Nasarawa

stateNigeria, Africa

Nasarawa is a STATE in Nigeria, Africa.

Nasarawa, often referred to as the 'Home of Solid Minerals,' is a vibrant subdivision in Nigeria known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality. Nestled in the North-Central region, Nasarawa offers a unique blend of traditional and modern experiences. Visitors can explore the Farin Ruwa Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in West Africa, or immerse themselves in the local culture at the Nasarawa Eggon Yam Festival. The region is also famous for its agricultural produce, particularly yams and rice, which are staples in local cuisine. Nasarawa's diverse ethnic groups, including the Eggon, Tiv, and Hausa, contribute to a rich tapestry of traditions, music, and dance. Whether you're hiking the scenic hills or savoring the flavors of local dishes like pounded yam and egusi soup, Nasarawa promises an unforgettable adventure.

Best time to visit Nasarawa

The best time to visit Nasarawa is during the dry season, from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. This period also coincides with several cultural festivals, offering a deeper insight into local traditions.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Warm 26-32°C, less rain

Travel notes

Crowds
Moderate
Prices
Moderate

Transition to dry season, good for travel

Know before you go

Getting there

ABV

Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (Abuja)

International

150 km away

JOS

Yakubu Gowon Airport (Jos)

Domestic

180 km away

MIU

Maiduguri International Airport

International

400 km away

Getting around

"Transportation in Nasarawa primarily relies on motorcycles (okadas), tricycles (keke napeps), and buses. For longer distances, shared taxis and private car hires are available. Roads can be uneven, so it's advisable to plan for extra travel time."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes in cities

Local SIM

Local SIM available at airports and shops from $1

Stay safe

Overall

7/10

Avoid remote areas at night; stay vigilant in crowded places.

Night safety

6/10

Avoid remote areas at night; stay vigilant in crowded places.

Transport

8/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Nasarawa is generally safe, but travelers should avoid traveling at night due to poor road conditions and limited lighting. Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas. Always follow local advice and stay informed about current events."

Entry and health

Health information

"Travelers should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccinations and consider vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. Malaria is prevalent, so use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets. Drink bottled or boiled water to avoid waterborne illnesses."

Culture

Local customs

"Respect for elders is highly valued in Nasarawa. Greetings are an important part of social interactions, and it's customary to use titles like 'Alhaji' or 'Hajia' when addressing someone. During festivals, wearing traditional attire is encouraged as a sign of respect for local culture."
HausaEggonTivEnglish

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$3-5 | a cheap local meal costs around $3-5

Hotels

$20-50 | budget hotels range $20-50/night

Local transport

$1-3 | local bus ride ~$1-3

Cost notes

Nasarawa is affordable for budget travelers; mid-range options available in Lafia.

Timezone

Africa/Lagos +01:00 (WAT)

More facts

Population

2,523,395

Area

27,117 km²

ISO code

NG-NA

Type

state

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Насарауа, Насарава, Nasarawa, Nassarawa, Nasarawa Chiu, ნასარავის შტატი, نصراوا ریاست, Nasarawa State, ایالت ناساراوا, État de Nassarawa, Nasarawa állam, Nasarava ştatı, 나사라와주, Ȯra Nasarawa, Nasarawa osariik, ناساراوا ایالتی, Statul Nassarawa, ナサラワ州, Nasarawa Eyaleti, Нассарава, Ìpínlẹ̀ Násáráwá, Estado de Nasarawa, Estat de Nasarawa, نصراوة, Estado de Nasawara, नासरवा राज्य, 纳萨拉瓦州, ولاية نصراوة, Jimbo la Nasarawa, NG-NA, Nassaraua

Major HubNatureHikingCulturalWaterfallsOff-the-Beaten-PathAdventureHistoric