Road Trips in Nigeria

A must-see attraction during your trip around Nigeria is, of course, the country's capital - Abuja. While strolling around its streets, you'll come across a number of interesting attractions, including the National Mosque which is the largest Muslim temple in the country. Your attention will be surely drawn by Aso Rock and Zuma Rock, the gigantic monoliths. The latter is located at an altitude of 1125 metres above sea level and is known as the Gate to Abuja. 

While traveling to Nigeria, you shouldn't limit yourself to a tour around the capital. In your holiday plans, you should also include such places as Osogbo, with the sacred Osun-Osogbo Grove, Abeokuta, with the remnants of historical city walls, and Calabar, where you'll find a botanical garden and educational park devoted to the history of slavery. 

Nightlife fans should definitely visit Lagos, especially its two districts: Yaba and Surulere. However, if you dream about spending some time close to nature, you should consider a visit in the scenic Nigerian national parks: Yankari or Gashaka Gumpti. 

Nigeria is a large and diverse country with many road trip options. Here are three suggested road trips that showcase the best of Nigeria:

• Lagos to Badagry: This route takes you from the bustling city of Lagos to the historic town of Badagry, located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Along the way, you can explore the vibrant markets of Lagos, visit the National Museum in Lagos, and learn about the slave trade history of Badagry. This road trip is perfect for those interested in history and culture.

• Abuja to Jos: This route takes you from Nigeria's capital city to the picturesque town of Jos, located in the Plateau State. Along the way, you can stop at the Gurara Falls, visit the famous Zuma Rock, and explore the Jos Wildlife Park. This road trip is perfect for those interested in nature and wildlife.

• Calabar to Obudu: This route takes you from the coastal city of Calabar to the scenic town of Obudu, located in the Obudu Plateau. Along the way, you can visit the Cross River National Park, hike through the Obudu Mountains, and relax in the natural hot springs. This road trip is perfect for those interested in outdoor activities and relaxation.

Each of these road trips offers a unique and unforgettable experience, showcasing the natural beauty, culture, and history of Nigeria. Whether you're interested in exploring the vibrant cities, learning about Nigeria's history, or immersing yourself in nature, Nigeria has something for every road-tripper.

Road transport in Nigeria is rather well-developed. Residents and tourists can travel by buses, taxis, private minibuses, and motorcycles. Motorcycles are, however, forbidden in the capital so it's best to rely on buses which will take you to other larger cities. 

If you aren't afraid of challenges and you are an experienced motorist, you can try renting a vehicle in one of the local car rental companies. However, remember that you should stay extra careful - native motorists are pretty chaotic and don't follow even basic traffic rules. Nigeria follows right-hand traffic, and the required document that you have to carry is your own driver's licence or an International Driving Permit. 

The state of Nigerian roads varies from place to place. You can reach many cities by moving along paved roads, but you will also encounter unpaved sections. A great asset is the fact that Nigeria can boast toll-free motorways; however, the system is not that well-developed. While travelling in a vehicle around the country, you may come across frequent police patrols. In order to avoid problems, follow police officers’ instructions. 

When taking a road trip in Nigeria, there are several things to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:

• Security: Nigeria has experienced political instability and occasional terrorist attacks in recent years. It's important to stay informed of the current security situation and avoid traveling to areas with high security risks.

• Traffic: Traffic in Nigerian cities can be very congested and chaotic, with many drivers disregarding traffic laws. It's important to drive cautiously, obey traffic laws, and be aware of other drivers, pedestrians, and livestock on the road.

• Road conditions: Many roads in Nigeria are in poor condition, with potholes, narrow lanes, and poor signage. It's important to drive cautiously and be aware of hazards on the road.

• Health risks: Nigeria is a developing country with limited healthcare facilities. Be sure to take appropriate precautions to protect yourself from illnesses such as malaria and typhoid fever, and consider obtaining travel health insurance before your trip.

