Yola, Nigeria: Your Gateway to Adamawa State

Located in the North-Eastern part of Nigeria and nestled along the banks of the Benue River, Yola serves as the capital city of Adamawa State. A growing urban center surrounded by picturesque countryside, Yola offers travelers a taste of Nigerian culture away from the bustle of Lagos or Abuja. With its pleasant weather year-round and friendly people, Yola makes for an ideal home base to explore all that Adamawa has to offer.

Getting to Yola

The main way to reach Yola is by air. Yola International Airport has direct flights from Abuja on Arik Air roughly 3 times daily. The flight takes around an hour. Alternatively, you can fly into nearby Maiduguri and take a shuttle or hire a car to make the 2.5 hour drive south to Yola.

Going by road is also possible from Jos, Gombe or Abuja, which will take 6-8 hours depending on road conditions. Be prepared for some bumpy stretches! The bright side is you'll get to take in lovely rural scenery along the way. Whichever mode of transport you choose, be sure to book your flights and rentals well in advance through services like https://bitbook.net to lock in the best rates.

Where to Stay in Yola

For budget travelers, Motel 600 along Fatima Aliyu Way offers basic but clean rooms from 2500 Naira. Slightly more upscale options include Yolastic Hotel (4000 Naira) and the Yola Grand Hotel (5500 Naira), both located near the main roundabout. Those seeking luxury can book the Federal Palace Hotel Yola, a nicer high-rise located a short cab ride from the city center.

Be sure to check BitBook for the latest hotel deals in Yola. You may find gems like 30% cashback on stays that could save you thousands of naira in the end. A little extra booking effort upfront goes a long way towards stretching your travel funds.

Things to Do in Yola

Visit the Yankari National Park

A short drive from Yola lies this amazing game reserve, home to elephants, buffalo and over 300 bird species. Go on a jeep safari for your best chance of a sighting. Book tours through the Yankari Tourism and Hospitality outfit which operates out of the Yankari Games Lodge.

Shop at Monday Market

No trip to Yola is complete without browsing this colorful open-air market. Wander the stalls sampling local snacks like kunun zaki and browsing crafts, fabric and artisanal goods. Haggle respectfully for your souvenirs!

Explore Old Yola

Take a walk around the original city center to peek inside the walls of the Shehu's Palace and Emir's Palace, gaining insights into Fulani history and traditions. Snap photographs of the elaborate archways and try to imagine life in centuries past.

Relax along the River Bank

Find a shady spot and watch fishermen go about their work along the peaceful Benue. This is the heart and soul of Yola, perfect for switching off and taking in the natural views.

Does Yola, the welcoming capital of Adamawa, have you ready to book your next trip to Northern Nigeria? Be sure to use BitBook for all your travel needs to earn crypto rewards along the way.