Numan Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to eat, and cultural heritage to explore in Numan, Adamawa State. This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to this peaceful and beautiful destination in North East Nigeria.


Introduction to Numan

Numan is a serene and picturesque town located in North East Nigeria, in the heart of Adamawa State. This peaceful destination is known for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular spot for tourists seeking a different experience from the hustle and bustle of cities.

Numan is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, including rolling hills, lush forests, and freshwater streams. These natural attractions have also made the town perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing. Additionally, the cultural diversity of the people in Numan makes it a great place to explore the local customs, traditions, and cuisine.

If you’re planning a trip to Numan, this comprehensive tour guide will help you plan your itinerary to make the most of your stay in this remarkable town. Read on for a list of the top things to do, the best places to visit, and the must-try cuisines and local products to take home.

List of Places to Visit in Numan

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Numan has a rich cultural heritage, and several museums and historical sites provide a glimpse into the town’s past. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Numan:

  1. Numan Town Museum: This museum provides an insight into the lifestyle and culture of the Fulani people who are the main inhabitants of Numan. It houses some of the oldest and most significant artifacts of the Fulani people.
  2. Yelwa Museum: Yelwa Museum is a historical treasure that houses relics of the early settlers of the town. The museum also contains ancient pottery, traditional musical instruments, and weaponry used in wars and conflicts.
  3. Lamurde Hot Spring: This natural spring is located in Lamurde Local Government Area of Adamawa State, about 30 minutes drive from Numan. The spring is believed to have healing powers and is a popular spot for relaxation and picnicking.
  4. Wuro-Bokki, Jabbi-Lamba and more are exciting places in numan that showcases the rich history and culture of people of the town.

Natural Attractions of Numan: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Numan is surrounded by gorgeous landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor adventures and sightseeing. Here are some of the top natural attractions of Numan:

  1. Gotel Mountains: Gotel Mountains is the highest point in Adamawa State and offers a sprawling view of the town and its surroundings. The mountain also provides a perfect spot for camping and hiking.
  2. Lamurde Hill: Lamurde Hill is another famous attraction in Numan, known for its towering height and lush greenery. The hill is an excellent spot for photography and sightseeing.
  3. Njuwa Lake: This freshwater Lake is located in Bwatiye Land, Numan. It is an idyllic spot to do some fishing, boat rides, or picnic. The spectacular scenery surrounding the lake makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  4. Gashaka-Gumti National Park: The park is a biodiverse and wildlife haven containing over 100 mammals, 500 bird species, and fish species that can be found in the rivers within the park.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Numan

Numan is teeming with hills and mountains, making it an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the top hiking and biking routes in Numan:

  1. Gotel Mountains Trail: This trail is a moderately challenging hike that offers a panoramic view of Numan from the top of the Gotel Mountains.
  2. Lamurde Hill Trail: This trail is an easy hike, which showcases the stunning scenery surrounding Lamurde Hill.
  3. Jola/Bwassa Trail: This path is a moderately challenging hike that takes you through the scenic landscapes surrounding Numan.

Best Things to Do in Numan: Activities and Tours

Numan has a lot to offer in terms of activities and tours. Here are some of the popular things to do in Numan:

  1. Visit the Numan Town Museum
  2. Go hiking in Gotel Mountains or Lamurde Hill
  3. Take a picnic at Lamurde Hot Spring
  4. Go fishing or boat riding in Njuwa Lake
  5. Go on a wildlife safari in Gashaka-Gumti National Park
  6. Take a tour of the historical sites such as Yelwa Museum, Lamurde Hill Fort and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Numan

Here is a week-long itinerary that covers the top attractions and activities in Numan.

Day 1-3: Explore the Town and its Attractions

On the first three days, explore attractions in the town including the Numan Museum, The Gotel Mountains, Lamurde Hill, and more.

Day 4: Visit Gashaka-Gumti National Park

On day four, take a trip to Gashaka-Gumti National Park, which offers an unforgettable wildlife safari experience that you will cherish for life.

Day 5: Hiking/Biking in the Mountains

Day five will be spent hiking, biking or sightseeing. You can choose to take on the Gotel Mountains or Lamurde Hill Trail, depending on your preference.

Day 6: Take a Picnic in Lamurde Hot Spring

On day six, take a picnic to Lamurde Hot Spring. You can relax and enjoy the stunning view while unwinding in the hot spring.

Day 7: Souvenir Hunting and Departure

Spend your last day exploring the local markets for souvenirs and local products, then depart Numan in the evening.

