Oshodi Travel Guide (Lagos State/South West Nigeria/Nigeria/West Africa/Africa)

Introduction to Oshodi

If you are looking to explore the bustling local life of Lagos, Oshodi is the place to go. Located in Lagos State, South West Nigeria, this neighborhood is a vibrant area teeming with cultural attractions, outdoor adventures, and delicious food. In this comprehensive guide, we will take you on a journey through Oshodi, giving you a list of places to visit, things to do, and other important information to help you plan your trip.

List of Places to Visit in Oshodi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Oshodi is home to various cultural landmarks that offer insights into the history and heritage of the region. Here are some of the must-visit museums and historical spots:

National Museum Lagos: This museum is dedicated to preserving Nigeria’s history, culture, and art. It is home to an impressive collection of artefacts dating back to pre-historic times, including ancient terracotta figures, bronze heads, and textiles.
Ojumọ Palace: Located in the Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Area, the Ojumọ Palace is a significant historical site in the region. It is an excellent place to learn about the traditional Yoruba way of life and the kingdom’s history.
Badagry Heritage Museum: This museum showcases the slave trade era in Nigeria and Africa.

Natural Attractions of Oshodi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you’re looking for some outdoor adventures in Oshodi, you won’t be disappointed. Take a stroll through one of the parks, enjoy the lush vegetation, and soak in the fresh air.

Tarkwa Bay Beach: Located off the coast of Lagos, Tarkwa Bay Beach is a secluded spot that provides an excellent escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The beach is accessible by boat, and you can enjoy activities like swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
Shitta Bey Mosque: This remarkable mosque in Oshodi is more than 100 years old and has been a significant landmark in the region. Even if you’re not religious, the architecture and design of the mosque are worth seeing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oshodi

Oshodi offers various trails and routes for hikers and bikers, providing an excellent opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to explore the region actively. Some of the places to go hiking or cycling include:

Lekki Conservation Center: This conservation center offers outdoor activities, including nature walks, bird watching, and a canopy walkway.
Omu Resort: Located in the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Omu Resort is a fun and exciting place to explore. It offers activities like nature walks, archery, paintball, and ziplining.

Best Things to Do in Oshodi: Activities and Tours

Are you looking for unique things to do in Oshodi? There is more to the region than just sightseeing. Experience local culture, food, and explore the neighborhood’s vibrant streets with these exciting activities and tours:

Experience Traditional Yoruba Festivals and Celebrations: Oshodi is known for its elaborate festivals and celebrations that showcase the Yoruba culture. You can hire a tour guide to show you around or take part in a traditional festival or celebration, such as the Ojude Oba Festival or the Eyo Festival, if you visit Lagos during these events.
Food Tours: Lagos is a melting pot of cultures, and Oshodi offers some of the best cuisine in the region. Take a food tour of the region and taste some of the traditional dishes like jollof rice, plantain, and suya.
Bakassi Market Tour: Bakassi Market is a bustling market in Oshodi, where you can buy a wide range of items ranging from clothing, textiles, and food. If you enjoy window shopping or bargaining for items, this market is perfect for you.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oshodi

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Oshodi, you can use this itinerary as a guide:

Day	Itinerary
1	Visit the National Museum Lagos and Ojumọ Palace
2	Take a walk or bike ride in Tarkwa Bay Beach and have a picnic
3	Explore Shitta Bey Mosque and other historical landmarks in Oshodi
4	Go on a food tour of Oshodi and enjoy some traditional Nigerian cuisine
5	Take a trip to The Lekki Conservation Center
6	Visit the Badagry Heritage Museum and learn about the slave trade in Nigeria
7	Visit the Bakassi Market and do some shopping

Food and Drink Scene of Oshodi

No trip to Lagos or Oshodi is complete without indulging in the region’s delicious and diverse cuisine. Here are some fantastic food and drink options you must try:

Must-Try Dishes

Jollof Rice: This popular rice dish is a staple in Nigeria and a must-try for visitors to the region.
Suya: A street food staple, suya is grilled meat seasoned with a blend of spices and pepper.
Pounded Yam: This dish is made from yam and served with soup or stew.

Local Beverages

Palm Wine: A sweet alcoholic drink made from the sap of palm trees, this drink is popular across West Africa.
Zobo Drink: A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers.

Where to Stay in Oshodi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of options for accommodation in Oshodi, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here are some of the options:

The Blowfish Hotel: This luxury hotel is located in Victoria Island, Lagos, and offers elegant rooms with an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center.
The George Lagos: Located in Ikoyi, Lagos, this upscale hotel is perfect for those looking for a luxurious stay. The hotel offers state-of-the-art facilities like a spa, fitness center, and swimming pool.
Planet One Hospitality: This budget-friendly guesthouse is located in Ikeja, Lagos, and offers clean, comfortable rooms with basic amenities.

