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Practical information about Nigeria
Your trip
Nigeria has no high or low season so any time of the year is good to visit, with pleasant weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The rainy season lasts from June to October, with heavy rainfall in the south, while April and May bring intense heat. For cultural experiences, August marks the start of the festival season, featuring events like the Leboku New Yam Festival in Ugep and the grand Ofala Festival in Onitsha, and Osun Festival in Osogbo.
Everyone must take out travel and health insurance before leaving for Nigeria. Whether Nigeria is covered by your policy differs per insurance policy. In most cases this will not be a problem. At CultureRoad we recommend: IATI Travel Insurance, a reliable company that has different insurance options that fits your personal needs. Book now to get a 5% discount!
Yes, most travelers need a visa to enter Nigeria. You can apply for it yourself at the embassy, or we can help you arrange the visa.
Nigeria observes West Africa Time (WAT), which is UTC+01:00. Nigeria has no difference between summer and winter time.
– The official currency is the Nigerian Naira (NGN). Currency exchange services are available at banks, exchange bureaus, and airports. It’s advisable to carry cash, as card payments may not be accepted in all areas. You can exchange money through your guide or at trusted local exchange points. For the latest exchange rate, we suggest checking a reliable website such as www.xchange.com.
– If you’re traveling on a budget, you can expect to spend around $40 per day. However, if you would like to buy souvenirs, it is best to bring some extra.
– Street food or fast food typically costs between $1 and $5 and Soda is generally around € 1, while casual dining or local restaurants range from $5 to $15. For a more upscale experience, mid-range restaurants can cost between $15 and $30 per meal. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and research activities and costs to create a budget that suits your preferences.
We are always available to advise you on booking a flight for a tour with us. However, most customers prefer to book their flights themselves as this is often the most economic option and allows for some flexibility according to your personal preferences.
Practical information
For Nigeria there are two associated plug types, types D and G. Plug type D is the plug which has three round pins in a triangular pattern and plug type G is the plug which has three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern. Nigeria operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50Hz.
Yes, internet is widely available in Nigeria. For local calls and mobile data, it’s best to buy a Nigerian SIM card. Keep in mind that roaming with your own provider is often expensive.
Local culture
Nigeria has a rich and diverse culture with customs that vary by region. Here are a few helpful cultural tips:
– Respect for elders is important, and greetings often involve shaking hands and asking about well-being.
– In the northern Muslim areas, modest dress covering arms and legs is expected, while urban centers have more diverse clothing styles.
– Nigerians are known for their hospitality, and it’s polite to accept food or drink when offered.
– Religion plays a major role and traditional beliefs shaping many customs. Being respectful of local traditions will ensure a positive experience in Nigeria.
Some areas of Nigeria are safe, while others may pose challenges. While the country has made progress, corruption remains a significant issue in certain regions. The areas in Nigeria that we visit are those where we feel comfortable and safe to bring our guests. If the situation changes, we will respond promptly to ensure safety. We ask for your flexibility in these matters.
Here are a few safety measures to keep in mind:
– If you plan to explore the big cities on your own, please discuss this with the guide first.
– Avoid wearing expensive jewelry or watches, and leave them at home.
– We do not share the itinerary or the name of the hotel with anyone. While it’s often out of curiosity that people ask, we prefer not to disclose this information for safety reasons.
In general, you can take photos freely. However, there are a few things to keep in mind.
– Always ask permission before taking a photo of a person.
– Do not take pictures of military personnel, military installations, police officers or government buildings.
Food plays a central role in Nigerian culture. The main sources of protein are seafood, beef, poultry, and goat meat. Due to the country’s diverse cultures and regions, the food varies widely. In the southern regions, a variety of soups are made with a base of tomatoes, onions, red pepper, and palm oil, often combined with vegetables like okra and either meat or fish. Rice is commonly eaten across the country.
Nigeria has a tropical climate, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are essential to stay cool and comfortable. Cotton and linen are good choices. Consider wearing light-colored clothing to reflect the sun’s rays. In the mainly Muslim regions in the north of Nigeria, it’s respectful for both men and women to dress modestly, covering their arms and legs. On the other hand, in cities like Lagos or Abuja, you’ll notice a variety of clothing styles, but it’s still recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local communities.
Nigeria is a developing country with some improvements in recent years, but healthcare outcomes are still a significant concern. Healthcare services can be limited, and hygiene standards may not be on par with those in Western countries. It’s important to be prepared by carrying items like hand sanitizers, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
We advise you always to the last (health) risk programs for the region where you’re going to visit. Check with your own government for the latest info about your destination.