Is Kano Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Kano can be risky to navigate at night, especially for solo female travelers. Even though there are safe neighborhoods, the prevalence of crime, occasional cases of kidnapping, and non-standardized public transportation services present safety concerns. It’s not highly recommended to walk alone at night. Be sure to take caution, stay aware of your surroundings, or consider being accompanied by a local, trusted friend or guide.

Public transportation in Kano presents some challenges. Buses and taxis are available but often overcrowded and not well-maintained, leading to safety concerns. Further, petty theft can be an issue, so it's important to keep an eye on your belongings at all times. As a solo female traveler, it is especially important to be cautious and consider other safer alternatives such as trusted private car services.

Street harassment in Kano is relatively moderate. As a solo female traveler, expect to experience occasional unwanted attention. This can range from unsolicited comments to prying stares. While it can be uncomfortable, most instances are generally non-threatening. However, it helps to be vigilant, dress conservatively to align with local customs, and steer clear from deserted areas, particularly after dark. Stay in groups whenever possible and avoid giving out personal information to strangers. Local people are generally warm and friendly, but being cautious should still be a priority.

Kano, experiences a noticeable level of petty crime. The likelihood of incidents such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, and other forms of petty theft is fairly high, especially in busy market areas and crowded streets. It is advisable to be cautious with your belongings, avoid isolated areas, especially at night, and refrain from displaying wealth through flashy jewelry or accessories.

Drinking tap water in Kano is generally not recommended for travelers. Although locals may consume it without getting sick, foreigners may lack the necessary immunity to the potentially unfamiliar bacteria and viruses in the water. There can be issues with sanitation and water treatment, meaning that water from taps can be contaminated and carry a risk of illnesses. Always opt for bottled water or purified water to be on the safer side.

The United States government advises reconsidering travel to Nigeria due to factors such as crime, terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping, and presence of armed gangs. Please note that some areas pose an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

Government Advisory: The Canadian Government recommends avoiding non-essential travel to Nigeria, encompassing Abuja. This counsel is attributed to the unpredictable security situation throughout the country. It further emphasizes the significant risk of terrorism, crime, inter-communal clashes, armed attacks, and kidnappings. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian government advises reconsidering the need to travel to Nigeria. This is due to the volatile security situation, combined with threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, and violent crime. There is also the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.