Kano
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At a glance
- Country
- Nigeria
- Region
- Kano State
- Population
- 4 million
- Best time to go
- November to February
- Main airport
- Kano Mallam Aminu Kano International (KAN)
- Coordinates
- 12.00°N, 8.59°E
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Overview
Kano is one of the oldest cities in West Africa, a great Hausa trading centre at the southern end of the trans-Saharan caravan routes. Its walled old city, centuries-old dye pits and vast markets still carry that history.
Northern Nigeria is conservative and Muslim, so dress modestly and ask before taking photos. With a local guide, Kano rewards curious travellers with some of the most distinctive sights in the country.
Things to see
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Photo: Solasly, CC BY-SA 4.0 Kofar Mata dye pits
Indigo dye pits worked by hand for centuries, where cloth is dipped and beaten into deep blues.
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Photo: Fatima Bukar, CC BY-SA 4.0 Kurmi Market
One of the oldest markets in West Africa, a maze of stalls selling cloth, leather, brass and spices.
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Photo: Jonathan Riddell; Flickr User: jriddell; https://www.flickr., CC BY-SA 2.0 Gidan Rumfa
The Emir's Palace, a vast traditional complex in the heart of the old city.
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Photo: Aliyu Shaba, CC0 Gidan Makama Museum
A historic palace building with decorated walls, now a museum of Kano's history and crafts.
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Photo: Cepit, CC BY-SA 4.0 Ancient Kano City Walls
Sections of the great earthen walls and their gates survive around the old city.
Things to do
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Photo: Shiraz Chakera, CC BY-SA 2.0 Climb Dala Hill
The rocky hill where Kano was first settled, with views over the mud-brick old city.
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Durbar festival
At the Eid festivals, horsemen in brilliant robes parade before the Emir in a spectacular display.
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Photo: DonCamillo, CC BY-SA 4.0 Taste kilishi
Spiced, sun-dried strips of beef sold in markets, the north's answer to jerky.
Where to stay
Nassarawa GRA
The leafy former government area, home to the main hotels.
Hotels in Nassarawa GRABompai
Convenient for the city centre and the old city, with practical mid-range options.
Hotels in Bompai
Getting around
Use taxis or a hired car with a driver; a local guide is invaluable for the old city and markets.
The airport is close to the city, around 15 to 20 minutes by car to the main hotels.
When to go
November to February is dry and relatively cool, though the harmattan brings dust. April to June is very hot, and the rains come from around June to September.
Plan your trip to Kano
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.