Season

    This is one of the driest and coolest months, with comfortable daytime temperatures and crisp, clear nights. Humidity is low, making for pleasant conditions.

    Wildlife viewing is excellent as animals congregate around dwindling water sources, making them easier to spot. Predator activity is often high around these areas.

    We recommend Yankari National Park this month; the clear skies and concentrated wildlife around the Wikki Warm Spring offer sensational viewing opportunities.

    Yankari National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    February

    low

    Dry Season

    Still very dry, with temperatures beginning to climb, especially towards the end of the month. Days are sunny and clear, with minimal rainfall.

    Animals remain concentrated at waterholes, providing fantastic photographic opportunities. Birding is also good, with many resident species active.

    For an authentic dry season experience, we love exploring Yankari's savanna plains, where elephants and baboons are frequently seen at the water's edge.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    March

    low

    Shoulder Season

    The hottest month, often dry and dusty, as the dry season gives way to the first sporadic rains. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing is still strong around water sources, though the heat can make midday game drives less comfortable. Migratory birds begin to arrive.

    We find this a good time to visit Cross River National Park before the heavy rains, offering a chance to spot primates in the dense forest.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    April

    low

    Wet Season

    The 'long rains' begin in earnest, bringing relief from the heat but also increased humidity. Afternoon thunderstorms are common.

    The landscape transforms into lush green, and many species give birth. Birding is exceptional as resident birds are in breeding plumage and migrants settle in.

    This is a superb month for birdwatching in Cross River National Park; the forest comes alive with vibrant colours and calls.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    May

    low

    Wet Season

    Heavy and consistent rainfall characterizes this month, with high humidity. Roads can become challenging, especially in remote areas.

    While large mammal viewing is tougher due to dense vegetation, the forests are teeming with life. This is prime time for spotting amphibians and reptiles.

    We recommend focusing on the unique forest ecosystems of Cross River National Park, where the Cross River gorillas are more active with abundant food.

    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    June

    low

    Wet Season

    Rainfall continues to be heavy and widespread, particularly in the southern regions. Temperatures are warm, and humidity remains high.

    The 'Green Season' is in full swing, offering stunning photographic opportunities of lush landscapes. Birding remains fantastic, with many species nesting.

    For those seeking a truly immersive rainforest experience, we suggest exploring the less-visited trails of Gashaka Gumti National Park, though accessibility can be tricky.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    July

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains persist, though they might be slightly less intense than in May or June in some areas. The air is warm and humid.

    Forest animals thrive in the abundance of food and water. This is a good time for tracking primates and enjoying the vibrant insect life.

    We find the dense, verdant scenery of Cross River National Park incredibly beautiful this month, perfect for a quiet, reflective safari.

    Cross River National Park
    Yankari National Park

    August

    low

    Wet Season

    Often experiences a brief, drier spell known as the 'August break,' particularly in the south. Otherwise, expect continued rains and high humidity.

    The landscape remains incredibly green and vibrant. This can be a good time for birding and observing the smaller, more elusive forest creatures.

    If the 'August break' holds, we recommend a visit to Yankari National Park to witness the savanna's brief respite from the rains, with animals spread out across the refreshed plains.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park

    September

    low

    Wet Season

    Rains begin to taper off towards the end of the month, though occasional heavy showers are still possible. Humidity remains high.

    The bush is still thick, making game viewing challenging but rewarding for patient observers. Migratory birds start to prepare for their journey south.

    We love the dramatic skies and rich colours of the landscape in Cross River National Park this month, perfect for photographers.

    Cross River National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park

    October

    moderate

    Shoulder Season

    The rains largely subside, and the bush begins to dry out and thin. Temperatures are warm, and humidity starts to drop.

    Wildlife viewing improves significantly as vegetation thins and animals move more freely. This is a great transition month for both forest and savanna safaris.

    This is an excellent month to visit Yankari National Park as the bush opens up, making it easier to spot the large herds of elephants and buffalo.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    November

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season firmly establishes itself, with clear skies, lower humidity, and pleasant temperatures. Rainfall is minimal to non-existent.

    Game viewing becomes superb as animals increasingly rely on permanent water sources. The thinning vegetation offers unobstructed views.

    We highly recommend Yankari National Park in November; the conditions are ideal for classic savanna safaris, and the sunsets are sensational.

    Yankari National Park
    Gashaka Gumti National Park
    Kamuku National Park

    December

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Cool, dry, and sunny days define December, with very low humidity. Nights can be surprisingly cool, especially in the north.

    This is peak dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities of the year. Animals are easily found around waterholes, and birding is excellent.

    For an unforgettable end-of-year safari, we suggest Yankari National Park; the lodge feels luxurious and timeless, and the game viewing is consistently rewarding.

    Yankari National Park
    Cross River National Park
    Kamuku National Park
    Planning & reference

    Gashaka-Gumti offers an unparalleled deep dive into Nigeria's rich biodiversity, a truly wild and untamed frontier where we feel like genuine explorers. Its low visitor numbers mean an intimate, immersive experience, particularly for spotting rare primates and forest elephants, making every sighting feel incredibly special. We love the sense of discovery here, a stark contrast to more crowded safari destinations.

    Gate Times

    Gashaka-Gumti National Park generally opens from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. We strongly recommend arranging your visit and obtaining all necessary permits well in advance through the park authorities or a reputable tour operator, as access can be challenging and requires careful planning. During the dry season, from November to March, road conditions are significantly better, making travel within the park more feasible. Access during the rainy season can be severely limited due to impassable roads.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and greatly appreciated. For your main guide, we suggest around $15-25 USD per guest per day, depending on the quality of service. For general camp staff, a pooled tip of $5-10 USD per guest per day is appropriate. Rangers accompanying you on walks or specific treks might receive $10-15 USD per day. We recommend tipping discreetly in cash at the end of your stay or safari segment.

    Dress Code

    We recommend light, breathable fabrics in neutral tones-khaki, olive, brown-to blend with the environment and deter tsetse flies. Long sleeves and trousers are essential for sun and insect protection, especially given the high malaria risk. Layers are key for cool mornings and evenings, and sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes or hiking boots are a must for any forest treks or walks. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are also vital for sun protection.

    Photography

    We encourage capturing the stunning landscapes and unique wildlife of Gashaka-Gumti. Always ask permission before photographing local communities or individuals. Drone use is generally restricted and requires special permits obtained well in advance; we advise against impromptu drone flights to avoid issues. For wildlife, a good zoom lens is invaluable, and be prepared for lower light conditions in forested areas. Patience is key for those rare primate shots.

    Etiquette

    Maintaining a low profile and respecting the wilderness is paramount. Keep noise levels to a minimum, especially during game drives and walks, to avoid disturbing wildlife and enhance your viewing opportunities. Always remain inside your vehicle unless instructed otherwise by your guide. Never feed animals or attempt to interact with them. In camp, be mindful of other guests and observe quiet hours, particularly in the early mornings and late evenings.

    What to Bring

    High-quality binoculars
    Camera with a good zoom lens and extra batteries
    Wide-brimmed hat
    High-SPF sunscreen
    Strong insect repellent (containing DEET or Picaridin)
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes
    Personal first-aid kit and any prescription medications
    Malaria prophylaxis (as advised by your doctor)
    Water bottle or hydration pack
    Headlamp or small flashlight
    Portable power bank for charging devices

    Packing list not yet available for Gashaka-Gumti National Park - weather data needed

    Monthly weather conditions not yet available for Gashaka-Gumti National Park

    Gashaka-Gumti National Park Reviews