Lagos - Discovering Nigeria

Travelling to Lagos

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Lagos, a pretty good destination in Nigeria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Lagos and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Lagos, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nigeria, here's everything to know about Lagos for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Lagos

Lagos is a bustling city in Nigeria that boasts the title of the country's largest city and economic capital. It has a population of over 20 million people and is known for its vibrant nightlife, diverse food scene, and bustling markets. The city also has many historical sites, art galleries, museums, and beautiful beaches. Lagos is the center of Nigeria's entertainment industry with plenty of music and film studios. The climate in Lagos is tropical with two distinct seasons - the rainy season, which runs from April to October, and the dry season, which runs from November to March.

What to visit in Lagos

Sure, here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Lagos, Nigeria along with some brief information about each: 1. Lekki Conservation Centre - This conservation center is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, as well as a 401-meter-long canopy walkway that gives visitors a bird's-eye view of the park and its inhabitants.
2. National Museum Lagos - This museum offers a glimpse into Nigeria's rich cultural heritage, with exhibits ranging from traditional artworks to historical artifacts.
3. Nike Art Gallery - This gallery features the works of local artists, ranging from traditional to contemporary pieces.
4. Freedom Park Lagos - This park was once a colonial-era prison, but has since been revitalized as a cultural center and public space, with plenty of festivals and events throughout the year.
5. Tarkwa Bay Beach - This picturesque beach is accessible only by boat and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
6. Eko Atlantic - This new development is a modern city built on reclaimed land along the Atlantic Ocean, offering upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
7. Terra Kulture - This cultural center showcases the best of Nigerian arts, music, literature, and theater.
8. Bar Beach - This popular beach offers a range of activities, from sunbathing to horseback riding, along with scenic views of the ocean.
9. Kalakuta Republic Museum - This museum pays tribute to the life and work of Fela Kuti, one of Nigeria's most influential musicians and cultural icons.
10. Lagos Island - This bustling island is the heart of the city, with plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, as well as historical landmarks like the National Museum and the Lagos City Hall.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nigeria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Lagos.

When to go on holiday to Lagos

The best time to visit Lagos is between November and January when the weather is cooler and less humid. The temperature ranges between 23°C to 32°C during this period, making it a pleasant time to explore the city. However, it is important to note that Lagos experiences a rainy season from April to October, so it is advisable to avoid visiting during this period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Lagos

You can get to Lagos, Nigeria by air, road, or sea. By air: Lagos has an international airport, Murtala Muhammed International Airport, located in Ikeja. Many international airlines fly into Lagos, and there are also domestic airlines that operate within Nigeria. You can search for flights and book tickets through travel websites like Expedia, Skyscanner, or directly through airline websites. By road: There are buses that run from neighboring countries like Benin Republic, Togo, and Ghana to Lagos. You can also travel to Lagos by road from other parts of Nigeria, although the road network can be quite challenging. By sea: You can also get to Lagos by sea. There are several ports in Lagos that receive ships and ferries from various parts of the world. Some of the major ports in Lagos include Apapa port, Tin Can Island port, and the Lagos Port Complex. Each mode of transportation has its own benefits and drawbacks, so it's important to research and weigh your options before deciding which one works best for you.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Lagos, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Lagos

Sure, here are some typical foods of Lagos, Nigeria, along with a brief description of each: 1. Jollof Rice - a well-known one-pot dish made with rice cooked in a spicy tomato and pepper sauce. It is usually served with fried plantains, grilled chicken, or beef.
2. Eba and Egusi Soup - Eba is a dough made from cassava flour, while Egusi Soup is a thick soup made with ground melon seeds, spinach, and various spices. It is typically eaten with the hands by dipping the eba into the soup.
3. Pounded Yam with Vegetable Soup/Stew - Pounded Yam is a starchy, gluten-free dough made from yam that has been cooked and mashed. It is usually served with a thick vegetable soup or stew made with a variety of vegetables and spices.
4. Suya - Spicy grilled meat, typically beef, chicken, or goat, skewered and seasoned with a spice blend that includes chili pepper, ginger, and garlic. It is usually served with sliced onions, tomatoes, and cabbage.
5. Akara - Deep-fried bean cake made from black-eyed peas. It is often sold by street food vendors as a quick and filling snack or breakfast food.
6. Moi Moi - A steamed bean pudding made from black-eyed peas, onions, and red peppers. It is often served as a side dish or snack.
7. Amala and Ewedu Soup - Amala is another dough made from yam or cassava flour, while Ewedu Soup is a thin soup made from jute leaves and spices. It is usually eaten with the hands by dipping the amala into the soup. These are just a few of the many delicious and popular foods you can find in Lagos, Nigeria!
You can find general info about typical foods in Nigeria here.

