Lagos Travel Guide | Family-friendly

Q: What's the best way to get around Lagos?

The safest and most convenient way to get around Lagos is by using ride-hailing apps like Uber or Bolt. These services are widely available and help you avoid the hectic traffic and unreliable public transport. Avoid using unmarked taxis or commercial motorcycles (okadas) whenever possible.

Q: Which Lagos beaches do locals recommend?

Locals often visit Tarkwa Bay and Elegushi Beach. Tarkwa Bay is quieter and accessible by boat from Victoria Island, while Elegushi offers vibrant nightlife and beach parties. Remember there’s usually a small entrance fee and bring cash for food and activities.

Q: Are there any safety tips for visiting markets in Lagos?

When visiting markets like Balogun or Lekki Arts & Crafts Market, go during the day, keep valuables out of sight, use a small crossbody bag, and be ready to haggle. Always watch out for pickpockets and avoid wandering alone in unfamiliar areas.

Q: Is tap water safe to drink in Lagos?

Tap water in Lagos is not recommended for drinking. Locals always use bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth. Bottled water is widely available and affordable in shops and supermarkets.

Q: Where do locals go for authentic Nigerian food?

For authentic Nigerian food, try places like Terra Kulture or Yellow Chilli for a modern twist, or visit local canteens (“bukkas”) in Surulere or Yaba for traditional dishes like jollof rice, suya, and pepper soup. Always check reviews or go with a local if you’re unsure.

Introduction

Lagos, Nigeria’s largest city, sits along the Atlantic coast and is famed for its vibrant energy and diversity. Once a Yoruba fishing village and later a colonial port, Lagos today blends rich history with modern life. November brings pleasant weather, with cooler temperatures and less rain, perfect for family outings.

Explore bustling markets like Lekki Arts and Crafts or enjoy fresh air at Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park. Relax on the sands of Tarkwa Bay Beach or visit the National Museum to discover Nigeria's heritage. Lagos offers affordable fun, making it an inviting destination for families on a budget.

Customized for these preferences:

Travel StyleFamily friendly

Dates10-16 November 2025

BudgetLow budget

AccommodationHotel

Interests and Activities:

gastronomy

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Key Facts

Location

Southwest Nigeria

Currency

Nigerian Naira (NGN)

Religion

Christianity, Islam

Population

21,000,000

Language

Yoruba, English, Pidgin

Electricity

230V, 50Hz, Types D & G

Time zone

UTCWAT (UTC+1)

Country code

+234

Internet access

Broadband, 4G LTE, public Wi-Fi available, variable speeds

Climate

Tropical wet and dry

See More Nigeria Facts

Language:

Yoruba

hello
Ẹ n lẹ (eh-n-leh)
goodbye
Ó dábọ̀ (oh-dah-boh)
yes
Bẹ́ẹ̀ni (beh-eh-ni)
no
Rárá (rah-rah)
how much
Elo ni eyi (eh-loh ni ay-yee)
please
Jọ̀wọ́ (jaw-woh)
thank you
Ẹ ṣé (eh-sheh)
excuse me
Ẹ jọ̀wọ́ (eh-jaw-woh)

Map

Logistics

Lagos is primarily accessed by air, with Murtala Muhammed International Airport serving as the main gateway. Many airlines offer direct or connecting flights from cities around Africa and beyond, with budget options available if you book in advance. For families on a budget, look for low-cost carriers or promotions.

Traveling within Nigeria, you can also reach Lagos by intercity buses from major cities like Abuja or Ibadan—these are affordable and run regularly. Trains are a developing option, with newer lines connecting Lagos to nearby states. Weather in November is generally dry, so few disruptions are expected, making all forms of travel reliable during your trip.

Weather

Lagos has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures averaging 27–32°C (81–89°F) year-round. Humidity is high, especially during the rainy season from April to October, when heavy showers and thunderstorms are common. The dry season, from November to March, brings less rain and more sunshine, with occasional harmattan winds from the Sahara.

Between November 10 and November 16, the weather is generally warm and less humid, as the city transitions into the dry season. There may still be some light showers early in the period. Extreme weather is unlikely in Lagos during this week, making it a comfortable time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s lively food scene.

