Kano is a colourful city filled with traditional African buildings and Islamic mosques. Shop for treasures at one of the biggest markets in Africa and learn about the city’s centuries-old indigo dying industry. Kano artisans have been passing down techniques for generations.
Things to do in Kano
Walk around the walled Old City and admire traditional houses built from mud and clay. The buildings offer a fascinating glimpse of the Hausa Kingdoms that ruled Nigeria in the 15th century. Many of the historic buildings are reimagined as handicraft shops where you can purchase goat leather purses, beaded jewellery and other handicrafts.
Get lost in Kurmi Market, one of the biggest bazaars in Africa. The market has a huge 16-hectare footprint and features thousands of stalls. Shop for handmade African crafts, colourful fabrics and gleaming silver jewellery.
Learn more about Nigeria’s rich history and heritage at the Gidan Makama Museum. The museum is housed in a beautifully restored Hausa palace with mud walls. Inside are galleries filled with traditional art, handicrafts and musical instruments. You’ll also see exhibits on the city’s Islamic heritage and the British Empire era.
Watch artisans create beautiful indigo cloth at the Kofar Dye Pits. The site has been operating for hundreds of years and features dozens of sunken pits filled with deep-blue dye. Instead of artificial colours, the artisans rely on twigs from the locally grown Indigo plant. You’ll be amazed by the intricate designs and patterns. Support the artisans and purchase a roll of handmade indigo cloth.
Getting around Kano
Parts of Kano are pedestrian-friendly and easy to get around on foot, while taxis are a fast and affordable way to cover longer distances. The city is a 2.5-hour drive from Zaria and 6.5 hours from Abuja. Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja is a seven-hour drive away.