For travelers with a layover in Sokoto, the proximity of SKO to the city center is a real gift. Getting into town takes around 60 minutes via Taxi, and we’ve mapped out the logistics so you can spend less time planning and more time exploring.
Pre-Departure Checklist
A few things to sort out before you leave SKO:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Nigeria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Sokoto takes about 60 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is NGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
From SKO, the Taxi gets you to Sokoto in around 60 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 80 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in Sokoto
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Sokoto, two standouts are:
- Sultan’s Palace — History buffs will appreciate this, and it doesn’t take long to explore the grounds.
- Hubbare (Tomb of Usman Dan Fodio) — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Sokoto.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside SKO — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- General Waiting Area & Charging Stations
- Airport Kiosk Shopping
Eating Well on a Sokoto Layover
Two dining recommendations if you’re heading into Sokoto: Giginya Coral Hotel Restaurant and Caliphate Kitchen. Both are accessible without a huge time commitment.
Staying at the airport? Look for SKO Airport Canteen or Quick Bites & Coffee Stand. Airport food may not be glamorous, but it’ll keep you fueled up for the next leg.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Sokoto:
Transport to the city and back runs about $5 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $3 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $18 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Where to Leave Your Bags
Dedicated luggage storage at SKO may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Sokoto’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and SKO is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Sokoto and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, SKO has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Sokoto with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Sokoto may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.