- Direct flights from Heathrow and Gatwick to Lagos and Abuja
- British visitors need a visa arranged in advance and a yellow fever certificate
- FCDO advises against travel to large parts of the country, so most visitors stick to Lagos and Abuja
- Lagos is the draw for art, music, food and nightlife
- Airports
- Lagos Murtala Muhammed (LOS), Abuja Nnamdi Azikiwe (ABV), Port Harcourt (PHC)
- Flight time
- about 6h30 direct from London to Lagos
- Best time to go
- November-February, the dry season
- Currency
- Nigerian naira (NGN)
Nigeria is a country of extraordinary energy. With more than 200 million people, it is Africa's most populous nation and a cultural powerhouse: the home of Afrobeats, Nollywood and a thriving contemporary art scene. Most visitors, many of them visiting friends and family, focus on Lagos, a sprawling megacity of galleries, beach clubs and some of the best food in West Africa, and on the planned capital, Abuja.
Nigeria is on West Africa Time (UTC+1), one hour ahead of the UK in winter and the same in summer. Plugs are usually the UK three-pin type, traffic drives on the right and English is the official language. This Africa guide covers where to go, safety, getting there and costs. Neighbouring Benin is a short drive from Lagos.
Where to go in Nigeria
Lagos
Lagos is the headline. On Lagos Island and Ikoyi, visit the Nike Art Gallery in Lekki, Freedom Park, the National Museum and the bustling Balogun Market. The Lekki Conservation Centre has one of Africa's longest canopy walkways. At weekends, Lagosians head by boat to beaches such as Tarkwa Bay, Ilashe and La Campagne Tropicana, and the city's nightlife and live music, including the New Afrika Shrine, are legendary.
Abuja
The capital is calmer, greener and more orderly than Lagos. Sights include the National Mosque, the National Christian Centre and the giant monolith of Zuma Rock just outside the city. Aso Rock dominates the skyline.
Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove
In Osun State, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a dense forest of shrines and sculptures dedicated to the Yoruba river goddess Osun. The annual Osun-Osogbo Festival, usually in August, draws huge crowds.
Abeokuta and Olumo Rock
About two hours north of Lagos, Olumo Rock was a historic refuge for the Egba people and offers sweeping views over the city. It makes a feasible day trip from Lagos.
Badagry
West of Lagos towards Benin, Badagry has slave trade relics, museums and the "Point of No Return" on the coast.
Elsewhere
Places such as Calabar, Obudu Mountain Resort, Yankari National Park and the old city of Kano have real appeal, but several sit in or near areas covered by FCDO travel warnings. Check current advice carefully before planning anything beyond Lagos, Abuja and the south-west.
Best time to visit Nigeria
| Season | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Dry season (November-February) | Hot and less humid; Harmattan dust haze, especially in the north |
| Hot season (March-April) | Very hot before the rains arrive |
| Rainy season (May-October) | Heavy rain and flooding in Lagos, especially June-July and September |
| Christmas and New Year | Peak season in Lagos, with festivals, concerts and high prices |
Getting to Nigeria from the UK
British Airways and Virgin Atlantic usually fly direct from Heathrow to Lagos in about six and a half hours, and BA also flies to Abuja; Air Peace has flown from Gatwick to Lagos. One-stop options include Turkish via Istanbul, Emirates via Dubai, Qatar via Doha and Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca. Lagos airport traffic can be very slow, so arrange a pickup in advance.
Entry requirements
British passport holders need a visa for Nigeria, applied for in advance through the official Nigeria Immigration Service online system (including an e-Visa for short visits), and your passport should be valid for at least six months. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry. FCDO advises against all travel to a number of states in the north-east and north-west, and against all but essential travel to many others, including much of the Niger Delta; kidnapping is a serious risk in several regions. Rules change, so check GOV.UK foreign travel advice before booking.
Getting around
In Lagos, use ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Bolt or a trusted driver; traffic ("go-slow") can be severe, and ferries across the lagoon can save time. Domestic flights link Lagos, Abuja and other cities quickly. Long-distance road travel and night driving are best avoided, and many visitors rely on hosts, hotels or reputable drivers.
Allow plenty of time for journeys in Lagos, and avoid travelling across the city at rush hour if you can.
Money and costs
The naira has fallen sharply in recent years, and exchange rates move quickly. Cards work in bigger hotels, restaurants and malls, and transfers are widely used, but carry some cash. Change money only at banks or licensed bureaux. Lagos is not cheap for visitors: good hotels can cost as much as in Europe, though local food and transport are inexpensive. Allow around £60-120 per person per day plus accommodation for comfortable travel with a driver.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to visit Nigeria?
Many people visit Lagos and Abuja without problems, but crime and kidnapping are real risks and FCDO advises against travel to large parts of the country. Stay in reputable accommodation, use trusted transport and check the latest advice.
Do British citizens need a visa for Nigeria?
Yes. Apply in advance through the official online system, and carry your yellow fever certificate.
When is the best time to visit Lagos?
November to February is drier and more comfortable. December is the busiest and liveliest month, with concerts and festivals, but also the most expensive.
What should I try to eat in Nigeria?
Jollof rice, suya (spiced grilled meat), pounded yam with egusi soup and puff-puff are classics, and Lagos has a great restaurant scene.
Written by
Thomas Ski, mountains & expeditions editor
Thomas is happiest above the tree line or below the Antarctic Circle. He writes our ski, mountain and polar expedition guides.
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