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Zaria Travel Checklist

Zaria Travel Checklist

Zaria Kaduna State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Essential Preparations

Follow a chronological timeline for effective preparation.

Planning Timeline

Structured steps to guide your preparations.

3

Months Before

Visa & Passport

Apply for your Nigerian visa. Check passport validity (6+ months).

Flights & Insurance

Book international flights. Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (e.g., World Nomads).

Health & Vaccinations

Consult doctor for required vaccinations (Yellow Fever mandatory) and malaria prophylaxis.

1

Month Before

Accommodation & Transport

Book domestic flights to Kaduna and accommodation in Zaria. Arrange airport transfers.

Medication & Advisories

Purchase anti-malarial and other prescription medications. Get to know current travel advisories.

Cultural Prep

Begin learning basic Hausa greetings and polite phrases. Babbel helps with this.

1

Week Before

Confirmations & Copies

Confirm all bookings. Make multiple copies (physical/digital) of important documents.

Financial Alerts

Notify your bank and credit card companies of travel plans to avoid blocks.

Packing & Updates

Pack appropriate clothing. Check latest travel news for any changes.

Advance Bookings

Secure these before your journey for peace of mind.

Reservations

  • Nigerian Visa (or Visa on Arrival Approval Letter).
  • International flights to Nigeria.
  • Domestic flights to Kaduna International Airport.
  • Zaria accommodation.

Home Preparations

Steps to secure your home before you travel.

Before You Go

  • Inform family or friends of your detailed itinerary and emergency contacts.
  • Secure your home (lock doors/windows, stop mail/newspapers).
  • Arrange for pet care and plant watering if applicable.
  • Pay any bills that will come due during your absence.

Pre-Trip Research Areas

Gain a comprehensive understanding of your destination.

Security Conditions

  • Deep dive into current security conditions in Kaduna State and Zaria.
  • Consult reputable news sources and your home country's travel advisories.
  • Understand local safety protocols and areas with restricted access.
  • Plan safe routes for city exploration.

Culture & Etiquette

  • Learn about Hausa culture, customs, and social norms.
  • Understand local greetings and mannerly dealings.
  • Familiarize yourself with religious practices plus fitting attire.
  • Know when and how to ask permission before taking photographs.

Travel Logistics

  • Understand local transport choices, including Keke Napep and shared taxis.
  • Research average costs for transport and common items.
  • Identify landmarks and proximity to your accommodation.
  • Locate reputable eateries and local markets for food.

Stay Informed on Security

Travel advisories for Kaduna State can change. Stay updated through official government sources and reputable news outlets to remain aware of local conditions.

Arrival & Departure

Steps to ensure a smooth change from your entry point to Zaria and back home.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Clear Immigration

    Present your passport, visa, and Yellow Fever certificate at your port of entry (Lagos or Abuja).

  • 2
    Collect Luggage & Customs

    Retrieve checked luggage and proceed through customs controls.

  • 3
    Locate Transfer

    Find your pre-arranged transport or licensed taxis for your domestic connection or journey to Zaria.

Orientation Strategies

  • Local Advice

    Upon arrival at your Zaria accommodation, seek staff advice on local safety, transport, and amenities.

  • Neighborhood Walk

    Take a short, safe walk around your immediate neighborhood during daylight to get your bearings.

  • Stay Connected

    Purchase a local SIM card for mobile communication and data, completing biometric registration.

Currency & Transport

Currency Exchange

Exchange foreign currency into Naira at the airport (rates may be less favorable) or a reputable Bureau de Change in Zaria or Kaduna.

Always count your money and verify the exchange rate before completing any transaction.

Airport Transfer

Use your pre-arranged transfer or reputable airport taxis from Kaduna International Airport directly to your Zaria accommodation.

Confirm the fare before departing and ensure the driver knows your destination clearly.

Road Journey

The road journey from Kaduna to Zaria offers views of the local landscape.

Allow ample time due to potential traffic or security checks, always travel during daylight hours for safety.

Stay Connected

Acquiring get a LOCAL sim card when you arrive is a wise choice for communication and accessing digital maps, keeping you connected throughout your Zaria adventure.

Departure Checklist

Prepare for your departure efficiently to avoid any last-minute rush.

Souvenirs & Shipping

  • Purchase souvenirs from local markets, supporting artisans.
  • For large purchases, consider international courier services, though this could be expensive.
  • Explore lightweight packing solutions from Eagle Creek to manage souvenirs.
  • Nigeria does not currently have a VAT refund system for tourists.

Return Trip Details

  • Reconfirm your return flights (domestic and international) well in advance.
  • Ensure all travel documents (passport, flight tickets) are in order and easily accessible.
  • Pack your luggage, ensuring you meet airline weight and size restrictions.
  • Allow ample time (2-3 hours) for travel from Zaria to Kaduna Airport due to potential delays.

Departure Timing

Smart timing for your journey back.

Timely Departures

  • Domestic Flights: Arrive at Kaduna International Airport2 hours before.
  • Road Travel from Zaria to Kaduna Airport: Allow2-3 hours.
  • Travel Time Consideration:Traffic & Security.
  • Safety Rule: Always travelDuring daylight hours.

Final Document Check

  • Verify your passport validity.
  • Confirm your international and domestic plane tickets.
  • Ensure your travel insurance details are accessible.
  • Possess emergency contact numbers readily available.

Plan Road Travel Wisely

When preparing for your journey from Zaria to Kaduna Airport, account for variable traffic conditions and potential security checkpoints.

Daylight travel is a strong suggestion for your road journey.