Travel : Nigeria - Best places to visit & other details of Africa's most populous nation

 

Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa and one of the continent's most influential nations. Located in West Africa, it is bordered by Niger to the north, Chad to the northeast, Cameroon to the east, and Benin to the west, with the Atlantic Ocean along its southern coast. Known for its rich cultural diversity, Nigeria is home to over 250 ethnic groups, with the largest being the Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo. The country is also known for its vibrant music, arts, and literature scenes, and as the birthplace of Afrobeats. The capital city is Abuja, while Lagos is the largest city and a major economic hub.

### Best Spots to Visit

1. **Lagos**

   - **Description:** The largest city in Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, Lagos is the commercial and cultural heart of the country.

   - **Highlights:** Victoria Island, Lekki Conservation Centre, the National Museum Lagos, Nike Art Gallery, and the bustling markets of Balogun and Lekki.

2. **Abuja**

   - **Description:** The capital city of Nigeria, known for its modern architecture and planned layout.

   - **Highlights:** The Aso Rock, Zuma Rock, Millennium Park, the Nigerian National Mosque, and the Nigerian National Christian Centre.

3. **Yankari National Park**

   - **Description:** Located in Bauchi State, Yankari is Nigeria’s most famous national park, known for its rich wildlife and warm springs.

   - **Highlights:** Safari tours to see elephants, baboons, buffaloes, and lions, as well as the Wikki Warm Springs, a natural warm water spring.

4. **Calabar**

   - **Description:** A historic city in southeastern Nigeria, known for its beautiful landscapes and cultural festivals.

   - **Highlights:** The Calabar Museum, the Drill Ranch, the Cross River National Park, and the annual Calabar Carnival, Africa’s largest street festival.

5. **Benin City**

   - **Description:** The capital of Edo State, famous for its history and traditional arts, particularly the Benin Bronzes.

   - **Highlights:** The Benin City National Museum, the Royal Palace of the Oba of Benin, and local craft markets.

6. **Jos Plateau**

   - **Description:** A scenic plateau in central Nigeria, known for its cooler climate and unique rock formations.

   - **Highlights:** Shere Hills, Riyom Rock, and the Jos Museum, one of the oldest in Nigeria.

7. **Olumo Rock**

   - **Description:** A historic site in Abeokuta, Ogun State, that served as a refuge for the Egba people during inter-tribal wars.

   - **Highlights:** Climbing Olumo Rock, exploring the caves, and visiting the nearby Adire (traditional textile) markets.

8. **Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove**

   - **Description:** A UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Osogbo, Osun State, dedicated to the Yoruba goddess Osun.

   - **Highlights:** The sacred forest, shrines, sculptures, and the annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, one of the most important cultural events in Nigeria.

9. **Ibeno Beach**

   - **Description:** One of the longest beaches in West Africa, located in Akwa Ibom State.

   - **Highlights:** Pristine sandy beaches, water sports, and nearby coastal attractions.

10. **Lekki Conservation Centre**

    - **Description:** A nature reserve in Lagos offering a peaceful escape from the city.

    - **Highlights:** The canopy walkway, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching.

### Best Seasons to Visit

The best time to visit Nigeria is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this period, the weather is cooler and more comfortable for travel, especially in the northern and central regions. The rainy season, from April to October, brings heavy rainfall, particularly in the southern part of the country, which can make travel more challenging due to floods and muddy roads.

### Best Cuisines

Nigerian cuisine is diverse, reflecting the country’s rich cultural tapestry. Some must-try dishes include:

- **Jollof Rice:** A popular West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with fried plantains and grilled meat or fish.

- **Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup:** A traditional dish made from yams pounded into a smooth dough, served with a soup made from ground melon seeds and leafy greens.

- **Suya:** Grilled skewered meat, typically beef or chicken, marinated in a spicy peanut sauce and grilled over open flames.

- **Akara:** Deep-fried bean cakes, often eaten as a snack or breakfast.

- **Moi Moi:** A steamed bean pudding made from ground peeled beans, onions, and a variety of spices.

- **Pepper Soup:** A spicy broth made with fish or meat, flavored with local spices and peppers.

- **Boli:** Roasted plantains, commonly served with groundnut or pepper sauce.

- **Ofada Rice and Ayamase Sauce:** A locally grown rice served with a spicy green pepper sauce, often accompanied by assorted meats.

### Airlines Connectivity

Nigeria is primarily served by two major international airports: Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja. Some of the airlines providing connectivity to Nigeria include:

- **British Airways:** Offers flights from London to Lagos and Abuja.

- **Air France:** Provides flights from Paris to Lagos.

- **KLM:** Connects Amsterdam with Lagos and Abuja.

- **Turkish Airlines:** Offers flights from Istanbul to Lagos and Abuja.

- **Ethiopian Airlines:** Provides flights from Addis Ababa to Lagos, Abuja, and Kano.

- **Emirates:** Offers flights from Dubai to Lagos and Abuja.

- **Qatar Airways:** Connects Doha with Lagos and Abuja.

- **Delta Air Lines:** Provides direct flights from New York to Lagos.

Regional flights within Africa are also available through airlines such as Asky Airlines, Air Peace, and Arik Air, connecting Nigeria to various West African cities.