Uncover Nigeria's Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
.
Travel Notes: Africa - Nigeria Travel Notes.
Short URL: https://tnot.es/NG
Nigeria Travel and Tourism on Travel Notes
Plan a journey of discovery as we unveil Nigeria's best-kept secrets. Explore unspoiled landscapes and unique experiences that many travellers overlook.
About Nigeria
Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa, and takes its name from that of its major river, the Niger.
Known for its diverse cultures, delicious cuisine, beautiful landscapes, and bustling cities, visitors to Nigeria can enjoy a wide range of activities, including attending traditional festivals and weddings, exploring historical landmarks and museums, visiting vibrant markets, and enjoying the nightlife in Lagos.
Overall, Nigeria is a vibrant and dynamic country with a rich cultural heritage, economic potential, and a growing presence on the global stage.
Countries neighbouring Nigeria: Benin, Niger, Chad and Cameroon.
Add a Business - Add a Location -
Add a Lodging - Add Travel Content
- Add URL
- Travel Services.
Mapping Nigeria
Map of Nigeria
Nigeria was once a number of ethnically based kingdoms and rival Yoruba states until the British brought them under its control, in the early 1900s.
The country became independent on October 1, 1960, but tension among its ethnic groups soon followed.
The Yoruba were mainly in the south-west, the Ibo in the south-east, and the Hausa and Fulani in the north.
Nigeria Overview
Nigeria is known for its diverse cultures, ethnic groups, and languages, with over 250 different ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba.
Nigeria is bordered by Niger to the north, Chad to the north-east, Cameroon to the east, and Benin to the west.
Culture
Nigeria is culturally diverse, with a blend of traditional customs and practices alongside modern influences.
The country's music, dance, cuisine, and fashion have gained popularity both within Africa and globally.
Nigerian literature, represented by renowned authors such as Chinua Achebe and Wole Soyinka, has made significant contributions to world literature.
Economy
Nigeria's economy is the largest in Africa and is primarily based on oil exports, with petroleum accounting for a significant portion of its revenue.
However, the country also has a diverse economy, including sectors such as agriculture, telecommunications, banking, manufacturing, and entertainment.
Nigeria is home to Nollywood, the second-largest film industry in the world, producing a wide range of movies that have gained international recognition.
Geography
Nigeria has a varied landscape, including vast stretches of savannah in the north, dense rainforests in the south, and the Niger River - one of Africa's major waterways - flowing through the country.
Nigeria's southern coastline is along the Gulf of Guinea, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean.
History
Nigeria has a rich history, with ancient kingdoms and empires like the Nri Kingdom, the Benin Empire, and the Oyo Empire, among others, flourishing in the region before European colonisation.
The country experienced the transatlantic slave trade, which had a profound impact on its population and cultural heritage.
Political Challenges
Political challenges faced by Nigeria include political instability, corruption, poverty, inadequate infrastructure, and security issues in certain regions.
The country has experienced periods of military rule, but since 1999, Nigeria has had a democratic government with periodic elections.
Religion
In terms of religion, Nigeria is roughly divided between Islam and Christianity, with a significant Muslim population in the north and a predominantly Christian population in the south.
Traditional African religions also persist in various communities.
Visit Nigeria
Nigeria is a diverse and vibrant country located in West Africa; known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and bustling cities.
Whether you're interested in exploring historical sites, experiencing traditional music and dance, or enjoying the local cuisine, Nigeria has a lot to offer.
Nigeria Highlights
Remember to research the current travel advisories, visa requirements, and any specific safety considerations before planning your trip.
It's also a good idea to engage the services of a local guide to enhance your experience and ensure a smooth visit.
Abuja
The capital city of Nigeria, Abuja is known for its well-planned layout and modern architecture.
Don't miss the Nigerian National Mosque, Nigerian National Museum, Aso Rock, and the impressive Nigerian National Stadium.
Badagry
An historic town in Lagos State, Badagry is known for its connections to the transatlantic slave trade.
Explore the Slave Route and visit historical sites like the Badagry Heritage Museum and the Slave Relics Museum.
Calabar
Located in the south-eastern region, Calabar is renowned for its annual Calabar Carnival, a colourful street parade and cultural extravaganza.
You can also visit the Tinapa Resort, Marina Resort, and the Cross River National Park.
Jos
Known as the 'J-town', Jos is a picturesque city with a moderate climate.
It offers attractions like the Jos Wildlife Park, Jos Museum, Shere Hills, and the beautiful Kurra Falls.
Lagos
Nigeria's largest city and commercial hub, Lagos offers a blend of modernity and tradition.
Visit attractions like the National Museum of Nigeria, Lekki Conservation Centre, Nike Art Gallery, and explore the vibrant Balogun Market.
Obudu Mountain Resort
Situated in Cross River State, this picturesque resort offers stunning views, cool weather, and activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and cable car rides.
Ogbunike Caves
Located in Anambra State, the Ogbunike Caves are a network of caves and tunnels formed naturally.
