Nigeria is a land of many faces. From its frenetic, chaotic and constantly bustling capital, Lagos, to its tiny, tranquil and traditional villages, this economic powerhouse of Africa always makes for some fascinating, exotic and exhilarating travel. Nigeria is jam-packed with interesting tourist attractions, including innumerable festivals and cultural celebrations, an abundance of remarkable national parks, fascinating geographical sites, lush rainforests, breathtaking waterfalls, and other spectacularly scenic natural attractions. One of the nation’s biggest tourist drawcards is the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State, a high, grassland plateau home to Chappal Waddi mountain, the country’s highest mountain, numerous cattle ranches, sprawling tea plantations, picturesque rolling, grassy hills, as well as various rare species of animal and birdlife. Whether exploring the country’s numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, interacting with the astonishingly warm and welcoming locals, or sampling the delicious local cuisine, this astonishing African nation will continue to surprise you at every turn.
Banking and Currency
Currency
Local currency: Nigerian Naira
Symbol: ₦
ISO code: NGN
Subunit: Kobo (1/100 of a Naira)
Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 naira
Coins: 50 kobo, 1, 2 naira
Banking
Card Transactions: Widely accepted in major cities
ATMs: Yes
Mastercard: Yes
Visa: Yes
American Express: Limited
Diner’s Club: No
Banking Hours: Weekdays: 08:00 – 16:00, Weekends: Closed
Public Holidays: Closed
Foreign exchange services: Yes
Travel, Transport and Getting Around
Air:
Main airlines: Arik Air, Air Peace
International Airports: Murtala Muhammed International Airport (Lagos), Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja)
Domestic Airports: Numerous, including those in Port Harcourt and Kano
Road:
Driving on the: Right
Tar roads: Yes, especially in urban areas
Gravel roads: Yes, in rural areas
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes
Car hire available: Yes
Taxis: Yes
E-hailing services: Yes
Bus:
Inter-city bus services: Yes
Local city bus networks: Yes
Rail:
Railway system: Yes, connecting major cities
Subway System: No
Water:
Ferries: Yes, particularly in Lagos
Water taxis: Yes, in coastal areas
Leisure cruises: Limited
Food, Drink and Cuisine Advice
Food and water safety:
Can you drink the tap water: No
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, wash thoroughly
Ice: No
Meat: Yes, ensure it is well cooked
Street food: Yes, choose reputable vendors
Local cuisine:
Nigerian cuisine is diverse and flavorful, featuring dishes like Jollof rice, Pounded yam with Egusi soup, and Suya (spicy meat skewers). These dishes are often rich in spices and flavors, with a focus on stews, rice dishes, and grilled meats.
Drinks:
Popular local drinks include palm wine and Guinness Foreign Extra Stout.
Tipping:Generally, 10% in restaurants if not included in the bill.
Climate and Weather
Annual rainfall: Varies from 500 mm in the north to over 4,000 mm in the south
Average temperature: 27°C
Summer:
Average highs: 33°C
Average lows: 23°C
Winter:
Average highs: 31°C
Average lows: 19°C
Best time to visit:
The best time to visit Nigeria is during the dry season from November to January, when the weather is cooler and drier, making it ideal for travel and exploration.
Clothing and Dress Recommendations
Spring and Summer
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes
Lightweight warm clothes: No
Winter and Autumn
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No
General
Umbrella and raincoat: Yes, during the rainy season
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes
Walking shoes: Yes
Casual: Yes
Smart-casual attire: Yes
Internet Availability
Internet cafes: Yes, mainly in urban areas
Accommodation options: Yes, with good connectivity in major cities
Restaurants: Yes, in major cities
Cafes: Yes, in major cities
Shopping malls: Yes, in major cities
Public parks: No
Libraries: Yes, in major cities
Electricity and Plug Standards
Plug Type: D and G
Voltage (V): 230 V
Frequency (Hz): 50 Hz
*Travel plug adapter and voltage converter might be necessary depending on your appliances.