Is Lagos an expensive destination for tourists?

Lagos can be an expensive destination for tourists, as it is one of the major financial centers in Africa. However, there are ways to save money while exploring the city. For example, choosing budget accommodations, eating at local restaurants, and using public transportation can help reduce expenses. It is also important to note that the cost of living in Lagos can vary depending on the neighborhood and type of activities you plan to do.

Where to find accomodation in Lagos

For visiting Lagos, the most popular areas to find accommodation are Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki. These areas are centrally located and have a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, guest houses, and apartments. Other areas to consider include Ikeja, which is close to the airport and has a range of budget-friendly accommodations, and Apapa, which is a popular area for business travelers. Ultimately, the best area for accommodation will depend on your preferences and the purpose of your visit.
You can check hotel prices at Lagos here:
Booking.com

Is Lagos a safe destination for tourists?

As a travel website, I cannot provide real-time or updated information, but according to the UK Foreign Office, there has been a high threat of terrorism in Lagos and the wider Nigeria, therefore, it is advised that tourists exercise extreme caution and follow the travel advice of their home country. In addition to this, tourists should be aware of petty crimes such as theft and pickpocketing in crowded places like markets or public transport, so it's important to take precautions, like keeping your belongings close to you and avoiding showing off valuable items such as cameras or jewelry. It is also recommended to hire a reputable tour guide and only use licensed taxi or ride-hailing services.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nigeria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Lagos.

What type of travelers will enjoy Lagos the most?

Lagos, Nigeria is a diverse city with something for everyone. It is a great place for couples, young people looking for fun, and families. Here are some reasons why: 1. Couples: Lagos offers a romantic ambiance for couples with its beautiful beaches and scenic locations. Some places you can visit with your partner are the Lekki Conservation Center, Tarkwa Bay Beach, Elegushi Royal Beach, and the Lagos Art Market.
2. Young people looking for fun: Lagos offers lively nightlife scenes, with various nightclubs, bars, and lounges. You can visit places like Club Quilox, Escape Nightlife, and The Sky Restaurant & Lounge. The city also has various music and comedy festivals, concerts, and cultural events that young people can attend.
3. Families: Lagos has several family-friendly activities, such as visiting amusement parks, museums, and cultural centers. You can take your family to places such as the Lekki Leisure Lake, Terra Kulture, National Museum Lagos, and the Nike Art Gallery.
Overall, Lagos is a city that can be enjoyed by couples, young people looking for fun, and families. You just need to choose the right activities and places that fit your preferences.

How to get around Lagos

In Lagos, popular modes of transportation include buses, taxis, motorcycles (known as "okadas"), and ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt. However, due to heavy traffic congestion, it is generally recommended to use taxis or ride-hailing services for longer distances, and motorcycles or walking for shorter distances. It is also important to note that transportation can be unpredictable and may involve some negotiation with drivers or fares that are higher during peak hours.

What to see around Lagos

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Lagos, Nigeria: 1. Badagry: Located about an hour away from Lagos, Badagry is a historic town with several attractions such as the Badagry Slave Museum and the famous Point of No Return, which is the spot where slaves were shipped off to the Americas.
2. Lekki Conservation Centre: This is an expansive nature reserve that is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the reserve through a network of boardwalks that run through the treetops.
3. Epe: A charming town known for its serene beaches, traditional markets and fishing villages. It's a great place to experience the local culture and way of life.
4. Omu Resort: A family-friendly destination, Omu Resort offers a range of activities and attractions that include a water park, zoo, amusement park, miniature golf course, and much more.
5. Ikogosi Warm Springs: Located in Ekiti State, this natural wonder features a warm spring that merges with a cold spring to form a beautiful confluence. Visitors can take a dip in the warm water or go hiking in the surrounding forests.
6. Ibadan: Although the city is about 2-3 hours away from Lagos, Ibadan is a fascinating place to explore with its rich history, cultural heritage and stunning landmarks like the University of Ibadan, the Cocoa House and the Agodi Gardens.
These are just a few ideas- there are many other great places to visit within a day trip from Lagos.
For every travel information about Nigeria you can click here.

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