Jos Plateau State, Nigeria Travel Guide
Yakubu Gowon Airport (JOS), aka Jos Airport or Heipang Airport, serves as the main air gateway. It is a domestic airport located a short drive from the city center. Domestic carriers like Arik Air and Air Peace commonly connect Jos with other major Nigerian cities.
Jos (JOS) does not have direct international flights. International travelers typically fly into Abuja (ABV) or Lagos (LOS) and subsequently take a domestic connecting flight. Plan ample time for transfers between international and domestic terminals. Check Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner for flight options.
Domestic flight availability to Jos generally stays consistent year-round.
Fares can increase during peak travel seasons, notably around holidays. Book in advance for better rates.
Taxis, hotel shuttles, and pre-booked private car hires are options for getting to your accommodation.
Nigeria shares land borders with Benin, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon. Overland border crossings, while possible, can be complex. Security concerns or temporary closures are possible. Direct, reliable passenger train service to Jos for tourists is currently unavailable.
Long-distance buses offer an economical way to travel to Jos. Reputable companies include GIGM, ABC Transport, Young Shall Grow, and Chisco Transport. Services run to/from Abuja (3-4 hrs), Kaduna (2-3 hrs), and Lagos (12-15 hrs). Buy tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons.
Self-driving in Nigeria usually has obstacles and is generally not recommended for international tourists. Roads can be different; many roads outside major cities may be poorly maintained. Traffic laws find occasional flexible interpretation. An International Driving Permit (IDP) with national a permit is necessary.
Roads within Jos are generally paved, but their quality varies, and potholes are common. Major inter-state roads connecting Jos (e.g., from Abuja) are generally in fair condition, but some stretches can be rough or under construction.
Security checkpoints often appear on highways. Travel in reputable bus companies or with private car hire during daylight hours. Avoid non-essential inter-state travel after dark due to heightened security risks. Be vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
Vehicle hire services in Jos often come with a driver. This option holds the advice for tourists. It removes the stress of navigating local roads, traffic, and security concerns. DiscoverCars.com for options.
Self-drive rentals are less common for tourists. Motorcycle (Okada) taxis once found prevalence but face increasing restrictions or bans in many urban areas, including potentially parts of Jos, due to safety concerns. Rentals for personal use are infrequent and not advised due to safety.
No specific "exit fees" for air travel are typically charged separately at Nigerian airports beyond what is already included in your flight ticket price. For land departures, formal exit taxes are generally absent.
Yakubu Gowon Airport (JOS) facilities remain basic. You will find check-in counters, waiting areas, and minimal concessions for snacks and drinks. Extensive stores or luxury lounges are absent. Major bus terminals offer basic waiting areas, ticket counters, and local vendors selling food and drinks.
Ensure your passport, visa, and any boarding passes are easily accessible for inspection.
Be aware of airline baggage limits and security screening procedures for both carry-on and checked bags.
Consider possible traffic, especially during peak hours, when traveling to the airport or bus station.
If connecting to an international flight from Abuja or Lagos, ensure ample time. Domestic flights may experience delays, and transfer between terminals might take time. A buffer period reduces stress for international departures.
Arrive at Yakubu Gowon Airport well in advance for domestic flights. This allows time for check-in and security. For main international airports like Abuja or Lagos, the recommendation is to arrive even earlier.
Review your airline's specific weight and size limits for checked luggage. Overweight bags may incur extra fees.
Understand the dimensions and weight limits for carry-on bags. Keep essential documents and medications here.
Familiarize yourself with items restricted from both checked and carry-on luggage for security purposes.
Keep a copy of all travel documents and emergency contacts in both physical and digital formats.
