If you’re a Nollywood fan, then you know that the “vibes” of a movie often come from the locations. But here is the secret: you don’t have to be a superstar to walk onto these sets. In 2026, “Cinematic Tourism” is officially a thing, and these five spots are leading the charge.
1. KAP film village & resort, Oyo State
Built by the legendary Kunle Afolayan, this is basically the “Nollywood Disneyland” for cultural epics. This is where the magic of Anikulapo and Jagun Jagun happened. It’s a literal film village. You can stay in traditional-style huts that look exactly like the ones on screen, but with 2026-level luxury (AC and plush beds). Pure Yoruba heritage. It’s tucked away in Igbojaye, Komu in Oyo state making it the perfect “quiet life” escape for a weekend.
2. Kajuru Castle, Kaduna
This is Nigeria’s “hidden” European castle, and it has been a favorite for Nollywood directors who want that “Old Money” or “Royal” aesthetic. Think The Wedding Party 2 and Sugar Rush. It’s where those high-end, luxury party scenes usually happen. It’s a literal medieval-style castle on a hill in Kaduna. It has a dungeon, an armory, and a swimming pool that overlooks the savannah. Pure “Main Character” energy. It’s a private villa, so you usually need to book the whole place with a group of friends.
3. The National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos
Recently rebranded as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and Creative Arts, this is the “OG” of Nollywood locations. It’s been in everything from early 90s classics to Beyoncé’s Black is King. After the massive 2024/2025 renovations, the “Hat” (the building’s iconic shape) is looking better than ever. The surrounding parks are great for photos, and you can catch live stage plays that are often the training ground for future Nollywood stars.
4. Tinapa Business & Leisure Resort, Calabar
While it’s had its ups and downs, Tinapa remains a cinematic titan in the South-South. Big-budget films like Half of a Yellow Sun and Black November used these world-class soundstages. When you visit, It feels like a ghost-city-turned-film-set. The architecture is massive, and the nearby Monorail gives it a futuristic feel that directors love. It is chill, breezy, and very “Old Hollywood” in a Nigerian context.
Ibrahim Chatta’s ambitious project in Oyo is the latest crown jewel for fans of traditional Yoruba cinema. More than just a set, this sprawling resort was built with a deep reverence for ancestral architecture and craftsmanship.
Chatta spent years and millions of Naira to ensure every mud wall and thatched roof was authentic. It’s where the grit of traditional storytelling meets modern hospitality.
One of the advantagess of these film villages are their gated, self-contained design. With a reputation for securing the safety of cast and crew, they allows productions to film late into the night without the security concerns often found on open-location sets.
