Finima Nature Park

Finima Nature Park is a natural park in Bonny Island, Rivers State, Nigeria covering an area of approximately 1000 ha (3.9 sq mi). It was established by the Nigeria Liquefied Natural Gas Limited in 1999 with the aim of conserving nature and biodiversity in the region.

Finima's reserve area is covered by tropical rainforest and mangrove swamps, some parts contain sand with freshwater ponds and tall timber between the swamps and the beach.

Finima Nature Park is divided into the Eastern and Western end with size 700 hectares and 300 hectares respectively. The resource and visitors centre is located at the entrance of the Eastern end of the park.

The park is a privately owned resource established in 1999 as part of Nigerian Liquefied Natural Gas's (NLNG) response to the growing environmental global concerns and the need for corporate organizations to be environmentally responsible in other to achieve a more sustainable environment for future. NLNG would also give back to the local community in which they work by helping to conserve part of their vast tropical swamp forests.

Since inception, the park has been financially supported by NLNG under their biodiversity programme. The aim is to protect the peculiar ecosystem and biodiversity within the area and also guarantee its ecological integrity. Finima Nature Park is managed by Nigerian Conservation Foundation who took over from the Niger Delta Wetlands Commission in 2011. The park is held in trust, in partnership with its immediate host, the Finima Community.

Finima Nature Park is situated in a 1,000 hectares land of freshwater swamp, forest wetlands and coastal ecosystems on Bonny Island, Rivers State.

The landscape combines forest, mangrove and wetland habitats and provides an opportunity to experience a part of the natural environment of the Niger Delta.

Vegetation of the park has progressively developed into a high forest considering the form from which it began in 1999. There are two storey that can be distinguished from outside the forest, the emergent include Symphonia globulifera, Cleistopholis patens, Uapaca spp., Musanga cecropioides, Hallea ledermannii, Terminalia spp., Anthostema aubryanum, Tectona grandis and Elaeis guineensis.

Finima Nature Park is home to some wildlife species of high conservation value, a variety of mammals, birds and reptiles including crocodiles, snakes and alligators. The park's current conservation information highlights species such as the African grey parrot, saltwater hippopotamus and crocodiles. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed, and visitors should follow the instructions of park staff and guides. The area is protected by park rangers and hunting is prohibited.

It can be accessed by road via Finima round-about, Behind RA3 NLNG Roundabout Finima Bonny Island.

Contact the park before travelling to confirm visiting arrangements, opening hours and any requirements for guided tours.

Finima Nature Park is open all through the week from 8AM to 5PM.

• The Bush Hut is a visitor facility within the park surrounded by forest vegetation. It provides a quiet place for visitors to relax and observe the natural environment.

• Coastal beach: The southern part of the park lies close to the Atlantic coast. The coastal environment provides views of the shoreline and forms part of the wider ecosystem protected by the park.

The park contains freshwater ponds and waterways within its wetland environment. The pond and canoe experience have been identified as important visitor attractions in studies of the park.

• Nature trails: The park has nature trails through its forest and wetland environment. The trails provide opportunities to observe native vegetation, birds and other wildlife while learning about the ecology of the Niger Delta. Guided walks are available as part of the park's ecotourism and environmental education activities.
• Join a guided walk through the forest and wetland areas of the park. The walks provide opportunities to learn about the plants, animals and ecological importance of the Niger Delta.
• A suspended wooden walkway provides visitors with an elevated view of parts of the park's wetland and forest environment.
• Birdwatching: Bring binoculars and look for birds in the forest, wetland and coastal habitats. Finima Nature Park has been documented as supporting a large variety of wild birds and has been studied for its potential for birdwatching and avitourism.
• Kayaking is available as part of the park's recreational activities. Check with the park before visiting for availability, safety requirements and whether equipment is provided.
• Wildlife watching: Explore the park with a guide and look for birds, monkeys, reptiles and other wildlife. Sightings vary according to season and animal activity, so wildlife is not guaranteed.
• Environmental education: Schools, universities, researchers and organised groups can participate in environmental education activities focused on wetlands, biodiversity and conservation. The park is recognised as a wetlands education centre.
• Photography: The forest, wetlands, wildlife, waterways and coastal landscape provide opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. Visitors should follow park rules concerning photography around wildlife and restricted areas.

There are no souvenir shops in the park. Visitors who want food, drinks or other supplies should purchase them in Bonny Island before visiting the park.

There is no restaurants in the park. Visitors should make arrangements for food before entering the park or eat at restaurants and local food outlets in Bonny Island. See Bonny Island#Eat for options.

Carry drinking water, particularly when visiting for nature walks or other outdoor activities. Food and drinks can be purchased in Bonny Island before travelling to the park.

Finima Nature Park is a conservation area. Do not litter, remove plants or animals, disturb wildlife, hunt, or damage vegetation and park infrastructure. Keep noise to a minimum, particularly when birdwatching and observing wildlife. Follow the instructions of guides and park staff and help preserve the environment for future visitors.

Follow the instructions of park rangers and guides at all times. Do not approach or feed wildlife, leave marked trails without permission, or enter restricted areas. The park contains forest, wetlands and waterways, and visitors should wear suitable footwear and carry drinking water. Check with park management before visiting the coastal areas or participating in water-based activities.

Swimming in ponds, waterways or coastal waters should not be attempted unless specifically permitted and supervised by park management.

• Bonny Island – Continue exploring Bonny Island after visiting the nature park. The island combines coastal scenery with the history and culture of the Bonny Kingdom.
• Bonny Kingdom – Learn more about the history, traditions and maritime heritage of one of the Niger Delta's historic kingdoms.
• Finima – Take time to explore the community surrounding the park and experience the local environment beyond the nature reserve.
• Coal Beach – Head towards the coast for a relaxing beach experience and views of the Atlantic shoreline. The beach is particularly attractive in the late afternoon and around sunset.
• Port Harcourt – Continue your journey to Rivers State's capital for a wider choice of accommodation, restaurants, shopping and cultural attractions.