MileHacker Logo
Where to Stay in Kaduna

Where to Stay in Kaduna

Kaduna Kaduna State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Accommodation Choices

Lodging Types

  • Hotels

    From basic budget guesthouses to mid-range 3-4 star hotels with services like air conditioning, restaurants, and sometimes swimming pools. True luxury hotels with extensive facilities are limited.

  • Guesthouses

    More affordable, locally family-owned businesses, a simpler stay. Have reality with fewer amenities.

  • Serviced Apartments

    For longer stays, these options feature more space, privacy, and kitchens. Appropriate for families or extended visits.

  • Unique Local Options

    Kaduna does not feature specific unique local accommodation types. Options are generally standard hotel or guesthouse formats.

Booking & Considerations

  • Vacation Rentals

    Platforms like Airbnb may list apartment rentals. Options might be fewer compared to major international cities. Offer an independent travel experience. Vrbo also an option.

  • Homestay

    Formalized homestay opportunities for international tourists are not widely advertised. Arrange through local contacts or specialized tour operators.

  • Camping

    Not available or recommended within Kaduna city. Outdoor accommodation only within national parks, but security considerations.

  • General Booking

    For hotels and guesthouses, check platforms like Booking.com or Agoda.

Neighborhood Overview

Detailed breakdown of areas and their character.

Central Business District

Pros
  • Proximity to government institutions, commercial hubs, and some historical sites.
  • Convenient access to city services.
Cons
  • Can be noisy and congested.
  • Less tranquil than residential areas.
  • May have fewer local eateries directly outside hotels.

Barnawa

Pros
  • Generally stable and desirable area.
  • Balance between quiet residential life and access to services.
  • Many mid-range hotels located here.
Cons
  • May involve more travel time to key sights or the train station.

Ungwan Sarki

Pros
  • Prominent residential area, prime position.
  • Access to various services and amenities.
  • Provides a more local residential feel.
Cons
  • May involve more travel time to central attractions or the train station.

Considerations

Safety

General security advice across all neighborhoods. Vigilance everywhere. Reputable hotels offer better security. Avoid walking alone at night.

Proximity

Consider your itinerary. Rigasa Railway Station and Kaduna International Airport locations. Kaduna Central Market access.

Smart Booking

Booking practices secure suitable accommodation at a fair price.

Planning Your Stay

  • Advance booking: Recommended for dry season (Nov-Mar), holidays (Christmas, Eid), or major local events. This allows for whether it's available and potentially better rates.
  • Flexibility: Low (wet) season may allow more flexibility, but booking ahead provides peace of mind.
  • Deposit & Cancellation: Always check policies carefully before confirming. Understand free cancellation deadlines to avoid charges.
  • Price Fluctuations: Accommodation prices may increase during peak dry season, public holidays, or major events.

Booking Resources

  • International Platforms: Utilize Booking.com, Agoda, and IHG Hotels for guest ratings and policies.
  • Local Websites: Some larger, more established hotels have their own websites for direct booking.
  • Vacation Rentals: For apartments or houses, Vrbo is a platform.
  • Budget Accommodation: For shared dormitories, Hostelworld is an option.

Further Advice

Negotiation
  • For small b&bs or basic local hotels, some negotiation on walk-in rates might be possible, especially during the low season.
  • For established mid-range to higher-end hotels, walk-in rates are generally fixed.
  • For unique stays, consider TrustedHousesitters.
Long-Stay
  • Serviced apartments are ideal for long-term stays, offering more living space, privacy, and kitchens.
  • Some hotels may offer special extended-stay rates.

Important Accommodation Tips

Check Security

Always check the hotel's security measures and read recent guest reviews about the neighborhood.

Book Ahead

Advance booking is recommended during peak seasons and holidays for better availability and rates.

Extended Stays

For an extended stay, a serviced apartment offers more space and flexibility than a standard hotel room.

Top Picks

Types of recommendations for different traveler needs.

Budget & Mid-Range Stays

Budget

Look for small, locally run guesthouses or basic hotels (e.g., Fabs Hotel) in areas like Barnawa or close to local markets.

  • Offer fundamental amenities.
  • Chance to experience local hospitality.
Mid-range

Hotels balance comfort, amenities (air conditioning, attached bathrooms, sometimes a pool or restaurant) and price.

  • Often found in areas like Barnawa or Ungwan Sarki.
  • Examples: Hamdala Hotel, Stonehedge Hotel, Chimcherry Hotel.

Specialized Stays

Luxury

Kaduna has limited high-end luxury hotels. Some mid-range hotels might offer premium rooms or suites that approach a luxury experience with better service and facilities.

Family-Friendly

Consider hotels with larger rooms, interconnected room options, or serviced apartments that offer more space and kitchen facilities.

  • Properties with amenities like swimming pools also a plus.

Traveler Focus

  • Solo Traveler

    Choose hotels with good security (guarded premises, reliable staff) and central locations for ease of access to transport and attractions. Look for hotels with positive reviews regarding safety and service.

  • Long-Stay

    Serviced apartments are ideal, featuring more living space, privacy, and facilities like kitchens and laundry services.

  • General Tip

    For an extended stay, a serviced apartment offers more space and flexibility than a standard hotel room.

Culturally Significant

  • Hamdala Hotel

    This hotel holds historical prominence as among the most ancient and most prominent hotels in The northern part of Nigeria. Research recent reviews for current condition.