Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort is a protected area in Nigeria.

Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort at a Glance

Location
Northeast Savanna, Nigeria, West Africa
Coordinates
9.753456, 10.510490
IUCN Category
II
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
November to March (dry season) for game reserves in the north. Year-round for southern rainforests.

Getting to Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 101 km away.

Nearest international airport: Aéroport International de Garoua (GOU), 317 km away.

Weather & Climate in Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

The warmest temperatures in Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort occur in April, averaging 32.4°C (up to 38.9°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 25.0°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 17.3%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 25.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • February: 27.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • March: 31.4°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • April: 32.4°C (rainfall: 4.7mm)
  • May: 31.2°C (rainfall: 21.5mm)
  • June: 28.1°C (rainfall: 60.7mm)
  • July: 26.1°C (rainfall: 139.1mm)
  • August: 25.0°C (rainfall: 210.7mm)
  • September: 25.2°C (rainfall: 137.8mm)
  • October: 26.6°C (rainfall: 36.1mm)
  • November: 27.3°C (rainfall: 2.9mm)
  • December: 25.9°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)

Best Time to Visit Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

The best months to visit Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 25.61°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 17.3%
  • February: Great, temperature 27.61°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 13.3%
  • March: Great, temperature 31.43°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 22.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 32.38°C, rainfall 4.7mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 39.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 31.16°C, rainfall 21.5mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 52.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 28.14°C, rainfall 60.7mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 66.1%
  • July: Good, temperature 26.05°C, rainfall 139.1mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 77.3%
  • August: Good, temperature 25°C, rainfall 210.7mm, sunshine 7.6 hrs, humidity 82.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 25.19°C, rainfall 137.8mm, sunshine 8.6 hrs, humidity 83.4%
  • October: Great, temperature 26.64°C, rainfall 36.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 68.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.25°C, rainfall 2.9mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 34.6%
  • December: Great, temperature 25.9°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 21.4%

Wildlife in Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

Home to 14 recorded species including 3 birds of prey, 3 antelope & gazelle, 2 waterbirds, 2 primates, 1 big herbivores, 1 reptiles.

Recommended Packing List for Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

Based on average temperature of 27.7°C, typical conditions, humidity 48%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 28°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort

2 safari lodges available.

Other

Similar Parks in Northeast Savanna

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Nigeria

Travel advisory for Nigeria

Yankari National Park / Wiki Springs Resort FAQs

What unique wildlife viewing opportunities can I expect at Yankari National Park, particularly regarding its famous elephant population?

Yankari National Park is renowned for hosting one of West Africa's largest surviving elephant populations, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Beyond elephants, you might also spot baboons, roan antelope, waterbucks, and a diverse array of bird species, making for a rich safari experience.

What is the best time of year to visit Yankari National Park to maximize wildlife sightings and enjoy the Wiki Warm Springs?

The optimal time to visit Yankari National Park is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During these months, wildlife congregates around the park's limited water sources, making them easier to spot, and the pleasant weather is perfect for swimming in the naturally warm Wiki Springs.

Beyond traditional game drives, what unique activities or experiences does Yankari National Park offer, especially related to the Wiki Warm Springs?

A truly unique highlight of Yankari is the opportunity to swim in the crystal-clear, naturally warm Wiki Warm Springs, providing a refreshing and therapeutic experience after a safari. Visitors can also enjoy guided nature walks to explore the park's diverse flora and fauna up close, or partake in bird watching around the springs and riverine areas.

How accessible is Yankari National Park for international travelers, and what are the typical travel arrangements to reach the resort?

Yankari National Park, located in Bauchi State, Nigeria, is typically accessed by flying into a major Nigerian international airport like Abuja (ABV), followed by a domestic flight to Bauchi or Gombe. From there, a pre-arranged road transfer, often organized through the resort or a tour operator, will take you directly to the park and Wiki Springs Resort.

What specific health precautions should I take when visiting Yankari National Park, particularly concerning malaria and general well-being?

Given the high malaria risk in the region, it is crucial to consult your doctor about antimalarial medication before your trip and use insect repellent diligently, especially at dawn and dusk. Additionally, ensure you stay hydrated, protect yourself from the sun, and adhere to any safety guidelines provided by park staff during your visit.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet West Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.