• Language: English is the official language of Nigeria, but many locals may not speak it fluently. It's a good idea to learn some basic phrases in local languages before your trip, or travel with a bilingual guide or translator.

By being aware of these factors and taking appropriate precautions, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip experience in Nigeria. It's also important to do your research and check for any travel advisories or warnings before your trip.

The best time of year to take a road trip in Nigeria depends on the specific region and activity you plan to undertake. Generally, the dry season between November and April is the best time to visit Nigeria, as the weather is cooler and drier, and there is less risk of flooding and other weather-related hazards.

During the dry season, the northern regions of Nigeria are particularly popular for road trips, as the cooler temperatures make for more comfortable travel. This is also the best time to visit national parks and wildlife reserves, such as the Yankari National Park and the Gashaka Gumti National Park, as the animals tend to congregate around water sources.

However, if you're interested in visiting the coastal regions of Nigeria, the best time to visit is during the rainy season, which typically runs from May to October. This is when the beaches are at their most beautiful, and there are fewer tourists. It's important to note, however, that the rainy season can also bring heavy rainfall, flooding, and road closures, so it's important to check weather conditions and road closures before embarking on a road trip.

Overall, the best time to take a road trip in Nigeria is during the dry season between November and April, when the weather is cooler and drier, and there is less risk of weather-related hazards. However, if you're interested in visiting the coastal regions, the rainy season between May and October may also be a good option, as long as you're prepared for the possibility of heavy rainfall and flooding.

When packing for a road trip in Nigeria, it's important to keep in mind the country's hot and humid climate, as well as its cultural norms and potential health risks. Here are some items to consider packing for your trip:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing: Nigeria is hot and humid, so it's important to pack lightweight and breathable clothing to stay comfortable. Clothing should also be modest, particularly for women, as Nigeria is a conservative country.

• Comfortable shoes: Roads in Nigeria can be bumpy and uneven, so it's important to pack comfortable, closed-toe shoes for walking and driving.

• Sun protection: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are essential to protect against the strong Nigerian sun.

• Insect repellent: Nigeria is a high-risk area for malaria and other insect-borne diseases, so insect repellent is a must.

• First aid kit: A basic first aid kit can be useful for minor injuries or illnesses, particularly if you plan to visit more remote areas.

• Water bottle and water purification tablets: Tap water in Nigeria is not safe to drink, so it's important to pack a water bottle and water purification tablets.

• Travel documents: Be sure to pack all necessary travel documents, including passports, visas, and copies of important documents.

• Cash and credit cards: Many places in Nigeria do not accept credit cards, so it's important to carry cash for purchases.

• Portable charger: Electricity can be unreliable in Nigeria, so it's a good idea to pack a portable charger to keep your phone and other devices charged.

By packing these essential items, you can ensure a comfortable and safe road trip experience in Nigeria. It's also important to do research on the specific regions you plan to visit and pack accordingly.

When planning a road trip in Nigeria, it's important to have reliable guidebooks and road maps to help you navigate the country. Here are some recommended resources:

• Lonely Planet Nigeria: This guidebook provides detailed information on Nigeria's history, culture, and natural attractions. It includes practical information on accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing, as well as suggested itineraries and travel tips.

• Bradt Guide to Nigeria: This guidebook is specifically focused on Nigeria and offers in-depth information on the country's culture, history, and natural attractions. It includes practical information on accommodations, transportation, and sightseeing, as well as suggested itineraries and travel tips.

• Michelin Map Africa Northeast & Arabia: This map covers a wider region, including Nigeria and neighboring countries such as Chad and Sudan. It provides detailed information on roads and terrain, as well as points of interest and travel information.

• Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation (NTDC): The NTDC is a government agency responsible for promoting tourism in Nigeria. Their website provides useful information on tourist attractions, travel advice, and events in the country.

These resources can be found at many bookstores and online retailers. Some of them can also be downloaded as e-books.