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Where to Stay in Zaria

Where to Stay in Zaria

Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Full Spectrum of Lodging Options

  • Hostels:

    Very limited or absent for tourists.

  • Guesthouses:

    Numerous local guesthouses offer basic to mid-range amenities. These present good value for frugal travelers.

  • Hotels:

    A few established local hotels provide comprehensive services, including restaurants and sometimes conference facilities. Some are older establishments, reflecting the city's history.

  • Luxury Hotels:

    No international luxury branded hotels operate in Zaria. The top local hotels offer a good standard, distinct from international luxury properties.

Other Lodging Styles

  • Unique Local Options:

    Zaria holds no unique local accommodation types marketed just for tourists, like traditional homestays or heritage properties.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Vacation rentals or apartments remain very limited and not a common choice for tourists. Local contacts might facilitate these in order to longer stays, but they do not appear on international booking platforms like Vrbo for Zaria.

  • Homestays:

    Formal homestay alternatives or community-based tourism initiatives do not develop or advertise widely for general tourists. Interactions with local communities occur informally during market visits or guided tours.

  • Camping:

    No formal camping sites or outdoor accommodation options receive recommendations for tourists. Security concerns plus a shortage of facilities render this impractical.

Neighborhood Guide

Zaria’s different neighborhoods hold distinct atmospheres and proximity to attractions.

Walled City Birnin Zaria

Pros
  • Authentic cultural journey
  • Direct closeness to historical sites (Emir's Palace, city walls)
Cons
  • Limited modern amenities
  • Potentially more rudimentary lodging
  • Narrow roads challenging for vehicles
  • Fewer dining choices

Sabon Gari

Pros
  • Central location
  • Good access to amenities (shops, restaurants, banks)
  • More lodging choices
  • Better transport links
Cons
  • Can be noisy and busy
  • Less traditional ambiance

Samaru

Pros
  • Lively atmosphere
  • Suitable for university visitors
  • Some budget-friendly guesthouses
Cons
  • May be further from the historical city center
  • Mainly for the student population
  • Potentially busy during academic terms

Considerations

Safety:

General vigilance is sound throughout all Zaria neighborhoods. Exercise caution in less populated or dimly lit spots, notably at night. Check with local contacts for safety advice.

Noise:

Sabon Gari and Samaru can be quite bustling and noisy. The Walled City may present a quieter, more traditional ambiance in the evenings.

Booking Strategies

Careful planning aids in making sure of your preferred stay in Zaria.

Booking Recommendations

  • Advance booking receives a suggestion, especially during local events, university functions, or major holidays.
  • Major international booking platforms (Booking.com) might list some hotels, but selection can be limited.
  • Often, contacting hotels directly via phone or email for reservations proves effective.
  • Some local Nigerian reservation websites or regional agencies like Agoda might present more choices.

Policies & Fluctuations

  • For smaller guesthouses, walk-in rates might accept negotiation. For more established hotels, rates usually remain fixed.
  • Policies differ by hotel. Always check the details, including required deposits and cancellation terms, before finalizing.
  • Zaria accommodation prices generally maintain more stability than in overseas locations. Slight increases may occur during periods of high local demand.

Long-Stay Considerations

Extended Stays:
  • Some hotels may present discounted rates for extended stays; inquire directly for longer visits (e.g., for academic purposes).
  • Consider platforms like IHG Hotels for potential corporate rates if applicable.
Unique Long-Term Options:
  • Formal homestays are limited.
  • House-sitting platforms like TrustedHousesitters are unlikely to serve Zaria.

Important Note on Availability

Limited Choices:

Anticipate a smaller selection compared to major international cities.

Local Focus:

Most options cater to domestic and business travelers.

Flexibility:

A flexible approach to lodging types will serve your stay well.

Accommodation Recommendations

While Zaria does not boast a wide array of luxury hotels, several options render ease and comfort.

Mid-Range Options

Kongo Conference Hotel

Associated with Ahmadu Bello University. It frequently accommodates official visitors and offers a range of facilities including restaurants and conference rooms.

  • Usually maintains a good service standard.
Zaria Hotel

A historic establishment, among the more known lodgings in the city. While it may show its age, it offers a traditional stay.

  • Consider Arewa House Hotel in Kaduna if you opt for better amenities and plan Zaria as a day trip.

Budget & Specific Needs

Budget Stays

Various local guesthouses locate throughout Sabon Gari and Samaru. Specific names and quality vary.

  • Check recent local reviews or ask for recommendations if available.
  • Prioritize guesthouses with security and cleanliness.
  • True hostels are limited; Hostelworld's options for Zaria are likely scarce.
Family & Solo Travelers

Larger hotels with more spacious rooms or inter-connecting options would suit families best. Any reputable hotel or guesthouse with sound security features and a central location suits solo travelers.

  • Confirm family-friendly features when booking.
  • Solo travelers: Prioritize establishments with 24-hour reception.

Long-Stay Accommodations

  • Discounted Rates:

    Some hotels may present discounted rates for extended stays; inquire directly if you plan a longer visit (e.g., for academic purposes).

  • Corporate & Academic Stays:

    Properties near ABU or government institutions often cater to longer professional engagements.

Cultural Significance

  • Historical Hotels:

    The Zaria Lodging holds historical presence but is not mainly a heritage property in terms of restored cultural significance.

  • Local Appeal:

    The city's historical appeal resides more in its sites and traditional architecture rather than its modern accommodations.

Important Tip: Inquire Directly

Direct Contact Recommended

For the most current information on availability, rates, and policies, contacting your chosen hotel directly by phone or email is often the most reliable method.

Check Local Reviews

For little inns, local word-of-mouth or recent online reviews from domestic visitors can offer the best sense of quality and comfort.

General Accommodation Landscape

Mainly Local

Lodging options mainly cater to local visitors and professionals on business trips within Nigeria.

Focus on Functionality

Many establishments prioritize practical amenities over luxury or elaborate tourist facilities.

Value for Money

Budget and mid-range options often present good value for the services rendered.