Experience the best of Abuja

Abuja was designed in the 1970s and 1980s to replace Lagos as the capital, and took over the role in 1991; it sits in the middle of the country on a plateau, in a Federal Capital Territory of hills and rivers. Aso Rock, a huge granite monolith some four hundred metres high, towers above the government quarter. The golden-domed National Mosque and the National Christian Centre both stand in the Central Area.

Zuma Rock, a vast monolith rising sharply from the plain, stands beside the road to the north-west and has become a symbol of the city. The Millennium Park has gardens and fountains, the Arts and Crafts Village sells pottery and carvings, and Ushafa, a village of potters, keeps the tradition of hand-built clay vessels.

Jollof rice, suya, thin slices of spiced grilled beef on skewers sold at roadside stands, pounded yam with egusi soup, and pepper soup are the city's staples, with chin chin and zobo, a hibiscus drink. The rains run from April to October, and the harmattan brings dry, dusty air from December to February.