Bonny Island
An island beautifully set on the southern edge of the Atlantic Ocean, Bonny Island lives up to its status as the true beauty of the state.
The city holds several historical and economic symbolisms for the Nigerian federation, and its dramatic coastline as well asstrategic position attracts holidaymakers in their droves.
While Bonny situated in Rivers State has a handful of low-key attractions, Bonny Nature Park, and Finima, the main draw is the natural environment. Beach lovers are joined on the island by tourists who come for the popular carnivals; including the “Nwaotam” carnival display, a renowned and colorful display among men and women, young and old of the bonny community.
Bonny Island-Finima is surrounded on the west and south by long stretches of beaches. For history buffs, there’s a lot to explore, but mostly people come here to feel the sand between their toes and clear their heads. Jovago.com, Africa’s largest hotel booking portal shares more.
TOP THREE SITES
Bonny Nature Park
The Bonny Nature Park, a popular eco-tourism spot developed by Nigeria LNG is eye-catching. The park not only covers the rainforest, mangrove swamps and area of sandy soil with fresh water ponds and tall timbers between the swamp and beach, it harbors numerous creatures, including the pygmy hippo and reptiles such as crocodiles, monkeys as well as different bird species.
Finima beach
The Finima beach is one of the many beautiful seashores spread across Bonny Island, however, it is the most visited by tourists and fun seeking visitors. The beach is usually crowded on sunny days and festive periods. From the 26th to the 31st December of every year, thousands of people visit the Finima beaches for carnivals.
“Monkey village”
The monkey village is the nickname for a settlement which used to be a large forest inhabited by monkeys on the Island. The area is not inhabited by locals and is at best a slum, as most of the people live under poor condition and in houses made of palm-tree leaves and branches.
LODGING
While visiting Bonny Island, do not expect white-sand beaches and ritzy resorts. With only a smattering of traditional guesthouses and comfortable hideaways, it’s tailor-made for ecotourists.
Tourist-class hotels are confined to the mainland. Although fairly basic by international standards, these hotels generally have rooms with or without private shower and air-con. Most have restaurants and bars, offer wi-fi service and take credit cards.
DINNING
Sea food is well consumed on this island as it is close to the ocean, and there are a number of dining options both on the mainland and the hinterland. Visitors get the best taste from Local food joints and restaurants. There are however classy eateries for high-class business travellers or expats who come to the island on oil business.
SHOPPING
Shopping is not huge on Bonny Island, but visitors have options of supermarkets, stores, and even an open market. Best Way Supermarket, offers all kinds of provisions, you can also get a range of products on sale including cocktail drinks, wines and beer from Dammy Supermarket. But for frozen food and packed food, try one of the stores on Pepple Road. Most of the impressive clothing stores are found inside the NLNG camp.
FUN FACT
Although the official language spoken in Bonny Island and Bonny Town is Ibani, most Bonny natives speak the Igbo dialect.
Ndem Nkem is a Travel/Tech Writer
