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Seasonal Weather in Jalingo: What to Expect Throughout the Year – A Totally Unfiltered Look

@Freya Holm2/14/2026blog

okay, so jalingo. where do i even start? it’s not exactly on everyone’s travel radar, and honestly, that’s part of its charm. i'm a freelance photographer, and i’ve been spending a few months here, trying to capture the real jalingo, not the tourist-approved version. and let me tell you, the weather here is… an experience. it’s not the postcard-perfect kind of place, but it’s got a rhythm all its own.


first up, let's talk *dry season (roughly november to february). think intense sun, but not the roasting kind. more like a warm, persistent glow. it’s the kind of heat that makes you want to immediately seek shade under a mango tree. the air is dry, which is a blessing and a curse. great for exploring, but your skin will crave moisturizer. i’ve noticed a lot of folks wear wide-brimmed hats, definitely a good move. people are out and about, though - markets are buzzing, and you’ll see families hanging out in the evenings. the earth smells like dust and dried leaves, which is… oddly comforting?


then comes the rainy season (march to may). this is when jalingo really comes alive… or maybe just gets a little muddy. the rain isn't constant downpours, more like really dramatic, short bursts followed by sunshine. it’s beautiful, but be prepared to get damp. seriously, invest in a decent raincoat. i learned that the hard way. it’s like the whole city gets a refreshing shower every afternoon. honestly, i find the smell amazing - that earthy, wet-pavement scent. locals say it’s good for the crops, which is important because a lot of people here rely on agriculture. rent for a decent one-bedroom apartment can hover around $300-$500 a month, according to Nomad List. it’s definitely more affordable than places like Lagos or Abuja.

the cool season (june to august) is a sweet spot. the temperatures drop a bit, making it perfect for long walks and exploring the surrounding countryside. the air feels cleaner, and there’s a sense of quietude. this is when i feel most at home here, to be honest. and you know what? people are super friendly. you’ll be stopped on the street for a chat, which is nice. i overheard someone at a local market saying the best time to visit is during the cooler months - apparently, the heat during dry season can be brutal. just a heads-up.


september and october bring us back into the transition period. it’s unpredictable - you might get sunshine one day and a downpour the next. it’s jalingo weather in a nutshell. “it’s the season of the fickle gods,” someone at a roadside food stall told me - probably just a joke, but it definitely sums things up. regarding the job market, things are a bit tough. I’ve heard whispers on Reddit's r/Nigeria that opportunities for expats aren't readily available, but local businesses are booming. there seems to be a growing interest in small-scale entrepreneurship.

neighborhood vibes: i’m staying near the central market, which is a chaotic but fascinating place. it’s a sensory overload - the smells, the sounds, the colors. i’ve gotten some seriously good deals on clothes there. something a local warned me about: be prepared to haggle! it’s expected. also, be mindful of your belongings. petty theft isn’t uncommon, so keep an eye on your stuff.

food scene: the food is incredible. forget fancy restaurants - the best meals i’ve had have been from street vendors. jollof rice is, of course, a staple, but there are so many other dishes to try. my favourite so far is… i don't even know the name! something with plantains and a spicy sauce. just ask around, you'll find someone who knows. don't be afraid to try new things!

what to pack:
 lightweight, breathable clothing
a wide-brimmed hat
 a good raincoat
comfortable walking shoes
 sunscreen
insect repellent
 a universal adapter
* a sense of adventure (obviously!)

seriously, jalingo isn’t for everyone. it’s not a polished, easy destination. but if you’re looking for an authentic experience, a place that will challenge you and surprise you, then jalingo might just be the place for you. check out TripAdvisor for some basic info. and if you wanna connect with other travelers, there’s a small but active group on Facebook

just a final thought: i got a recommendation from a local artist to check out the old palace - apparently, it's full of hidden stories. and be sure to visit the local crafts market - you can find some really unique souvenirs. oh, and one more thing- apparently the best place for coffee is a little hole-in-the-wall place near the university. don’t ask me how i know.

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About the author: Freya Holm

Loves data, hates clutter.

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