Ultimate Travel Guide to Lagos, Nigeria for Multinationals
Ultimate Travel Guide to Lagos, Nigeria for Multinationals 🇳🇬
Lagos, Nigeria's bustling megacity, offers a vibrant mix of culture, entertainment, and business opportunities. Whether you're a tourist or considering relocation, this guide provides essential insights to make your experience seamless and enjoyable.
Photo: Lagos, Nigeria
Accommodation: Hotels and Airbnb Options
Hotels:
🏨 Federal Palace Hotel: Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel offers luxury accommodations with amenities like a casino, pool, and gourmet dining.
🏨 Eko Hotels & Suites: Located on Victoria Island, this grand establishment boasts 850 rooms, nine restaurants and bars, and a convention center accommodating up to 7,000 guests. It's a hub for business travelers and tourists alike.
🏨 Airbnb:
Lagos offers a variety of Airbnb options, from serviced apartments in Ikoyi to beachfront properties in. These accommodations provide a homely feel with amenities like kitchens and Wi-Fi, suitable for both short and extended stays.
✅ View My Airbnb Wishlist for Lagos, Nigeria Here
Essential Apps and Payment Method
- Transportation Apps: Uber and Bolt are widely used for convenient and safe transportation around the city.
- Payment Apps: While cash is prevalent, mobile payment platforms like OPay and Paga are gaining popularity for transactions.
- Wise (formerly TransferWise): Ideal for international travelers, Wise offers low-cost international transfers and multi-currency accounts. However, note that NGN transfers are limited, and it's not ideal for daily spending due to Nigeria's cash-based economy.
Health Precautions: Vaccinations
Before traveling to Lagos, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. Recommended vaccinations include:
💉 Yellow Fever: Mandatory for entry into Nigeria.
💉 Typhoid and Hepatitis A: Recommended due to potential exposure through food and water.
💉 Malaria Prophylaxis: Nigeria is a malaria-endemic area; taking preventive medication is advisable.
Best Time to Visit and Weather
The ideal time to visit Lagos is during the dry season, from November to March, characterized by less rainfall and moderate temperatures averaging 25-32°C (77-90°F). The wet season spans April to October, with heavy rains and high humidity.
Cultural Insights: Traditions and Customs
🌎 Greetings: A firm handshake with a warm smile is customary. Address elders with respect, using titles like "Mr." or "Mrs."
🌎 Dress Code: While Lagos is cosmopolitan, modest attire is appreciated, especially in religious or traditional settings.
🌎 Language: English is the official language, but learning basic phrases in Pidgin English or Yoruba can enhance interactions.
Nightlife in Lagos
Lagos boasts a dynamic nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. Notable spots include:
🌃 New Afrika Shrine: A cultural center and music venue celebrating the legacy of Fela Kuti, offering live Afrobeat performances.
🌃 245 Nightlife: Located on Akin Adesola Street, this club is known for its vibrant atmosphere and themed nights.
🌃 Quilox Night Club: A premium nightclub offering an exclusive experience with top DJs and a luxurious ambiance.
Prominent Nigerian Brands and Figures
Brands:
🏢 Dangote Group: A multinational conglomerate with interests in commodities like cement, sugar, and salt.
🏢 Globacom (Glo): A leading telecommunications company offering mobile and data services
🏦 GTBank: One of Nigeria's foremost financial institutions, known for its innovative banking solutions.
Famous Figures:
🔷 Wizkid: Internationally acclaimed musician and Grammy Award winner, known for hits like "Essence."
🎬 Wizkid - Essence (Official Music Video)
🔷 Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: Renowned author of novels such as "Half of a Yellow Sun" and "Americanah.
🔷 Tony Elumelu: Entrepreneur and philanthropist advocating for Africapitalism and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation
Photo: Tony Elumelu
Considerations for Relocation
Ideal for:
✅ Entrepreneurs and Investors: Nigeria's growing economy offers opportunities in sectors like technology, agriculture, and entertainment.
✅ Cultural Enthusiasts: Rich traditions, music, and art scenes provide a vibrant cultural experience.
Challenges:
🚫 Infrastructure: Irregular power supply and traffic congestion can be daunting.
🚫 Internet Connectivity: While improving, internet speeds may not match Western standards.
🎬 5 Tips to Manage Internet Issues in Nigeria
🚫 Healthcare: Medical facilities vary; comprehensive health insurance is recommended.
Key Attractions in Lagos
🌴 Lekki Conservation Centre: A nature reserve offering canopy walks and wildlife spotting.
🎬 Lekki Conservation Center - Lagos Nigeria
🎨 Nike Art Gallery: One of the largest art galleries in West Africa, showcasing diverse Nigerian artworks.
🌴 Tarkwa Bay Beach: A serene beach accessible by boat, ideal for relaxation and water sports
Travel Logistics
Airlines and Ticket Costs:
✈️ From Los Angeles (LAX): Round-trip flights range from $1,200 to $1,800, with airlines like Delta and Lufthansa offering routes with layovers.
✈️ From Atlanta (ATL): Round-trip flights range from $1,000 to $1,500, with carriers such as KLM and British Airways.
✅ Flight Booking Tip: Utilize apps like Hopper to monitor and secure the best flight deals. I personally use hopper to book all my flights since 2018. Best deals ever. Love it.
Passport/Visa Requirements:
As a U.S. citizen planning to visit Nigeria, it's essential to understand the visa requirements and duration of stay:
✅ Visa Requirement:
🪪 Tourist Visa: U.S. citizens must obtain a visa prior to entering Nigeria for tourism purposes. travel.state.gov
🪪 Nigeria Consulate Atlanta (apply here if you're in Atlanta, GA).
