Map Of Lagos State
Introduction
Welcome to Lagos, the bustling city that never sleeps. Lagos is the largest city in Nigeria and one of the fastest-growing cities in Africa. It is a vibrant and exciting destination with something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, food, adventure or just want to relax on the beach, Lagos has it all. This travel guide will help you discover the best of Lagos and make the most of your visit.
Top Attractions
The National Museum Lagos
The National Museum Lagos is a must-visit for anyone interested in Nigerian history and culture. The museum has a rich collection of artifacts, sculptures, and paintings that showcase the diversity of Nigerian culture. Highlights include the Benin bronzes, Nok terracottas, and Yoruba masks.
Lekki Conservation Centre
The Lekki Conservation Centre is a natural oasis in the heart of Lagos. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles, and birds. Visitors can take a canopy walk through the forest and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.
National Arts Theatre
The National Arts Theatre is an iconic landmark in Lagos and a hub for the arts. It hosts a variety of cultural events, including plays, concerts, and festivals. The building itself is a masterpiece of modern architecture, with a distinctive cone-shaped roof.
Hidden Gems
Freedom Park Lagos
Freedom Park Lagos is a serene oasis in the heart of the city. It was once a colonial prison but has since been transformed into a public park and cultural center. It features beautiful gardens, a museum, and a performance space.
Eleko Beach
Eleko Beach is a hidden gem located on the outskirts of Lagos. It is a pristine stretch of sand with turquoise waters and breathtaking views. Visitors can rent a beach hut and enjoy a day of swimming, sunbathing, and relaxation.
Food Scene
Jevinik Restaurant
Jevinik Restaurant is a popular spot for traditional Nigerian cuisine. It serves a variety of dishes, including jollof rice, pepper soup, and pounded yam. The atmosphere is lively and the service is excellent.
Terra Kulture
Terra Kulture is a cultural center that celebrates Nigerian arts and culture. It has a restaurant that serves delicious Nigerian cuisine, including suya, akara, and moi moi. The restaurant also hosts live music performances and cultural events.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Public Transportation
Public transportation is a great way to get around Lagos on a budget. The BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system is fast, efficient, and affordable. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but they can be more expensive.
Street Food
Street food is a great way to experience Nigerian cuisine without breaking the bank. Look for local food vendors selling snacks like puff-puff, boli, and akara. Just be sure to choose vendors with clean and hygienic cooking practices.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking in Lagos Lagoon
Kayaking in Lagos Lagoon is a thrilling adventure that offers a unique perspective on the city. Several tour companies offer kayaking tours that take you through the mangroves and into the heart of the city.
Surfing at Tarkwa Bay
Tarkwa Bay is a popular spot for surfing in Lagos. The beach has consistent waves and a relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can rent surfboards and take lessons from local instructors.
Family-Friendly Activities
Lagos Aquarium
The Lagos Aquarium is a fun and educational experience for the whole family. It features a variety of marine life, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. The aquarium also has interactive exhibits and educational programs for children.
Funtopia Water Park
Funtopia Water Park is a great place to cool off on a hot day. It has several water slides, a lazy river, and a wave pool. There are also plenty of food and drink options available.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
Epe Fish Market
The Epe Fish Market is a bustling market located on the outskirts of Lagos. It is a great place to experience the local culture and sample fresh seafood. Visitors can watch as fishermen bring in their catch and haggle with vendors for the best prices.
Badagry Slave Museum and Black Heritage Museum
The Badagry Slave Museum and Black Heritage Museum offer a sobering look at Nigeria’s history of slavery. The museums are located in the historic town of Badagry and feature exhibits on the transatlantic slave trade and the abolitionist movement.
Natural Wonders
Ikogosi Warm Springs
The Ikogosi Warm Springs is a natural wonder located in Ekiti State, just a few hours’ drive from Lagos. The springs are a unique phenomenon where warm and cold water meet to create a natural pool. Visitors can swim in the pool and enjoy the surrounding forest.
Olumo Rock
Olumo Rock is a massive rock formation located in Abeokuta, about an hour’s drive from Lagos. The rock has a network of caves and tunnels that visitors can explore. There is also a museum on the history and culture of the area.
Vibrant Nightlife
The Shrine
The Shrine is a legendary nightclub in Lagos that has hosted some of the biggest names in African music. The atmosphere is electric, with live music and dancing late into the night. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and drink options.
Quilox
Quilox is a popular nightclub and lounge in Lagos that caters to a more upscale crowd. It features a rooftop terrace with stunning views of the city and a variety of food and drink options.
Local Markets
Balogun Market
Balogun Market is the biggest market in Lagos and a hub for local trade. It has a wide variety of goods for sale, including textiles, jewelry, and souvenirs. Visitors can haggle with vendors for the best prices and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Lekki Arts and Crafts Market
The Lekki Arts and Crafts Market is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and gifts. It features a variety of handmade crafts, including pottery, jewelry, and textiles. Visitors can also watch local artisans at work.
Beaches and Mountains
Elegushi Beach
Elegushi Beach is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing in Lagos. It has a relaxed atmosphere and plenty of food and drink options. Visitors can also rent beach chairs and umbrellas.
Idanre Hills
Idanre Hills is a mountain range located in Ondo State, a few hours’ drive from Lagos. It has stunning views of the surrounding countryside and a rich history and culture. Visitors can climb the hills and explore the traditional villages and shrines.
Cultural Immersion
Fela Kuti Shrine
The Fela Kuti Shrine is a tribute to the legendary Nigerian musician and activist. It is a popular spot for live music and dancing and a hub for the arts and culture scene in Lagos. Visitors can also learn about Fela Kuti’s life and legacy.
National Theatre Lagos
The National Theatre Lagos is a cultural center that celebrates Nigerian arts and culture. It hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and festivals. Visitors can also explore the building’s distinctive architecture and design.
Art and Music Scene
National Museum Lagos
The National Museum Lagos has a rich collection of Nigerian art and sculpture. It showcases the diversity of Nigerian culture and history. Visitors can also attend art exhibitions and cultural events hosted by the museum.
Bogobiri House
Bogobiri House is a cultural center that celebrates Nigerian arts and music. It hosts live music performances and art exhibitions and has a restaurant that serves delicious Nigerian cuisine. Visitors can also stay in the guesthouse and immerse themselves in the local culture.
Walking Tours
Victoria Island Walking Tour
Victoria Island is a bustling neighborhood in Lagos that is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. A walking tour of the area is a great way to explore the local culture and history. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city skyline.
Lagos Island Walking Tour
Lagos Island is the historic heart of Lagos and a hub for the arts and culture scene. A walking tour of the area will take you past historic landmarks, lively markets, and cultural centers. Visitors can also sample the local cuisine and enjoy live music performances.