Adventure Tourism Adventure Travel Discover Nigeria Travel & Tourism Travel Tips Exploring Nigeria by Train: The Rise of Rail Tourism and Scenic Travel Routes Philip SifonNovember 4, 20250365 views More Nigerians are starting to view train travel in a different light. What used to be a slow system is now one of the most enjoyable ways to move across the country. People are now taking trains for the experience, to relax, watch towns and farmlands pass by, and truly see what exploring Nigeria by train is like. With more routes reopening and the festive season approaching, rail travel is becoming part of how people plan their December trips. Families are booking seats early, travellers are sharing their rides online, and there’s a growing sense that Nigeria’s railways are more than transport; they’re about connection and comfort. In this article, we’ll examine how rail tourism is transforming domestic travel in Nigeria. These routes are drawing attention to why people prefer trains and what this means for festive travel. Exploring Nigeria By Train: A New Way To Travel More Nigerians are starting to view train travel in a different light. What used to be a slow system is now one of the most enjoyable ways to move across the country. People are now taking trains for the experience, to relax, watch towns and farmlands pass by, and truly see what exploring Nigeria by train is like. Rail tourism is about enjoying the journey as much as the destination. It’s when travellers notice the small towns, markets, and scenery that the trip itself becomes part of the adventure. With more routes reopening and the festive season approaching, rail travel is becoming part of how people plan their December trips. Families are booking early, travellers are sharing photos online, and more Nigerians are realising that train journeys offer calm, connection, and a new way to explore the country. Top Routes For Exploring Nigeria By Train Train travel in Nigeria is changing the way people see the country. Beyond convenience, it’s now about the journey, the scenery, the rhythm, and the new sense of connection it brings. These are the most popular Nigerian train routes for travellers eager to experience rail tourism in Nigeria this festive season. Here are the top lines for exploring Nigeria by train and what makes each one special: 1. Lagos to Ibadan Train Line If you’re new to exploring Nigeria by train, this route is the best place to start. The Lagos to Ibadan train departs around 8:00 a.m. and reaches Ibadan in just under two and a half hours. It’s Nigeria’s busiest rail line, modern, reliable, and perfect for weekend getaways or festive journeys. Clean cabins, steady air-conditioning, and affordable first-class seats make it a good showcase of what train travel in Nigeria can offer when done right. 2. Abuja to Kaduna Train Route The Abuja to Kaduna train remains one of the most used and safest options for travellers in the North. Departing Abuja’s Idu Station around 8:45 a.m., it reaches Kaduna before noon, a smooth three-hour ride through rolling green landscapes. Many holiday travellers and professionals rely on this line to reconnect with family in December. It’s a reminder that rail tourism in Nigeria isn’t just about movement; it’s about shared experiences along the way. 3. Warri to Itakpe Train Line This lesser-known line offers a unique Nigerian railway experience. Operating six days a week, the Warri Itakpe train runs through Delta, Edo, and Kogi, showcasing farmlands, hills, and quiet communities that most road travellers miss. For those seeking calm and reflection during the festive season, this is one of the most relaxing routes for exploring Nigeria by train. 4. Emerging Nigeria Train Routes New projects such as the Lagos–Kano and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri lines are set to expand train travel in Nigeria. While the complete passenger-tourist services aren’t all in place yet, these corridors promise fresh opportunities for rail tourism in Nigeria and more reasons for travellers to consider exploring the country by train in the coming years. What Makes Train Travel Special In Nigeria Exploring Nigeria by train reveals the country’s full splendour, from the lush wetlands of the south to the rugged hills of the north. Trains connect regions that rarely meet in daily travel. Each route has its distinct feel: Lagos–Ibadan’s modern line showcases an urban pace, Abuja–Kaduna runs through farmlands, and the older lines to Kano or Warri still carry the charm of old Nigeria. What makes it special is its social nature. Along the way, people talk, share food, and tell stories. The gentle movement of the train and expansive views outside make the trip slower but more real. During festive seasons, many Nigerians opt for trains because they’re safer, cheaper, and less tiring than travelling by road. Train travel in Nigeria isn’t just about getting somewhere; it’s about seeing the country in a different light. How Rail Tourism Is Growing In Nigeria Rail tourism in Nigeria is slowly gaining attention as more people start using trains for leisure, not just transport. The modern railway upgrades, especially the standard-gauge projects, are changing how people explore the country. It’s no longer just about reaching a destination; the journey itself is becoming an integral part of the experience. Here’s what’s driving