Enugu is the capital of Enugu State and one of the main cities of south-eastern Nigeria. It grew around coal mines opened in the early twentieth century, which gave it the name "Coal City", and it later became the capital of the former Eastern Region.
The city sits at the foot of the Udi Hills, with green escarpments, valleys and streams close by. Today Enugu is a relaxed administrative city with good restaurants, an active nightlife and easy access to some of the region's best natural sights.
Top things to do in Enugu
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Explore Ngwo Pine Forest
Ngwo Pine Forest, on the edge of the city, is a cool, shaded stand of pine trees on the Udi escarpment. A path leads down to a cave where a small waterfall drops through an opening in the rock.
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Visit Awhum Waterfall
Awhum Waterfall, about 30 km from Enugu, falls over a cliff into a rocky pool near a monastery. Visitors walk through the forest to reach it, and many come for quiet reflection as well as the scenery.
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Drive up the Udi Hills
The road west from Enugu climbs the Udi Hills, with wide views back over the city. The escarpment is especially green in the rainy season.
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Relax by Nike Lake
Nike Lake, on the north-eastern edge of Enugu, is a calm lake surrounded by greenery, popular for walks, picnics and events.
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Learn about the coal mining history
Coal mining shaped Enugu's growth, its railway and its early neighbourhoods. Former mining areas and the railway line are reminders of the city's industrial past.
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Go out in the evening
Independence Layout, GRA and New Haven have many of the city's restaurants, bars and lounges. Weekends bring live music, comedy nights and parties, especially in December.
Festivals and culture
The Enugu State Mmanwu Festival brings masquerades from communities across the state together for colourful displays of costumes, dance and music, usually towards the end of the year. New yam festivals (Iri Ji) are held in many towns, and December is busy with homecomings, weddings and concerts.
Food to try
Try abacha (African salad), okpa (a steamed Bambara nut pudding), ukwa (breadfruit), ofe onugbu (bitter-leaf soup), ofe nsala (white soup), nkwobi and isi ewu, washed down with palm wine.
Best time to visit
November to March is the dry season, with cooler harmattan mornings in December and January. The waterfalls are fullest in the rainy season, from about April to October.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and ride-hailing apps cover the city. Enugu has an international airport, and the waterfalls and pine forest are easiest to reach by hired car.
Questions about Enugu
Why is Enugu called the Coal City?
Coal was discovered in the area in the early twentieth century, and the city grew around the coal mines.
What can I visit near Enugu?
Ngwo Pine Forest, Awhum Waterfall, the Udi Hills and Nike Lake are all within a short drive. Nsukka is about an hour away.
What is the Mmanwu Festival?
It is a masquerade festival that brings Mmanwu masquerades from across Enugu State together for public displays, usually towards the end of the year.
How do I find events in Enugu?
Browse upcoming concerts, parties, comedy shows and free events in Enugu on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
