Nigeria

The Touratu Guide to

Nigeria

37 States to Explore in Nigeria

UPDATED JUNE 11, 2026

Explore Nigeria Travel Map & Highlights

Nigeria Brief

Nigeria is West Africa's largest economy and most populous nation, offering dynamic cities, diverse landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. Lagos pulses with energy and commerce, while smaller cities like Calabar and Jos provide quieter, scenic alternatives. The country spans tropical rainforests in the south to savanna in the north, with historic sites tied to ancient kingdoms and colonial heritage.

Capital: Abuja • Currency: Nigerian Naira (₦) • Official Language: English • Main Religion: Islam (north), Christianity (south) • Best Months to Visit: November to February (dry season) • Average Weather: 25–32°C (77–90°F) year-round; humid during rainy season • Famous Tourist Cities: Lagos, Calabar, Jos, Ibadan, Kano • Time Zone: West Africa Time (WAT, UTC+1) • Visa Note: Many nationalities require visas; apply at Nigerian embassies in advance • Popular Experiences: Market shopping, Lekki Conservation Centre, Obudu Mountain Resort, National Museum, river safaris

Frequently Asked Questions About Nigeria

Everything you need to know before visiting Nigeria

Nigeria's major tourist areas—Lagos, Calabar, Jos—are generally safe with standard precautions. Avoid displays of wealth, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, and stay in well-established hotels. Northern regions have security concerns; check current travel advisories before visiting. Tourist police operate in popular areas.

Budget travelers spend $40–60 daily; mid-range visitors expect $80–150. Lagos costs more than other cities. Meals range $3–15, accommodation $20–80, local transport $0.50–3. Food is affordable; organized tours and activities add significant costs. Prices vary by city and season.

Start in Lagos (3 days): markets, Lekki Centre, beaches. Fly to Calabar (2 days): river tours, colonial architecture. Visit Jos (2 days): plateau scenery, craft villages. Alternatively, add Ibadan for museums or explore Kano's old city. Internal flights save time; book ahead.

November to February offers dry weather, blue skies, and comfortable temperatures. Rainy season (May–October) brings humidity and occasional floods but supports lush landscapes. Harmattan winds (December–February) blow cooler air from the Sahara. Avoid April–May for extreme heat.

Domestic flights connect major cities efficiently; airlines include Air Peace and Dana Air. Long-distance buses serve regional routes but take 8–12+ hours. Lagos has BRT rapid transit and ride-sharing apps (Uber, Bolt). Taxis are common; negotiate fares or use apps. Roads vary in condition.

Greetings are important; handshakes and respectful language matter. Dress modestly, especially in northern regions. Remove shoes before entering homes. Ask permission before photographing people. Religious tolerance is expected; respect prayer times and sacred sites. Nigerians value warmth and personal connections in interactions.

Explore Badagry's beach villages and historical slave sites. Visit Erin Ijesha Waterfall in Osun State for trekking. Yankari Game Reserve offers wildlife spotting. Old Oyo National Park provides savanna experiences. Sukur Cultural Landscape showcases traditional settlements. These see fewer tourists than major cities.

Lekki Beach near Lagos offers accessible swimming and seafood restaurants. Calabar Beach provides riverside charm and water sports. Bar Beach is popular for evening strolls. Ikorodu Beach suits quieter retreats. Most beaches have calm waters December–March; rougher seas during rainy months.

Five to seven days allows exploration of Lagos and one secondary city. Two weeks enables multiple regions: Lagos, Calabar, Jos, plus nature reserves. First-time visitors benefit from guided tours for security and cultural context. Shorter stays focus on Lagos and immediate surroundings.

Touratu maps Instagram photos and YouTube travel videos to real Nigerian destinations, showing where travelers captured Lagos markets, Calabar waterfront, Jos plateau, and beyond. Discover authentic locations, trending spots, and hidden gems through verified visual content from the global travel community.

Nigeria Video Travel Guide: Culture, Beaches & Destinations