Food and Drink Scene of Numan

Must-Try Dishes

No visit to Numan is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Here are some of the must-try dishes in Numan:

  1. Fura da Nono: A popular staple that is eaten in Numan and surrounding areas, Fura da Nono is made of ground millet, cheese, and yoghurt.
  2. Tuwo Shinkafa: This dish is made from mashed rice and served with a variety of soups or stews.
  3. Kilishi: A locally made beef jerky made from thinly sliced beef that is marinated, spiced, and dried.
  4. Nduku: A unique type of pancake that is made from rice flour
  5. Masara: Roasted maize or corn with suya spice or seasoning.

Local Beverages

The residents of Numan are known for their love of cold beverages. Here are some of the must-try local beverages in Numan:

  1. Kunu: Kunu is an indigenous drink made from ground millet or rice flour, spiced with a variety of flavors such as ginger or vanilla.
  2. Zobo: Zobo is a beverage made from hibiscus flowers and spiced with cloves, cinnamon, and ginger.
  3. Pito: Pito is a locally brewed alcoholic beverage made from fermented sorghum.

Where to Stay in Numan: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Numan has several comfortable accommodations that cater to the needs of tourists. Here are some of the options to choose from:

  1. Gotel Presidential Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Numan. The hotel offers excellent customer service and boasts a beautiful swimming pool and spa.
  2. Heritage Hotels and Suites: This hotel features a bar, a garden, and a shared lounge. The rooms are air-conditioned and offer modern comforts like Wi-Fi, satellite TV, and 24-hour room service.
  3. Yelwa Guest Inn: A cozy and affordable guesthouse located in Yelwa Ward, Numan.

What to Buy in Numan: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking to take home some souvenirs and local products, you’re in luck. Here are some of the best buys in Numan:

  1. Traditional Clothing: The Fulani people, the main tribe inhabiting Numan, are known for their exquisite traditional clothing. Buying one will be an excellent souvenir.
  2. Pounded yam flour: This flour is made from yam and is a staple food in Numan and surrounding areas. Buying it allows you to try your hand in cooking at home.
  3. Woven Baskets: The artisans of Numan are skilled in weaving beautiful baskets using natural fibers that can be beautiful souvenirs or even functional.
  4. Leather materials such as bags, purses or sandals.

Local Culture and Customs of Numan

The locals of Numan are known for their hospitality and respect for cultural traditions. It is essential to be aware of local customs to avoid any misunderstandings during your stay. Here are some customs, traditions and beliefs to note while in Numan:

  1. Dress Code: When in public or visiting local houses, it is advised to dress modestly and cover up to show respect for the people and customs of the town.
  2. Greetings: Greeting plays a significant role in the culture of the people of Numan. It is polite to greet the elders of a household before sitting down or engaging with others.
  3. Respect for Religious Places: Many inhabitants of Numan practice Islam or Christianity, and it is customary to remove shoes or cover heads when visiting holy sites as a sign of respect.

Best Time to Visit Numan

The best time to visit Numan is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. The wet season, from April to October, can be hot and humid, which may affect outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Numan

Do:

  1. Respect the culture and customs of the locals.
  2. Dress appropriately when visiting Traditional homes or sacred sites.
  3. Take advantage of the opportunity to try out the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  1. Take photographs of people without their permission.
  2. Disrespect religious sites, particularly mosques and churches.
  3. Litter or damage the environment by dumping waste indiscriminately.

Safety and Health

Safety in Numan

Numan is a relatively safe destination, but it is essential to take precautions to ensure your safety. Some safety tips include:

  1. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly outside of the town.
  2. Ensure personal items and valuables are secure and do not leave them unattended.
  3. Only use trusted and licensed transport options.

Health in Numan

Ensure to take necessary health precautions before visiting Numan. Numan is a Malaria area, and it is advisable to use prophylactics. Stay hydrated, and for any medical emergency, it’s important to reach out to the local hospital or any other facility available.

Getting to Numan: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Numan

The nearest airport to Numan is the Yola International Airport located 126 km away from Numan. From the airport, you can take either taxi or public transport to the town.

Bus Stations Near Numan

Numan has a bus station that connects it with other cities in Nigeria. The station is located in the town center, and you can get to and from the bus station using a taxi or other local transport options.

Other Options

One of the most comfortable and safe ways to reach Numan is by using a private car or renting one.

How to Get Around Numan

Numan is a small town, so it is easy to get around on foot, by bike, or by taxi.

Where to Go Next from Numan: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Adamawa State, there are several nearby destinations and excursions to consider. They include exploring Jimeta’s notable markets, visiting places like Mubi or Serti or Yola’s Adama university.

Conclusion

Numan is a fantastic destination that is perfect for tourists seeking to experience Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, cultural sites, or delicious cuisine, Numan has something unique and unforgettable to offer. Plan your next trip to Numan, and you won’t regret it!