Jos, Nigeria Travel Guide

Discover the cool highlands of Jos, Nigeria, where nature's beauty meets rich cultural heritage and adventure awaits around every corner.

Nestled in the heart of Nigeria, Jos is a city that offers a unique blend of scenic beauty, rich culture, and pleasant weather. Known for its cool climate, thanks to its elevation on the Jos Plateau, the city provides a refreshing escape from the tropical heat typical of most Nigerian cities. Its landscape is adorned with lush greenery, rolling hills, and fascinating rock formations that make it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Jos is home to several cultural landmarks and historical sites that offer a glimpse into Nigeria's diverse heritage. The Jos Museum, one of the oldest in the country, houses a remarkable collection of artifacts and exhibits that chronicle the history and traditions of the various ethnic groups in the region. The nearby Nok Village is another must-visit for history buffs, where you can explore ancient terracotta sculptures that date back to 500 BC. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Jos provides plenty of options. The Shere Hills are perfect for hiking and offer panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The Jos Wildlife Park is another popular attraction, where you can see various species of animals in a natural setting. Additionally, the Assop Falls, just a short drive from the city, is a picturesque spot ideal for picnics and relaxation. The city's vibrant market scene is also worth exploring. The Jos Main Market is a bustling hub where you can find a wide range of local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce. The city's culinary scene is equally diverse, offering a mix of traditional Nigerian dishes and international cuisine. A visit to Jos wouldn't be complete without trying some local specialties, such as the spicy suya (grilled meat skewers) and pounded yam with egusi soup.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Jos.

Dress in layers to accommodate the cool mornings and warmer afternoons typical of Jos' climate.
Visit the Jos Museum early in the day to avoid crowds and have ample time to explore.
Hire a local guide for hiking trips to Shere Hills to ensure you don’t miss any scenic spots.
Try to visit the Jos Wildlife Park during feeding times for a better chance to see the animals active.
Bring cash for purchases at the Jos Main Market, as not all vendors accept credit cards.

Explore Jos: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Jos

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Mees Palace

Explore the lush greenery and vibrant cinema experience at Mees Palace, a unique park and movie theater in the heart of Jos, Plateau.

4.2

Jos Wildlife Park

Discover the beauty of nature at Jos Wildlife Park, a perfect blend of wildlife adventure and serene landscapes in Nigeria's Plateau region.

3.5

Jos Museum and Zoo

Explore the heritage and wildlife of Nigeria at Jos Museum and Zoo, where culture meets nature in a captivating setting.

3.8

Rekta Park & Garden

Explore the beauty and serenity of Rekta Park & Garden in Jos, Plateau, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and families alike.

4.1

Best landmarks in Jos

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Mees Palace

Explore the lush greenery and cinematic delights of Mees Palace, a captivating park and movie theater in the heart of Jos, Plateau State.

4.2

Varlaine Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jos at Varlaine Lounge, where relaxation meets entertainment in a stylish atmosphere.

4.2

Steffan Hotel & Suites

Experience comfort and hospitality at Steffan Hotel & Suites, your gateway to exploring the scenic beauty of Jos, Plateau State.

3.7

Silk Suites

Experience elegance and comfort at Silk Suites, a premier hotel in Jos, Nigeria, perfect for relaxation and exploration of the Plateau State.

4.2

Best restaurants in Jos

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Pizza and Ice Cream Club

Discover the ultimate culinary delight at Pizza and Ice Cream Club in Jos—where every bite brings joy!

4.3

Jenny Kitchen Jos

Experience the rich flavors of Nigeria at Jenny Kitchen Jos – where local ingredients meet global cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.

3.9

The Net Café

Discover the delightful flavors at The Net Café in Jos—your perfect breakfast spot for a taste of local and international cuisine.

4.1

Madam Calabar Restaurant

Experience authentic Nigerian cuisine at Madam Calabar Restaurant in Jos – where every meal tells a story.

3.8

Best bars in Jos

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Astoria Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Astoria Lounge in Jos, where local flavors meet a lively atmosphere for unforgettable evenings.

3.8

Treasure lounge and Grills Jos

Experience a culinary delight at Treasure Lounge and Grills in Jos, where vibrant flavors and a cozy atmosphere come together.

4.3

De Bridge Bar & Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife and diverse drink offerings at De Bridge Bar & Club in Jos, a must-visit for an unforgettable experience in Plateau.

