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How to Get to Aba

How to Get to Aba

Abia State Nigeria Travel Guide

Air Travel to Aba's Vicinity

Nearby Airports

Aba itself does not have a major commercial airport. Travelers typically use nearby airports.

Closest Airports

  • Sam Mbakwe Airport (Owerri, QOW): Approx. 1.5-2 hours drive.
  • Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC): Approx. 2-A 3-hour car journey, offers more flight options.
  • Akanu Ibiam International Airport (Enugu, ENU): Roughly 3-4 hours drive.

Airlines and Routes

Domestic airlines connect to these airports from major Nigerian hubs.

Carriers & Connections

  • Domestic airlines: Air Peace, Arik Air, Ibom Air, United Nigeria Airlines.
  • Routes mainly connect from Lagos (LOS) and Abuja (ABV).
  • No direct international flights to Owerri or Port Harcourt from major global hubs.

Airport Facilities

Facilities at QOW, PHC, and ENU are generally basic. Find waiting lounges, small shops, and food vendors.

Flight Prices

Flight prices increase significantly during peak travel seasons (Christmas, New Year, Easter, and summer holidays). Book in advance.

Airport Transfers

Taxis are available. Negotiate fare or use airport-approved services. Private car hire (arranged in advance) offers safe transfer.

Safe Transfers

Taxi & Car Hire

  • Negotiate taxi fares before starting your journey.
  • Use airport-approved taxi services which might have fixed rates.
  • Arrange private car hire through your hotel or reputable tour operator.
  • Private car hire offers the safest option and most comfortable transfer option.

Public Transport Less Recommended

  • Not as direct options involve local taxi or Keke Napep to a major motor park.
  • Starting there, long-distance buses or collective taxis depart for Aba.
  • This method is less convenient and often not for first-visitors for the first time.
  • Public transport transfers might involve more security considerations.

Departure Considerations

Exit Fees

No separate exit fees or taxes are typically charged at Nigerian airports beyond those included in your air ticket price.

Airport Arrival Timing

Arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international flights (if connecting).

Travel Time to Airport

Allow ample extra time for travel from Aba to the airport, accounting for potential traffic plus road quality.

Land Journeys

Bus Travel Options

Numerous private bus companies operate inter-state routes to Aba from major Nigerian cities like Thegos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Enugu, and Umuahia.

Major Bus Companies

  • God is Good Motors (GIGM).
  • ABC Transport.
  • GUO Transport.

Bus Booking & Departures

Buses typically depart from designated motor parks in each city.

Booking Advice

  • Reserve tickets early, especially for popular routes.
  • This is useful during busy periods.
  • Starting points are designated motor parks in each city.

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

Self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists from other countries.

Road Challenges

  • Roads can be different widely, from fair to poor, with significant potholes.
  • Aggressive driving styles are common.
  • Limited clear signage.

Safety on Roads

Road safety considerations are crucial for journeys within Nigeria.

Road Safety Advice

  • High risk of road accidents, specifically on inter-state roads.
  • Armed robbery on highways is a concern.
  • Night travel on roads is strongly discouraged.

Critical Road Travel Warnings

  • Night travel on roads is strongly discouraged.
  • Arrange your travelss to conclude before sunset.
  • Consider hiring a car with a local, experienced driver instead.
  • This significantly reduces stress during your travel.
  • It additionally enhances your safety.
  • Regional drivers possess valuable navigation expertise.

Other Transport Modes

Border Crossings

Nigeria shares land borders with several countries, but these are generally not for tourist travel to Aba.

Border Context

  • Borders exist with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon.
  • Not typically used for tourist entry to Aba.
  • Aba is located inland in the southeastern part of the nation.

Train & River Transport

Passenger rail service in Nigeria is limited. River transportation in this region is generally local.

Rail & Water Details

  • Limited passenger rail service in Nigeria.
  • Train service to Aba from Port Harcourt is not regularly available for tourist use.
  • River transportation is generally limited to local transport for goods or small communities.

Departure Timing

Allow 2-3 hours for domestic flights, 3-4 hours for international connections from main centers such As lagos or Abuja.

Airport Travel Buffer

Allocate considerable extra time for the drive from Aba to the airport, accounting for vehicle movement plus road quality.

Airport Services

Regional airport facilities (QOW, PHC, ENU) are basic, with waiting areas, small shops, and food vendors.

Planning Summary

Careful planning for arrival and departure procedures creates a smooth transition.

Optimize Your Departure

Consider booking early morning flights to avoid peak traffic congestion.

Departure Logistics

  • Confirm flight status beforehand.
  • Have all travel documents readily accessible.
  • Pack wisely for security checks at the airport.

Seamless Travel

Use reputable transport services for airport transfers.

Efficient Exiting

  • Pre-book airport taxis or private car hire for convenience.
  • Avoid relying on last-minute public transport options.
  • Account for potential queues at check-in and security.

General Travel Notes

Rail Services

Limited passenger rail service, not tourist-focused.

River Travel

Not applicable for tourist arrivals to inland Aba.

Border Crossings

Not relevant for typical Aba tourist travel.

Travel Reminders

Safe and planned transit makes for a more enhanced Aba experience. Be prepared for variations in travel times and road conditions.