Arrival and Getting into the City

Getting Around the City

• Ride-Hailing: Uber, Bolt, and inDrive are widely available in Lagos and Abuja, with transparent pricing, making them the top choice for travelers.
• Danfo Minibuses: Yellow minibuses are a common form of public transport in Lagos, but they are crowded and have complicated routes, so they are not recommended for tourists.
• Tricycles and Motorbike Taxis: Useful for short distances, but safety is limited—avoid using them at night or in remote areas.
• Private Car Hire with Driver: Ideal for multi-stop trips, it’s best arranged through your hotel or a reputable company.

Traveling Between Cities

Nigeria has long distances between cities, with varying road conditions and safety levels. For intercity travel, domestic flights are the best option. There are multiple daily flights between Lagos and Abuja, taking about 1.5 hours—safer and more efficient than long-distance driving. Book tickets through reputable airlines or platforms, and allow enough time for check-in and security. If you must travel by road, choose licensed bus companies and avoid nighttime travel.

Tips

• Lagos suffers from severe traffic congestion—allow at least double the usual travel time.
• When getting in and out of ride-hailing vehicles, choose safe locations such as malls or hotels, and confirm your destination clearly.
• Carry small amounts of cash for minor payments and avoid arguments with strangers in vehicles.

Car Rental and Driving Yourself

While Nigeria has an extensive road network, road conditions, traffic signs, and driving behavior vary greatly. Some areas also have security concerns, so self-driving is generally not recommended for tourists. If you need a car, hiring a private vehicle with a driver is a safer option. Arrange this through your hotel or a trusted company, confirm the vehicle condition and insurance, and agree on your itinerary, departure, and arrival times in advance. For longer trips, opt for daytime travel and avoid nighttime driving.

Safety Tips for Travel

When arranging transportation in Nigeria, safety should always come before cost. Use hotel-arranged transfers or reputable ride-hailing services for airport pickups. Avoid unfamiliar or remote areas when moving around the city. Choose flights over long-distance buses for intercity trips, and aim to complete all travel during daylight hours. Carry a copy of your passport and emergency contact information. Stay calm during law enforcement checks or disputes, and contact your country’s embassy or consulate in Nigeria for assistance if needed. With these precautions, your trip will be much smoother and safer.