Riyom Rock

Iconic stacked granite boulders south of Jos — once on Nigeria's currency

Riyom Rock is a spectacular stack of granite boulders about an hour's drive south of Jos, near the town of Riyom in the southern part of the plateau. The formation rises sharply from the surrounding farmland — three large boulders balanced on top of one another, with the topmost stone seemingly tipped at an impossible angle. It is one of the most photographed landmarks on the plateau.

You can drive close to the base and walk up. A short scramble brings you to a viewpoint where the surrounding villages and farmland spread out below; on a clear day the views across the plateau are excellent. Allow half a day from Jos including travel. As with any longer-distance excursion in Plateau State, check the current security situation before you set out and consider going with a local driver who knows the area.

things to do sight
A story
Riyom Rock once featured on the Nigerian 100-naira note, and is one of the most recognised natural landmarks in the country. Local legend holds that the precariously balanced stones cannot be moved by human hands — visiting climbers and earnest engineers have proved otherwise from time to time, but the formation always finds its balance again.