The Ultimate Packing List for Nigeria Hiking Adventures (2025)

The Ultimate Packing List for Nigeria Hiking Adventures

Hiking in Nigeria is a unique experience. From rolling hills to hidden waterfalls and ancient rocks, the country offers stunning natural spots that many people, locals and tourists alike, are just beginning to explore. 

Whether you’re visiting Nigeria for the first time or are a local looking for an outdoor adventure, one thing is sure: you need to be prepared.

That’s where this packing list comes in. In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to pack for hiking in Nigeria, nothing extra, just the essentials to help you stay safe, comfortable, and ready for whatever nature brings.

Let’s get into it!

 

Why You Need a Packing List for Hiking in Nigeria

Nigeria is blessed with beautiful landscapes, mountains, waterfalls, forests, savannahs, you name it. But hiking here can be unpredictable. One moment you’re enjoying cool weather in Jos, the next, you’re sweating it out in the hot sun of Idanre Hills.

That’s why this packing list is not just helpful, it’s necessary. You want to stay comfortable, safe, and fully ready for anything.

 

The Must-Have Packing List for Nigeria Hiking Adventures

Here’s the full breakdown:

  1. Comfortable Backpack

  2. Proper Hiking Shoes or Boots

  3. Lightweight Clothing (Layer Up!)

  4. Raincoat or Poncho

  5. Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

  6. Snacks and Light Food

  7. First Aid Kit

  8. Sunscreen and Lip Balm

  9. Insect Repellent

  10. Hat and Sunglasses

  11. Trekking Poles (Optional but Useful)

  12. Towel or Sweat Rag

  13. Power Bank

  14. Phone + Offline Map App

  15. Trash Bag or Ziplock

 

1. Comfortable Backpack

This is number one. You need a strong yet lightweight backpack that won’t strain your back.

  • Pick one with padded straps and a waist belt for support. 
  • Size depends on how long you plan to hike. A 20-30L daypack is enough for most Nigerian hikes.

Tip: Avoid packing like you’re relocating. Just the essentials, please.

 

2. Proper Hiking Shoes or Boots

Please, don’t wear slippers or canvas. You need good hiking shoes with a solid grip.

  • Nigeria has slippery rocks, muddy paths, and rocky terrain. 
  • Shoes with ankle support are great, especially for more challenging trails. 

 

3. Lightweight Clothing (Layer Up!)

Nigeria’s weather can be tricky. Depending on where you’re hiking, it can be hot, rainy, or cold, sometimes all in one day.

  • Breathable T-shirts or dry-fit tops 
  • Light joggers or hiking pants 
  • A hoodie or light jacket for higher altitude areas like Obudu or Mambilla

Avoid jeans, they’re heavy and uncomfortable when wet.

 

4. Raincoat or Poncho

Even in the dry season, Nigeria may still experience rainfall. One minute, the sun is shining, and the next thing you know, it’s a full-blown shower.

Carry a compact raincoat or poncho. Your future self will thank you.

 

5. Water Bottle or Hydration Pack

Hiking in Nigeria will make you sweat like no tomorrow. Carry at least 1-2 litres of water.

  • Reusable water bottles are fine. 
  • If you’re hiking for long hours, consider a hydration bladder.

 

6. Snacks and Light Food

Energy is key. Carry easy-to-eat snacks:

  • Granola bars 
  • Nuts 
  • Plantain chips 
  • Dried fruit or small bread rolls

Avoid heavy food that’ll slow you down.

 

7. First Aid Kit

Small but mighty. Just the basics:

  • Plasters 
  • Pain reliever 
  • Bandage 
  • Antiseptic cream 
  • Antihistamines (in case of insect bites) 
  • Any personal medication

 

8. Sunscreen and Lip Balm

Even if you’re hiking under shade, the sun in Nigeria is no joke.

  • SPF 30 or higher is good. 
  • Lip balm helps protect against dry lips, especially in Jos or Plateau areas.

 

9. Insect Repellent

You’re walking through bushes and trails. Mosquitoes, tsetse flies, and other insects will greet you.

  • Use repellents with DEET or natural options like citronella.

 

10. Hat and Sunglasses

To protect you from the heat and sunburn.

  • A wide-brim hat or baseball cap works. 
  • Polarised sunglasses are perfect if you’re hiking during peak sunlight.

YOU MAY LIKE:

 

11. Trekking Poles (Optional but Useful)

Trekking poles help balance and reduce pressure on your knees during slippery or steep hikes like Idanre Hills or Erin Ijesha Waterfalls. 

 

12. Towel or Sweat Rag

You will sweat a lot.

Carry a small towel or even a handkerchief to clean your face and neck.

 

13. Power Bank

You don’t want your phone to die in the middle of nowhere.

  • Nigeria’s hiking spots don’t always have a power supply. 
  • A 10,000mAh or higher power bank is ideal. 

 

14. Phone + Offline Map App

Google Maps won’t always help. Download offline maps with apps like:

Also, don’t forget to tell someone where you’re going before the hike.

 

15. Trash Bag or Ziplock

Pack out what you pack in. Don’t litter Nigeria’s beautiful trails.

  • Use a ziplock or small trash bag for your wrappers or fruit peels.

 

Bonus Items (If You Have Space)

  • Camera or GoPro (for the memories) 
  • Notebook + pen (for those deep nature thoughts) 
  • Extra socks (wet socks are the worst) 
  • Toilet tissue (because nature calls) 

Nigeria Hiking Adventures: 5 Extra Tips

  1. Start early: Morning hikes are calmer and safer. 
  2. Go with a group or guide, especially for remote areas like the Mambilla Plateau. 
  3. Respect the locals: Ask before taking photos. 
  4. Don’t hike after rain: Trails get slippery and dangerous. 
  5. Stay calm if you get lost: Use your offline map or call your group leader.

 

Showcase Nigeria Through Your Lens – Join Our Open Call for Creators

Are you a photographer, videographer, or content creator passionate about capturing Nigeria’s beauty, from fashion runways and cultural festivals to tourist landmarks and local events? Our Open Call for Content Creators in Nigeria is your opportunity to get featured, collaborate, and bring authentic Nigerian stories to life. Whether you’re into travel, lifestyle, or visual storytelling, we want to see Nigeria through your eyes.

Explore Nigeria’s Natural Wonders: Discover the Best Eco-Tourism Adventures for Sustainable Travel.

 

FAQs About Hiking in Nigeria

1. Is hiking in Nigeria safe?

Yes, mostly. But safety depends on where and how you go. Stick to popular spots and groups, and avoid late-evening hikes.

2. Where are the best hiking spots in Nigeria?

Some top hiking destinations include:

  • Olumo Rock (Ogun) 
  • Idanre Hills (Ondo) 
  • Obudu Mountain Resort (Cross River) 
  • Mambilla Plateau (Taraba) 
  • Awhum Waterfalls (Enugu) 
  • Erin Ijesha Waterfalls (Osun) 

3. Can beginners go hiking in Nigeria?

Absolutely. Many trails have easy-to-medium difficulty levels. Just start small, wear proper shoes, and go with experienced hikers.

4. What should I avoid when hiking in Nigeria?

  • Don’t wear slippers or flat shoes. 
  • Don’t forget water. 
  • Don’t go alone in remote places. 
  • Avoid carrying too much weight. 

5. Do I need a guide for hiking in Nigeria?

Not always, but it’s smart to hire a guide for new or remote areas, especially if you’re hiking somewhere like Ado Awaye or Farin Ruwa.

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