Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls

The Olumirin falls at Erin-Ijesha come down the hillside in a series of drops, usually counted as seven, and the visit is a climb: from the first and largest pool a rough path with cut steps and rock scrambles goes up alongside the water to the second, third and higher levels, with the upper tiers reaching a farming village at the top of the hill. Most visitors stop at the second or third. The rock is wet and the route steep in places, with ropes and handrails on some sections. Local tradition attributes the discovery to a woman fleeing the Ife wars in the sixteenth century. The site is one of the busiest natural attractions in southwestern Nigeria.

What you actually see

• The first fall - the largest drop and its pool at the entrance.
• The upper tiers - the successive levels climbed alongside the water.
• The hilltop village - the settlement at the top of the seventh level.
• The forested slope - the vegetation the falls come down through.

When to go

September to December after the rains for the strongest flow; the falls weaken considerably by February and March. Weekends and holidays are very crowded. Weekday mornings are best.

Honest expectations

The climb is steep, wet and slippery with real fall risk, and the upper levels are a scramble rather than a walk. It is extremely crowded at weekends and holidays. Facilities are basic and litter is a problem. Entry, camera and guide fees are charged separately.

Nearby

Ilesha lies west; Ile-Ife is southwest.