4.0

Barcardi Restaurant and Cafè #barcardijos

Experience the best of local and international flavors at Barcardi Restaurant and Café, a culinary gem in the heart of Jos.

4.4

Best nightclubs in Jos

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Varlaine Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Jos at Varlaine Lounge, where music, cocktails, and camaraderie blend seamlessly for unforgettable nights.

4.2

De Bridge Bar & Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Jos at De Bridge Bar & Club, where great drinks, music, and unforgettable moments await.

4.0

Hideout lounge

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Hideout Lounge in Jos, where stylish ambiance meets delightful drinks and live entertainment.

4.4

K Lounge

Experience the vibrant nightlife at K Lounge in Jos, Plateau, where great drinks and lively music create unforgettable moments.

3.7

Best shops in Jos

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Onigbinde Store

Discover the best of local groceries and unique products at Onigbinde Store in Jos, Nigeria – a shopper's paradise in Plateau State.

4.1

Shop

Explore the vibrant shopping mall in Jos, a perfect blend of local culture, retail variety, and delicious cuisine in Plateau State.

3.6

Miniso

Explore Miniso in Jos for a trendy shopping experience with affordable prices and stylish products that cater to every taste.

4.4

Tonero Collection

Experience the vibrant fashion scene at Tonero Collection, a must-visit clothing store in Jos, Plateau, offering unique styles and local craftsmanship.

4.4

Explore Jos on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Jos, mapped for you.

Jos Essentials

Jos is located in the Plateau State of Nigeria. The nearest major airport is Yakubu Gowon Airport, which is approximately 40 kilometers from the city center. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a pre-arranged hotel shuttle to reach your destination. Alternatively, you can fly into Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja, which is about 275 kilometers away, and then take a bus or hire a private car to Jos. The road journey from Abuja to Jos typically takes around 4-5 hours.
Within Jos, you have several options for getting around. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Motorcycle taxis, known locally as 'Okadas', are also common but are generally considered less safe. There are also minibus services that operate on fixed routes and are a more affordable option. Car rental services are available for those who prefer to drive themselves, but be cautious of traffic conditions and local driving habits.
The official currency in Nigeria is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially when visiting smaller establishments or markets. ATMs are available throughout Jos, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to more remote areas. Foreign currency can be exchanged at banks or licensed exchange bureaus.
While Jos is generally a welcoming city, it is important to stay vigilant. Areas like Terminus Market and some parts of Angwan Rukuba have higher crime rates, especially targeting tourists. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. Be cautious when using ATMs and avoid displaying large amounts of cash or valuable items in public. For added safety, use registered taxis or ride-hailing services rather than unmarked vehicles.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. Jos University Teaching Hospital and Plateau State Specialist Hospital are the main hospitals in the city and provide emergency medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts and important information with you.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or traditional areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Remove your shoes and cover your head when entering mosques and some churches. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transport. Don't argue with drivers or conductors. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A friendly 'Good morning' or 'Good afternoon' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Jos like a local, visit the local markets such as Terminus Market and Katako Market, where you can buy fresh produce and traditional crafts. Engage with locals; they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss visiting attractions like the National Museum, Jos Wildlife Park, and Shere Hills for hiking. For a unique experience, attend a local festival such as the Nzem Berom, which showcases traditional dances, music, and attire.

When is the best time to visit Jos?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Jos

