Jos
· NG

Jos

Jos, Plateau, Nigeria

Escape to the Plateau: Discover the Cool Breezes and Cultural Charms of Jos, Nigeria Perched high above sea level in the heart of Nigeria, Jos offers a refreshing escape from the tropical heat and a fascinating glimpse i…

#Jos#Plateau#Nigeria#city#culture
1/3
Stay & flyThings to doVideosPracticalGuide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Jos.

Top Hotels in Jos

Top Flights to Jos

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Jos.

Tours

Explore the Jos Wildlife Park

Visit the well-maintained Jos Wildlife Park, home to a variety of animals such as lions, pythons, buffalos, and more.

Visit the National Museum in Jos

Discover Nigeria's rich history and culture at the National Museum in Jos, showcasing artifacts and handicrafts.

Discover the Riyom Rock Formation

Marvel at the unusual rock formations at Riyom, considered a natural wonder in the Plateau region.

Shopping

A Walk Through Jos Main Market

Experience the bustling atmosphere of Jos Main Market, offering a variety of goods from produce to crafts.

Explore Artists Village

Visit Artists Village in Jos to meet local artists and buy unique pieces of art and crafts.

Visit the Standard Shopping Complex

A modern shopping complex in Jos offering a range of international and local brands.

Outdoor

Mountain Climbing at Shere Hills

Experience the beauty of Plateau State through a thrilling mountain climbing adventure at Shere Hills.

Relax at Rayfield Resort

Enjoy a day of relaxation and fun activities at Rayfield Resort, a popular recreational area.

Polo Picnic at Jos Polo Club

Enjoy a picnic and a game of polo at one of the oldest polo fields in Nigeria, Jos Polo Club.

Angware Falls Adventure

Experience the enchanting Angware Falls, ideal for picnics and nature walks.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Jos.

Currency
₦ | NGN | Nigerian Naira
Population
622802.0
Languages
English, Berom, Anaguta, Afizere, Idoma, Igbo, Hausa, Yoruba
Average weather
Jos
Jan
clear
28°14°
Feb
clear
30°16°
Mar
cloud
31°18°
Apr
rain
29°19°
May
rain
27°18°
Jun
rain
25°17°
Jul
rain
24°16°
Aug
rain
23°16°
Sep
rain
24°16°
Oct
cloud
26°16°
Nov
clear
27°15°
Dec
clear
28°14°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Jos.

What people love

Jos, located in Plateau State, Nigeria, is a popular tourist destination with several attractions and activities to offer. Here are some of the pros of traveling to Jos:

  1. Climate: Jos is known for its moderate climate, often referred to as the "Jewel of the Plateau." The weather is relatively cooler compared to other parts of Nigeria, making it a pleasant destination for those looking to escape the heat.

  2. Natural beauty: Jos is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, including lush green hills, waterfalls, and rock formations. Tourists can enjoy hiking, picnicking, and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

  3. Cultural diversity: Jos is home to a diverse population, including various ethnic groups with unique traditions and customs. Travelers can immerse themselves in the local culture, interact with the residents, and learn about the rich heritage of the region.

  4. Tourist attractions: Jos offers several attractions for visitors to explore, such as the Jos Wildlife Park, Kurra Falls, Riyom Rock Formation, and the National Museum in Jos. These sites provide opportunities for sightseeing, photography, and learning about the history and wildlife of the region.

  5. Adventure activities: For adventure enthusiasts, Jos offers activities such as mountain climbing, rock climbing, and zip-lining at various locations in the area. These activities provide an adrenaline rush and a unique way to experience the natural surroundings.

Overall, traveling to Jos, Plateau, Nigeria, offers a mix of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and adventure activities, making it a compelling destination for tourists seeking a diverse and memorable travel experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Jos, Nigeria could include:

  1. Security Concerns: Jos has experienced occasional outbreaks of violence and conflict due to religious and ethnic tensions in the region. Travelers should stay informed about the current security situation and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.

  2. Weather: Jos has a cooler climate compared to other parts of Nigeria, which may not be suitable for travelers who prefer warmer weather. Additionally, the city experiences heavy rainfall during the rainy season, which can affect travel plans and activities.

  3. Infrastructure: The infrastructure in Jos may not be as developed as in other major cities, leading to potential challenges with transportation, accommodation, and other services for travelers.

  4. Altitude: Jos is located at a high altitude, which may cause altitude sickness in some individuals, especially those who are not acclimated to such heights. It is important for travelers to stay hydrated and take necessary precautions to prevent altitude sickness.

  5. Limited Tourist Facilities: Jos is not a major tourist destination in Nigeria, so travelers may find limited tourist facilities, attractions, and services compared to other popular destinations. This could impact the overall travel experience for visitors.

It is important for travelers to research thoroughly and consider these factors before planning a trip to Jos, Nigeria.

Jos, the capital of Plateau State in Nigeria, has a rich history marked by its diverse cultural heritage, significant events, and notable landmarks.

Historical Background:

  1. Early Settlement:

    • The area around Jos was inhabited by various ethnic groups, including the Berom, Afizere, and Anaguta peoples. These groups are among the indigenous inhabitants of the Plateau State region.

  2. Colonial Era:

    • The establishment of Jos as a significant city began in the early 20th century with the discovery of tin deposits. The British colonial administration capitalized on this resource, and Jos became a center for tin mining. The tin mining industry attracted migrants from various parts of Nigeria and beyond, leading to a diverse population.

  3. Post-Independence:

    • After Nigeria gained independence in 1960, Jos continued to grow as a commercial and administrative center. Its temperate climate also made it a popular location for expatriates and tourists.

Significant Events:

  1. Ethno-Religious Conflicts:

    • Unfortunately, Jos has been the site of several ethno-religious conflicts, particularly since the early 2000s. Tensions between different ethnic and religious groups have resulted in violent clashes, leading to significant loss of life and property.

  2. Jos Riots:

    • Notably, the Jos riots in 2001, 2008, and 2010 were some of the most severe, necessitating government intervention to restore peace and order.

Historical Figures:

  • Yakubu Gowon:
    • Although not from Jos, Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State of Nigeria (1966-1975), hails from Plateau State. His leadership during Nigeria's Civil War and subsequent efforts in national reconciliation are noteworthy.

Important Landmarks:

  1. Jos Museum:

    • Established in 1952, the Jos Museum is one of the oldest in Nigeria. It houses important artifacts from various Nigerian cultures and was instrumental in the development of museum studies in West Africa.

  2. Shere Hills:

    • Located on the outskirts of Jos, the Shere Hills offer breathtaking views and are a popular destination for hiking and mountaineering.

  3. Jos Wildlife Park:

    • This is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city, providing a habitat for a variety of animals and a recreational area for visitors.

  4. National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS):

    • Located in Kuru, near Jos, NIPSS is a prestigious institution focused on policy formulation and strategic studies.

  5. Riyom Rock:

    • A natural rock formation located near Jos, Riyom Rock is a significant geological and tourist attraction.

Jos is a city with a complex history, shaped by its natural resources, ethnically diverse population, and socio-political challenges. It remains an important cultural and economic hub in Nigeria.