Lagos State Travel Guide
Discover everything you need to know about Lagos State, Nigeria with our comprehensive tour guide. Whether you're interested in food, culture, or adventure, we've got you covered.
- Introduction to Lagos State
- List of Places to Visit in Lagos State
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Lagos State
- Best Things to Do in Lagos State: Activities and Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Lagos State
- Food and Drink Scene of Lagos State
- Where to Stay in Lagos State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Lagos State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Local Culture and Customs of Lagos State
- Best Time to Visit Lagos State
- Do’s and Don’ts of Lagos State
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Lagos State: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Lagos State
- Where to Go Next from Lagos State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Lagos State
Located in South West Nigeria, Lagos State is the economic and cultural capital of Nigeria. It is one of the most populous cities in Africa, and features a vibrant mix of cultures, traditions, and histories. As a former colony of the British Empire, Lagos has a fascinating history, and is home to numerous historical and cultural attractions.
List of Places to Visit in Lagos State
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
- The National Museum: This museum showcases the history of Nigeria, from pre-colonial times to the present day. It features a wide range of artifacts, including traditional clothing, weapons, and artwork.
- The National Arts Theatre: This iconic building is a hub for performing arts in Lagos State. Built in 1976, it features a stunning architecture and hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events.
- Freedom Park: This former colonial prison now serves as a public space for cultural activities. It features galleries, music events, and a memorial to Nigerian martyrs who fought for independence from British rule.
Natural Attractions of Lagos State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
- Lekki Conservation Centre: This eco-tourism site is one of the most popular attractions in Lagos State. It features a canopy walkway, bird-watching opportunities, and picnic areas.
- Elegushi Beach: One of the most popular beaches in Lagos State, Elegushi Beach is a great place to relax and soak up some sun. It offers a variety of water sports, including jet skiing and banana boat rides.
- Tarkwa Bay Beach: This secluded and picturesque beach can only be reached by boat. It offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Lagos State, with calm waters and white sand.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Lagos State
- Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge: This bridge offers stunning views of the Lagos State skyline, and is a popular spot for running or biking.
- Yankari National Park: Located outside of Lagos State, Yankari National Park offers extensive hiking trails and an opportunity to see wildlife, including baboons and leopards.
- VGC Jogging Trail: This trail is a great place to go for a run in Lagos State. It is well-maintained and offers a scenic route through Victoria Garden City.
Best Things to Do in Lagos State: Activities and Tours
- Lagos City Tour: Take a guided tour of Lagos State to learn about its history and culture.
- Boat Ride on Lagos Lagoon: Explore the lagoon that separates Lagos State from the mainland on a boat ride.
- Shopping in Lekki: Lekki features a wide range of shopping options, from traditional open-air markets to modern malls.
Week-Long Itinerary for Lagos State
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Visit Freedom Park and the National Museum |
| Day 2 | Explore the beaches of Lagos State, including Elegushi Beach and Tarkwa Bay Beach |
| Day 3 | Go on a scenic boat ride on Lagos Lagoon |
| Day 4 | Visit the National Arts Theatre and see a performance |
| Day 5 | Hike or bike the Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge |
| Day 6 | Take a shopping trip in Lekki |
| Day 7 | Spend the day relaxing at Lekki Conservation Centre |
Food and Drink Scene of Lagos State
Must-Try Dishes
- Jollof Rice: A Nigerian staple, jollof rice is a spicy and flavorful rice dish that is served with a variety of meats, vegetables, and spices.
- Suya: This popular street food features skewered and grilled meats, seasoned with a spicy peanut sauce.
- Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup: Yam is mashed into a starchy, dough-like consistency and served with a soup made from ground melon seeds and spices.
Local Beverages
- Palm wine: Made from fermented palm sap, palm wine is a popular alcoholic beverage in Lagos State.
- Zobo: This bright red drink is made from hibiscus flowers and is served either hot or cold.
- Chapman: A non-alcoholic cocktail made with fruit juices, soda, and grenadine syrup.
