Kaduna - Discovering Nigeria

Travelling to Kaduna

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Kaduna, a pretty good destination in Nigeria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Kaduna and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Kaduna, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nigeria, here's everything to know about Kaduna for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Kaduna

Kaduna is a city located in the Kaduna state of Nigeria, in the north-central part of the country. It is the capital of the state and serves as a major commercial and industrial hub. With a population of over 1.5 million people, it is one of the largest cities in Nigeria and boasts a rich cultural heritage and history. Kaduna is known for its vibrant markets, traditional architecture, and tourist attractions such as the National Museum of Nigeria, the Kajuru Castle, and the Matsirga Waterfall. The city also has a well-developed transportation system, including road, rail, and air transportation, making it easily accessible to visitors from other parts of Nigeria and beyond.

What to visit in Kaduna

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Kaduna, Nigeria: 1. Kajuru Castle - This is a medieval-styled castle located in Kajuru village, about 45km from Kaduna. It was built by a German businessman in 1978 and has since become a popular tourist destination. The castle has several towers, a dungeon, a swimming pool, and a beautiful garden.
2. Matsirga Waterfalls - Located in Kafanchan, about 63km from Kaduna, the Matsirga waterfalls is a stunning natural waterfall that cascades down a rocky cliff into a small pool at the bottom. Visitors can swim in the pool or hike up the hill to get a better view of the waterfall.
3. Kamuku National Park - This is a large game reserve located in Birnin Gwari, about 180km from Kaduna. It is home to several species of wild animals including baboons, monkeys, antelopes, and rare birds. Visitors can go on safari drives and enjoy the natural beauty of the park.
4. Sir Kashim Ibrahim House - This is the official residence of the Kaduna state governor and is located in Kaduna city. It was built in 1973 and has a beautiful architecture that attracts visitors. The house has a large garden, a swimming pool, and several buildings.
5. Emir of Zazzau's Palace - This is the official residence of the Emir of Zazzau, the traditional ruler of the Zazzau Kingdom in Kaduna. The palace is located in Zaria, about 84km from Kaduna. Visitors can explore the palace, learn about the rich history and culture of the Zazzau people, and interact with the locals.
6. National Museum Kaduna - This is a museum located in Kaduna city that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. It has several exhibits featuring traditional clothing, musical instruments, weapons, and other artifacts used by Nigeria's diverse ethnic groups.
7. Fifth Chukker Polo and Country Club - This is a sports and leisure resort located in Kaduna city. It has facilities for horseback riding, swimming, golf, and polo tournaments. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing weekend getaway in the serene environment. I hope this helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nigeria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Kaduna.

When to go on holiday to Kaduna

The best time to visit Kaduna, Nigeria is in the dry season, from November to March. During this time, you will experience warm temperatures and little to no rainfall, making it the perfect time for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The wet season lasts from April to October, and the rainfall can make transportation and outdoor activities challenging. The humidity during this time can also make it quite uncomfortable for some visitors. Overall, the best time for a visit to Kaduna is during the dry season from November to March.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Kaduna

There are several ways to get to Kaduna, Nigeria. You can travel by air, road or rail. By Air: You can take a flight to the Kaduna International Airport, which is located about 25 kilometers from the city center. Some airlines that fly to Kaduna include Arik Air, Air Peace, and Dana Air. Once you arrive at the airport, you can take a taxi, bus or shuttle to your destination.
By Road: You can also travel to Kaduna by road. There are several bus companies that operate daily trips from Lagos, Abuja and other major cities in Nigeria to Kaduna. The journey can take between 5-7 hours depending on your location and the traffic on the road.
By Rail: Kaduna is also accessible by rail. The Nigerian Railway Corporation runs several trains from Lagos, Kano, and other cities to Kaduna. The journey can take between 8-12 hours depending on your location and the train schedule.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Kaduna, Nigeria.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Kaduna, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Kaduna

Here are some typical foods of Kaduna, Nigeria with a short description for each of them: 1. Tuwo Shinkafa - This is a local dish made from rice, it is served as a thick pudding and eaten with different varieties of soups and sauces.
2. Miyan Kuka - A popular soup made from powdered leaves of the Baobab tree, it is usually served with Tuwon Shinkafa or Tuwon Masara.
3. Suya - This is a spicy kebab made from beef, chicken, or other meats. It is usually eaten as a snack or as a main course.
4. Kilishi - A type of jerky made from thinly-sliced beef or goat meat, seasoned with spices and dried in the sun.
5. Dambun Nama - A smoked meat snack made from beef or goat meat that has been seasoned with spices and smoked to add flavor and preserve it.
6. Tukunyar Ki - This is a bean cake that is made from ground black-eyed peas, mixed with spices and deep-fried until crispy.
7. Gwate - A savory porridge made from maize flour mixed with groundnut paste, and other spices.
8. Miyan Gyada - A Northern Nigerian soup made from groundnuts, dried fish, and vegetables, usually served with Tuwon Shinkafa.
9. Masara - A popular local dish made from maize flour, it is usually eaten with different varieties of soups and sauces.
10. Zobo - A refreshing drink made from the dried calyx of the hibiscus flower, it is usually served chilled and sweetened with sugar.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nigeria here.

