Jalingo is the capital of Taraba State, which was created in 1991. The state calls itself "Nature's Gift to the Nation", and Jalingo is the starting point for some of the most spectacular landscapes in Nigeria.
Taraba is home to dozens of ethnic groups, including the Jukun, Mumuye, Fulani, Mambilla and Chamba. The state stretches from the Benue River valley in the north to the mountains along the Cameroon border in the south.
Top things to do in Jalingo
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Travel to the Mambilla Plateau
The Mambilla Plateau, in the south of Taraba, rises to around 1,600 metres, with cool weather, rolling grasslands, cattle ranches and tea plantations. Gembu is its main town. The journey from Jalingo is long, so plan to stay overnight.
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Explore Gashaka-Gumti National Park
Gashaka-Gumti, Nigeria's largest national park, covers mountains, forests and savannah along the Cameroon border. It is home to chimpanzees, elephants, hippos and hundreds of bird species. Visits need careful planning with park authorities.
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See Chappal Waddi
Chappal Waddi, at about 2,400 metres, is the highest point in Nigeria. It rises on the edge of the Gashaka-Gumti area near the Cameroon border and is a challenging trek for experienced hikers.
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Attend the Nwonyo Fishing Festival
The Nwonyo Fishing Festival is held at Ibi, on the Benue River in Taraba, when fishermen compete to land the biggest fish from a lake. It is accompanied by music, dancing and boat races.
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Explore Jalingo
Jalingo's markets sell grains, fruit, livestock and crafts from across the state, and its event centres host weddings, concerts and church and Muslim programmes.
Upcoming events in Jalingo
See more events in Jalingo
Festivals and culture
The Nwonyo Fishing Festival at Ibi is Taraba's best-known event. Jukun, Mumuye, Chamba and other communities hold harvest and cultural festivals, and Christmas and Eid are major celebrations.
Food to try
Try tuwo with okra or vegetable soups, masa, fura da nono, kilishi, fresh river fish, and, on the Mambilla Plateau, dairy products and locally grown tea.
Best time to visit
November to February is dry and the best time for travel to the plateau and the national park. The rainy season, from about May to October, makes roads difficult.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover Jalingo. Trips to Mambilla and Gashaka-Gumti need a suitable vehicle and local guides. Check current local advice before travelling.
Questions about Jalingo
What is the highest point in Nigeria?
Chappal Waddi, at about 2,400 metres, in Taraba State near the Cameroon border.
What is the Mambilla Plateau known for?
Its cool climate, grasslands, cattle ranches and tea plantations, at around 1,600 metres above sea level.
How do I find events in Jalingo?
Browse upcoming festivals, concerts, parties and free events in Jalingo on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
