Borno State Travel Guide

This article is a comprehensive tour guide for Borno State in Nigeria's North East region, including places to visit, activities, food, lodging options, and safety information for travelers.


Introduction to Borno State

Located in the North East region of Nigeria, Borno State is a stunning destination for travelers looking to experience the rich culture and natural beauty of Nigeria. With a population of over 4 million people, Borno State is home to diverse ethnic groups, including Kanuri, Babur, and Shuwa Arab. The capital city of Borno State is Maiduguri, which serves as a hub for cultural and commercial activities in the region.

List of Places to Visit in Borno State

Travelers to Borno State will be captivated by the array of fascinating cultural, historical, and natural attractions to explore. Here is a list of must-visit places in Borno State:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shehu’s Palace: Located in the heart of Maiduguri, Shehu’s Palace is a cultural and historic landmark representing the Kanuri Empire. It is the birthplace of the Shehu of Borno, an influential traditional ruler in the region. The palace’s architectural design is a must-see for travelers, while visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the traditions and customs of the Kanuri people.

  • Borno State Museum: This museum serves as a repository of artifacts and cultural materials representing various ethnic groups in the region. Visitors can explore the museum’s collections of traditional clothing, musical instruments, pottery, and other historical items.

  • Kanuri Cultural Center: Located in Maiduguri, the Kanuri Cultural Center is a showcase for Kanuri art, music, dance, and other cultural works. Visitors to the center can witness cultural performances by local artists, learn about the Kanuri people’s history and folklore, and purchase authentic traditional arts and crafts.

Natural Attractions of Borno State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mandara Mountains: The Mandara Mountains are a scenic wonder, offering a vast expanse of hilly terrain that challenges adventurers to intricate hiking trails leading to stunning panoramic views. This area is well-known for its biodiversity, and visitors can observe an array of wildlife, including elephants, baboons, and rock hyrax.

  • Lake Chad: Located on Borno State’s northeastern border with Chad, Lake Chad is an ideal destination for a day trip or an extended stay. The lake’s vast expanse and tranquil waters offer visitors opportunities for boating, fishing, and bird-watching. The lake’s birdlife is fascinating and includes several species of eagles, kingfishers, herons, and storks.

  • Ngala Game Reserve: This wildlife reserve encompasses an area of over 4,000 square kilometers, serving as home to several rare and endangered species. Visitors can take a guided tour of the reserve, which offers sightings of lions, elephants, hyenas, and other big game.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Borno State

Borno State boasts several hiking and biking routes suitable for adventurers of all levels. Hiking through the Mandara Mountains offers stunning panoramic views, a glimpse into the diverse plant and animal life of the region. The gentle hills and rugged terrain of the savannah grasslands of Rann offers an ideal location for mountain biking and trekking enthusiasts.

Best Things to Do in Borno State: Activities and Tours

  • Take a cultural tour of Maiduguri: Visitors can take guided tours of Maiduguri and learn about the town’s history and culture. The tour includes stops at historic landmarks, craft centers, and other cultural attractions.

  • Visit a local market: Borno State’s local markets offer an opportunity to purchase authentic traditional arts and crafts, while also sampling local Nigerian cuisine.

  • Take a boat trip: Visitors can take a boat trip on Lake Chad, enjoying the tranquil waters and observing birdlife and other wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Borno State

Day 1: Explore Maiduguri and visit Shehu’s Palace, Borno State Museum, and the Kanuri Cultural Center.

Day 2: Go on a guided hike in the Mandara Mountains, stopping at the Swizzling Springs for a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Take a day trip to Lake Chad and take a boat trip to observe birdlife and other wildlife.

Day 4: Visit the Ngala Game Reserve and take a guided tour of the park.

Day 5: Explore the markets of Borno State, sample local dishes, and purchase traditional arts and crafts.

Day 6: Take a guided tour of Rann, an area in northern Borno State known for its savannah grasslands and wildlife.

