Things to do in Kano
Discover the best attractions and experiences Kano has to offer
Historic Monuments
Kano’s old city is studded with royal palaces, ancient walls and timeless landmarks that tell the story of its trading empires.
Kano Emir's Palace (Gidan Rumfa)
A grand royal residence and ceremonial site reflecting Kano’s Hausa-Fulani heritage.
Kano City Wall
Ancient fortifications that guarded the old city and offer a glimpse into medieval Kano.
Gidan Makama Museum
A restored palace-turned-museum showcasing Kano royalty and everyday life.
Dala Hill
A historical hill overlooking the city with stories of Kano’s past.
Museums
Explore Kano’s heritage through curated displays of royal artifacts, crafts and regional history.
Gidan Makama Museum
A historic house museum that chronicles Kano’s royal lineage and culture.
Kano State Museum
Artifacts and exhibits tracing Kano’s history, trade and daily life.
Religious Monuments
Kano’s mosques and sacred spaces reflect its long Islamic traditions and architectural styles.
Great Mosque of Kano (Kano Central Mosque)
A landmark mosque representing the city’s religious and architectural heritage.
Kumbotso Grand Mosque
A historic mosque in the Kumbotso area that serves as a spiritual center.
National & Theme Parks
Kano’s green spaces include a city zoo and nature reserves where visitors can unwind.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Kano. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Dive into Kano’s vibrant quarters to experience daily life, markets and street food.
Kofar Mata
A historic market quarter buzzing with trades, crafts and food stalls.
Kofar Nassarawa (Nassarawa Quarter)
Residential and commercial hub with lively streets and shops.
Gwammaja
A bustling neighborhood known for traditional crafts and daily life.
Dala Quarter
Old-city area offering a window into Kano’s ancient layout and culture.
Free Things to Do
Many of Kano’s highlights can be enjoyed without a price tag—strolling, markets and viewpoints.
Walk the Old City walls and streets
Stroll through historic lanes and admire centuries-old architecture.
Explore Kurmi Market from the outside
Wander through one of West Africa’s oldest markets and people-watch.
Viewpoints from Dala Hill (outdoor areas)
Get panoramic city views from the surrounding hills and vantage points.
Gastronomy
Hausa cuisine shines in Kano, with hearty stews, millet-based drinks and street snacks.
Fura da Nono
A traditional millet-based porridge served with a creamy dairy drink.
Tuwo Shinkafa with Miyan Kuka
A comforting staple of soft rice/yam mush with leafy soup.
Dambu
Flavored shredded millet dumplings often enjoyed as a snack.
Suya and local street foods
Charred skewers and spicy snacks found at markets and streets.
Nightlife
Evenings in Kano offer casual cafes, suya joints and music-filled spaces.
Casual cafes and suya joints
Relaxed spots for evening bites and conversations.
Live music at cultural venues
Local musicians showcase Hausa folk tunes and contemporary songs.
Evening markets and street food strolls
Night strolls through lit streets with aromas and flavors.
Entertainment
Kano’s film and performing arts scene reflects the region’s vibrant culture.
Kannywood film studios
Studio tours and glimpses into Nigeria’s Hausa-language film industry.
Local theaters and cultural performances
Dramas, music and traditional performances in the city.
Festival and cultural events
Seasonal celebrations featuring music, dance and crafts.
Sports
Sports are an integral part of Kano life, from traditional games to professional football.
Dambe traditional wrestling
A dynamic, ceremonial form of wrestling rooted in Hausa culture.
Sani Abacha Stadium (watch Kano Pillars FC)
Catch a local football match at Kano’s main stadium.
Local football and training fields
Casual games and practice sessions with local clubs.
Off the Track
Venture beyond the main sights for authentic experiences and crafts.
Craft workshops with artisans in Kurmi Market area
Hands-on sessions with traditional makers.
Guided walks through Kofar Mata and nearby quarters
Interpreted strolls revealing daily life and history.
Traditional crafts demonstrations in Gwammaja
Watch artisans at work and try your hand at basic crafts.