Top 10 Things to Do in Maiduguri, Nigeria (2025 Guide)

Confidence NwaobiOctober 28, 20250572 views

Far in the northeast corner of Nigeria sits a city often spoken about, yet rarely experienced. Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, carries a mix of ancient history, rich Kanuri culture, and the warmth of people whose hospitality surprises every visitor.

Known as the “Home of Peace”, Maiduguri may not appear on every travel itinerary. Still, those who take the time to explore it quickly discover that it has plenty to offer, from royal palaces to bustling markets, from serene lakes to cultural treasures.

This is not the Nigeria of skyscrapers and coastal beaches; this is the Nigeria of deep tradition, storytelling, and soul.

For anyone curious about what to see or do in this fascinating city, here are ten things to do in Maiduguri that showcase its charm, beauty, and cultural heartbeat.

10 Things to Do in Maiduguri (2025 Guide)

1. Visit the Palace of the Shehu of Borno

Every city has a heart, and in Maiduguri, that heart beats at the Palace of the Shehu of Borno. The Shehu is the traditional ruler of the Kanuri people, and his palace represents centuries of leadership and continuity.

The moment one steps near its gates, the atmosphere changes to calm, regal, and full of history.

Built using traditional designs, the palace features mud-brick walls and grand arched gates that seem to whisper stories from generations past. Guards dressed in traditional attire stand with quiet pride, and the air feels heavy with respect.

The Shehu’s palace isn’t just about royalty; it’s a reminder of how old civilisations once ruled this region with wisdom and cultural sophistication. Visitors often describe the palace as a living museum. It reflects the deep connection between Maiduguri’s present and its past.

While entry may be limited in certain areas, the surroundings alone, the gates, the courtyard, and the people nearby give an incredible sense of the city’s heritage.

Dress modestly, walk slowly, and take in every detail. This isn’t just another tourist stop; it’s the cultural heartbeat of Borno.

2. Explore the Vibrant Monday Market

If you really want to feel Maiduguri’s pulse, Monday Market is the place to go. It’s loud, colourful, busy, and completely alive.

The market spans a large area, with hundreds of stalls selling everything from colourful Ankara fabrics and handmade leather goods to spices, jewellery, and local food.

It’s not only a shopping spot but also a melting pot of cultures, with traders from all parts of the northeast and even neighbouring Chad and Niger.

The smell of grilled suya fills the air, while women wrapped in vibrant wrappers call out prices in Hausa and Kanuri. You’ll see piles of tomatoes and peppers glowing red under the sun, traders expertly weaving mats by hand, and tailors stitching under makeshift sheds.

Every corner is a discovery. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, wandering through the market is an experience in itself. The energy is contagious; there’s laughter, bargaining, and friendly chatter everywhere.

Just remember to bring cash, wear comfortable shoes and have a light scarf to protect against the northern dust. For anyone exploring Maiduguri, this market isn’t just something to do; it’s something to feel.

3. Spend a Peaceful Afternoon at Lake Alau

After the buzz of the market, Lake Alau offers pure peace. Located about 20 kilometres from the city centre, the lake feels like a hidden world, quiet, breezy, and scenic.

Open land, small villages, and clusters of palm trees surround it. The reflection of the sky on the water is often so calm that it looks like glass.

Fishing boats drift lazily across the surface while birds hover nearby. On weekends, local families sometimes gather for small picnics, spreading mats on the sandy shore, sharing food, and enjoying the fresh air.

Travellers can sit under a shade, listen to the sound of rippling water, and watch the sunset paint the sky orange and gold.

It’s a perfect escape from the heat and bustle of the city, a reminder that northern Nigeria isn’t all desert but also home to unexpected beauty and calm.

4. Discover Nature at Sanda Kyarimi Park Zoo and Botanical Garden

Sanda Kyarimi Park is a must-visit for those who relish the serenity of greenery and animals. It’s one of Nigeria’s oldest zoos and doubles as a botanical garden. Inside, the environment feels surprisingly calm, the trees sway softly, and pathways lead to different animal enclosures.

Visitors can see lions, ostriches, monkeys, antelopes, and peacocks, among others. The botanical section houses various plant species, some native to the Sahel region and others introduced from different parts of the world.

It’s a lovely spot for families or anyone looking for a slow, leisurely afternoon. There’s also an educational angle; schoolchildren often visit for excursions to learn about animals and plants.

For travellers, it’s a simple but refreshing way to enjoy nature in the heart of the northeast. It shows that Maiduguri values preservation and beauty even amidst its urban challenges.

5. Learn History at the Borno State Museum

A trip to Maiduguri isn’t complete without a stop at the Borno State Museum. Located near the Shehu’s Palace, this museum is small but rich in content. Inside, the exhibits tell the story of the Kanem-Bornu Empire, one of Africa’s oldest and most powerful kingdoms.

The exhibits include ancient artefacts, royal ornaments, traditional weapons, pottery, manuscripts, and cultural tools. Each item holds a piece of the region’s identity.

Visitors can trace how trade routes once linked Maiduguri to North Africa, how Islam shaped local education, and how traditional arts evolved over centuries.

