MileHacker Logo
How to Get to Bauchi

How to Get to Bauchi

Bauchi Nigeria Travel Guide

Air Travel to Bauchi

Major Airports & Routes

Bauchi possesses its own airport, Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (BAU). This airport principally provides for domestic flights. For international flights arriving, travelers typically fly into Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport (ABV) in Abuja, the capital, or Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, the commercial hub.

Connecting to BAU

  • From ABV/LOS, connect to a domestic flight to Bauchi.
  • Domestic airlines: Air Peace, Arik Air, Max Air, Azman Air.
  • No direct international flights to BAU; they visit Abuja or Lagos.

Flight Availability & Prices

Domestic flight prices within Nigeria fluctuate based on demand, holidays, and fuel costs. Booking in advance is generally recommended for better rates. International flight prices follow global trends, with peak seasons typically around major holidays like Christmas, Easter, and summer. Book international flights several months ahead for the best fares. Explore options on Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Booking Advice

  • Book domestic flights in advance.
  • Book international flights several months ahead.
  • Prices fluctuate by season and holidays.

Bauchi Airport Facilities

Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (BAU) is a smaller domestic airport. It offers basic facilities, including a waiting zone and possibly small snack kiosks.

International Hubs

Abuja (ABV) and Lagos (LOS) international airports provide more extensive facilities. These include duty-free shops, a wider selection of restaurants, lounges, and car rental services.

Airport Transfers

From BAU to Bauchi City: Taxis and pre-arranged hotel transport are options. Negotiate taxi fares. From ABV/LOS, use taxis, ride-hailing apps, or shuttles.

Land Transportation Options

Bus & Train Services

  • Long-Distance Buses: Companies like GIGM, ABC Transport, Chisco, Peace Mass Transit, E. Ekesons operate routes to Bauchi from Abuja, Lagos, Kano.
  • Journey Times: Abuja to Bauchi takes 5-7 hours; Lagos to Bauchi takes 12-1A six-hour period or more.
  • Train Connections: No direct, practical train service for Bauchi for tourists. Rail travel is not a recommended option.
  • Border Crossing: Not applicable for Bauchi City (inland).

Self-Driving & Road Conditions

  • Self-Driving: Not generally recommended for tourists from other countries due to challenging road conditions, unfamiliar driving styles, and security concerns.
  • Requirements (if self-driving): International Driving Permit (IDP) with national license, mandatory car insurance.
  • Road Conditions: Vary; major highways have potholes, rural roads are dirt roads.
  • Safety Concerns: Reckless driving, banditry on highways. Travel in convoys or during daylight for inter-state journeys. Consider DiscoverCars.com for rentals with a driver if necessary.

Sea/River Arrivals Not Applicable

Ferry Services

Ferry services and cruise ports are not applicable for Bauchi city, as it is an inland destination.

River Transportation

River transportation options are not applicable for Bauchi city, as it lacks navigable waterways for public transport.

Immigration at Seaports

Immigration procedures at seaports are not applicable for Bauchi city on account of its inland location.

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Procedures

Generally, exit fees are included in air ticket prices. You usually do not pay a separate exit tax at Nigerian airports for international departures. Plan your departure from Bauchi with the same care as your arrival.

Departure Timing

  • Arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before domestic flights.
  • Arrive 3-4 hours before international flights.
  • Have all travel documents ready: passport, visa, boarding pass.

Airport Facilities for Departing Travelers

Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa International Airport (BAU) offers basic waiting areas and possibly small snack kiosks for departing travelers. Abuja (ABV) and Lagos (LOS) provide more extensive facilities, including shops, restaurants, and waiting areas.

Pre-Departure Check List

  • Confirm baggage allowances.
  • Complete all necessary check-in procedures.
  • Know about any security screening requirements.

Connecting Flights to International Destinations

If your international flight departs from Abuja or Lagos, account for the domestic connection time from Bauchi (BAU). Allow ample layover time (at least 3-4 hours) between your domestic arrival and international departure to accommodate potential delays and transfer between terminals.

Seamless Transitions

  • Allow sufficient layover time.
  • Confirm terminal transfers in Abuja/Lagos.
  • Check your onward flight status.

Ground Transport to Departure Airport

From Bauchi City to BAU: Taxis and hotel transport are the standard options. Always negotiate the fare beforehand. For inter-state bus travel back to Abuja or Lagos, book your tickets in advance with reputable bus companies. Factor in potential traffic and the state of the roads.

Organized Departures

  • Pre-book airport taxis or shuttles.
  • Book inter-state bus tickets early.
  • Account for vehicle movement and road conditions.

Essential Departure Checklist

Documents

Passport, visa, boarding pass, Yellow Card. Ensure all are valid and accessible.

Baggage

Weigh luggage to meet airline limits. Check for prohibited items.

Arrival Time

Allow ample time for check-in and security processes, especially for international flights.

Final Departure Tip

Reconfirm all your flight details 24-48 hours before departure. This helps account for any last-minute schedule changes. Your journey from Bauchi should be as smooth as your arrival.

How to Get to Bauchi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines