When I was younger, all I wanted to do was spend my life traveling the world and discovering new cultures. Now that I’m older, more experienced, and wiser than ever before, this girl has found herself on her feet – this time, exploring my home country Nigeria, starting with the incredibly beautiful city of Lagos.
There’s an undeniable charm to Lagos that fills the air. It boasts a rich cultural heritage, youthful energy and some of the best food in all of Africa. Plus, its beaches are among the most stunning you’ll find anywhere on Earth. If you’re traveling to Lagos, Nigeria, for business or leisure, this Lagos travel guide has all you need to help prepare you for what awaits!
Lagos is the city for nightlife! Famous for its diverse, bubbly and cultured nightlife scene, you are bound to find something to your music and lifestyle taste. Believe me, you do not want to leave Lagos without a proper night out where you can dance, drink and eat to your heart’s desire. Plus if you are coming from Canada where most of the clubs close at 2 AM, it’s a lovely change to be able to dance till the sun comes up… and then do it again the night after!
While in Lagos, I visited two clubs but Club Envy was by far my favorite. I just had to include it in this Nigeria travel guide! This place will keep you on your feet dancing the entire time, with drinks for every taste bud!
General Info & tips
Like most other West African countries such as Ghana and Mali, the official language spoken in Nigeria is English. Nigeria has over 500 languages, but English and Pidgin English are the most spoken languages.
Nigeria’s currency is called Naira (NGN) and 1 NGN is equal to approximately $0.0024(USD). The Naira however is the only acceptable physical tender. I made most of my payments using my Naira Visa debit cards (billed in Naira) and cash but cash is more accepted than POS payments. Make sure to carry cash from home as changing money is easier (as long as it is below $10K), and remember to bring change for tips while on your trip.
Lagos, Nigeria, enjoys a hot and humid climate with an average high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit in February/March to 94 degrees F in July/August. The only time it rains is during July and August. It’s helpful to keep in mind that Nigeria’s seasons are opposite of those in the United States. For instance, Nigeria is currently experiencing its “winter” which we call “harmattan season” which feels like a very light fall season.
On culture, Lagos is known for being one of Africa’s most progressive cities, but it is still heavily influenced by Nigeria’s rural culture. That means if you’re looking to bask in the history and culture of this stunning place, it’s all available!
Packing Must-haves for Lagos City
Packing for your next vacay to Lagos, Nigeria? Make sure that your suitcase includes light and loose cotton clothing. The best clothes to wear in Nigeria’s climate are light, airy, and free of any cumbersome material. They should also be light-coloured, so they don’t burden your body with excessive heat when you’re exploring!
Another great way to beat the heat in Lagos is with a cotton swimsuit by the beach! Cotton linings ensure that you stay cool and refreshed on hot days, or when soaking up some rays on any of Lagos, Nigeria’s famous beaches.
In addition to the above, it’s always good practice to bring sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, anti-mosquito repellent (that contains DEET), contact lenses/glasses if you wear them, and of course, due to COVID, your mask!
Entry Requirements And Transportation
Nigeria has several entry requirements that every traveller must meet due to COVID. For a full lowdown on what you need to do and bring, see here. It’s also helpful to do your research before you travel, as the requirements change all the time. Nigeria also has a visa waiver program that allows most nationalities to enter with only an ID card for up to 90 days, but it is best to double-check if you’re unsure.
Lagos city is huge, and getting around can be difficult without a car. With that being said, taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Bolt are available to take to your destination, but if this isn’t an option for you or just too expensive, you can explore the local bus transportation system, so you know how much it costs ahead of time. Find out all you need to know about getting around Lagos, Nigeria, here.
Lagos is known for its heavy traffic, so if you are not used to sitting in the car for a long time, brace yourself because this is the norm. However, I enjoyed it because it was such a contrast to my everyday life in Winnipeg where you can get to any destination within the city in 30 minutes or less.
You will also notice a difference between Lagos Island and Mainland and depending on your type of vibe, where you stay matters. I found the Island to be more modern, and bubbly with more youthful energy while the mainland seemed more traditional and conservative. I found the contrast between both parts of the city quite stunning.
