Introducing Northern Nigeria

Northern Nigeria is distinctly drier than the southern half of the country, stretching north from the capital Abuja across the Sahel to the Niger border. Be sure to visit Kano, western Africa's oldest city and home to one of the region’s largest markets. Remember though, this is sharia-law country so you’ll struggle to find a cold beer to knock that harmattan dust out of your throat, and it’s wise to dress respectfully and behave accordingly, especially during Ramadan.

If wildlife is your game, be sure to visit the Yankari National Park, home to buffaloes, baboons and a goodly number of elephants. Bring your swimming gear because you'll also find the Wikki warm spring a beautiful spot for a dip, just near the park campground.