✅ Duration of Stay:
- Single Entry Visa: Typically valid for 90 days from the date of issuance, allowing a stay in Nigeria for up to 90 days. immigration.gov.ng
- Multiple Entry Visa: Also valid for 90 days from issuance, permitting multiple entries with each stay not exceeding 90 days. immigration.gov.ng
✅ Application Process & Requirements:
- A passport valid for at least 6 months with at least 2 blank visa pages.
- Completed visa application form.
- Proof of online payment and acknowledgment slip.
- Two passport-sized photographs.
- Letter of invitation from a host in Nigeria or confirmed hotel reservation.
- Valid return airline ticket.
- Evidence of sufficient funds to cover your stay here.
✅ Visa on Arrival:
🪪 Nigeria offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) program for certain travelers. However, it's recommended to apply for a visa in advance to avoid potential complications upon arrival. portal.immigration.gov.ng
✅ Important Considerations:
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date.
- Vaccinations: Proof of Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry into Nigeria. travel.state.gov
- Visa Extensions: While initial visas are valid for up to 90 days, extensions may be possible through the Nigeria Immigration Service, subject to approval. passporthealthusa.com
For the most current information and application procedures, consult the Embassy of Nigeria in Washington, D.C. or the Nigeria Immigration Service official websites.
Tips for Western Travelers
💰 Currency & Payments
Photo: Nigerian Naira
The Nigerian Naira (NGN) is the local currency. While credit and debit cards are accepted at major hotels, upscale restaurants, and supermarkets, Nigeria is still largely a cash-based society.
✅ Always carry cash for smaller transactions, local markets, and street vendors.
✅ Use ATMs with caution: preferably at banks or inside shopping malls to avoid scams.
✅ Payment apps like OPay and Paga are widely used for local transactions.
✅ International money transfers: Apps like Wise (formerly TransferWise) can be helpful for sending/receiving foreign currency, though NGN transactions may be limited.
Safety & Security
Nigeria, like any large city, has areas that are safe and others that require caution.
✅ Stick to secure areas such as Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki.
Photo: Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
🚫 Avoid walking alone at night and always use trusted transport apps like Uber or Bolt.
🚫 Scams & fraud: Be cautious of strangers offering deals or business partnerships.
🚫 Police checkpoints: Expect occasional security checks. Carry a copy of your passport and visa at all times.
✅ Stay updated on local news for any safety advisories.
Internet & Connectivity
Nigeria's internet infrastructure varies by location. While high-end hotels and cafes offer WiFi, speeds may not match Western standards.
✅ Best network providers: MTN, Airtel, and Glo. Get a local SIM card for better coverage.
✅ Purchase a data plan: Internet bundles are affordable but vary in quality.
✅ Power outages happen: Invest in a power bank to keep your phone charged.
Transportation & Getting Around
🚫 Lagos is not a walkable city, and traffic congestion (called "go-slow") can be intense.
🚫 Car rental: Available but not recommended due to heavy traffic and aggressive driving.
- Uber & Bolt: Best for comfortable, safe rides.
- Keke Napep (tricycles) & Okada (motorbikes): Good for short distances but can be risky.
- BRT Buses: Affordable but crowded; better for experienced travelers.
🎬 BRT Bus Adventure: Exploring Lagos
🍽️ Food & Dining
Lagos has an incredible food scene, from street vendors to fine dining.
✅ Must-try Nigerian dishes:
🍛 Jollof Rice: West Africa’s famous spicy rice dish.
Photo: Jollof Rice
🍖 Suya: Grilled spicy meat skewers.
Photo: Suya
🥣 Egusi Soup & Pounded Yam: Traditional delicacy
How to Make Egusi Soup and Pounded Yam
✅ Drink only bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach issues.
✅ Street food is great, but ensure it's from a clean, busy vendor.
Final Thoughts: Is Lagos for You?
Lagos is a vibrant, high-energy city with business potential, cultural richness, and an exciting social scene. However, it comes with infrastructure challenges, heavy traffic, and a learning curve for Westerners.
✅ Lagos is ideal for:
- Entrepreneurs & business-minded people: Nigeria has one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa.
- Digital nomads & remote workers: Lagos has co-working spaces and a growing tech scene.
- Cultural explorers: From Nollywood to Afrobeat music, Lagos is a cultural powerhouse.
- Adventure seekers: If you love energy, nightlife, and a fast-paced lifestyle, Lagos is for you!
❌ Lagos may not be for you if:
- You prefer quiet, structured environments. Lagos is hectic and unpredictable.
- You require seamless public transportation. Traffic congestion is a major issue.
- You need stable internet at all times. Connectivity can be inconsistent.
- You are uncomfortable with street hustling & negotiation. Bargaining is a way of life here.
Photo: Balogun Market Ankara alley
✈️ Ready to Visit? Find the Best Flight Deals!
Flying to Lagos from the U.S.? Prices vary, but round-trip tickets from:
📍 Los Angeles (LAX) → Lagos (LOS): $1,200 - $1,800
📍 Atlanta (ATL) → Lagos (LOS): $1,000 - $1,500
💡 Pro Tip: Use Hopper to track flight prices and get the best deals! Download Hopper Here📍 Plan Your Lagos Trip Today!
Whether you’re visiting for business, adventure, or relocation, Lagos is a city that will leave a lasting impression. With the right preparation, you’ll have an incredible experience in one of Africa’s most dynamic cities!
👇🏽 What are your thoughts on Lagos? Would you visit or relocate? Drop a comment below! 🌍✨
