Abuja became the capital of Nigeria in 1991, replacing Lagos. It was planned on empty ground at the geographic centre of the country, which is why its wide boulevards and grid layout stand in complete contrast to the density of Lagos. Aso Rock, a granite mass rising 400 metres to the northeast, is both the emblem of the city and the backdrop to the government buildings. In the centre the gold dome of the Abuja National Mosque and the tower of the National Christian Centre face each other at either end of the same avenue.
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See flights to Abuja →When to visit Abuja
November to February is the dry season and the easiest time to visit, with days around 30C and cooler nights. In December and January the harmattan dust off the Sahara can cut visibility. April to October is the rainy season, with frequent afternoon downpours.
Things to do in Abuja
Aso Rock
The granite monolith rising 400 metres northeast of the centre is visible from everywhere in Abuja. The presidential complex sits at its foot, which is why Nigerian politics often uses the name of the rock in place of the name of the city.
Abuja National Mosque
Opened in 1984, the mosque's gold clad dome and four minarets define the skyline of the centre. It is open to visitors outside prayer times and Aso Rock is visible from its courtyard.
National Christian Centre
Standing at the opposite end of the same boulevard as the national mosque, the church is marked by its triangular bell tower and broad roof. The symmetry of the two buildings was a deliberate choice in the founding plan of the capital.
Millennium Park
The park in the Maitama district is the largest public green space in Abuja and was designed by the Italian architect Manfredi Nicoletti. A stream divides it in two, one side given to formal gardens and the other to natural vegetation.
Zuma Rock
A single mass of rock 300 metres high stands about 45 kilometres north of Abuja on the Kaduna road. Natural hollows on its face are said to resemble a human profile from a distance, which is what made it famous.
Jabi Lake
The artificial lake inside the city, with its perimeter path and jetties, is one of the busiest spots in the late afternoon. Boat hire and open air cafes line the shore.
Flights from Turkey to Abuja
A direct flight from Istanbul to Abuja takes about 6 hours 35 minutes and the route is operated by Turkish Airlines. The service runs on set days of the week, and connecting options through Lagos also exist.
Abuja FAQ
How many days do you need in Abuja?
Two days cover the centre of the capital, its mosque, church and parks. Adding Zuma Rock and trips out of town makes three days a suitable length.
How far is the airport from the city centre?
Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport is about 40 kilometres from the centre. The airport road is a dual carriageway and the taxi ride takes around 45 minutes.
What do you need to enter Nigeria?
A visa is required for a Turkish passport and the application is completed before travel. A yellow fever certificate is checked on arrival, and a doctor should be consulted about malaria protection before the trip.
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