this growth: Modern Routes Attracting Travellers Lines like Lagos–Ibadan, Abuja–Kaduna, and Warri–Itakpe are encouraging more Nigerians to travel for fun. Clean stations, safer tracks, and shorter travel times make exploring Nigeria by train an even more appealing option. Festive Travel Demand During holidays, especially in December, trains experience a surge in passenger traffic as people head home or visit cultural festivals. This pattern supports the rise of domestic tourism by train. Affordable Adventure Compared to flights or long road trips, train fares are more affordable, making rail tourism in Nigeria accessible to students, families, and solo travellers. Government Expansion Plans Projects such as the Lagos–Kano and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri lines are still under construction but are expected to connect all six geopolitical zones once completed. When finished, they could create new opportunities for rail tourism in Nigeria. Together, these changes are shaping a new kind of tourism that focuses on movement, scenery, and connection. What To Expect When Exploring Nigeria By Train Exploring Nigeria by train is a mix of comfort, patience, and discovery. It’s not luxury travel, but it’s clean, organised, and surprisingly calm once you settle in. Whether you’re heading from Lagos to Ibadan, Abuja to Kaduna, or Warri to Itakpe, here’s what you can expect: Clean, Air-Conditioned Coaches Most trains on Nigeria’s standard-gauge routes have well-kept cabins, working fans or AC, and soft seats. Some also offer first-class and economy-class sections with different ticket prices. A Mixed Crowd You’ll meet traders, students, civil servants, and families. People often chat, share snacks, and make small talk. It’s a social part of train travel in Nigeria that many find refreshing. Smooth But Steady Pace Trains move more slowly than flights, but the ride is stable and scenic. You see farmlands, small towns, and landscapes that most people only pass by in cars. No Onboard Food Yet For now, there’s no full dining service on most routes. It’s best to pack water and light food, especially for longer trips. Manual Ticketing Buying tickets can take time. The NRC still relies on manual booking at many stations, though plans for online payments are ongoing. Festive Season Rush During holidays, especially December, expect crowds. Trains fill up quickly, so early booking is key for anyone travelling by train to Nigeria during that period. Read More Lagos to Ibadan: The Ultimate Nigerian Train Journey Experience Japan’s $16 Billion Gambit: Training an Army of 30,000 Experts to Unlock Africa’s AI Future NIHOTOUR, NANTA Partner to Mandate Professional Training for All Nigerian Travel Agents Senegal Bets on Railway Modernisation to Drive Tourism & Regional Integration The Future of Rail Tourism in Nigeria The future of rail tourism in Nigeria appears promising, although it is still in its early stages of development. The Federal Government and the Nigerian Railway Corporation (NRC) view rail as a safer and more reliable option for both travel and trade. As new standard-gauge routes open, exploring Nigeria by train will play a bigger role in domestic tourism. The Lagos–Kano and Port Harcourt–Maiduguri projects aim to connect major cities and cultural hubs, giving travellers more options during festive and leisure seasons. Local communities are also beginning to benefit, with traders, food vendors, and artisans finding new business around train stations. With improved ticketing, regular schedules, and effective route maintenance, trains could soon become one of the most dependable ways to explore the country. In time, train travel in Nigeria may do more than move people; it could redefine how Nigerians experience travel itself. Conclusion Exploring Nigeria by train brings travel back to something simple, watching the country unfold outside your window. Each route, whether short or long, shows a side of Nigeria that most people only rush past. The comfort, steady rhythm, and shared moments on board make the trip itself part of the experience. As more routes open and awareness grows, rail tourism in Nigeria will continue to shape how people move and connect. So plan your journey today and see Nigeria in a way you’ve never experienced, one track at a time. From bustling cities to serene escapes, uncover the beauty of Nigeria through our Travel & Tourism adventures on Rex Clarke Adventures. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Can I Book a Train Ticket in Advance? Yes. You can book ahead, which is especially important during December or holiday weekends, as trains fill up fast. 2. What’s The Lagos–Ibadan Ride Really Like? It’s comfortable and air-conditioned, with plenty of window views. Expect fellow travellers, some light chatter, and a steady pace. Bring water and snacks for longer trips. 3. Are Trains Safe Compared To Buses? Yes. Most standard-gauge trains have clear safety records, fewer accidents, and less stressful travel than the roads. 4. Can I Take Luggage Or Parcels on board? Yes. Passengers often bring personal luggage or small parcels. Large cargo may need separate arrangements through NRC stations. 5. Are There Special Considerations During Festive Travel? Seats sell fast in December or during long weekends. Booking early and arriving at the station ahead of departure helps avoid stress.