Amadun Alu ya gode EN — NGN
Kano destination view
Destination guide · KAN

Kano

A thousand years of trade, scholarship and craft

Kano State

Welcome to Kano.

Kano is the capital of Kano State and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in West Africa. Founded over 1,000 years ago, it is a historic centre of trans-Saharan trade, Islamic scholarship, and Hausa culture. Today, Kano remains Northern Nigeria’s largest commercial city, blending rich cultural heritage with a modern industrial and business economy.

Photo direction: Kofar Mata dye pits, overhead, hard afternoon sun

Business & tourism

A city with purpose, character and reach.

Why the city matters

Kano is Northern Nigeria’s commercial capital and one of the country’s most important industrial and trading centres. It is renowned for:

  • International trade and commerce
  • Manufacturing industries
  • Textile and leather production
  • Agriculture and agro-processing
  • Livestock markets
  • Financial institutions
  • Wholesale distribution across West Africa
  • Cross-border trade with Niger, Chad and neighbouring countries

Highlights across the city

  • Gidan Makama Museum
  • Kano City Walls
  • Emir’s Palace (Gidan Rumfa)
  • Kurmi Market
  • Dala Hill
  • Kofar Mata Dye Pits
  • Zoo Road recreational area
  • Tiga Dam (day excursion)
Airport guide

Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport

CodesKAN (IATA) / DNKN (ICAO)
TerminalsDomestic Terminal · International Terminal · Hajj Terminal (seasonal)
AddressAirport Road, Kano, Kano State
City transferApproximately 8 km from the city centre — 15–20 minutes by road.

Facilities

  • Domestic and international terminals
  • Airline check-in counters
  • Arrival and departure lounges
  • VIP lounges
  • Restaurants and cafés
  • ATMs and banking services
  • Currency exchange
  • Prayer rooms
  • Car rental services
  • Taxi and ride-hailing pickup areas
  • Parking facilities
  • Baggage handling services
  • Medical and first-aid services
  • Duty-free shopping (international terminal)
Plan your visit

Know Kano before you land.

Best time to visit

November to February, during the cool Harmattan season, offers the most comfortable weather for sightseeing, shopping, and business travel.

Climate

Hot semi-arid (Sahel) climate. Dry season October–May, rainy season June–September. Average temperatures 21°C to 40°C, with March and April the hottest months.

Languages
  • Hausa (most widely spoken)
  • English (official)
  • Fulfulde
  • Arabic (mainly in religious institutions)
  • Nigerian Pidgin
Local customs
  • Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious and traditional sites.
  • Greetings are highly valued and an important part of daily interactions.
  • Ask permission before photographing people, markets, or the Emir’s Palace.
  • Respect Islamic traditions, especially during prayer times and Ramadan.
Where to shop
  • Kurmi Market
  • Farm Centre GSM Market
  • Ado Bayero Mall
  • Sabon Gari Market
  • Kantin Kwari Textile Market
  • Singer Market
  • Zoo Road Shopping District
Where to eat
  • Cilantro Kano
  • Tamarind Restaurant
  • Marhaba Restaurant
  • Chicken Republic (Ado Bayero Mall)
  • Four Seasons Restaurant
Where to stay
  • Bristol Palace Hotel
  • Tahir Guest Palace
  • Prince Hotel Kano
  • BON Hotel Kano
Things to do

See more of Kano.

Gidan Makama Museum
Attraction 01

Gidan Makama Museum

Originally built in the 15th century as the residence of the Makama of Kano, this museum is one of Nigeria’s most important historical landmarks. It showcases the history of the Kano Emirate through traditional artifacts, royal regalia, archaeological collections, photographs, and exhibitions on Hausa culture and the trans-Saharan trade.

Address
Emir Palace Road, Wudilawa, Kano 700103
Entry
Approximately ₦500–₦1,000 per visitor
Hours
Daily 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Best time
November – February
Emir’s Palace (Gidan Rumfa)
Attraction 02

Emir’s Palace (Gidan Rumfa)

Built in the late 15th century by Sultan Muhammadu Rumfa, the Emir’s Palace is one of the oldest continuously occupied royal residences in West Africa. It remains the official residence of the Emir of Kano and is a masterpiece of traditional Hausa architecture.

Address
Emir Palace Road, Kano City, Kano 700103
Entry
Approximately ₦1,000; guided visits and photography may cost extra
Hours
Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM; weekends restricted
Best time
November – February

Visitor hours, fees and local access conditions may change. Confirm with the venue before travel.