There's a plethora of reasons to visit Nigeria from vibrant cities to beautiful cultures and incredible food. To ensure you make the most of your time in Nigeria, we've compiled a list of 7 Top Tips When Visiting Nigeria:
1. Arrange to be picked up at the airport
Stepping out of the airports in major cities like Lagos and Abuja, there is often a hubbub of activity with vendors selling everything from local currency to Nigerian snacks to offers to carry your luggage. It can be overwhelming and we highly recommend that you organise to be picked up by either family and friends or a taxi service. This will ensure you know exactly where you are going once you step out of the airport.
2. Eat at a Nigerian restaurant
Nigerian food is absolutely delicious so visiting a Nigerian restaurant while in the country is a must! You can expect to enjoy traditional dishes such as jollof rice, local delicacies such as pepper soup and sweet small plates such as puff puff (traditional African snack made of sweet fried dough) or chin chin (small Nigerian cookie-like snack made from fried wheat flour dough). Enjoy drinks which are loved across Nigeria like a delicious glass of chapman (a very popular mocktail) or a refreshing bottle of malt. We recommend visiting a restaurant with some live music like Nkoyo which features art by local artists, African print details on the tables and excellent customer service.
3. Visit arts and crafts markets
The arts and crafts markets in Nigeria are bursting with beautiful hand crafted pieces to be discovered. Explore the Lekki Arts and Crafts Market in Lagos or the Arts and Crafts Village in Abuja and be amazed by the work of local talented artisans, most of whom you can meet while visiting the markets. Be sure to request a discount when purchasing multiple products from a vendor and you can leave the markets with bags full of beautiful souvenirs for loved ones.
4. Enjoy Natural Attractions
From Aso Rock in Abuja to Gurara Waterfall in Niger State to Elegushi Beach in Lagos, there's a range of picturesque natural attractions you should visit while in Nigeria. We recommend planning your journey in advance and taking drinks and snacks so you can make the most of your day out. Gurara waterfall is a short drive from Abuja and you can get into the water, go hiking on the waterfall or have a picnic with the waterfall in the background.
5. Hire a driver on demand
A driver for the duration of your trip can be extremely useful if you wish to travel often and make the most of your time in Nigeria. You can request a driver from a car hire company or ask a taxi driver their fee for driving you for the duration of your trip. Set a pick up time and drop off time for each day. This will give you flexibility to easily move from place to place and the driver will help guide you on norms within different places. In addition, a driver is likely to assist you as they are more familiar with the city and will have the tips only the locals will know so you get the best of both worlds.
6. Eat some Nigerian street food
Nigerian street food is the best! Succulent and spicy Suya meat fresh off the grill or chicken and sausage shawarma in a creamy sauce or delicious grilled plantains also known as 'boli' which go nicely with fresh roasted groundnuts. Such street food is perfect for road trips or nights in.
7. Pack for the warm weather
Nigeria is an extremely hot country which can be amazing to enjoy when you have packed correctly. Pack sunglasses to protect your eyes, caps to protect your face from the sun and light clothing that is suitable for the weather.
We hope these tips help you make the most of your time in Nigeria, have fun!