Talus Caves: Geotourist Attractions Formed by Spheroidal and Exfoliation Weathering on Akure-Ado Inselbergs, Southwestern Nigeria.

Abstract

Spheroidal weathering of granites in Akure-Ado axis have resulted in the formation of talus caves as well as smooth rock boulders which are dramatically arranged, thereby giving the formation an overall aesthetic value to the observer. Unique talus boulders exist in Akure inselbergs, southern margin of the Ikere-Ado batholith. This paper looks at the uniqueness of these formations as well as their economic potentials for leisure and recreation purposes. Much attention has been given to Olumo Rock in Abeokuta, Riyom Rock and the Shere Hills both in Jos Plateau. With the clamour for developing other sources of revenue beside oil, the Akure-Ado inselbergs require attention toward proper development and packaging as potential tourist sites with the aim of enlarging the nation’s reserve of tourism products as they will draw local as well as international tourist traffic.

Keywords: Sustainable tourism, Talus Cave, Spheroidal weathering, Exfoliation, Granite pluton, Basement complex, Akure area, Ikere Batholith.