Lagos

Getting In and Around

Visas: All foreigners require a visa to enter Nigeria regardless of the length of the stay. Fees may vary depending on country, the length of stay, and the purpose of the trip. We advise allowing ample time to arrange for your visa in order to prevent confusion or delay. Visa application requirements vary depending on country; for requirements for a specific country, visit the official Nigerian immigration website.

Transportation: Traveling by car is the best mode of transportation for getting around in Lagos. We would advise against traveling by bus and minibuses. These are cheap alternatives and, as in other countries in Africa, can be quite an experience. However, in Nigeria in general and Lagos in particular, they tend to be less safe, not least because they are often driven by people without licenses that do not take driving rules seriously. If traveling by taxi, make arrangements through your hotel. At the airport you will find a variety of taxi and chauffeur services which are a good alternative and whose prices can often be negotiated. Independent drivers with unlicensed taxis will also approach you with cheaper options but they may not always be trustworthy so this option is possibly better left for your next time around in Lagos when you know your way around better.

Okadas are a very speedy but dangerous option: okadas are like low-grade Vespas or motorcycles. The drivers are notorious for weaving in and out of traffic, getting you to your destination in no time, and at a very low cost. They’re also notorious for their frequent accidents. Enter at your own risk!

Mobile Phones: The major network providers in Nigeria are MTN, GLO, and Etisalat. You can buy a cheap GSM phone or a SIM card upon arrival if you already do not use a GSM phone.

Safety and Security

When traveling between cities in Nigeria, it is best to start the journey early and arrive before nightfall, especially if you are traveling by bus or car. Late-night travel can be dangerous, especially when it’s between states. As always when you’re traveling to a foreign country, it is important to be street smart and aware of your surroundings. Petty theft is common in Nigeria, so keep belongings such as cell phones close to you at all times. The U.S. Department of State’s travel page on Nigeria has more details on safety and security.

Nigeria is infamous for being a hub for credit card fraud. We strongly suggest that you use only cash during your stay in Nigeria.

The Top 5: Local Advice

1. Plan to have a car or a driver so that you can get the most out of your stay and move around easily. Avoid public transportation.

2. Avoid crossing main bridges that connect the mainland to the islands of the lagoon late at night.

3. When visiting markets, make sure you haggle well. Tourists are particularly victim to price gauging.

4. Rush hour can be very traffic-heavy, so plan accordingly.

5. Suya, beef cooked on a grill with peppers and spices, is a must-have dish in Lagos.