About Place
- "A city with a cool climate and a warm welcome."
- "The Switzerland of Nigeria."
- "A rich tapestry of cultures and history."
Reasons to Visit
- Jos is known for its cool and temperate climate, earning it the nickname "The Switzerland of Nigeria," providing a refreshing escape from the typical tropical weather found in most parts of Nigeria.
- The city is a cultural melting pot, home to over 40 ethnic groups, and is renowned for its vibrant festivals, traditional arts, and crafts. The Jos Museum, one of the oldest in Nigeria, showcases a rich collection of cultural artifacts.
- Jos offers stunning natural landscapes, including the Shere Hills with breathtaking views and hiking opportunities, and the Jos Wildlife Park, which attracts nature enthusiasts with its diverse wildlife.
Visa
- From the US, UK, and EU : Travelers need a visa to enter Nigeria. The visa can be obtained through the Nigerian embassy or consulate in their respective countries. A valid passport, completed visa application form, proof of accommodation, and return ticket are required.
- From African countries : Citizens of ECOWAS member countries do not require a visa to enter Nigeria. Other African nationals need to apply for a visa.
- From Asia and other continents : Most countries require a visa. The application process is similar, involving submission of necessary documents and sometimes an interview at the Nigerian embassy or consulate.
Travel Expenses
- Travel to & from destination :
- Round-trip airfare from Lagos to Jos : Approximately $150 per person
- Total for two people : $300
- Hotel cost :
- Average cost per night at Hill Station Hotel : $70
- Total for three nights : $210
- Food cost :
- Average cost per meal per person : $10
- Total for two people for six meals : $120
- Activity cost :
- Jos Museum : $5 per person
- Jos Wildlife Park : $10 per person
- Shere Hills : Free
- Kurra Falls : $5 per person
- Naraguta Pottery Village : Free
- Apata Rock : Free
- Total for activities : $40
- Near destination travel cost :
- Car rental for three days : $60 per day
- Total for three days : $180
Total Estimated Cost : $850
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploration Arrive in Jos by mid-morning and check into your hotel, such as the Hill Station Hotel, known for its historic charm and central location. Start your day with a visit to the Jos Museum, open from 10 AM to 4 PM, where you can explore the fascinating collection of Nok terracotta sculptures and other artifacts. For lunch, head to Southern Fried Chicken, which offers a variety of local and international dishes. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the Jos Wildlife Park from 2 PM to 6 PM to see a variety of animals in their natural habitat. For dinner, try AfriOne, a popular spot for Nigerian cuisine, and spend the evening enjoying a peaceful walk in the hotel's garden.
Day 2 : Nature and Adventure Begin your day early with a trip to the Shere Hills, departing at 7 AM. Enjoy hiking and taking in the panoramic views until 12 PM. Return to Jos for lunch at City Diner, known for its delicious jollof rice and grilled chicken. In the afternoon, visit the Kurra Falls from 2 PM to 5 PM, where you can relax and enjoy the scenic beauty. For dinner, visit Net Café, a cozy restaurant serving a mix of local and continental dishes. Spend the evening at the Jos Polo Club, enjoying the lively atmosphere and perhaps watching a polo match.
Day 3 : Cultural Immersion After breakfast, head to the traditional pottery village of Naraguta at 9 AM, where you can see artisans at work and even try your hand at pottery until 12 PM. Have lunch at Tin City Café, which offers a range of Nigerian delicacies. In the afternoon, explore the Apata Rock from 2 PM to 4 PM, a historic site offering great views and photo opportunities. For dinner, dine at Jemima's Place, known for its tasty pounded yam and egusi soup. End your trip with a visit to the Solomon Lar Amusement Park for some evening relaxation and entertainment.
Safety Tips
- Always carry a copy of your identification and visa.
- Keep your valuables secure and avoid displaying them publicly.
- Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid withdrawing large sums of money.
- Stay informed about local news and avoid areas with political unrest.