Day 7: Depart Borno State.

Food and Drink Scene of Borno State

Must-Try Dishes

  • Suya: This grilled skewer of meat is a popular Nigerian fast food consisting of beef or chicken that’s marinated in spices and served on a stick.

  • Tuwo Shikafa and Miyan Geda: This staple meal of the Kanuri people involves a heavy starch known as Tuwo, accompanied by a soup called Miyan Geda, which is made with okra, spices, and meat.

  • Masa: This is a traditional breakfast pastry made from rice flour and served with steamed bean pudding called Danwake.

Local Beverages

  • Kunun Tsamiya: This refreshing drink made from rice and groundnut is a favorite in Borno State, perfect for hot afternoons.

  • Soborodo: This is a traditional beverage made from the calyx of the roselle plant and has a tart taste that serves as an excellent thirst quencher.

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

Borno State offers a range of accommodation options that cater to all types of travelers. Options range from luxury hotels to budget guesthouses.

Some popular hotels in Borno State include the Greenspond Hotel, Ngala Palace Hotel, and Yerwa Grand Hotel. Budget guesthouses such as Jannah Guest House, Cedar Lodge Hotel, and The Prestige Hotel are also available.

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

Visitors should consider purchasing handmade crafts, pottery, and traditional Kanuri dresses as souvenirs. Artwork from local artists is also a popular choice. The Borno State Museum gift shop is an excellent place to purchase these items.

Local Culture and Customs of Borno State

Nigeria’s northern region is home to some of the country’s most unique and diverse customs and cultures. In Borno State, visitors will experience the rich culture of the Kanuri people, which has influenced the region’s art, music, dressing, and cuisine. Visitors should respect the local customs and traditions while visiting, dressing modestly and using polite language.

Best Time to Visit Borno State

The best time to visit Borno State is between November and April, during the dry season. Temperatures during these months are mild, with an average temperature of 25°C, making it the ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, sight-seeing, and wildlife watching.

Do’s and Don’ts of Borno State

Do:

  • Dress modestly, and cover up shoulders and knees when visiting religious and cultural sites.

  • Always ask before taking photographs of locals or their property.

  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting the region.

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing when visiting local markets or cultural sites.

  • Engage in illegal activities or carry illegal drugs.

  • Disrespect locals or their beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Borno State

Borno State, like many regions in northern Nigeria, has experienced some security challenges, including terrorism and banditry. Travelers should exercise caution when visiting the region, particularly in rural and border areas. Avoid traveling after dark, and stay informed of the latest security developments when planning trips to the area.

Health in Borno State

Visitors to Borno State should take proper health precautions, including vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, and polio. Mosquito-borne diseases such as malaria are prevalent in the region, so it’s essential to use mosquito repellent and wear long-sleeved clothing when outdoors.

Getting to Borno State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Borno State is accessible by air, road, and rail.

Airports Near Borno State

Maiduguri International Airport serves as the main airport for visitors to Borno State, with daily flights to several cities in Nigeria.

Bus Stations Near Borno State

There are several bus stations across Borno State, with daily buses connecting visitors to destinations across the region.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Borno State via rail or private car.

How to Get Around in Borno State

The most convenient way to get around Borno State is by hiring a car or taxi. Visitors can also use public transportation such as buses and shared taxis, but these are often crowded and less reliable than private transportation.

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

Visitors looking to explore other regions of Nigeria can travel to Kaduna State, Yobe State, or Adamawa State, all of which are located nearby. Also, adventurous travelers can explore other parts of West Africa, such as Niger, Cameroon, or Chad.

Conclusion

Borno State is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Nigeria’s North East region. Visitors will enjoy the array of cultural, natural, and scenic attractions, outdoor adventures, and traditional cuisine that Borno State offers. A trip to Borno State is a journey through the region’s past and present, providing a fascinating lesson in history, culture and unforgettable experiences.