Jos is the capital of Plateau State, set on the Jos Plateau at about 1,200 metres above sea level. Its altitude gives it one of the coolest climates of any Nigerian city, which made it a favoured retreat in the colonial era.
The city grew with tin mining in the early twentieth century, and the old mining pits around it have become lakes and ponds. The surrounding plateau is a landscape of granite boulders, hills and waterfalls, and Plateau State calls itself the "Home of Peace and Tourism".
Top things to do in Jos
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Visit the National Museum
The National Museum in Jos is one of the oldest in Nigeria. It holds famous Nok terracotta sculptures, made over two thousand years ago, and its grounds include a museum of traditional Nigerian architecture with full-size replicas of buildings from across the country.
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See Assop Falls
Assop Falls, about an hour from Jos on the road towards Abuja, spills over a wide rock ledge into a pool surrounded by greenery. It is a popular stop for picnics and photographs.
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Explore Kurra Falls
Kurra Falls, south-east of Jos, is set among rocky hills and has been used for hydroelectric power. The surrounding landscape is good for walks and scenic drives.
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Climb the Shere Hills
The Shere Hills, east of the city, are among the highest points on the plateau. Their granite peaks offer climbing, hiking and wide views across Jos.
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Visit the wildlife park
The Jos Wildlife Park, on the edge of the city, has animals such as lions, monkeys, ostriches and pythons in a hilly, rocky setting, along with picnic areas and viewpoints.
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See the lakes at Rayfield
Old tin mining pits around Rayfield and other parts of Jos have filled with water to form lakes and ponds among the rocks, giving the area a striking landscape.
Festivals and culture
Nzem Berom is the main cultural festival of the Berom people, held in Jos around April with traditional dances, music and costumes. Other Plateau communities hold their own harvest and cultural festivals, and Christmas and Easter are major celebrations in the city.
Food to try
Try acha (fonio), a tiny grain grown on the plateau, cooked as porridge or with soup, as well as Plateau-grown Irish potatoes, suya, kilishi, tuwo with soup, and fresh vegetables from local farms.
Best time to visit
November to February is dry and cool, with cold harmattan mornings. Waterfalls are fullest in the rainy season, from about May to October. Jos stays mild for most of the year.
Getting around
Taxis, tricycles and motorcycle taxis cover the city. Jos is about four hours by road from Abuja and has a domestic airport. Check local advice before travelling to rural areas.
Questions about Jos
Why is Jos cooler than other Nigerian cities?
Jos sits on a plateau about 1,200 metres above sea level, so temperatures are lower than in most of Nigeria, especially at night and during the harmattan.
Where can I see Nok terracottas?
The National Museum in Jos displays Nok terracotta sculptures, which are more than two thousand years old.
What waterfalls are near Jos?
Assop Falls and Kurra Falls are both within a short drive of the city and are fullest in the rainy season.
How do I find events in Jos?
Browse upcoming concerts, festivals, parties and free events in Jos on Shows.ng, and filter by today, this weekend or this month.
