Ngwo Pine Forest and Cave

The pine forest at Ngwo is a plantation of tall straight conifers on the escarpment above Enugu, unusual enough in southeastern Nigeria that it has become a destination in itself, with the light coming through the trunks and needles underfoot. From the grove a path descends the slope to a limestone cave where water falls through an opening in the rock into a pool inside the chamber, and a stream runs out of it. The descent is steep with rough steps. The site is heavily used at weekends by Enugu residents and for photography, and it has been developed with a viewing platform and stalls. Flow through the cave varies with the season.

What you actually see

• The pine grove - the plantation of tall conifers on the escarpment.
• The cave - the limestone chamber below the forest.
• The internal waterfall - the water falling through the rock into the cave.
• The escarpment view - the drop toward the plain below Enugu.

When to go

September to December after the rains for water in the cave. Weekdays are far quieter; weekends bring large crowds and photographers. Mornings are cooler for the descent.

Honest expectations

The descent is steep and slippery with rough steps and a hard climb back. The cave can be dry in the dry season. Weekend crowds, noise and litter are significant. Fees are charged at entry and for cameras.

Nearby

Enugu city lies south; Awhum falls are north.