Ikogosi warm water springs is a geological marvel in the heart of Ikogosi Ekiti, the Southwestern part of Nigeria.
It is a meeting point of two distinct bodies of water – a cold spring and a warm spring. The merging springs form a unique warm-cold water mix. Studies showed that the warm spring has a temperature of about 70°C at the source and 37°C at the confluence.
The source of the springs is said to have been discovered in 1952 by a Baptist missionary, Rev. John S. McGee.
Many stories surround the emergence of the water confluence but the most fascinating is the legend that the warm and cold springs were the two wives of a great hunter. One of his wives was said to be temperamental while the other was a quiet woman. One day, the two wives had a fight and after being rebuked by their husband, the temperamental wife changed to the warm spring while the quiet one turned to the cold spring.
Local folklore also believed that the warm and cold springs were once two lovers who got separated by their jealous friends. It is believed that the cold spring represents the female lover, while the warm spring represents the male lover. The two springs flow side by side but never mix, symbolizing the eternal love between the two lovers. These stories have been passed down through generations, and it adds to the mystique of the spring.
Ikogosi spring is known for its mystical and therapeutic properties, which attract tourists from all over the world.
Apart from its unique geological features and legends, the locals believe that the warm water spring has the power to heal ailments such as arthritis, rheumatism, and other joint-related diseases. This belief has attracted tourists from all over the world, who come to experience the healing powers of the springs.
