Identification and Map Out of the Potential and Existing Tourist Sites in Central Zone of Taraba State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study was carried out in central zone of Taraba State. The Zone consist of Sardauna, Kumi, Gashaka Gassol and Bali local government areas. The data was obtained through oral interview, map out discussions and narrative in the field investigation. The study mapped out potentials and existing tourist sites. These were Donga Valley, Donga River, Barrup Water Falls, Tunga Dam, River Taraba, River Kam, River Gashaka, River Gamgam, River Yim, River Gazabu, River Suntai, River Benue, River Ndaforo, River Bele and River Bissaula. The study further identified potential rock out crops resources on the Mambilla Plateau which included Chappai Waddi, Maihula Rock Peakiv, Kungana, Fali and Bali Hills, Ngombo Hills, Mambilla Hill respectively. Also, Potential forest resources tourism sites identified were Ngel-Nyaki Forest Reserve, Kurim Forest Reserve (Ngombo). Man-made purpose-built to attract visitors/special events identified were Geograta Mini Museum, The Mambilla Highland Tea Plantation Kakara and Rural Settlements respectively. The study recommend that Government should develop sufficient political will for the development of tourism sites and concluded that tourism potentials can be developed and sustained through organization of periodic events.