Clear immigration and collect luggage; buy a local SIM at the airport kiosks for data and calls (convenient on arrival). Expect queues—allow 60–90 minutes. Check current COVID or entry requirements before travel.
Take hotel transfer or trusted ride-hail (Bolt/Opay) to central Victoria Island/Ikoyi—typical drive 45–90 minutes depending on traffic; this will be your base for most days.
Walk nearby safe areas of Victoria Island or the hotel neighbourhood to get your bearings; avoid congested roads late afternoon when traffic increases.
Try modern Nigerian classics (jollof, suya, peppered fish) to start your culinary exploration; the restaurant is popular—book ahead. Check opening: typically 11:30am–10:30pm.
See Nigerian art, Yoruba artifacts and historical exhibits—great context for West African history; typical hours ~9:00am–4:00pm, closed some public holidays—confirm before visiting.
Enjoy Nigerian dishes and visit the gallery/bookshop; Terra Kulture hosts theatre and exhibitions—good cultural hub. Usual restaurant hours ~10:00am–10:00pm.
Open-air cultural site built on a former prison with performances, exhibitions and relaxed evening vibes—open most days from late morning to late evening.
Walk the canopy walkway and spot monkeys and birds in one of West Africa's best urban nature reserves; typically open 9:00am–6:00pm—arrive early to avoid midday heat.
Early breakfast and meet boat operators at Tarzan Jetty (or the jetty recommended by your hotel). Boats to Tarkwa Bay run early; check tides and operator safety credentials.
Arrange a private driver or guided tour for the ~1–1.5 hour drive west to Badagry to explore the trans-Atlantic slave trade sites safely and with context.
Visit the slave museum, the point of no return, and historic homes—important and moving sites for understanding West African history. Typical hours ~9:00am–5:00pm.
Experience one of West Africa’s busiest markets for textiles, galore of goods and vibrant street life—bargain and stay aware of pickpockets. Markets usually open by mid-morning.
Large private gallery with Nigerian paintings, textiles and artworks—ideal for affordable prints and learning about Yoruba and Nigerian art; typical hours 10:00am–6:00pm.
Spend a relaxed beach day with local vendors, music and seafood grills—beach hours generally daylight hours; choose a reputable operator if renting jetskis or boats.
See the new coastal development and impressive engineering; views are best in the morning. Public access to some areas is restricted—view from public points or a tour.
Half-day boat trip for city-skyline photos and a different perspective of Lagos; confirm operator safety records and life jackets. Typical duration 2–3 hours.
Learn to make dishes like jollof, egusi or suya with a local chef or guided tastings around town—book in advance; classes often run mid-morning to afternoon.
Aim for an itinerary that departs mid-night or early morning to catch cooler traffic windows; if you booked a Turkish/TAP/Ethiopian routing you will likely have a single layover en route to YYZ.