Awka is the capital of Anambra State, a role it has held since the state was created in 1991. It sits between the commercial centres of Onitsha and Enugu on the main road across the South East.
Awka was famous for centuries for its blacksmiths, who travelled across Igboland making tools, weapons and ritual objects. Today it is a growing government and university town, and a base for some of the most important heritage sites in the region.
Top things to do in Awka
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Visit Igbo-Ukwu
At Igbo-Ukwu, about 30 km from Awka, archaeologists found intricate bronze vessels and ornaments dated to around the ninth century, among the oldest known bronze castings in West Africa. The town is proud of this heritage, and replicas and information are shown locally.
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Explore Ogbunike Caves
Ogbunike Caves, between Awka and Onitsha, are a network of chambers and tunnels in a forested valley, reached by a long flight of steps. The caves are sacred to the local community, and visitors remove their shoes before entering. They are on UNESCO's tentative list for World Heritage status.
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See Agulu Lake
Agulu Lake, about 20 km from Awka, is a calm lake surrounded by hills and farmland. Its crocodiles are protected by local tradition, and the lake is a peaceful place to visit at sunset.
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Learn about Awka's smiths
Awka's long tradition of metalworking shaped its history and its links with communities across the region. Local guides and elders can share stories of the smiths and their trade.
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Join campus and city events
A federal university and other institutions keep Awka busy during term, with student events, concerts and conferences. Hotels and event centres host weddings and parties most weekends.
Upcoming events in Awka
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Festivals and culture
Imoka is Awka's main traditional festival, celebrated with rites, masquerades, music and dancing. Across Anambra, kings hold Ofala festivals with colourful royal processions, and new yam festivals mark the harvest. December is the busiest month for homecomings and celebrations.
Food to try
Try ofe nsala (white soup), ofe onugbu (bitter-leaf soup), abacha with ugba, nkwobi, isi ewu, and okpa. Palm wine is widely available.
Best time to visit
November to March is the dry season and best for visiting the caves and lakes. December has the most festivals. Rain falls from about April to October.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the town. Awka is on the Enugu-Onitsha expressway, about 45 minutes from Onitsha, and Anambra's airport is at Umueri.
Questions about Awka
What is near Awka?
Igbo-Ukwu, Agulu Lake and Ogbunike Caves are all within about an hour of Awka, and Onitsha is about 45 minutes away.
What are the Igbo-Ukwu bronzes?
They are bronze vessels and ornaments found at Igbo-Ukwu, dated to around the ninth century, among the oldest known bronze works in West Africa.
How do I find events in Awka?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, conferences and free events in Awka on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