- Use registered taxis or car rental services for transportation.
- Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
- Drink bottled water and ensure food is properly cooked.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Have emergency contacts saved on your phone.
- Purchase travel insurance for medical and travel emergencies.
Flights
- Lagos to Jos : Arik Air, 1 hour, approx. $150 round trip
- Abuja to Jos : Overland Airways, 45 minutes, approx. $100 round trip
Hotels
- Hill Station Hotel
- Plateau Hotel
- Crest Hotel & Garden
- Steffan Hotel
- Qualer Apartments and Hotels
Contacts
- Indian Embassy, Abuja, Nigeria : +234 810 254 1252
- Police (Nigeria) : 112
- Ambulance (Nigeria) : 112
- Firefighters (Nigeria) : 112
Country
Closet Airport
- Yakubu Gowon Airport (JOS)
Nearest City
- Abuja
Heritage Sites
- Jos Museum
Airlines
- Arik Air
- Overland Airways
Currency
- Nigerian Naira (NGN)
Languages Spoken
- Hausa
- Berom
- English
Real Story
The Jos Crisis of 2001
In September 2001, Jos experienced a significant and tragic event that left a lasting impact on the city's history. Known as the Jos Crisis, this violent conflict erupted due to long-standing tensions between different ethnic and religious groups in the city. The immediate cause was a disagreement between a Christian woman and a Muslim man at a public space, which quickly escalated into widespread violence.
The underlying causes of the conflict were deep-rooted and complex, involving issues of political representation, land ownership, and economic disparities. Jos, with its diverse population of Christians and Muslims, had experienced periods of peaceful coexistence, but also underlying tensions that occasionally flared up.
During the crisis, numerous properties were destroyed, and many lives were lost. The violence spread rapidly, affecting various parts of the city and causing significant displacement of people. The Nigerian government deployed security forces to restore order, but the aftermath of the crisis left a community deeply scarred and mistrustful.
Efforts have been made to address the root causes of the conflict and promote reconciliation among the different groups in Jos. Various peacebuilding initiatives and dialogues have been undertaken to foster understanding and coexistence. The Jos Crisis of 2001 serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of addressing social and political issues to prevent such conflicts in the future.
Cuisine
Jos offers a delightful array of local and unique cuisine that reflects its cultural diversity. The city is known for its hearty and flavorful dishes, such as pounded yam and egusi soup, a rich and savory combination of ground melon seeds and leafy greens. Another popular dish is jollof rice, a one-pot dish made with rice, tomatoes, and various spices, often served with grilled chicken or fish. Suya, a spicy skewered meat, is a favorite street food that provides a delicious and convenient snack for visitors exploring the city. Local markets in Jos also offer fresh fruits and vegetables, providing a taste of the region's agricultural bounty.
Culture and History
Jos, a city with a diverse cultural heritage, is a fascinating blend of traditions and modernity. The city is home to over 40 ethnic groups, each contributing to the rich cultural tapestry. Festivals, music, dance, and arts are integral parts of life in Jos. The Jos Museum, established in 1952, plays a pivotal role in preserving and showcasing the cultural artifacts and history of the region. The museum's collection includes Nok terracotta sculptures, which are over 2,000 years old and provide insight into ancient African civilizations.
The traditional crafts of Jos, particularly pottery and weaving, are renowned for their quality and beauty. The Naraguta Pottery Village is a testament to the city's enduring craft traditions, where artisans create intricate and functional pottery using age-old techniques.
Music and dance are also central to the cultural life of Jos. The city has produced several notable musicians and serves as a hub for traditional and contemporary music. Festivals such as the Nzem Berom festival celebrate the heritage of the Berom people through music, dance, and traditional attire.
Jos's culinary scene reflects its cultural diversity, with a wide range of traditional Nigerian dishes available. Staples such as jollof rice, pounded yam, and egusi soup are popular, and the local markets offer fresh produce and ingredients unique to the region.