Abuja travel guide | where to go, what to do, where to stay | Nigeria travel info, tourism and attractions
City & Town

Abuja travel guide

Established as the new federal capital territory in 1976, Abuja covers an area of 3,000-sq mi (7,770-sq km) of undulating grasslands in a scenic valley.

Construction of the well-planned and methodically laid out city of Abuja got under way and continued throughout the 1980s.

The master plan envisages the development of the city in four stages, of which the first has been completed.

The main reasons for the choice of the site were its central location in the Nigerian, its small population and hospitable climatic conditions all year round.

It forms the heart of the federal capital territory and it was officially declared Nigeria’s capital in 1991.

The original idea to build a new capital city was conceived in 1975 and, after 17 years, the seat of government was formally moved to Abuja from Lagos in 1992.

Since then, Abuja has been growing from strength to strength in terms of people and in the area of development, and it is now one of the fastest growing cities in Africa.

Public Notice:

Due to the recent violent attacks in Abuja and some other part of northern Nigeria cities/towns, visitors are advised not to travel up north for safety purpose. Please wait until you are told to do so by the Nigerian security agency.

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Zuma Rock: Zuma rock is geographically located in a neighbouring Niger State and it’s just a little off the main road from Abuja to Kaduna. This means that one can see the rock either as a day trip to Abuja or on your way up north. This gigantic rock is undeniably one of Nigeria’s most famous landmarks. It’s an enormous 1km long inselberg, standing out like a giant altar. Read more


Ladi-Kwali Pottery: Established in 1991 by a British potter of international repute for the preservation and promotion of traditional (motifs) pottery. Abuja pottery became well known all over the world because there are good traditional potters with rich pottery making traditions in the area. Abuja pottery is in high demand in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Read more


Abuja Millennium Park: Commissioned in 2004 by Her Royal Highness, Queen Elizabeth II of England, this new park has a nice walkway with fountains and lights. A good spot to walk the dog or come for a picnic. The park’s entrance is off the Three Arm Zone road. Read more


Abuja Jabi Lake: This is a mysterious lake of sorts. As small as it looks, its water level remains constant throughout the year and it’s a home to crocodiles and other reptiles. There is an ongoing plan to turn the lake to a world class resort.


National Arboretum: The purpose of the Arboretum, which is located in the Three Arms Zone, is to maintain the forest and other plant life within it in their natural condition. Birdwatchers can check out different species of birds within the city.


Abuja Zoological Garden: Newly established Abuja Zoological Garden has a variety of animals that can be found in Nigeria. It’s also an ideal place for bird-watchers!


National Children’s Park: This is a popular day trip, where visitors can introduce their children to different animals and birds. With the beautiful background of Aso Rock, the zoo stands out distinct in the Abuja. The park houses domestic animals such as camels, donkeys and chickens. Visitors can also see wild animals like cheetah, giraffe, zebra, lion etc in their well-preserved abode.


Gurara Falls: Geographically located in Niger State on the road between Suleja and Minna, the waterfalls span 200 meters across with a sheer drop of 30 meters. Gurara river is a large tributary of river Niger and it’s always in full spate during the rain seasons. Apparently in January the falls are a trickle and visitors can swim in clear pools at the bottom of the falls. Read more


IBB Golf Club: This is an 18-hole green international standard golf course, attracting local and international tournaments in collaboration with major hotels in the city and various associations throughout the country. Named after former Nigeria’s president, Ibrahim Babangida, the park is located at the Maitama District of Abuja city.


National Mosque: Built in the 1980s, the National Mosque with its golden dome glistering in the sun, is the most impressive sight in Abuja. The mosque, huge and shiny, is a national monument belonging to all Nigerians and no one can miss the sight of this beautiful edifice in Abuja city. Read more


Wonderland Park: Wonderland is a recreational park for children and adults, and it has a restaurants and other amenities to make visitors comfortable. The park is  good for the whole family with lots of activities to do such as roller coaster, dodgem ears, merry go rounds and a general assortment of themed rides.


Aso Rock: 1312 foot high, Aso rock is a large outcrop on the outskirts of  Abuja. The rock is a 400 metre monolith and is the city’s most noticeable feature. The Nigerian presidential complex, National Assembly and Nigerian Supreme Court are located around it and much of the town extends to the south of the rock.


Ecumenical Centre: Also known as National Christian Centre, the centre is one of the largest Christian centres in Abuja. It displays remarkable work of architecture and excellent work of craftsmanship. Visitors can see the pivotal arches leading to the altar. The altar is placed in the central point in the church and devotees can complete a rotation in just 10 minutes. Read more


Minister’s Hill: This range of hills is strategically located just beyond the outskirts of Maitama district and the panoramic view from the top covers the whole Maitama district. The Dutse range is a little further away, slightly off the Bwari road and just off Keffi-Suleja express way. This area is a sanctuary for several forms of wildlife and the most notable are the baboons.


Julie Useni Park: Julie Useni park provides visitors opportunity to see wild and domestic animals and various species of reptiles such as turtles, alligators and others. Visitors can also get to see other animals such as antelopes, rabbits, jackals and a wide variety of birds including parrots, geese, ducks, swans etc. Also available at the park are recreational facilities and refreshments.

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