Africa’s most populous country is reputed to be a centre of tourist attraction. Hence, to plan on coming to Nigeria for an experience of its rich cultural heritage and diversity is a great decision.
While you will find a lot of interesting activities to engage in during your stay in Nigeria, maximizing your time would require knowledge of the best time to visit.
So, if you want to be part of some of the annual festivals, witness the growing urban pop culture, or relax in a serene environment – whatever it is – here you’ll find the secrets to getting the most of your stay.
Dry in other parts of the country except for the northern region where it is mostly cold, the popular Harmattan season in Nigeria usually starts in December and ends in February.
In the south, the humidity is highest from February to April. In the north, it is from March to June. Cooler air, however, is usually from October to February throughout most of the country.
Now, you might want to avoid travel during the rainy season (usually from April to August) due to the downpours that negatively affect the roads. To avoid running into an overcast sky, travel in the south should not be considered during this period. Public transport is no better with the mud ready to destroy any footwear that is not remotely akin to gumboots.
Lagos
Your stay in Lagos will be characterized by the typical fast-paced nature of the city life which includes vibrant nightlife, impressive architectures, beautiful music, trendy and hip popular culture thanks to large malls and buzzing cinemas, and a general cosmopolitan appeal.
In Lagos, there is the erstwhile prison used during the colonial times which is now known as Freedom Park and presently serves as a venue for concerts and public events.
As Nigeria’s largest city, Lagos offers you a wide range of activities. First, an abundance of beach resorts in the city’s financial heart known as Victoria Island grants your request for a feel of nature. Then, there is also room for your interest in the historical happenings of the city with the National Museum located in Lagos Island where there are eminent artefacts to satisfy your quizzical mind.
Abeokuta
Drive one hour away from Lagos and you are at Abeokuta where the famous Olumo Rock makes its home. It grants you access to cowrie-studded statues and the ancient abode of the mountain deity’s priestesses who live in huts on the rock – you’ll get to see them as you climb through.
Enjoy the local meals at the nearby restaurants and hotels. Get yourself ‘Adire’ (tie-and-dye) souvenirs on your way out as Abeokuta prides itself as the hub of the tie-and-dye industry in Nigeria.
More on Culture in the South West
Your desire for more facts on history will have you interested in visiting the Ibadan Museum and Benin City for real-life samples of the traditional art of bronze wax.
Catch sight of nearly extinct wildlife and noteworthy artefacts in Cross River
A place worth a visit during the relatively dry season is Cross River where there is a magnificent museum and the Cross River National Park.
With cable cars and hiking trails, there is more adventure waiting to be had when you get to the erstwhile Obudu Cattle Ranch which is now a Plateau.
Enjoy boat or horseback riding in the federal city of Abuja during Harmattan
In January, a visit to Abuja will afford you the luxury of fulfilling your boat ride or horseback ride fantasy at Jabi Lake during the season of morning and night colds and hot and dusty afternoons.
With this type of weather at 20C, a cardigan or sunglasses should come in handy.
Also, delicious local delicacies such as jollof rice, Moi Moi, pounded yam, and Eba are to be had at the nearby Jevinik.
Interested in well-spiced grilled fish and chips? Abacha Barracks has you covered only if you are willing to drive the short distance to get there.
Don’t miss out on the third-highest peak in Nigeria at Shere Hills in Jos during February’s warm and dry weather
Here, the view from the top which is 1,829 metres tall is beautiful and soothing. And at 31.1C temperature, guides are present to ensure you climb the mountains safely.
Central Nigeria’s Zuma Rock during the September falls leaves you with unforgettable memories
Standing tall at over 600 metres (2,000) feet, Niger state’s Zuma Rock is an incredible tourist site – great for background photos too.
Found specifically in Suleja, there are also some interesting myths about this impressive work of nature that will fill your inquisitive mind.
Be just in time for the Ake Book Festival in October
Scheduling your visit for October? Well, you won’t be sorry you did. The October rains usher you into the annual Ake Book Festival. Different locations host the great book festival where awesome connections are made.
There’s a lot to experience in Nigeria. Prepare for new adventures in the centre of Africa’s largest entertainment industry.