Gembu, Nigeria’s Coldest Town: Hidden Gem of the Mambilla Plateau

When you think of Nigeria, the image that probably comes to mind is sun-drenched cities, bustling markets, and warm evenings with the scent of suya in the air. But hidden far away in the northeastern highlands, nestled quietly on the Mambilla Plateau, is a town that breaks the mould — Gembu.

Gembu is not just any highland town. It’s Nigeria’s coldest town, and yet, somehow, one of the least explored. For many Nigerians, the name rings faintly familiar, maybe from geography class or a forgotten headline. 

For most tourists, it doesn’t even register. But that’s precisely what makes Gembu so captivating. It’s untouched, serene, and wildly different from the Nigeria you think you know.

 

Where Exactly Is Gembu?

Gembu is a small town on the Mambilla Plateau, located in the Sardauna Local Government Area of Taraba State, northeastern Nigeria. It’s not the kind of place you stumble upon; you have to want to go there. 

The town is surrounded by tall hills and valleys, with a landscape that resembles East Africa more than what one’d expect from Nigeria.

At over 1,600 meters (5,200+ feet) above sea level, Gembu sits on the highest point in Nigeria. While Lagos sizzles at over 30°C and Kano bakes under desert winds, Gembu enjoys temperatures as low as 11°C, sometimes even colder in the early mornings and late evenings.

This altitude gives Gembu a climate that feels more like a highland village in Kenya or a retreat in Rwanda than a Nigerian town. The air is crisp, the nights are chilly, and the views are breathtaking. Breathtaking. Rolling hills, endless green pastures, and winding roads that seem to kiss the clouds.

 

Getting to Gembu Isn’t Easy, But It’s Worth It

Getting to Gembu is part of the adventure. The town is remote, with only a few winding roads connecting it to the rest of Nigeria. From Jalingo, the capital of Taraba State, you’ll have to travel through the Sardauna Local Government Area, climbing steep and rugged terrains. 

It’s not an easy ride; potholes, hairpin bends, and limited infrastructure make the journey a bit of a trek.

But ask anyone who’s made it there and they’ll tell you: the moment you arrive in Gembu, you’ll forget the stress of the road. 

The air is cooler, the sky looks closer, and the entire environment feels like a completely different country. Some locals and visitors jokingly refer to it as “Nigeria’s Switzerland.”

 

Life in Gembu: More Than Just Beautiful Views

Gembu is home to the Mambilla people, renowned for their warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. The Mambilla Plateau is one of the oldest settled regions in Nigeria, where the people have lived for centuries, largely untouched by colonial influence.

Traditional huts with grass roofs dot the hillsides. Cattle graze peacefully. Children play outside without gadgets or distractions. There’s a calmness here that seems almost magical, a kind of peace you can’t bottle or replicate.

The Mambilla people speak a variety of dialects under the Mambila language cluster, and many also speak Hausa or Fulfulde due to regional trade. Religion is a mix of Christianity, Islam, and traditional beliefs, all coexisting in a quiet, respectful harmony.

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What Makes Gembu Special?

Gembu is not your typical tourist destination. There are no fancy hotels or glossy tour brochures. But that’s precisely what makes it so special. Everything in Gembu feels authentic.

Want to take a hike? There are countless hills to climb and trails to follow, many of which offer stunning panoramic views of valleys and waterfalls. Want to watch cattle being herded across open fields? That’s daily life here. 

Want to sit quietly on a farm with nothing but the sound of wind and birds? You’ll get that in Gembu. It’s the perfect spot for eco-tourists, adventure seekers, and quiet soul-searchers looking for something beyond the usual.

 

How Farming Shapes Daily Life in Gembu

Gembu isn’t just about beauty. It’s also a powerful agricultural zone. Because of its fertile soil and unique climate, it produces some of the freshest tea and coffee in Nigeria. The Mambilla Beverage Company, located nearby, produces “Highland Tea,” one of Nigeria’s finest.

From Irish potatoes to strawberries and even apples, Gembu’s produce feels like something out of a dream. It’s a region begging for investment in agrotourism. Imagine farms that double as visitor experiences, where tourists can pick strawberries in the morning and sip fresh tea in the afternoon.

 

Why Tourists Haven’t Touched It Yet

There are a few reasons Gembu remains under the radar. First, it’s difficult to access. The roads are challenging, and the journey from major Nigerian cities is long. 

Second, there’s limited online visibility. When you search for Nigerian travel destinations, Gembu barely shows up compared to more famous places like Obudu or Erin Ijesha.

And third, there’s a lack of investment. Hotels, tour services, and travel infrastructure are minimal. For the adventurous spirit, Gembu is a dream. But for the average tourist, it can feel daunting.

Still, that is slowly changing. Some curious travellers are beginning to share their experiences on social media. A few tour companies are starting to offer Gembu as a destination for small group trips. Slowly but surely, Gembu is being discovered.

 

How to Plan a Visit

If you’re thinking of visiting Gembu, here are a few quick tips:

• The best time to go is between November and February, when the weather is at its coolest and the skies are clear.
• Travel in groups: Not just for safety, but to share costs and make the journey more enjoyable.
• Pack warm clothing: This is not your typical Nigerian town; nights can get very cold.
• Consider hiring a local guide, especially for navigating trails or interacting with local communities.
• Don’t expect luxury: Embrace the simplicity. That’s part of Gembu’s magic.

 

Gembu’s Untapped Potential

Gembu has all the raw ingredients for a booming, sustainable tourism hub: climate, culture, landscape, and agriculture. But to get there, it needs attention. Investment. Awareness. It needs writers, bloggers, vloggers, and curious minds to shine a light on it. 

It needs infrastructure without overdevelopment. And most of all, it needs to be protected from the kind of tourism that destroys rather than uplifts.

Imagine eco-resorts tucked into the hills. Tea tours. Local guides trained in sustainable hospitality. Annual festivals showcase Mambilla culture. All of this is possible, but it starts with awareness, and with visitors who are not just tourists, but allies of the land.

 

 

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FAQs About Gembu

Is Gembu the coldest town in Nigeria?

Yes. Thanks to its high elevation on the Mambilla Plateau, Gembu experiences the coldest temperatures recorded in Nigeria, particularly during the harmattan season.

Is Gembu safe for tourists?

Generally, yes. It’s a quiet and peaceful town. However, like any remote area, it’s best to travel with a guide and check local advisories before your trip.

What should I pack when visiting Gembu?

Warm clothes, durable shoes for hiking, a camera for the stunning scenery, and possibly snacks, as amenities are limited.

Is there electricity and internet in Gembu?

Electricity can be unstable, and mobile network coverage may be limited, depending on your provider. It’s best to go prepared for an “unplugged” experience.

Can I stay overnight in Gembu?

Yes, but accommodations are basic. There are a few guesthouses and lodges, though they are not luxury standard. That said, they offer warm hospitality.