The museum also captures the daily life of the Kanuri people, from farming and fishing tools to ceremonial masks and textiles. Spending an hour here gives a clearer understanding of the city’s soul. It’s not a flashy museum, but it’s authentic and filled with meaning.

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6. Walk Through Old Maiduguri

Every city has an old quarter that tells its real story, and Old Maiduguri does just that. This part of the city still carries its traditional look: narrow paths, clay houses, wooden doors, and open courtyards. Walking through it feels like stepping in another time.

The people here are welcoming. Children wave, elders greet politely, and the scent of tea and roasted peanuts drifts through the air. Women sit outside, weaving mats or braiding hair, while men gather at roadside tea stalls to discuss local news.

This part of the city captures Maiduguri’s authentic rhythm, slow, warm, and profoundly communal. It’s best explored with a local guide who can share the stories behind the old buildings and traditions. It’s not about sightseeing; it’s about connecting with everyday life.

7. Taste Kanuri Cuisine

One of the most rewarding things to do in Maiduguri is to eat like a local. The city’s cuisine reflects its culture, hearty, flavourful, and rooted in tradition. Every meal feels homey and satisfying.

Signature dishes include Tuwo (a soft, dough-like meal made from millet or corn) paired with Miyan Kuka, a soup made from baobab leaves. The flavour is smoky, earthy, and rich.

\Another favourite is Masa, a spongy rice cake often eaten with spicy pepper stew. Street vendors also sell suya, grilled meat seasoned with pepper and groundnut powder, which fills the evening air with irresistible aroma.

Eating in Maiduguri is a cultural experience in itself. The portions are generous, and locals are always eager to share recommendations. If there’s one rule to follow here, it’s this: come hungry.

8. Visit the Maiduguri Central Mosque

In the heart of the city, the Maiduguri Central Mosque stands as a landmark that defines the skyline. Its domes rise gracefully, surrounded by expansive courtyards where worshippers gather for prayers.

The mosque’s architecture blends simplicity with strength, reflecting the city’s deep spiritual roots.

It’s calm often strikes visitors. Even outside prayer times, the space carries a sense of peace that invites quiet reflection. The call to prayer echoing across the city is one of Maiduguri’s most beautiful sounds, gentle, rhythmic, and grounding.

When visiting, it’s essential to dress modestly and respect the local customs. While non-Muslims may not enter during prayers, observing from outside still provides a glimpse into the city’s spiritual life.

9. Experience the Colourful Durbar Festival

Few celebrations in northern Nigeria match the grandeur of a Durbar Festival. When Maiduguri holds its durbar, the city bursts into colour. Rows of horsemen dressed in flowing robes and turbans gallop past crowds, displaying royal power and cultural pride.

The horses are decorated with bright fabrics, silver ornaments, and bells that jingle with every step.

The sound of drums, trumpets, and cheers fills the air as traditional dancers perform. It’s not just entertainment; it’s a historic celebration tied to the Shehu’s palace and the end of religious festivities like Eid.

Watching the durbar gives visitors a sense of unity, tradition, and identity that words can barely capture.

It’s an experience that leaves you with lasting images, the rhythm of hooves, the swirl of robes, the laughter of children perched on rooftops to catch a glimpse of the parade.

10. Support Local Artisans and Handicrafts

Maiduguri’s creativity shines through its people. The city has a strong tradition of craftsmanship, and leatherwork, pottery, embroidery, beadwork, and weaving are all part of everyday life.

At small local markets and roadside stalls, artisans sit surrounded by their work, skillfully shaping raw materials into beautiful products.

Leather sandals, handwoven caps, colourful fabrics, and wooden carvings make perfect souvenirs. Buying directly from these craftsmen supports families and keeps traditional art alive. Each handmade piece carries a story of culture, resilience, and pride in local skill.

Travel Tips

Dress modestly to respect local customs.
Carry cash, as digital payments aren’t widely accepted in all markets.
Travel during the day and stay up to date on travel advisories.
Hire a local guide for deeper context and safety.
Stay hydrated; the sun in the northeast can be intense.

Maiduguri may not fit the usual image of a tourist city, but that’s what makes it so special. It’s raw, honest, and deeply rooted in heritage. Every corner has a story.

For travellers seeking something different, something human, cultural, and unforgettable, Maiduguri stands as proof that beauty often hides where few look. So, go and explore!

FAQs: Things to Do in Maiduguri, Nigeria

1. Is Maiduguri safe for tourists?

Security has improved in recent years, but visitors should always stay up to date on travel advice, move with locals or guides, and stick to known areas.

2. What’s the best time to visit Maiduguri?

The cool, dry months from November to February are the most comfortable for sightseeing. The weather is calm and pleasant during the harmattan.

3. What food should tourists try?

Tuwo with Miyan Kuka, Masa, and Suya are top picks. These dishes capture the region’s authentic flavours.

4. What language is spoken?

Kanuri and Hausa are widely spoken, while English is commonly used in hotels and major areas. Learning a few greetings earns quick smiles.

5. What can travellers buy as a souvenir?

Locally made leather goods, traditional caps, woven mats, and bead jewellery serve as thoughtful keepsakes.