Idanre Forest Reserve

Idanre Forest Reserve is in Idanre local government area of the Nigerian state of Ondo, in the south-west part of the country. This International Union for Conservation of Nature designated nature reserve covers 561 km2. It is a lowland rainforest with an altitude of 10 to 400 meters.

The Idanre Forest Reserve offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure. It attracts both nature lovers and history enthusiasts who are interested in experiencing the natural wonders and cultural treasures of the region.

Location and Geography
Idanre Forest Reserve is a protected natural area and it is situated in Odede - Idanre, a town in Ondo State, southwestern Nigeria. It is found within latitude 6.8577° or 6° 51' 28" north and longitude 5.10551° or 5° 6' 20" east and an elevation of 148 metres (486 feet).

It encompasses a significant portion of the Idanre Hills, which are a cluster of rugged and picturesque hills in the region and it serves as an important conservation area for the local flora and fauna. The forest reserve is characterized by diverse landscapes, including dense forests, grasslands, and rocky outcrops.

Climate
The Köppen-Geiger climate classification system categorizes Idanre Forest Reserve's climate as Am, which is characterized by moderate temperatures and significant rainfall throughout most of the year, with a short dry season.

The forest reserve experiences a relatively stable temperature profile throughout the year, with an average annual temperature of approximately 25.9 °C (78.5 °F). The hottest month is February, with an average temperature of 27.6 °C (81.6 °F), and the coldest month is August, with an average temperature of 24.2 °C (75.6 °F). The temperature range between the hottest and coldest months is relatively small, at only 3.4 °C (6.0 °F).

Rainfall is a prominent feature of Idanre Forest Reserve's climate, with the region receiving an average of approximately 2208 mm (86.9 inches) of rainfall annually. The wettest month is September, with an average of 295 mm (11.6 inches) of rainfall, and the driest month is December, with an average of just 33 mm (1.3 inches) of rainfall. The variation in precipitation between the wettest and driest months is substantial, at 262 mm (10 inches).

Humidity levels in the forest reserve also exhibit seasonal variations. The most humid month is June, with an average relative humidity of 90.74%, while the least humid month is January, with an average relative humidity of 64.99%. These variations in humidity contribute to the distinct wet and dry seasons experienced in the region.

Idanre Forest Reserve's receives varying amounts of sunshine throughout the year. January is the sunniest month, with an average of 7.69 hours of sunshine per day, while July is the least sunny month, with an average of 3.71 hours of sunshine per day. In total, the forest reserve receives approximately 2013.3 hours of sunshine annually, with an average of 66.26 hours per month.

Biodiversity and Wildlife
The Idanre Forest Reserve is known for its rich biodiversity, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species. The vegetation within the reserve consists of various types of trees, shrubs, rocky outcrops, dense forests, grasslands, and other plants, forming a diverse ecosystem. Wildlife species found in the forest reserve include monkeys, antelopes, birds, reptiles, and several species of insects. The area serves as an important habitat for these species and contributes to their conservation.

It is noted that agricultural activities like farming is now taking place in Idanre Forest. This is encroaching on its reservation. It got so bad that the farmers were taking to the court. Thought, the court ruled that they will not be forcefully removed from the cite. It was stated that the court restrained the Ondo government from forcefully removing the farmers in the forest.

There are evidences that there are contention over the forest reserve of Idanre Forest Reserve. This is an indication that the forest is in threat due to human activities. Previously, the villagers were given part of the forest for farming; along the line the Ondo government now thought it worthy to sell off part of it to a company and are now planning to take it back from them. The opposition party was challenging the incumbent governor and advocating that the farmers be left to farm.

Idanre Hills
One of the major attractions within the Idanre Forest Reserve is the Idanre Hills itself. The Idanre Hills are a prominent feature within the forest reserve and a major attraction for visitors. These hills are known for their natural beauty, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. They are also of historical and cultural significance, housing ancient structures, artifacts, and the town of Idanre itself. The hills are dotted with ancient structures and artifacts that reflect the rich cultural heritage of the Idanre people. At the summit of the hills, visitors can explore the ancient town of Idanre, which features traditional houses, shrines, and a palace. Visitors can explore the hills through well-laid paths and staircases, allowing them to experience the natural and cultural wonders of the area.

