Lagos, Nigeria's largest city and former capital, is a buzzing and exciting destination with something for everyone. Lagos, located on the Atlantic coast, is famous for its busy streets, bustling markets, and beautiful beaches. However, it is critical to be aware of safety concerns and to take precautions in order to have a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some ideas for things to do and places to visit while in Lagos, as well as some safety precautions to take:
- Take a city tour: Lagos is a vast and sprawling metropolis, and a tour is a great way to get your bearings while learning about the city's history and culture. There are several tour companies in Lagos that provide guided tours, such as walking tours of the historic districts and bus tours that visit the city's landmarks and points of interest. Make sure to book a tour with a reputable company and to follow your guide's instructions. Visits to the National Museum, the Lagos State Museum, and the Freedom Park, a former colonial prison that has been transformed into a public park and cultural center, are among the most popular tours.
- Explore Lagos Island: Lagos Island is the city's historic heart and home to many of the city's most popular attractions. The National Museum, which has exhibits on Nigeria's history, culture, and art, is one of the island's must-see attractions. Other popular island attractions include the Lagos Cathedral, the Central Mosque, and Tafawa Balewa Square, a large public square that has hosted numerous important political and cultural events. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone at night when exploring the island.
- Enjoy the beach: There are several beautiful beaches in Lagos, including Bar Beach and Elegushi Beach. These beaches are popular among both locals and visitors, and they are ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. When visiting the beach, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding swimming alone or after dark and keeping an eye out for strong currents.
- Shop at the Balogun Market: If you enjoy shopping, the Balogun Market in Lagos is a must-see. This bustling market is a veritable treasure trove of clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. When shopping at the market, be wary of pickpockets and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Eat local food: Lagos is known for its delectable and diverse cuisine, and there are numerous restaurants and street stalls serving up regional specialties. To mention a few, delicious food to try are jollof rice, amala, egusi soup, semo, egg roll (deep-fried dough balls with a full boiled egg inside of it), suya (grilled meat skewers), and puff-puff (deep-fried dough balls). Lagos also offers a wide variety of international cuisines, including Chinese, Indian, and Italian. Choose clean and well-maintained restaurants, and be aware of food safety concerns, such as avoiding undercooked meat or unwashed fruits and vegetables.
- Visit the Lagos State Museum: Located in Onikan, the Lagos State Museum is an excellent resource for learning about Nigeria's history and culture.
Traditional art and crafts, cultural artifacts, and historical documents are among the exhibits at the museum.
The museum also has a Children's Gallery where children can learn about Nigeria's history and culture in a fun and educational environment.
When visiting the museum, keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
- Visit the Lagos Lagoon: The Lagos Lagoon is a large body of water that runs through the city and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including birds, fish, and reptiles. There are several boat tours that offer guided lagoon cruises, allowing you to see the city from a different perspective and spot some of the local wildlife. Make sure to book a tour with a reputable company or go with a trusted person and follow the instructions of your guide.
- Check out the nightlife: Lagos is known for its vibrant nightlife, with many clubs, bars, and restaurants staying open late. There's everything from trendy rooftop bars to more laid-back beach bars, so you're sure to find something to your liking. When going out at night, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic safety precautions, such as not walking alone or accepting drinks from strangers.
- Explore the local neighborhoods: Lagos has many neighborhoods, each with its own distinct personality and charm. Victoria Island, known for its upscale shops and restaurants, and Lagos Island, the city's historic heart, are two popular neighborhoods to visit. Be mindful of your surroundings and be respectful of local customs and traditions when exploring the neighborhoods.
- Visit nearby attractions: The Lekki Conservation Centre, the Iga Idungaran (Oba's Palace), La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort, National Museum, and the University of Lagos are just a few of the interesting and scenic attractions in Lagos. These attractions are all easily accessible from the city and provide an excellent opportunity to learn more about the local culture and history.
I hope these suggestions and safety tips help you enjoy your visit to Lagos while remaining safe and healthy.
Have a wonderful journey!