Things To Do
in Jos
Jos is a city located in the middle belt of Nigeria, known for its cool climate and beautiful scenery. It is a melting pot of different cultures and ethnic groups, making it a diverse and vibrant city. The city is also known for its rich history, with landmarks such as the Jos Museum showcasing the region's heritage.
Jos is a hub for agriculture and mining, contributing to the local economy.
- "Bawo ni" - How are you
- "I appreciate" - Thank you
- "Wetin dey happen?" - What's happening?
- "Make we go" - Let's go
- "No wahala" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Jos Wildlife Park, where you can see diverse animal species. Take a leisurely walk among the lush greenery and enjoy the fresh air.
After lunch, head to the National Museum of Unity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. The museum houses fascinating artifacts and exhibits that highlight the country's history.
Wrap up your day by dining at a local restaurant and tasting some delicious Nigerian cuisine. Enjoy the warm atmosphere and interact with the friendly locals.
Begin your day hiking at the picturesque Shere Hills, known for its stunning views and cool climate. Take in the breathtaking scenery while enjoying a morning breeze.
Visit the picturesque town of Bukuru to explore its market and experience local commerce. You can shop for crafts, fresh produce, and other unique items.
Spend your evening at the Jos Polo Club, where you can watch exciting polo matches. This social activity is a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the hospitality of the region.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and diverse population.
- Pleasant climate due to its altitude, making it cooler than many other regions in Nigeria.
- Emerging tourism destination with natural attractions like the Jos Plateau and wildlife parks.
- Educational institutions, including universities and colleges, offering various programs.
- Historical significance and important archaeological sites.
- Security challenges, including ethnic and religious tensions.
- Limited infrastructure development compared to larger Nigerian cities.
- Economic challenges with high unemployment rates.
- Inconsistent access to basic utilities like water and electricity.
- Frequent communal conflicts that may lead to safety concerns for residents.
Best Activities in Jos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a scenic and adventurous hike through the Jos Wildlife Park, which offers beautiful natural landscapes and a variety of wildlife to observe.
Try your hand at rock climbing amidst the stunning natural rock formations at Riyom, offering a thrilling outdoor experience for adventure enthusiasts.
Relax and unwind with a picturesque picnic at the serene and picturesque Kurra Falls, surrounded by lush greenery and refreshing natural beauty.
Places to Visit in Jos
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Jos and its surrounding areas, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
Features scenic landscapes and diverse wildlife, providing excellent opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Jos.
Provides stunning views of the city of Jos and a picturesque setting for capturing memorable photos.
Food in Jos
Jos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A nutritious soup made from baobab leaves and enjoyed with tuwo shinkafa (rice pudding). It's a traditional dish among the Hausa people and can be savored at local bukas such as Buken Academy or Mama's Place.
Must-Try!
A popular West African dish of rice cooked in a rich tomato sauce with a blend of spices. For an authentic taste, check out Nana's Kitchen or Tamarind Garden.
Air-dried spicy-sweet beef jerky that's a favorite snack across Nigeria. Look for vendors at Terminus Market or along Ahmadu Bello Way.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest markets in Jos, where you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and local street food like suya (spicy skewered meat) and masa (rice cakes).
This bustling street is a hub for street food stalls offering everything from grilled meats and roasted plantains to traditional snacks like akara (bean fritters) and puff-puff (sweet fried dough).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Jos, Nigeria, it is important to show respect to elders by using proper titles and addressing them with courtesy and deference.
Greeting people with a handshake and a warm smile is a common cultural norm in Jos, Nigeria. It's important to greet people respectfully, especially when meeting them for the first time.
When visiting Jos, Nigeria, it's important to dress modestly and respect local customs. This includes avoiding revealing clothing and dressing appropriately for different occasions and settings.
Safety
Tipping in Jos
Ensure a smooth experience
In Jos, Nigeria, tipping is not mandatory but is generally appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for certain services such as hotel staff and taxi drivers. A tip of 5-10% of the bill is considered generous.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Jos, Nigeria. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Jos as the weather is cool and pleasant. Expect sunny days and cool nights.
During the rainy season, expect frequent rainfall which can affect outdoor activities. The temperatures are slightly warmer during this time.
Jos at Night
Hiking in Jos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area featuring walking trails and natural scenery, perfect for hiking and enjoying the beauty of wildlife.
Known for its breathtaking views and challenging terrains, Shere Hills is a popular hiking destination for both amateurs and experienced hikers.
This beautiful waterfall is surrounded by lush landscapes, offering hiking opportunities along the trails that lead to and around the falls.
Offering a more relaxed hiking experience, Rayfield has accessible trails and beautiful views of the surrounding area, ideal for family outings.
A less strenuous hike that provides a mix of adventure and stunning views, perfect for day hikes with friends or family.
Aiports
How to reach Jos by plane.
Located in Abuja, about 120 kilometers from Jos. It is the closest major international airport to Jos, offering flights to various destinations in Africa and beyond.
Situated in Lagos, approximately 760 kilometers away from Jos. This is one of the largest international airports in Nigeria, providing numerous international connections.
Located in Port Harcourt, about 560 kilometers from Jos. This airport serves as a hub for domestic and some international flights, especially in the oil and gas region.
Approximately 200 kilometers from Jos, this airport serves domestic and a few international flights, primarily to regional destinations.
Around 290 kilometers from Jos, this airport provides international flights to several countries, mainly within Africa and the Middle East.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in Nigeria, known for their rich culture and history, predominantly found in the northern regions.
One of the major ethnic groups in the Plateau State, known for their unique traditions and languages.
An indigenous tribe in Plateau State with a significant presence in Jos, recognized for their agricultural practices and cultural heritage.
An ethnic group predominantly located in the central region of Nigeria, including parts of Jos, known for their farming and traditional crafts.
Another ethnic group from Plateau State, known for their vibrant culture and contribution to the socio-political landscape.
A smaller ethnic group residing in the central region, known for their agricultural skills and unique dialect.
One of the largest ethnic groups in Nigeria, primarily found in the southeastern region but with significant population in Jos due to migration.
Another major ethnic group from southwestern Nigeria, with a growing presence in Jos due to urban migration and economic opportunities.
Includes various smaller ethnicities and immigrant communities that contribute to the multicultural landscape of Jos.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Jos, Nigeria, with a rich history and a strong following among the locals. Many community teams and fans gather to support their clubs.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Jos, with local leagues and schools actively participating in the sport, attracting a younger demographic.
Athletics, including running and field events, is popular among schools and universities in Jos, often highlighted in competitions at various levels.
Tennis is enjoyed by many in Jos, with several clubs and recreational facilities providing opportunities for both casual play and competitive matches.
Table tennis is popular in Jos, played by individuals of all ages, and is often featured in local tournaments, showcasing the skill of the players.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Jos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prominent in Nigerian cuisine, many eateries in Jos offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives like delicious vegetable soups, bean-based dishes, and plantain-based meals.
For those requiring gluten-free options, several restaurants in Jos provide rice-based dishes, fufu alternatives, and corn-based snacks that are free from gluten.