Things to do in Northern Nigeria

If you are visiting Nigeria for the first time, or even if you have lived in it all your life, if you have not visited the northern part of the country, then you have been missing a vital part of the cultural experience and beauty of Nigeria. Northern Nigeria, especially the north-eastern parts, have in recent times been the scene for violent attacks and terrorism due to the efforts of the Islamic sect, Boko Haram, but despite these many areas in the Northern part of Nigeria remain beautiful and serene. If you are visiting northern Nigeria for the very first time, here are some of the places you should visit and things you should do to enjoy our stay.

Climb rocks

Northern Nigeria sports some of the most amazing plateaus and highlands in Nigeria with several of them thought to possess mythical powers within. The Zuma rock which can be found on the Kaduna-Abuja highway is one of the most iconic of such rocks. Easily recognizable, it has a carving on the relief side which faces the road of a human face. The origins of this relief are unknown and mysterious. Wase rock in Jos, Plateau state is a dome-shaped beauty which serves as the home and breeding ground for hundreds of pelicans. When visiting this rock get in on time, because the rock is a favourite haunt of geologists, bird watchers and rock climbers.

Watch animals at a game reserve

The Yankari Game reserve in Bauchi state is the largest wildlife park in Nigeria. Home to hundreds of animals, baboons, elephants, lions, warthogs, waterbucks, duikers, hippos, crocodiles etc. thousands of visitors make their way to this park every year. The Gashaka and Gumpti Game reserves in Taraba state hold some of the most exotic birds in the country.

Get your feet wet

What sort of tourist would you be if you visited northern Nigeria and did not get a dip? At the Lake Chad found in Borno state, which borders four countries including Nigeria and Cameroon, you could get a much needed dip away from the hot weather. Kainji National Park, popular for the Kainji Hydroelectric Power Plant, is an excellent place to visit in Northern Nigeria. Stay away from the power generators though. At the Yankari Game reserve, the Wiki warm springs are an excellent way to cool off the adrenaline rush after watching lions and hippos throng through the reserve in their natural habitats.

There are so many ways to enjoy and have a good time while in northern Nigeria. If you are not the outdoorsy type, visit the popular Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, a five star hotel in the nation’s capital. All the necessary amenities are available deluxe style with other recreational activities well considered and taken care off. Plush furnishing, 5-star restaurants, casinos and bars, all you need do is book, arrive and enjoy.