Things To Do
in Lagos
Lagos, Nigeria is a vibrant, sprawling metropolis, known for its dynamic culture, bustling markets, and significant economic influence, being one of Africa's largest and fastest-growing cities. It sits along the Gulf of Guinea and is notable for its diverse population, consisting of various ethnic groups from within Nigeria and beyond, contributing to its rich cultural tapestry and making it a melting pot of traditions, cuisine, and languages.
Despite facing challenges such as traffic congestion and urbanization pressures, Lagos remains a central hub for business, entertainment, and innovation in Nigeria, reflecting both the potentials and the challenges of urban life in contemporary Africa.
- "Bawo ni" - How are you
- "I appreciate" - Thank you
- "Wetin dey happen?" - What's happening?
- "Make we go" - Let's go
- "No wahala" - No problem
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.5 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Lekki Conservation Centre to enjoy walking on the canopy. It's a great way to connect with nature and see some local wildlife.
Head to the Nike Art Gallery to explore and purchase some unique Nigerian art pieces. Afterward, enjoy local cuisine at a nearby restaurant.
Conclude your day at the rooftop bar of Terra Kulture, enjoying stunning views of the city. Live music often accompanies the sunset, providing a perfect end to the day.
Take a boat ride to Tarkwa Bay Beach for a relaxed morning by the shore. Enjoy swimming or simply sunbathing on the beautiful sandy beach.
Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the beach and indulge in some local grilled snacks from vendors. Engage in fun beach activities like volleyball or paddleboarding.
Catch a beautiful sunset before heading back to the mainland. Consider dining at a nearby seafood restaurant to savor the local flavors.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural scene with diverse traditions and festivals
- Economic hub of Nigeria and West Africa, offering numerous job opportunities
- Bustling markets and shopping areas that provide a wide array of goods
- Beautiful beaches and waterfronts, ideal for relaxation and recreational activities
- Growing technology and startup scene, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship
- Severe traffic congestion that can lead to long commuting times
- High levels of pollution, affecting air quality and public health
- Inadequate infrastructure and unreliable public services
- Security concerns, including crime and unrest in certain areas
- Overpopulation leading to challenges in housing and basic amenities
Best Activities in Lagos
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
A nature reserve with a canopy walkway, bird-watching, and wildlife viewing.
A popular beach for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like surfing and jet skiing.
An outdoor art gallery showcasing traditional and contemporary Nigerian art in a garden setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lagos with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lagos
Visit one of these nice places.
It offers a stunning aerial view of the city and a chance to see monkeys and other wildlife.
It provides a panoramic view of the Atlantic Ocean and the city skyline.
It offers a unique vantage point for capturing the beautiful scenery of Lagos.
Food in Lagos
Lagos Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A celebrated Nigerian dish, Jollof Rice is a flavorsome one-pot rice dish cooked in a rich tomato and pepper-based sauce, often with a choice of meat or fish. Must-try at: Terra Kulture, Iya Oyo's Jollof
Must-Try!
Suya is a popular street food consisting of skewered and grilled spicy meat, typically beef or chicken, served with sliced onions and fiery pepper sauce. Must-try at: University of Suya, Yahuza Suya
This steamed bean pudding, made from ground peeled beans, peppers, and onions, offers a delightful vegetarian option. Must-try at: Mama Cass, Iya Eba
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lagos better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
An integral part of Lagos' street food scene, this bustling market is a haven for local delicacies and street food vendors offering an array of traditional dishes and snacks.
A hotspot for suya enthusiasts, Obalende is renowned for its vibrant suya spots where visitors can savor the beloved grilled meat alongside the lively atmosphere of Lagosian street food culture.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with respect and warmth in Lagos, Nigeria. Handshakes are common, and it is polite to use titles such as 'Mr.,' 'Mrs.,' or 'Miss' when addressing someone, followed by their last name.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Nigerian culture. It is important to show deference to older individuals and seek their guidance and advice in social interactions.
Lagos has a diverse population with various cultural and religious backgrounds. It is important to dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting religious sites or attending traditional events.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lagos with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lagos
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Lagos, Nigeria is not mandatory but is often appreciated, especially in restaurants and for certain services.
Cash is widely used for most transactions in Lagos, Nigeria, but credit and debit cards are also accepted in many establishments, especially in urban areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lagos.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time to visit Lagos with lower humidity and cooler temperatures. Perfect for beach outings and outdoor activities.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. Some attractions may have limited accessibility due to the weather.
Variable weather with occasional rainfall. Temperatures begin to rise as the dry season approaches.
Lagos at Night
Hiking in Lagos
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nature reserve featuring a canopy walkway, forest trails, and diverse wildlife, providing a great hiking experience close to the city.
A serene hiking area along the canal, ideal for walking and enjoying nature while observing various species of birds.
This urban trail near the Ikeja City Mall offers a mix of natural scenery and city views, making it accessible for a quick hike.
Located in the outskirts of Lagos, it offers moderate hiking trails with beautiful views and the opportunity to experience local flora and fauna.
This trail combines history and nature, allowing hikers to learn about the region's past while enjoying scenic views along the Badagry coastline.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Lagos through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Lagos by plane.
The main international airport serving Lagos, Nigeria, located in Ikeja.
Located in Abuja, this is Nigeria's second major international airport, approximately 760 km northeast of Lagos.
Located in Accra, Ghana, this international airport is about 1,100 km west of Lagos.
Located in The Gambia, this airport is approximately 2,300 km northwest of Lagos.
Located in Cotonou, Benin, this airport is about 100 km east of Lagos.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Lagos, predominantly speaking the Yoruba language and practicing various religions including Christianity and Islam.
A significant ethnic group in Lagos, known for their entrepreneurship and economic activities, primarily speaking the Igbo language.
A notable ethnic group in Lagos, often involved in trade and commerce, primarily speaking Hausa and practicing Islam.
An ethnic group in Lagos with roots in Benin City, involved in various professions and cultural activities.
An ethnic group found in Lagos, generally linked to the Niger Delta region, with involvement in cultural and economic activities.
Various smaller ethnic groups and communities from different regions of Nigeria and neighboring countries residing in Lagos.
The Soul of Lagos
Discover the essence of Lagos through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Lagos, with numerous local leagues, amateur clubs, and a fervent fan base following national and international teams.
Basketball has gained significant popularity in Lagos, supported by skilled players, local leagues, and a growing number of basketball courts in communities.
Athletics, including track and field events, is popular in Lagos, with various competitions held throughout the year, encouraging youth participation.
Traditional wrestling is a notable cultural sport in Lagos, often featured in local festivals and events, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
Cricket is an emerging sport in Lagos, with a growing number of clubs and increasing interest among the youth, especially in schools.
Due to its coastal location, swimming is a popular recreational activity in Lagos, along with competitive swimming events organized by various clubs.
Volleyball is practiced recreationally and competitively in Lagos, with beach volleyball gaining popularity due to the city's numerous beaches.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lagos.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Lagos' cuisine prominently features meat and fish-based dishes, an increasing number of restaurants and cafes now offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly options, especially in areas such as Victoria Island and Lekki.
Though gluten-free options are not as widespread, some establishments in Lagos are accommodating to gluten-free diets, with certain restaurants and health food stores catering to this dietary need.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Lagos with these cultural adventures.
