Zamfara State Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Zamfara State with this comprehensive travel guide, covering places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to Zamfara State

Located in the North West of Nigeria, Zamfara State is a picturesque destination that offers visitors a variety of tourist attractions. Its landscape is dotted with mountains, valleys, and forests, and the state is home to a rich cultural heritage. This travel guide will provide tourists with a comprehensive list of places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and what to eat in Zamfara State.

List of Places to Visit in Zamfara State

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Kanta Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts from the Sokoto Caliphate, the pre-colonial Islamic state that ruled the region. Visitors can see weapons, textiles, and other traditional objects from the era.
  • Gidan Jaja: This historical palace was built in the 18th century by the first Muslim emir of Zamfara, Muhammadu Na’iya. The palace is made of mud-brick and wooden poles and exemplifies traditional Hausa architecture.
  • Zamfara State Government House: This impressive building is the seat of government in Zamfara State. It was designed and built by a Chinese construction company and is a symbol of the state’s growing economy and infrastructure.

Natural Attractions of Zamfara State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Owala River: This river is a popular spot for fishing and water sports. Visitors can also enjoy a serene picnic on the river bank.
  • Kurmin Giwa Hills: These hills are a great destination for hiking, trekking and camping. Visitors can enjoy scenic views while exploring the hills.
  • Kiyawa Game Reserve: This nature reserve is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can go on game drives and spot species like antelopes, baboons, and hyenas.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Zamfara State

  • Dogon Ruwa Waterfall Trail: This trail is a popular hiking route that takes visitors past the Dogon Ruwa Waterfall. The trail is moderately difficult and is surrounded by lush vegetation.
  • Rukuwa Trail: This biking trail is perfect for mountain biking enthusiasts. The trail winds up the Rukuwa hills and offers scenic views of the surrounding areas.
  • Gidan Made Hill Trail: This hiking trail starts from the Gidan Made village and leads visitors up to the Gidan Made hills. The trail is best hiked early in the morning when the weather is cool.

Best Things to Do in Zamfara State: Activities and Tours

  • Wunti Market: This market is a great place to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs like traditional textiles and handicrafts. Visitors can also try local cuisine at the food stalls in the market.
  • Fishing at Owala River: Visitors can go fishing at the Owala River and catch fish like tilapia and catfish.
  • Traditional Dances: Visitors can witness traditional dances by local troupes like the Danmaliki dance and the Dansala dance.

Week-Long Itinerary for Zamfara State

Day Activity
1 Visit Kanta Museum and Gidan Jaja
2 Explore Kurmin Giwa Hills
3 Go on a game drive in Kiyawa Game Reserve
4 Hike the Dogon Ruwa Waterfall Trail
5 Visit the Wunti Market and try local cuisine
6 Go fishing at Owala River
7 Witness traditional dances by local troupes

Food and Drink Scene of Zamfara State

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tuwo Shinkafa: This is a local dish made of rice flour and eaten with a soup made of vegetables, meat, or fish.
  • Fura da Nono: This mixture of yoghurt and millet is a traditional breakfast dish in Zamfara State.
  • Suya: This grilled meat (beef, chicken or mutton) is a popular street food in Nigeria and can be found in Zamfara State as well.

Local Beverages

  • Kunu: This is a traditional non-alcoholic drink made of groundnuts or millet.
  • Zobo: This is a refreshing drink made of hibiscus flowers and ginger.
  • Palm Wine: This is an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees and is a popular local drink.

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

  • Crystal Suites: This hotel is located in the heart of Gusau, the capital city of Zamfara State. It offers modern amenities and comfortable accommodation.
  • New Capital Hotel: This hotel is situated in the city center and offers spacious rooms and an on-site restaurant.
  • Zamfara Hotel: This hotel is located in the outskirts of the city and offers quiet and peaceful surroundings.

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

  • Traditional Textiles: Visitors can buy colorful and unique textiles like the ‘aso-oke’ cloth made of hand-woven cotton.

Local Culture and Customs of Zamfara State

Zamfara State is primarily a Muslim state, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. It is important to dress modestly and remove shoes before entering mosques. Visitors should also avoid public displays of affection.

Best Time to Visit Zamfara State

The best time to visit Zamfara State is during the dry season, from November to February. The weather is cool and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Zamfara State

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs and traditions.
  • Bargain at the local markets to get the best prices.
  • Hire a guide when going on hiking and biking trails.

Don’t:

  • Public displays of affection are not appreciated in Zamfara State.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Eat food from street vendors unless the food is being prepared in front of you.

Safety and Health

Safety in Zamfara State

Zamfara State is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should take precautions against petty crime. Avoid walking alone at night and do not carry valuables in crowded places.

Health in Zamfara State

Visitors should ensure that they are up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Zamfara State. It is also recommended to take precautions against mosquito bites by using insect repellent and wearing long-sleeved clothing.

Getting to Zamfara State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Zamfara State

The Gusau Airport is the main airport in Zamfara State, but it only offers domestic flights. The nearest international airport is the Malam Aminu Kano International Airport in Kano State, which is about 4 hours away by road.

Bus Stations Near Zamfara State

The main bus station in Zamfara State is the Maiha Bus Station, which offers inter-state and intra-state services. Visitors can take a bus from Lagos or Abuja to Zamfara State.

Other Options

Visitors can also hire a car and drive to Zamfara State from neighboring states. Taxis and private hire cars are also available in the major cities.

How to Get Around in Zamfara State

Taxis and motorcycle taxis (okadas) are the popular modes of transport in Zamfara State. Visitors can also rent a car from one of the car rental companies in the cities.

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

  • Kano State: This state is the commercial hub of Northern Nigeria and offers a variety of tourist attractions like the Emir’s Palace and the Kano City Walls.
  • Sokoto State: This state was once the seat of the Sokoto Caliphate and is home to a variety of historical attractions like the Sultan’s Palace and the Waziri Junaidu History and Culture Bureau.

Conclusion

Zamfara State is a hidden gem in Nigeria and offers visitors a variety of cultural, natural, and historical attractions. From museums and historical palaces to outdoor adventures and spectacular scenery, Zamfara State is a must-see destination for any traveler to Nigeria.

Baobab trees in Zamfara Baobab trees in Zamfara