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Jos. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloBarka da zuwa
  [Bar-ka da zu-wa]
- GoodbyeSai an jima
  [Sai an ji-ma]
- YesEh
  [Eh]
- NoA'a
  [A-a]
- Please/You're welcomeDa so
  [Da so]
- Thank youNagode
  [Na-go-de]
- Excuse me/SorrySamu
  [Sa-mu]
- How are you?Yaya zaka zo?
  [Ya-ya za-ka zo?]
- Fine. And you?Lafiya. Kana lafiya?
  [La-fi-ya. Ka-na la-fi-ya?]
- Do you speak English?Kana iya fada Turanci?
  [Ka-na i-ya fa-da Tu-ran-chi?]
- I don't understandBa na fahimci
  [Ba na fa-him-chi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseIna son duba menu, don Allah
  [I-na son du-ba me-nu, don Al-lah]
- I don't eat meatBa na bi da nyama
  [Ba na bi da nya-ma]
- Cheers!Barka da sharara
  [Bar-ka da sha-ra-ra]
- I would like to pay, pleaseIna son yiwa, don Allah
  [I-na son yi-wa, don Al-lah]
- Help!Mai taimaka!
  [Mai tai-ma-ka!]
- Go away!Bar ka huta!
  [Bar ka hu-ta!]
- Call the Police!Kira yan sanda!
  [Ki-ra yan san-da!]
- Call a doctor!Kira tabarci!
  [Ki-ra ta-bar-chi!]
- I'm lostNan da ni
  [Nan da ni]
- I'm illNan da na raba
  [Nan da na ra-ba]
- I'd like to buy...Ina son saye...
  [I-na son sa-ye...]
- I'm just lookingBan taba so
  [Ban ta-ba so]
- How much is it?Yaya fa?
  [Ya-ya fa?]
- That's too expensiveWai wuta da fiye
  [Wai wu-ta da fi-ye]
- Can you lower the price?Zaka yin murabus
  [Za-ka yi-n mu-ra-bus]
- What time is it?Yaya lokaci ne?
  [Ya-ya lo-ka-ci ne?]
- It's one o'clockYa lasu
  [Ya la-su]
- Half past (10)Wani da rabi
  [Wa-ni da ra-bi]
- MorningTafiya
  [Ta-fi-ya]
- AfternoonFirin rai
  [Fi-rin ra-i]
- EveningYamma
  [Yam-ma]
- YesterdayJibi
  [Ji-bi]
- TodayYau
  [Yau]
- TomorrowGobe
  [Go-be]
- 1Daya
  [Da-ya]
- 2Biyu
  [Bi-yu]
- 3Uku
  [U-ku]
- 4Huɗu
  [Hu-du]
- 5Biwar
  [Bi-war]
- 6Shida
  [Shi-da]
- 7Bakwai
  [Ba-kwai]
- 8Takwas
  [Tak-was]
- 9Tara
  [Ta-ra]
- 10Goma
  [Go-ma]
- Where's a/the...?Ina...?
  [I-na...?]
- What's the address?Yaya adireshin ne?
  [Ya-ya a-di-re-shin ne?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Zaka nuna min (a cikin taswira)?
  [Za-ka nu-na min (a ci-kin tas-wi-ra)?]
- When's the next (bus)?Wani lokaci a nan?
  [Wa-ni lo-ka-ci a nan?]
- A ticket (to ....)Takiti (zuwa ....)
  [Ta-ki-ti (zu-wa ....)]

History of Jos

Jos, located in the central part of Nigeria, is believed to have been settled by the Nok people around 1000 BC. The Nok civilization is renowned for its advanced terracotta sculptures and early iron smelting technology. Their artifacts provide a glimpse into the early culture and technological advancements of the region.
The arrival of British colonizers in the early 20th century marked the beginning of significant changes in Jos. The British discovered vast deposits of tin in the region, leading to the establishment of extensive mining operations. This era saw the influx of foreigners and the development of infrastructure, including railways and roads, to facilitate the export of tin.
After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, Jos continued to develop as a multicultural city. It became a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including the Berom, Afizere, and Anaguta, as well as Hausa, Fulani, and Igbo migrants. This rich ethnic diversity contributed to the city's unique cultural tapestry.
Jos is also known for its religious diversity, with a significant presence of both Christianity and Islam. The city has numerous churches, mosques, and religious institutions. Notable among them is the St. Luke's Cathedral and the Jos Central Mosque, which are important landmarks and centers of worship.
Jos has a reputation as an educational hub, with institutions like the University of Jos, established in 1975, playing a pivotal role in higher education. The National Museum in Jos, founded in 1952, is one of Nigeria's foremost cultural institutions, showcasing artifacts from the Nok culture and other important historical treasures.
In recent decades, Jos has experienced periods of civil unrest and violence, largely attributed to ethnic and religious tensions. The Jos Crisis, particularly in the early 2000s, resulted in significant loss of life and property. These events have had a lasting impact on the social and economic landscape of the city.
Despite its challenges, Jos continues to be an important economic center in Nigeria. The city's economy is supported by agriculture, mining, and tourism. Its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and attractions like the Jos Wildlife Park and Shere Hills make it a popular destination for tourists seeking to explore Nigeria's natural beauty.