What to Buy in Oshodi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to take home, Bakassi Market is the perfect place to go. Here are some of the things you can buy:

Traditional Clothing: Bakassi Market is known for its traditional clothing, including dashikis, Ankara prints, and woven fabrics.
Beading and Jewelry: Nigerian beading and jewelry are exquisite and intricate, and Bakassi Market has a wide range of options to choose from.
Spices and Seasonings: If you want to take home some of the flavors of Nigeria, pick up some local spices and seasonings at the market.

Local Culture and Customs of Oshodi

Nigeria is a diverse country with several ethnic groups, and Oshodi is a melting pot of different cultures. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting the region:

Respect Local Customs: Nigeria is a conservative country, and visitors should respect local customs and dress modestly.
Greet and Shake Hands: When meeting people in Oshodi, it is customary to greet with a handshake.
Language: The most commonly spoken language in Oshodi and Lagos is English, but people also speak Yoruba, Pidgin, and other local dialects.

Best Time to Visit Oshodi

The best time to visit Oshodi is between November and March, when the weather is dry and mild. The rainy season starts in April and lasts until October. However, even during the rainy season, Lagos is still an exciting city to explore.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oshodi

Do:

Try the Local Cuisine: Nigeria has a diverse and delicious cuisine, and visitors should try some of the local dishes when visiting Oshodi.
Be Open-Minded: Nigeria is a vibrant and chaotic country, and visitors should be open-minded when exploring the region.
Negotiate Prices: When shopping or hiring services in Oshodi, it is customary to negotiate prices.

Don’t:

Display Affluence: Nigeria is a developing country, and visitors should avoid displaying wealth or valuables while in public.
Travel Alone at Night: Lagos, like any other metropolitan city, can be dangerous, and visitors should avoid travelling alone at night.
Be Disrespectful: Visitors should avoid being disrespectful to locals or anyone they meet while exploring Oshodi.

Safety and Health

Safety in Oshodi

Like any other city or neighborhood, Oshodi has its share of safety concerns. Visitors should take the following precautions to ensure their safety:

Avoid Unlit Areas at Night: Visitors should avoid walking or travelling alone in unlit areas at night.
Be Aware of Pickpockets: Visitors should keep a close eye on their belongings, especially in crowded areas or public transportation.
Use Licensed Taxis: Visitors should use licensed taxis when travelling in Lagos.

Health in Oshodi

Visitors to Oshodi should take the following health precautions:

Stay Hydrated: Nigeria is a hot and humid country, and visitors should ensure they stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
Take Malaria Prophylaxis: Malaria is prevalent in Nigeria, and visitors should take prophylactic medication before their trip.
Observe Food Safety: Visitors should observe food safety precautions and avoid consuming uncooked or unhygienic food.

Getting to Oshodi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Oshodi

The closest airport to Oshodi is the Murtala Muhammed International Airport, which is located about 7 km from the neighborhood.

Bus Stations Near Oshodi

The key bus stations near Oshodi are:

Mile 2 Bus Station: This bus station offers long-distance transportation to other parts of Nigeria.
Oshodi Bus Stop: This bus stop is a significant transportation hub in Lagos, providing transportation to various parts of the city.

Other Options

Visitors can also use ride-hailing services like Uber and Bolt to get around Lagos.

How to Get Around in Oshodi

Public transportation in Oshodi and Lagos can be chaotic, and visitors may find it challenging to navigate the bus system. However, taxi services like Uber and Bolt are available and provide more comfortable transportation options. Visitors can also hire a driver or rent a car for more extended journeys.

Where to Go Next from Oshodi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several exciting destinations and excursions near Oshodi that visitors can explore, such as:

Badagry: This historic town is located on the coast of Lagos and has several historical landmarks, including a slave museum and a colonial-era fort.
Lekki Peninsula: An upscale residential neighborhood in Lagos with scenic beaches and high-end restaurants and bars.
Epe: Located on the outskirts of Lagos, this town is known for its rich cultural heritage and exciting festivals and celebrations.

Conclusion

Oshodi provides visitors with a window into the rich cultural and historical heritage of Nigeria. From exploring museums and historical landmarks to indulging in delicious local cuisine, Oshodi has something for everyone. With the tips outlined in this guide, visitors can explore the region confidently and safely, ensuring that they get the most out of their trip to Nigeria.