The Idanre Hills are a group of hills that are located on a Precambrian igneous batholith. The batholith is about 500 million years old, and it is cut by several large fractures. These fractures have formed deep valleys within the rocks. The Idanre Hill is said to have 9 ancient wonders and beliefs. The forest has beautiful sight that are gradually under threat. Idanre hills is home to many mystical sites. These include: “Ibi Akaso” The Steps, The King’s Palace, Agboogun’s Legacy, Unreadable signs, Agboogun’s footprint, The wonderful mat, “Omi Aopara” Aopara Water, The Orosun Hill, and Arun river.

Cultural Heritage
The Idanre Forest Reserve is intertwined with the cultural heritage of the Idanre people. The ancient town of Idanre, located atop the hills, showcases traditional houses, shrines, and a palace. These structures provide insights into the local history, customs, and traditions of the Idanre community. The combination of natural landscapes and cultural heritage makes the forest reserve a unique destination for tourists seeking both natural and cultural experiences. The forest has lots of things that have not been covered in literatures like the landscape. Lots of foreigners have gone there to have a feel of it.

Tourism and Facilities
Tourism in the Idanre Forest Reserve is promoted by the Ondo State government. The state government promotes tourism in the Idanre Forest Reserve by developing infrastructure to support visitors. Pathways, staircases, and lookout points have been constructed to facilitate exploration of the hills and the forest. Local tour guides are available to provide information, guide visitors, and enhance their experience. Facilities such as visitor centers, picnic areas, and restrooms have been established to cater to the needs of tourists.

Ecological Significance
Idanre Forest Reserve is a lowland rainforest with an altitude of 10 to 400 meters. The ecological significance of the reserve lies in its rich biodiversity, supporting a wide range of plant and animal species. The reserve is home to several large mammals, including elephants, chimpanzees, and monkeys. The reserve also has a high diversity of bird species, including the African grey parrot, the African fish eagle, and the yellow-billed kite. The reserve's vegetation is dominated by trees, including mahogany, iroko, and obeche. The trees provide habitat for several animal species and play a critical role in regulating the local climate and water cycle. The reserve also serves as a carbon sink, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in the trees and soil. The ecological significance of Idanre Forest Reserve extends beyond its boundaries. The reserve is part of a larger forest ecosystem that includes other protected areas, such as the Omo Forest Reserve and the Upper Ogun Forest Reserve. The forest ecosystem provides critical ecosystem services, such as regulating the local climate, maintaining soil fertility, and providing clean water. However, the reserve has faced challenges such as poverty-fueled deforestation and conflicts with farmers who have been evicted from the reserve. These challenges threaten the ecological significance of the reserve and its ability to provide critical ecosystem services. Therefore, there is a need for sustainable management practices that balance conservation with the needs of local communities.

How to get to Idanre Forest Reserve
Idanre Forest Reserve is closest to Benin Airport, but it is not an international airport. So, international visitors typically fly to Lagos International Airport first.

To reach Idanre Forest Reserve from Benin City Airport, you will first need to follow Airport Road, Akenzua Street, and W Circular Road to Benin-Sagamu Expressway/Urubi Street/A121. This will take approximately 13 minutes and cover a distance of 5.8 kilometers. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit onto Benin-Sagamu Expressway/Urubi Street/A121 and continue on this road. After passing Hebn Publishers Plc, located on the right around 850 meters from the roundabout, continue driving on Benin-Sagamu Expressway/A121 for about 1 hour and 4 minutes, covering approximately 66.0 kilometers.

Upon reaching your destination on Benin-Sagamu Expressway/A121, you will transition to the next leg of your journey, heading towards Omifunfun-Legbira-Idanre in Ondo. This stretch covers a distance of approximately 38.4 kilometers and is expected to take about 46 minutes. Eventually, you will arrive at the Idanre Forest Reserve.

In other words, you can fly to Benin City Airport and then drive to Idanre Forest Reserve. The drive takes about 2 hours and 22 minutes.