Food & Drink

Lagos cuisine is vibrant and flavorful, featuring jollof rice, suya (spiced grilled meat), puff-puff (fried dough balls), and egusi soup. Popular drinks include zobo (hibiscus tea) and palm wine. Street food is delicious and budget-friendly, often available in local markets and roadside stalls.

For affordable family dining, visit The Place, White House Restaurant (Yaba), or Terra Kulture for authentic Nigerian meals. Yellow Chilli offers kid-friendly options at reasonable prices. For snacks or sweet treats, local bakeries and Mr. Bigg’s are convenient.

Tipping is appreciated but optional—about 5-10% is customary in restaurants. Many places serve spicy dishes, so request mild versions if needed. Street food is a must-try, but choose vendors with good hygiene. Vegetarian options are available but limited.

Jollof Rice

Jollof Rice is a popular West African dish featuring flavorful long-grain rice cooked in a rich, spiced tomato...

Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup

Pounded Yam and Egusi Soup is a traditional Nigerian delicacy that consists of smooth, mashed yam served with...

Suya

Suya is a popular Nigerian street food made up of thinly sliced, skewered meat (often beef or chicken)...

Pepper Soup

Pepper Soup is a fragrant, spicy Nigerian dish made with a flavorful broth infused with aromatic spices and...

Chin Chin

Chin Chin is a popular Nigerian snack that consists of small, deep-fried pastry bites seasoned with sugar and...

Accommodation

For a budget-friendly, family-style stay in Lagos, consider top-rated hotels like Ibis Lagos Airport Hotel or Citiheight Hotel, both offering comfortable rooms and family-friendly amenities. The Yaba and Ikeja neighborhoods are safe and affordable, with easy access to attractions. Always use Hotels.com to compare prices and book deals in advance.

Hostels are limited in Lagos, but smaller guesthouses can offer good value. Resorts tend to be pricier but sometimes offer midweek discounts. Popular dates like November 10 to 16 can see higher occupancy, so book at least a month early. Look for “family rooms” and breakfast-inclusive rates for added value.

Itinerary

Day 1

November 11 · Tuesday

Immerse your family in the lively atmosphere of Lagos while sampling affordable local street foods and discovering diverse flavors at bustling open-air markets.

Balogun Market Food Adventure

Dive into the bustling Balogun Market, a central hub for affordable local delicacies. Sample snacks like puff-puff, suya, and boli from friendly street vendors while exploring the vibrant marketplace activity with your family.

Balogun Market, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

Marina Lagos Street Food Walk

Stroll along Marina in downtown Lagos and discover vendors selling tasty local favorites such as moi moi, akara, and fried plantain. It's a wonderful introduction to the city’s vivid street food scene for families.

Marina, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

Evening Food Tasting at Freedom Park Market

End the day with a relaxed evening visit to Freedom Park, where small market stalls offer regional treats. Sample jollof rice and grilled fish while listening to local live music in a safe, historic setting.

Freedom Park, 1 Hospital Rd, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

7 Hours Journey Through The Best Of Lagos

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This tour will give you the best of Lagos experience in one day. Your day will start with a visit to the Nike Center for Arts andCulture to get an appreciation of African arts. This is West Africa’s biggest arts center and it boasts over 25, 000 artworks ranging from textiles, paintings, and sculptures from various African artists. The center is in a five-storey tall building and it has always been a tourist delight. After the Arts experience, we will be visiting the Lekki Conservation Centre where you will walk on the longest canopy bridge in Africa. The Centre is one of the best and most visited nature reserves in Nigeria. Raised walkways enable viewing of animals like monkeys, crocodiles and various birds. If you appreciate nature and are in a limbo as where to take your partner or lover, this center is the ideal place to visit. For the final stop, you can make a choice to visit the beach or The Arts & Crafts Intl. market. Be rest assured of great company and pleasant ride.

4.8 (14 reviews)

From $68 USD

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Day 2

November 12 · Wednesday

Day 3

November 13 · Thursday

Wander through colorful markets and popular food streets, embracing the energy of Lagos while enjoying authentic snacks and dishes with your family.

