There’s a certain magic in Ado-Awaye that words can barely capture — a place where the earth meets the heavens in a breathtaking embrace. In just 22 days, adventure seekers, culture lovers, and eco-tourists from across Nigeria and beyond will converge on this ancient land for the Ìyáké Natural Suspended Lake Cultural Festival & Mountain Hiking Eco-Quest 1.0, proudly presented by the Ìyáké International League of Friends.
This isn’t just another festival — it’s a pilgrimage into nature’s wonder, a celebration of Yoruba heritage, and a journey into one of Africa’s rarest geological mysteries — the Ìyáké Suspended Lake, one of only two known hanging lakes in the world.
What Awaits You in Ado-Awaye
Nestled in the rolling hills of Oyo State, Ado-Awaye is home to the sacred Ìyáké Lake, a natural wonder sitting high atop a mountain plateau. The experience begins the moment you set foot in this serene town — the air feels lighter, the breeze whispers stories of old, and every local smile carries a legend.
The mountain hike to the lake is not just a climb; it’s a spiritual adventure. Each step takes you past sacred sites like Iya Alaro Rock, Ese Awon Agba, and the Elephant Tree, believed to carry ancestral significance. At the summit, the reward is worth every breath — the view is spectacular, and the lake’s still, mirror-like surface reflects both sky and soul.
What to Expect at the Festival
This year’s edition promises to blend culture, adventure, and eco-awareness in unforgettable ways. Visitors can look forward to:
Camping & Bonfire Nights — Feel the warmth of the fire, the rhythm of drums, and the stories of the ancients under a starlit sky.
Treasure Hunt Adventures — Follow clues hidden in the forest and discover secrets of the landscape.
Fun Games & Team Challenges — Perfect for group bonding and testing your spirit of adventure.
Bird Watching & Nature Trails — Discover the rich biodiversity that thrives around the mountain.
Biodiversity Talks & Eco-Sessions — Learn about conservation, sustainability, and the future of ecotourism in Nigeria.
Why It Matters
The Ìyáké Cultural Festival & Eco-Quest is more than an event — it’s a movement to reconnect with nature and celebrate indigenous identity. It represents the rebirth of adventure tourism in Southwest Nigeria and shines a light on the treasures hidden in our backyard.
Whether you’re a hiker chasing new heights, a storyteller searching for meaning, or a traveller yearning for peace, Ado-Awaye promises to leave a mark on your spirit.
So pack your hiking boots, bring your camera, and prepare to lose — and find — yourself in the wild beauty of Ìyáké. Venue: Ado-Awaye, Oyo State
Date: Friday, 21st November, 2025
Presented by Ìyáké International League of Friends
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