Arrangements are in top gear for the successful hosting of the 7th Edition of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari, tagged “Hike & Dine in the Clouds.” .
The event, according to the organisers, is scheduled for Easter Monday, April 21, 2025, at the majestic Mountain of Clouds in Efon Alaaye, one of the highest ridges in Southwest Nigeria, standing at 2,263.78 feet above sea level.
Unveiling the sponsors and partners for the historic event at the press conference held in Ado-Ekiti , the Director General of the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, Ambassador Wale Ojo-Lanre, disclosed that the event is expected to attract over 2,000 hikers and tourists from across Nigeria and beyond.
He explained that the economic impact of the event is projected to exceed ₦50 million, directly benefiting hoteliers, transporters, artisans, food vendors, and other local businesses.
Ambassador Ojo-Lanre explained that the event is being organized by Discover Ekiti Tourism Club in strategic collaboration with the Ekiti State Bureau of Tourism Development, and has received full endorsement from the Efon-Alaaye-in-Council and the Efon Local Government Area.
“This year’s event is especially symbolic as it holds on Easter Monday, a day of renewal, rebirth, and reflection. The hike to the summit of the Mountain of Clouds is not just a physical journey but a soulful one—where the earth kisses the sky and nature embraces the soul,” he said. “It is an invitation to rise above, to connect with ourselves, and to rediscover the unmatched beauty and potential of our beloved Ekiti.”
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Tourism Development and Founder of Discover Ekiti Tourism Club, Mr. Michael Peculiar Ekiran, gave a detailed presentation on the evolution of the Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari.
He provided an overview of the event which began in 2019, describing it as a tourism-driven initiative designed to market Ekiti as a prime destination for mountain adventure and eco-tourism. He noted the impressive growth of the event over the years and its impact on boosting local tourism and community engagement.
While presenting the highlights of the 7th Edition, Mr. Peculiar revealed key logistics and safety arrangements for this year’s hike. He stated that:
Transportation for participants begins by 6:00 AM from Fajuyi Pavilion in Ado Ekiti.
Hiking activities will kick off by 7:00 AM at the Mountain of Clouds in Efon Alaaye.
Safety and security measures have been put in place in collaboration with paramedics, local security, and trained guides.
He urged interested participants to book their tickets via the official website: www.hikeekitimountainsafari.
Sponsors for this year’s edition were officially unveiled at the event. They include Adron Homes, Sterling Bank, Voki, Fure Bio Water, Rites Foods, Guinea Wood Factory, and Dan Pharmacy, among others.
Also expected to grace the occasion are influencers, creatives, and entertainers of Ekiti origin such as Goroso Ekiti, AY Nigeria, Omo Eli, Ekiti Boys, Eyelobyrin, Funmi Elemure, Veteran Ogidi Olu Alaro, and Bola Oselusi.
Ambassador Ojo-Lanre praised Governor Biodun Oyebanji for his visionary leadership and strong support in unlocking the tourism potential of destinations such as Efon, Ikogosi, Ilawe, and Ipole-Iloro.
Last year’s edition, held at Abanijorin Mountain in Iyin-Ekiti, witnessed over 1,000 hikers—including Governor Oyebanji himself—exploring the trails and reinforcing the government’s commitment to promoting eco-tourism in the state.
As the countdown to April 21 continues, excitement builds for what promises to be the most iconic edition yet of Hike Ekiti Mountain Safari—an experience that combines adventure, culture, community, and breathtaking views at the Mountain of Clouds, Efon Alaaye.