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Kano Travel Checklist

Kano Travel Checklist

Kano Kano State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Chronological Planning Timeline

A structured timeline for your preparations.

Your Planning Journey

Break down your preparations into manageable phases.

1

Months Prior

Passport & Visa

Check passport validity (6+ months, AT least two empty pages). Research and begin Nigerian visa application (can take time).

Vaccinations & Insurance

Consult doctor for Yellow Fever (mandatory) and other vaccinations (Typhoid, Hepatitis, Meningitis). Purchase comprehensive travel insurance (World Nomads recommended).

2

Month Prior

Flights & Accommodation

Book international and domestic flights. Secure your accommodation for the duration of your stay.

Logistics & Health

Arrange private driver/local guide if you wish. Revisit doctor for antimalarial prophylaxis and any other medications. Obtain IDP if driving.

3

Week Prior

Confirmations & Packing

Confirm all flight, hotel, and tour reservations. Begin packing culturally modest clothing.

Finances & Documents

Notify bank/credit card companies. Organize documents (digital and physical copies). Download offline apps.

Home & Currency

Inform contacts, secure home, pay bills. Exchange some domestic currency or know ATM access upon arrival.

Required Advance Bookings

Secure these before your journey.

Essential Reservations

  • Flights: Both international and domestic segments.
  • Accommodation: Your hotel or guesthouse bookings.
  • Visa: Obtaining your Nigerian visa or Visa on Arrival approval letter comes before departure.
  • Antimalarial Medication: Secure your prescription and purchase the medication.

Pre-Trip Research Recommendations

Informed travel starts here.

Knowledge for Your Journey

  • History and Culture: Read up on Nigerian history, specifically Kano's role in the trans-Saharan trade, the Hausa kingdoms, and the Sokoto Caliphate.
  • Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local customs, etiquette, and social norms, especially for a conservative Muslim city like Kano.
  • Travel Advisories: Monitor current events and travel advisories issued by your government for Nigeria.

Home Preparation Before Departure

Steps for peace of mind while away.

Inform Contacts

  • Inform family and close friends of your schedule and who to call in an emergency.

Secure Your Home

  • Arrange for mail collection, plant care, and pet sitting. Secure your home.

Manage Finances

  • Pay any upcoming bills.

Consideration

An International Driving Permit (IDP) might be helpful if driving, though it is generally not recommended for tourists.

Arrival Checklist

These steps promote a smooth and organized entry into Kano.

First Steps Upon Arrival

  • 1
    Immigration Clearance

    Present your passport, valid visa (or VoA approval letter), and Yellow Fever vaccination certificate to immigration officials.

  • 2
    Baggage Claim

    Collect your luggage.

  • 3
    Currency Exchange

    Exchange some foreign currency for Nigerian Naira at a reputable airport Bureau de Change or bank.

Arrival Essentials

  • Local SIM Card

    Purchase a local SIM card from a major provider at the airport (if available) or in the city.

  • Transport to Accommodation

    Arrange your transport to your hotel (pre-booked shuttle, taxi, or Bolt).

  • Neighborhood Familiarization

    Take some time to familiarize yourself with the immediate neighborhood around your hotel.

Immediate Needs & Transport

Currency Exchange & Purchases

Ensure you have enough Nigerian Naira for initial expenses like transport and food.

Purchase bottled water immediately upon arrival. Buy any immediate necessities you might have forgotten.

Airport Transportation

Use pre-arranged hotel transfers, a reputable airport taxi, or a Bolt ride.

Always verify the fare before departing from the airport.

Connectivity Tip

A local SIM card upgrades communication and navigation capabilities during your stay.

Departure Preparation

Prepare for your departure to avoid last-minute rush and ensure a smooth exit from Kano.

Souvenir & Shipping Considerations

  • Last-Minute Shopping: Plan time for last-minute souvenir shopping at Kurmi Market or other local craft centers.
  • Shipping: If you have large purchases, inquire about shipping options from local sellers or international courier services.
  • Customs: Understand customs regulations and costs for your home country.

VAT Refund Procedures

  • Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures for tourists are not applicable in Nigeria.

Pre-Departure Timing Recommendations

Plan your airport entry wisely.

Airport Arrival Times

  • International Flights:2-3 hours prior
  • Domestic Flights:1-2 hours prior

Return Trip Preparation

  • Confirm Flight Details: Reconfirm your return flight details.
  • Documents: Guarantee all your travel documents (passport, boarding pass) are in order.
  • Local Currency: Keep sufficient local currency for any airport expenses or final purchases.

Final Check

Double-check your passport and wallet before leaving your hotel space for the airport.