Where to Stay in Lagos State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- InterContinental Lagos: Located in Victoria Island, this luxury hotel features a rooftop pool, spa, and fitness center.
- The Wheatbaker Lagos: This contemporary hotel is located in Ikoyi, and features a restaurant, outdoor pool, and 24-hour fitness center.
- The Yellow Door Hostel: This boutique hostel is located in Lekki, and features dorms and private rooms. It also has a restaurant and bar.
What to Buy in Lagos State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Adire Fabric: This traditional Nigerian fabric is dyed with indigo and features intricate patterns.
- Wood Carvings: Lagos State is home to a vibrant woodcarving industry, with carvings ranging from masks to figurines.
- Beaded Jewelry: Lagos State is known for its intricate beadwork, with jewelry ranging from necklaces to bracelets.
Local Culture and Customs of Lagos State
- Greeting: It is customary to greet someone with a handshake and a smile in Lagos State.
- Religion: Lagos State is predominantly Muslim and Christian, and there are many mosques and churches throughout the city.
- Fashion: Lagos State is known for its vibrant and colorful fashion, and traditional Nigerian fabrics are often incorporated into modern styles.
Best Time to Visit Lagos State
The best time to visit Lagos State is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and there is less rainfall. However, Lagos State is still a great destination year-round, with plenty to see and do regardless of the weather.
Do’s and Don’ts of Lagos State
Do:
- Respect local customs: Be respectful of local culture and customs, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Be prepared for traffic: Lagos State is known for its traffic, so plan accordingly when traveling around the city.
- Try the local food: Lagos State is home to a vibrant food scene, so try some local dishes and drinks during your trip.
Don’t:
- Be disrespectful: Avoid making insensitive remarks or gestures regarding local customs or culture.
- Ignore safety precautions: Lagos State is a safe city, but it’s important to take precautions to avoid theft or scams.
- Overlook the beaches: Lagos State is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, so be sure to take advantage of them during your trip.
Safety and Health
Safety in Lagos State
Lagos State is generally a safe city, but as with any destination, it’s important to take precautions to avoid theft or scams. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and only use registered taxis or transportation.
Health in Lagos State
Lagos State has a few health risks, including malaria and other mosquito-borne diseases. It’s important to take precautions such as using insect repellent and wearing long sleeves and pants. It’s also recommended to drink bottled water to avoid water-borne illnesses.
Getting to Lagos State: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Lagos State
- Murtala Muhammed International Airport: This is the main international airport in Lagos State, with flights to destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.
- Lagos State Airport: This smaller airport offers domestic flights to locations within Nigeria.
Bus Stations Near Lagos State
- Mile 2 Bus Terminal: This is the main bus station in Lagos State, with connections to destinations within Nigeria and neighboring countries.
- Ojota Motor Park: This bus station offers connections to locations within Lagos State and other major cities in Nigeria.
Other Options
Lagos State is also accessible by train and private car. The Lagos State Railway Corporation operates train services to Iddo, Kano, and other destinations in Nigeria.
How to Get Around in Lagos State
The best way to get around Lagos State is by taxi or ride-sharing apps such as Uber or Bolt. It’s also possible to rent a car or take public transportation such as mini-buses or the Lagos State Bus Rapid Transit System (BRT). However, traffic in Lagos State can be challenging, so plan accordingly when traveling around the city.
Where to Go Next from Lagos State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Ogun State: Located to the north-east of Lagos State, Ogun State is known for its safari parks and cultural festivals.
- Benin City: Located to the east of Lagos State, Benin City is a historic city known for its art, culture, and traditional crafts.
- Badagry: Located to the west of Lagos State, Badagry is a historic town known for its slave trade history and cultural festivals.
Conclusion
Lagos State is a vibrant and fascinating city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in exploring its history, culture, or natural wonders, Lagos State is a must-visit destination in West Africa. From its beaches and outdoor adventures to its museums and performing arts venues, Lagos State has something to offer travelers of all ages and interests.