Explore the fascinating caves and learn about their spiritual significance.
Olumo Rock
Located in Abeokuta, Olumo Rock is a popular tourist destination.
Climb to the top for breathtaking views, explore the caves, and learn about the historical significance of the rock.
Yankari National Park
If you're interested in wildlife and nature, Yankari National Park in Bauchi State is a must-visit.
It's home to various animal species, including elephants, lions, hippos, and over 350 bird species.
Zuma Rock
Situated in Niger State, Zuma Rock is a massive monolith that stands out as a symbol of Nigeria.
It's a sight to behold and offers great opportunities for photography.
Biafra
When Nigeria came under military control, in 1966, the mainly Christian Ibo people tried to separate from Nigeria.
After suffering a massacre at the hands of the mainly Islamic Hausa and Fulani people, who dominated the government, the Ibo formed the Republic of Biafra (1967-1970).
This sparked off a civil war, and an estimated million people died in Biafra; from starvation, caused by food shortages.
Nigeria Travel
Nigeria by Road
Nigeria's excellent network of roads include motorways linking Lagos to Ibadan and Benin City.
Nigeria by Rail
Like many European countries, railways in Nigeria have declined in importance because of competition from the expanding road system.
Nigeria by Air
Security at Lagos airport has not always been considered at its best in recent years.
International airports serve Lagos on the coast and Kano in the north, while smaller airfields provide services to other major cities. Nigeria Airways is the state-owned airline.
Bellview Airlines flies from Lagos to Abuja, Amsterdam, Banjul, Bombay, Freetown, Kano, Nairobi and Port Harcourt.
Around Nigeria
The Niger river enters Nigeria at the north-western border with Niger and Benin, and empties into the Atlantic Ocean in the south; forming the largest delta in Africa.
In this area you can find mangrove forests, lagoons, and swamps; and of course crocodiles and snakes.
In the Northeast, the rivers drain into Lake Chad.
Large African mammals have mostly disappeared from Nigeria, as a result of man's heavy presence in the country.
Abuja
Map of Abuja
Abuja, in the centre of Nigeria, replaced Lagos - the largest city - as the national capital in December 1991; after 15 years of planning and construction.
Planners sought to create a national city in an ethnically neutral area, where none of Nigeria's social and religious groups would be dominant.
Lagos
Lagos is built on several islands and parts of the mainland, on the Bight of Benin.
It is still considered the cultural and commercial capital of Nigeria, and at times it seems as though the whole country is in the streets.
The old city is on western Lagos island.
The main ethnic group of Lagos are the Yoruba people, and it was on this old Yoruba settlement that early Portuguese traders bestowed the name of one of their home ports.
Landing in Lagos:
Lagos might not be the ideal starting point for a trip to West Africa, but at least the
Nigerians speak English, and to travel West from here gives you the beaches of Gambia to relax on at the end of it all.
Where to Stay in Lagos
The Wheatbaker Lagos
The Wheatbaker Lagos: 4 Onitilo Road (Lawrence Road), Ikoyi, Lagos.
The 5-star Wheatbaker Lagos is a stylish and modern luxury boutique hotel, ideal for the corporate traveller.
Guests at The Wheatbaker Lagos said the rooms were in good condition, comfortable and immaculate. They were also impressed with the level of service provided by staff.
Nigeria World
Buzz Nigeria:
News and entertainment website designed with Nigerians in mind.
Nigerian Language and Culture
The official language of Nigeria is English.
Hausa is the most widely spoken of the African languages, mainly in the north; followed by Yoruba, Ibo, Kanuri, and Tiv.
Nigerian Art and Literature
Nigeria has a rich cultural tradition.
Terracotta sculptures and Benin bronze work from the region are famous throughout the world.
Traditional storytelling has also influenced the modern written work of Amos Tutuola, Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, and Ben Okri.
This House Has Fallen:
To understand Africa, you have to understand Nigeria, and few Americans understand Nigeria
better than Karl Maier; presenting you with a bracing, disturbing, evocative report on the
state of Africa's most populous, potentially richest, and most dangerously dysfunctional
nation.
Nigerian Museums
The Nigerian government has tried to stop the sale and shipment of major Nigerian works of art out of the country, and has requested the return of art taken out during the colonial era.
This gives the visitor to Nigeria a culturally rich choice of museums to visit in many towns outside of Lagos: Benin City, Ibadan, Ife, Ilorin, Jos, and Kaduna.
Nigeria Maps and Travel Guides
Nigeria Travel Guides - Nigeria Maps.
Weather in Africa:
Local weather forecasts for destinations around Africa.
More From Travel Notes
Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel
Africa - Asia - Caribbean - Europe - Middle East - North America - Oceania - South America.
The Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel helps visitors plan their trip with country and city travel guides, local tourist information, reviewed web sites, and inspiring travel content.
Travel and Tourism Guides on Travel Notes
If Travel Notes has helped you, please take a moment to like us on Facebook and share with your friends on social media.
Travel Resources
.
Travel & Tourism With Industry Professionals.
