Ado-Awaye is a beautiful local destination in Oyo state Nigeria.
The destination is popularly known for its suspended lake(1 of the only two in the world), thanks to Atabo (Comemakewego Africa), the destination is now recognized as one of the best hiking trails in SouthWest Nigeria. Interestingly, there are 6 other captivating landmarks in the destination, namely;
Oke Ishage (Ishage Rock): Ishage Rock is the bringer of rain for the AdoAwaye people. Whenever it doesn’t rain and rain is needed, my chief priest goes to the rock, covers the rock with a white cloth, then rain falls for 3-4 days straight.
Iyake Lake: Iyake Lake Known as the only recognized suspended/hanging lake in Africa – one of the only two in the world. No one knows the depth, it is believed to have swallowed those who have tried to measure its depth. Till today, whoever enters the lake never comes out of it.
Agbomofun Iyake: Agbomofun Iyake ( collects child and gives to Iyake) This little hole is located just beside the Iyake lake. It is believed that, whenever the hole has water in it, whoever puts the leg into it gets dragged to Iyake lake. DON’T PUT YOUR LEG IN THE HOLE.
Ese Awon Agba: Ese Awon Agba The footsteps of elders These are large “footprints” found all over the mountain. It is believed that the gods once walked over the mountain to protect the locals during the time the locals stayed up the mountain.
The Elephant tree: The Elephant tree is a naturally fallen tree trunk that takes the shape of an Elephant’s head.
Ese Kan Aye, Ese Kan Iku (one leg in life, one leg in death): This part leads to a valley then, to the old settlement of Ado-Awaye people. Only the brave can pass through this place due to how sloppy it is. But one thing you should know is; FEAR IS JUST IN YOUR HEAD.
Iya Alaro (Mother of dye)
This is a smaller lake on the mountain, named after a popular woman who was known for making a tie and dye material for the king in the village. The lake was where she washed her materials, and hence, the lake maintained the color of the dye. (Visit Ado-Awaye to see the green dyed lake. Lol)