Nasarawa State Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Nasarawa State with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for a safe and enjoyable trip.


Introduction to Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State is a beautiful destination located in the North Central region of Nigeria. It is bordered by Kaduna, Kogi, Benue, Taraba, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). It was created in 1996 and named after the Nasarawa River. The state is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural resources. It’s an ideal destination for tourists looking for outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxing getaway.

List of Places to Visit in Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State has many unique and exciting places to visit including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Lafia Museum
  • Nasarawa Eggon Hills
  • Akwanga Pottery
  • Gidan Makama Museum

Natural Attractions of Nasarawa State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Farin Ruwa Falls
  • Awhum Waterfalls
  • Farin Ruwa Warm Springs
  • Kudzum and Assop Falls
  • Ngwo Pine Forest

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State is a perfect destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the popular trails include:

  • Assop Falls Hike
  • Farin Ruwa Falls Hike
  • Lafia Hills Hike
  • Nasarawa Eggon Hills Hike
  • Wamba Hills Hike

Best Things to Do in Nasarawa State: Activities and Tours

There are many fun things to do in Nasarawa State, including:

  • Explore the Lafia Museum
  • Visit the Farin Ruwa Falls
  • Take a dip in the Farin Ruwa Warm Springs
  • Go hiking at the Nasarawa Eggon Hills
  • Visit the Gidan Makama Museum
  • Attend the Eggon Cultural Festival

Week-Long Itinerary for Nasarawa State

Here’s a suggested week-long itinerary for visitors to Nasarawa State:

Day Activity
1 Visit Lafia Museum and Nasarawa Eggon Hills
2 Hike to Farin Ruwa Falls
3 Take a dip in Farin Ruwa Warm Springs
4 Visit Akwanga Pottery and Gidan Makama Museum
5 Explore Awhum Waterfalls
6 Hike Lafia Hills and Wamba Hills
7 Attend Eggon Cultural Festival

Food and Drink Scene of Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State has a rich culinary culture, and visitors should try the following dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Miyan Kuka: a soup made from the powdered leaves of the baobab tree
  • Tuwo Shinkafa: a rice pudding made from ground rice
  • Danwake: a bean cake served with hot pepper sauce
  • Masa: rice cake made from rice flour

Local Beverages

  • Kunu: a non-alcoholic drink made from millet, spices, and sugar
  • Zobo: a refreshing drink made from Hibiscus flowers

Where to Stay in Nasarawa State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Nasarawa State offers a range of accommodation options for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses, such as:

  • Ta’al Conference Hotel, Lafia
  • The Palace Hotel, Lafia
  • Farin Ruwa Resort, Wamba
  • Una Hotels and Resorts, Keffi

What to Buy in Nasarawa State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Some excellent souvenirs for visitors to Nasarawa State include:

  • Pottery from Akwanga
  • Woven baskets from Nasarawa Eggon
  • Traditional masks from the Eggon people

Local Culture and Customs of Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Tiv, Alago, Gwandara, and Eggon. Visitors to the state should be respectful of local customs, including dressing modestly, asking for permission before taking pictures, and respecting traditional rulers and elders.

Best Time to Visit Nasarawa State

The best time to visit Nasarawa State is during the dry season, which runs from October to April. During this time, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities without worrying about rain or flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nasarawa State

Do:

  • Dress conservatively
  • Respect traditional rulers
  • Try local dishes
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Take photographs without permission
  • Use disrespectful language
  • Display public affection

Safety and Health

Safety in Nasarawa State

Nasarawa State is generally safe for visitors. However, travelers should be aware of the following tips:

  • Avoid walking alone at night
  • Use a reputable taxi service
  • Be aware of your surroundings

Health in Nasarawa State

Visitors to Nasarawa State should take the necessary precautions to avoid mosquito bites and carry mosquito repellent. It’s also crucial to drink bottled or boiled water to avoid contracting waterborne illnesses.

Getting to Nasarawa State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nasarawa State is easily accessible via road, air, and rail. Some transportation options include:

Airports Near Nasarawa State

  • Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja

Bus Stations Near Nasarawa State

  • Mararaba Motor Park, Abuja
  • Tafawa Balewa Motor Park, Lafia

Other Options

  • Trains run from Lagos, Ibadan, and Kano to Kaduna, from where road transport is readily available.

How to Get Around in Nasarawa State

Taxis, buses, and motorcycles are popular forms of transportation in Nasarawa State. Visitors can also hire a private car with a driver to explore the state.

Where to Go Next from Nasarawa State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nearby destinations and excursions from Nasarawa State include:

  • Abuja
  • Kaduna
  • Jos

Conclusion

Nasarawa State is a beautiful destination for visitors looking for a unique experience. With its diverse culture, beautiful natural surroundings, and delicious local cuisine, Nasarawa State is an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore Nigeria’s North Central region.



    Akwanga
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