Africa
Afrobeats, jollof and the restless energy of West Africa's giant.
Nigeria is Africa's most populous country and a cultural powerhouse. Lagos is a huge, fast-moving megacity of markets, galleries and beach clubs, while the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, the terraced Sukur landscape and Olumo Rock in Abeokuta reveal older histories. Nature lovers head to the cool Obudu Plateau or Yankari National Park, and Zuma Rock towers near the capital, Abuja.
Food is loud and generous: smoky jollof rice, suya skewers, pepper soup and pounded yam with egusi. Lagos nightlife and live music are the draw for many visitors. Some regions carry official warnings, so check your government's travel advice and plan with local contacts. November to February is dry, though the dusty harmattan haze can hang over the north; April to October brings rain.
November, December.