Where to Stay
For this stay, I lived it up in an Airbnb. Not the usual hotel stay I usually talk about in my travel guides, I know, but it was so worth it. Airbnbs are not only often more affordable, but they offer a truly local experience which is what Nigeria is all about! Not sure how to plan a trip with an Airbnb, check out my guide to luxury staycations here.
This place is called Bromley Place Apartment, and it was AMAZING. Of course, luxury comes at a price, but it was worth every penny for the three days that I stayed. Taiwo’s place surpassed our expectations. It boasts three bedrooms that are all ensuite, premium cable tv, 24 hours of uninterrupted electricity, and guarded entry. The security guards at the gate did a great job vetting everyone who entered, and we felt extremely safe throughout our stay.
The rooms and beds were very comfortable. The bathroom had everything we could ask for: clean towels, shampoo/conditioner and soap! The kitchen was also equipped for a long term stay with clean dishes, pots and dish soap and the fridge was loaded with water enough for our stay. They even laid out a cute welcome treat for us.
All in all, there’s something about Taiwo’s place that makes you feel at home. The beautifully furnished apartment looks exactly as it does in the pictures and is an excellent spot for anyone visiting Lagos, Nigeria. Thank you, Taiwo, for having us! If you’d love to see this stunning Airbnb on video, head over to my Instagram to check it out my Airbnb tour video.
Things to Do in Lagos Travel Guide
SHIRO – This Japanese, Korean and Thai restaurant offers an array of delicious cuisine with a view that will make your trip worth every penny. Perched up high overlooking the ocean in Lagos’ Landmark Centre district is where you’ll find this unique spot for great food and drinks!
FLOWERSHOP CAFE – I just added Flowershop Café to my list of favourite restaurants in Lagos; I fell in love with this place! The atmosphere is so unique. The beauty of flowers and plants comes together with gourmet-style cafe food. Trust me, after one visit here; you’ll keep you going back for more.
NIKE ART GALLERY – Nike Art Gallery is a five-story tall building in the greater Lagos area of Nigeria. This art gallery has been home to thousands upon tens of thousands of pieces by various African artists. It flourishes in history! You can find anything from sculptures, paintings, or photographs here!
MOIST BEACH – Moist Beach Club is one of the most happening spots in Lagos city with its breathtaking view and good food. You’ll love it if you’re looking for some fun, entertainment, or an ambiance depicting African arts & culture!
CIRCA NONPAREIL – If you’re looking for a classy place to have dinner with friends, Circa Prive is your best bet. The restaurant offers an expensive but comfortable experience in the most modern setting imaginable: Lagos and its beautiful ocean views from every level! We were blown away by how each space reflects its personality, while still feeling cohesive as one whole entity; there’s something special about this venue that makes it stand out. You just have to experience it!
Nightlife in Lagos
Lagos is the city for nightlife! Famous for its diverse, bubbly and cultured nightlife scene, you are bound to find something to your music and lifestyle taste. Believe me, you do not want to leave Lagos without a proper night out where you can dance, drink and eat to your heart’s desire. Plus if you are coming from Canada where most of the clubs close at 2 AM, it’s a lovely change to be able to dance till the sun comes up… and then do it again the night after!
While in Lagos, I visited two clubs but Club Envy was by far my favourite. I just had to include it in this Nigeria travel guide! This place will keep you on your feet dancing the entire time, with drinks for every taste bud!
What I wore
What’s a vacation without a brand new wardrobe? Nothing! I couldn’t keep all of these beautiful outfits to myself, so here are some looks I wore during the trip!
Look 1: Top & Skirt Pretty Little Thing , Shoes: Alias Mae
Look 2: Dress: Fashjonn
Look 3: Set: TMO International
Look 4: Top: Pretty Little Thing and shorts: Pretty Little thing , Shoes: Gucci
Look 5: Dress: Pretty Little Thing
Look 6: Set: Ibilola Ogundipe rtw
Look 7: Set: Fashjonn
And a lot more outfits not pictured here! I was intensional about shopping either Black-Owned brands or Nigerian brands for this trip and even though I couldn’t shoot them all for this post, keep your eyes glued to my Instagram for more wardrobe updates inspired by this trip!
For more travel recaps, check out my city girl’s guide to Vancouver or my travel guide to Cabo, Mexico! Don’t forget to also subscribe to my newsletter to see where next I visit.
Watch the Lagos Vlog
See you soon!
Love,
Anita
