Nigeria

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. 


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