There are more than 300 parks and gardens across the state of Lagos, and the city continues to get greener.
Lagos holds its annual Tree Planting Day on July 14 each year as part of a bigger plan to build a greener city. Companies are adopting roundabouts to turn them into cute green spaces, and botanical gardens are appearing in public schools.
If you’re keen to explore a slice of the eco-riches of Lagos, here is a list of the parks popular with Lagosians
Visit nature’s classroom: LUFASI Nature Park
The Lagos Urban Forestry and Animal Shelter Initiative (LUFASI) feels like a combination of nature’s classroom and a dozen different parks in one. Removed from the everyday bustle of the Lekki-Epe highway, every step you take in this 25-hectare (62-acre) patch of mangrove vegetation is a tutorial in all things environmental.
While exploring the calm setting, you’ll find quotes scattered throughout that promote the healing powers of nature. Brief descriptions identify different species of trees and their popular local uses.
Animal rights activists will appreciate the park’s growing collection of rescued monkeys, donkeys and horses, which enjoy professional veterinary care. There’s birdsong all around, punctuated by geese honking and ducks quacking. Try forest bathing by the rare Iron Redwood (Ekki) tree, unwind on the badminton and basketball courts or play table tennis while the kids occupy themselves on the playground.
