Nigeria Travel Information

Nigeria is a country in West Africa known for its diverse culture, rich history, and natural beauty. From bustling cities to stunning natural landscapes, there are plenty of things to see and do in Nigeria. Here are the top 10 things to do in Nigeria:

1. Visit Lagos

Lagos is Nigeria's largest city and commercial center, with a vibrant arts and music scene, stunning beaches, and a rich cultural history.

2. Explore Abuja

Abuja is Nigeria's capital city and home to many of the country's most important government buildings, museums, and cultural landmarks.

3. Visit the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove

The Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the last remaining examples of Yoruba sacred forests in Nigeria.

4. Visit Yankari Game Reserve

Yankari Game Reserve is one of Nigeria's most popular national parks, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, baboons, and more.

5. Visit the Benin City Walls

The Benin City Walls are a series of earthworks and fortifications that date back to the 13th century, and are a testament to the rich history and cultural heritage of Nigeria.

6. Take a tour of the Nike Art Gallery

The Nike Art Gallery is a must-visit for art lovers, featuring an impressive collection of traditional and contemporary Nigerian art.

7. Explore the Zuma Rock

Zuma Rock is a natural wonder located just outside of Abuja, and is considered one of Nigeria's most recognizable landmarks.

8. Visit the Olumo Rock

The Olumo Rock is a massive granite outcrop located in Abeokuta, and is a popular tourist destination and historical landmark.

9. Attend a traditional Nigerian festival

Nigeria is known for its many colorful and lively festivals, including the Eyo Festival, the Durbar Festival, and the Osun Festival.

10. Visit the Lekki Conservation Centre

The Lekki Conservation Centre is a nature reserve located in Lagos, and is a popular destination for birdwatching and wildlife viewing.

Climate

Nigeria has a tropical climate, with two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season typically runs from November to March, while the rainy season runs from April to October.

Temperatures in Nigeria remain relatively consistent throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). The hottest months are typically February and March, while the coolest months are July and August.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Nigeria depends on your travel preferences and itinerary. If you're interested in wildlife viewing or outdoor activities, the dry season is typically the best time to visit, as the weather is sunny and there is less rainfall. However, keep in mind that temperatures can be quite hot during this time.

If you're more interested in cultural events and festivals, the rainy season may be a better time to visit, as many festivals take place during this time. The rainy season can also be a good time to visit if you're looking to avoid crowds and get a more authentic look at daily life in Nigeria.

Overall, the best time to visit Nigeria is from November to February, when the weather is generally dry and mild. It's important to pack for hot temperatures and to be prepared for occasional rain showers, especially if you're traveling during the rainy season.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Hotels are the most common type of accommodation in Nigeria, and can range from budget options to luxury properties. Many international hotel chains have a presence in major Nigerian cities, including Lagos and Abuja.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a popular option for budget-conscious travelers, and can offer a more local and authentic experience. Many guesthouses are family-owned and operated, and may provide meals and other services for an additional fee.

Hostels

Hostels are a great option for backpackers and budget travelers, and can be found in major cities like Lagos and Abuja. They often offer dormitory-style accommodations as well as private rooms.

Airbnb

Airbnb is becoming an increasingly popular option in Nigeria, especially in cities like Lagos and Abuja. It can be a good option for those looking for a more local experience and the opportunity to stay in unique and interesting properties.

Serviced Apartments

For longer stays or those who prefer more space and amenities, serviced apartments can be a good option. They offer the convenience of a hotel with the comfort of a home, and are often located in prime areas.

Resorts

For a more luxurious experience, resorts are a great option. Nigeria has a range of beach and nature resorts, often located in scenic areas and offering a range of activities and amenities.

Taxis

Taxis are a common form of transportation in Nigeria, especially in cities like Lagos and Abuja. Taxis can be hailed on the street or booked through ride-hailing apps like Uber and Bolt. It's important to negotiate the fare with the driver before getting in, as many taxis do not use meters.

Buses

Buses are another common form of transportation in Nigeria, and are often the most affordable option. There are both private and government-owned bus companies that operate in major cities, and routes may be posted in bus stations or online.

Trains

Nigeria has a limited railway network, but it is currently undergoing expansion and improvement. Currently, there are train services available between Lagos and Kano, as well as between Lagos and Ibadan.

Flights

For longer distances or travel between different regions, flights can be a convenient option. Nigeria has several major airports, including Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos and Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja.

Car Rental

Car rental is available in major Nigerian cities, but it can be expensive and may not be the most practical option for all travelers. It's important to research the rental company and road conditions before renting a car.

Motorcycles (Okadas)

Motorcycles, or okadas, are a common form of transportation in Nigeria, especially in cities where traffic can be congested. However, safety can be a concern with this form of transportation, as helmets are not always provided and accidents can be common.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.