Shere Hills

The Shere hills rise east of Jos as a group of granite peaks and ridges above the plateau surface, with the highest point around 1,800 metres, among the higher summits in this part of Nigeria, and they are the main walking and climbing ground for the region. Routes run up the domes and along the ridges over bare rock and grass, with views over the plateau, Jos city and the surrounding farmland. The rock has been used for climbing and abseiling by clubs and by the nearby Nigerian Army training establishment. Fulani herders graze the slopes. Access is straightforward from Jos, and local guides can be arranged in the villages at the foot.

The landscape

• The granite domes - the bare rock peaks rising from the plateau.
• Ridge walking - the routes along the tops with plateau views.
• The Jos view - the city and farmland from the summits.
• Herding on the slopes - the Fulani cattle grazing the grassland.

When to go

November to March in the dry season for firm ground and clear views, though harmattan haze in December and January can blur the distance. The rains make the rock slippery and the grass high. Start early.

Things to know

There are no marked trails and a local guide is advisable both for route finding and for local relations. The rock is exposed and scrambling is needed in places. There is no water or shade on the tops, and no marked descent routes.

Nearby

Jos lies west; Riyom rock is south.

Key facts