Street Food Sampling at Oyingbo Market

Immerse yourself in the vibrant hustle of Oyingbo Market, famed for its affordable street foods like gala sausage rolls, roasted maize, and spicy suya. Great for a family-friendly tasting adventure!

Oyingbo Market, Lagos Mainland, Lagos, Nigeria

Stroll & Snack on Bamgbose Street

Bamgbose Street is lined with local food stalls serving Akamu with akara and fried yam. Explore the lively area and introduce your family to these traditional snacks in a friendly, busy market setting.

Bamgbose Street, Lagos Island, Lagos, Nigeria

Evening Asun & Puff-Puff in Ojuelegba

Visit Ojuelegba's buzzing evening food streets, famous for smoky grilled asun (spicy goat meat) and sweet puff-puff snacks. Perfect for families who want to enjoy classic Lagos street food culture on a budget.

Ojuelegba, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria

7 Hours Journey Through The Best Of Lagos

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This tour will give you the best of Lagos experience in one day. Your day will start with a visit to the Nike Center for Arts andCulture to get an appreciation of African arts. This is West Africa’s biggest arts center and it boasts over 25, 000 artworks ranging from textiles, paintings, and sculptures from various African artists. The center is in a five-storey tall building and it has always been a tourist delight. After the Arts experience, we will be visiting the Lekki Conservation Centre where you will walk on the longest canopy bridge in Africa. The Centre is one of the best and most visited nature reserves in Nigeria. Raised walkways enable viewing of animals like monkeys, crocodiles and various birds. If you appreciate nature and are in a limbo as where to take your partner or lover, this center is the ideal place to visit. For the final stop, you can make a choice to visit the beach or The Arts & Crafts Intl. market. Be rest assured of great company and pleasant ride.

4.8 (14 reviews)

From $68 USD

View Details

Day 4

November 14 · Friday

Experience communal dining traditions by enjoying an inexpensive picnic at a public park and connecting with local families over shared meals.

Picnic Gathering at Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park

Pack affordable local snacks and join Lagos families at Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park. Enjoy your meal outdoors, participate in group games, and engage in conversations about communal food traditions.

Johnson Jakande Tinubu Park, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

Shared Feasts at Muri Okunola Park

Bring a picnic basket and share dishes like jollof rice and chicken with locals in the relaxing green space of Muri Okunola Park. It's a friendly spot for connecting with families and learning about their favorite recipes.

Muri Okunola Park, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria

Community Meal at Ndubuisi Kanu Park

Join weekend family gatherings at Ndubuisi Kanu Park, known for picnics and community events. Exchange homemade meals and learn about Nigerian picnic traditions with new friends.

Ndubuisi Kanu Park, Mobolaji Johnson Ave, Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria

Fun & Adventure In Lagos Nigeria

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

You are sure to enjoy and learn about Nigeria her people and her culture from the national museum. Explore nature, spot animals such as monkeys, birds, tortoises, and peacocks and go for a walk on the longest canopy walk in Africa. Play the largest chess game Compliment the tour with a nice time in Lekki Art Market. You will have the chance to buy local art pieces head to freedom park formal a prison yard for the slave market now turn to a museum and entertainment park. Nike Art Gallery will blow your mind away with a variety of world-class art if you are an art lover you will definitely love it. We also head to National Art Theatre where you will have the chance to look and local handmade crafts also take a walk inside the theater where major Nigerian movies are been stage live. We visit the Ikeja city mall where you have the time to shop for any and all kinds of products then we head for one of the most visited beaches in Lagos Elegushi beach

5.0 (3 reviews)

From $390 USD

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Day 5

November 15 · Saturday

Take part in family-friendly, interactive food activities that teach the basics of local cooking, offering fun ways to bond over Nigerian flavors.

DIY Suya Spice Workshop

Join an outdoor spice-blending workshop where your family will learn to mix traditional suya spices and grill beef skewers together. Great for practicing hands-on cooking skills and tasting homemade results!

The Lagos Kitchen, Surulere, Lagos, Nigeria

Family Garri Soaking & Snack Session

Discover the fun of making and customizing garri with local toppings at a family-friendly spot. Kids can add sugar, milk, or groundnuts while you learn about this beloved Nigerian staple. All materials included!

