Nigeria Travel Guide

Nigeria at a glance

Why visit Nigeria

Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country and one of its most influential cultural centres. It is the home of Afrobeats and Nollywood, a booming fashion and art scene, and a food culture that ranges from smoky suya to pepper soup and the famous jollof rice.

For travellers, Nigeria offers fast-paced cities, beaches near Lagos, sacred groves and historic sites, festivals full of colour, and a chance to connect with heritage — including the Atlantic slave trade history at Badagry. Many visitors come for family, business or events and stay to explore.

Top places to visit in Nigeria

Best time to visit Nigeria

The dry season, roughly November to March, is the most comfortable time for most visitors. From about December to February the dry, dusty Harmattan wind can bring hazy skies and cooler mornings.

The rainy season runs roughly April to October, with heavy downpours in the south that can slow traffic. December is a popular — and busy — time, with festivals, weddings and many diaspora visitors returning home, so book flights and hotels early.

Entry requirements and visas

Most international visitors, including Canadians, need a visa to enter Nigeria, which must be arranged before travel. Nigeria has moved its visa processes online, so check the official Nigeria Immigration Service portal for the current application route, fees and processing times.

Always check the official Government of Canada travel advice for Nigeria (or your own government’s equivalent) before booking, and confirm details with the nearest Nigeria embassy, high commission or consulate.

• A passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with blank pages
• An approved visa or visa approval letter, as required
• Proof of yellow fever vaccination — Nigeria requires this for most travellers
• A return or onward ticket and your accommodation details

Getting there and getting around

Most international travellers arrive at Murtala Muhammed International Airport in Lagos (LOS) or Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja (ABV), often connecting through Europe, the Middle East or other African hubs.

Domestic flights are the most practical way to travel between Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt and Calabar. Within Lagos and Abuja, ride-hailing apps are widely used. Lagos traffic can be heavy, so allow plenty of time, and consider a trusted driver or a car rental with a driver for longer trips.

Money, costs and practical tips

• The naira (NGN) is the local currency. Exchange money only through banks or authorised dealers.
• Card payments and bank transfers are common in cities, and POS terminals are widespread, but carry some cash for markets and smaller vendors.
• Let your bank know you are travelling, and expect some international cards to be declined.
• Electricity is 230V with UK-style Type G plugs. Power cuts happen, so a power bank is useful.
• Buy a local SIM or eSIM for data — ride-hailing and maps depend on it.

Health and safety

Security conditions vary a great deal from region to region in Nigeria. Many visits to Lagos and Abuja go smoothly, but some states are subject to strong government travel warnings. Read the latest official travel advice before you book, stay informed during your trip, and use reputable hotels, drivers and local contacts.

See a travel health clinic well before departure. Yellow fever vaccination is required, and malaria prevention is strongly recommended. Drink bottled or treated water, and buy travel insurance that includes medical evacuation.

Culture and etiquette

• Greetings matter — take time to say hello and ask how someone is before getting to business.
• Respect elders and use titles such as “Sir”, “Ma”, “Chief” or “Alhaji” where appropriate.
• Use your right hand to give or receive items and when eating.
• Dress modestly when visiting mosques, churches and more conservative areas.
• Ask before photographing people, and avoid photographing government or military buildings.

Sample Nigeria itinerary

• Days 1–3: Lagos — Lekki Conservation Centre, Nike Art Gallery, Freedom Park, food and nightlife.
• Day 4: Badagry — heritage sites and slave route history.
• Day 5: Abeokuta — Olumo Rock and adire markets.
• Days 6–7: Osogbo — the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove.
• Days 8–10: Abuja — fly to the capital for landmarks, Zuma Rock and a slower pace.

Plan your trip to Nigeria

Compare flights, hotels, car rentals and travel insurance for your Nigeria trip, or contact Tour Africa Travel Agency for help planning your journey.

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