Is Kaduna an expensive destination for tourists?

Kaduna can be a fairly inexpensive destination for tourists compared to other destinations in Nigeria. However, the cost of a trip will ultimately depend on your personal preferences and travel style. Accommodation in Kaduna ranges from budget hostels to luxury hotels, with prices starting at around $10 USD per night. Food and transportation are generally affordable as well. Popular tourist attractions in Kaduna include the Kaduna Market, Kajuru Castle, and the National Museum of Unity. Some attractions may have entrance fees, but these are usually nominal.
Overall, while Kaduna may not be the cheapest destination in Nigeria, it can be relatively affordable for travelers on a tight budget.

Where to find accomodation in Kaduna

Kaduna is a large city in Nigeria, and there are several areas where visitors can find accommodation, depending on their preferences and budget. Some popular areas for accommodation in Kaduna include: 1. Barnawa: A residential area with shops and restaurants, popular for budget accommodations.
2. Kaduna North: This area is known for its luxury hotels and resorts, catering to high-end travelers.
3. Kaduna South: Located on the south side of the city, this region offers a mix of budget and mid-range hotels.
4. GRA: This is a high-end residential area with upscale hotels.
5. Zaria: As a nearby city, this is a good option for those who want to stay outside of Kaduna without being too far away.
These areas offer a variety of accommodations that range from hostels, guesthouses, apartments, and luxury hotels.
You can check hotel prices at Kaduna here:
Booking.com

Is Kaduna a safe destination for tourists?

Kaduna, like many places in Nigeria, can have some safety concerns that may affect tourists. It is important to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. The Nigerian government has taken significant measures to improve the security situation in the country, and these measures have had a positive impact in Kaduna. However, it is always best to check the latest safety advice and travel warnings from your home country's foreign office before planning your visit. Additionally, working with a reputable tour operator or guide can be helpful in ensuring your safety while exploring Kaduna.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nigeria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Kaduna.

What type of travelers will enjoy Kaduna the most?

Kaduna, Nigeria can be enjoyed by different types of travelers depending on their interests.
For couples, Kaduna offers romantic landscapes and a great mixture of cultural and natural attractions such as the Kajuru Castle, Matsirga Waterfall, and Kaduna Museum. Young people looking for fun can enjoy the nightlife in Kaduna city which offers vibrant music, local cuisines, and unique shopping experiences.
Families can enjoy a range of outdoor activities such as horseback riding, hiking, and camping in the National Park and exploring the city's history and culture.
Overall, Kaduna can be enjoyed by a wide variety of travelers and offers something for everyone.

How to get around Kaduna

In Kaduna, you can move around using taxis, buses, or tricycles also known as Keke-NAPEP. It's important to negotiate the fare with the driver before boarding any of these vehicles as they don't always use a meter. You can also rent a car or hire a private driver if you prefer a more comfortable and convenient mode of transportation.

What to see around Kaduna

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Kaduna, Nigeria: 1. Zaria: Zaria is a city located about 20 miles north of Kaduna. It's a historic city that offers visitors a glimpse of Nigeria's past. There are several cultural attractions in Zaria like the Queen Amina's wall, Emir of Zazzau's palace, and the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism.
2. Kajuru Castle: Kajuru Castle is a beautiful and historic castle located in the countryside, about 70 km southeast of Kaduna city. It was built in 1989 by a German entrepreneur who was inspired by medieval castle designs. Visitors can tour the castle and its surrounding gardens.
3. Matsirga Waterfalls: Matsirga Waterfalls is located about 30 km southeast of Kaduna city. It's a beautiful waterfall that cascades down rugged rocks in a serene environment. Visitors can hike the trails around the waterfall and have a picnic.
4. Kofar Gamji Park: Kofar Gamji Park is a recreational park located in the heart of Kaduna city. It has a mini zoo, children's playground, and ample green spaces for picnics and relaxation.
5. Kagoro Hills: Kagoro Hills is a scenic hill range located about 70 km south of Kaduna city. The hills offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and are great for hiking and nature walks. I hope this helps!
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