Mama Cass Restaurant, Yaba, Lagos, Nigeria

Puff-Puff Making for Kids & Parents

Take part in a community cooking class focused on preparing puff-puff, a favorite Nigerian street snack. Families can shape, fry, and enjoy warm puff-puff together while learning simple cooking techniques.

Community Youth Centre, Mushin, Lagos, Nigeria

7 Hours Journey Through The Best Of Lagos

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This tour will give you the best of Lagos experience in one day. Your day will start with a visit to the Nike Center for Arts andCulture to get an appreciation of African arts. This is West Africa’s biggest arts center and it boasts over 25, 000 artworks ranging from textiles, paintings, and sculptures from various African artists. The center is in a five-storey tall building and it has always been a tourist delight. After the Arts experience, we will be visiting the Lekki Conservation Centre where you will walk on the longest canopy bridge in Africa. The Centre is one of the best and most visited nature reserves in Nigeria. Raised walkways enable viewing of animals like monkeys, crocodiles and various birds. If you appreciate nature and are in a limbo as where to take your partner or lover, this center is the ideal place to visit. For the final stop, you can make a choice to visit the beach or The Arts & Crafts Intl. market. Be rest assured of great company and pleasant ride.

4.8 (14 reviews)

From $68 USD

View Details

Day 6

November 16 · Sunday

Attractions

5.0 (1 reviews)

Guided Lagos Markets Tours

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This guided market tour will give you an insight into the trade and commerce in Lagos State and why it is the 5th biggest economy in Africa, bigger than over 40 African countries economy. Aside experiencing the local ways business is being done, it will change your perspective and enrish your understanding of the trading systems in Africa. Lagos State is a state in southwestern Nigeria. Out of the 36 states, it is the second most populous state. Lagos was the capital of Nigeria from 1914 up to 1991.The city was stripped of its status when theFederal Capital Territory was established at the purpose-built city, Abuja.

From $105 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)

7 hour Lagos City Tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This adventure packed tour is the perfect blend of Art, History and Culture with visits to one of the biggest art galleries in West Africa, the longest canopy walk in Africa and a National Museum. Your designated guide and driver will pick your up from your hotel a few minutes before departure time. Your guide is fluent in English and French and is also a travel blogger. She can double as a photographer or videographer to help you create unforgettable memories.

From $120 USD

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5.0 (2 reviews)

Lagos city tour

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

This enables you to explore the beautiful city of lagos this tour will also expose you to the beautiful and breathtaking art and craft of the Nigerian culture. This is an experience worth taking. *Nike Art *Lagos Museum * trip to the mainland

From $135 USD

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4.5 (2 reviews)

Lagos Music, Art & Culture and Beach Adventures

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

By going on this tour, you will learn and get insights into the culture and history of popular Afrobeats music with your visit to the center where it all started and the musician that created the sound. Also, your visit to the art centers will give you an understanding of African perpestives into arts and how it has evolved. Lastly, Lagos being a place of various beauties and blessed with great beaches and resorts, located right by the Atlantic Ocean, you will relax at the beach, swim, soak your feet in the blue ocean and enjoy its calm ambience. Be rest assured of great company, comfortable & pleasant ride, sightseeing and guide.

From $165 USD

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4.9 (29 reviews)

Experience Lagos Nigeria, Ghana,Togo and Benin with confidence

INSTANT

Free Cancellation

The tour will focus on African and American history, Africa European history, The Transatlantic Slave Trade, Cultural Education, We shall Visit Slave Castles of 15/16th centuries markets and other historic sites. This tour will give you the opportunity to discover Ghanaian, Togo, Benin and Nigeria traditional music and dance, costume, food, open-air vibrant markets and natural sights against the backdrop of traditional rural communities. (Accra, Kumasi, Cape Coast) Togo ( Lome, Togoville) Benin (Ouidah, Cotonou, Abomey, Lagos Nigeria).

From $2450 USD

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FAQ

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Travel Guide for
Lagos

Introduction

Key Facts

Language

Map

Logistics

Weather

Food & Drink

Accommodation