From the beautiful and welcoming weather to the exquisite food and rich culture, visiting Nigeria is one of the travel experiences of a lifetime. Keep reading for some Nigerian travel tips for when you want to visit the country.
Travelling to Nigeria allows you to experience its people and way of life. It is a large country with diverse regions and could be a hassle for solo travellers or first-timers without travel tips.
Luckily, that’s where we come in!
In this article, we will break down the easiest, safest, and most enjoyable Nigeria travel tips.
10. Take note of landmarks – a prominent object that serves as a guide
Seeing local sites and engaging whenever you travel to a new country is a good idea. In this manner, you’ll be able to gain more cultural knowledge and come home with some incredible tales to share.
However, as a newbie in a country, especially when travelling without a tour guide, you must make notes of landmarks so you can always find your way back.
9. Visit the country’s attractions – beautiful tourist centres cut across Nigeria to give you an enjoyable stay
Make travel plans to see and explore the best national parks, cities, and restaurants in the country. Nigeria is a beautiful country with a wealth of sights to see. Arrange your trips to these locations and hire a tour guide to facilitate your mobility if necessary.
Try the dishes and cuisine of the area as well. You will enjoy a wide variety of dishes and beverages when you travel to Nigeria. Locate a reputable eatery and place an order for a Nigerian speciality dish.
Since English is widely spoken in the country, interacting with the people shouldn’t be difficult.
8. Keep your ID cards handy – to avoid legal issues
Always keep copies of your official identification on you, and keep your passports, visas, and travel documents in a secure location.
These vital documents allow you to navigate in and out of the country safely and without legal interrogations.
7. Remember to pack a power bank – a great way to stay connected
This is an essential item for every traveller, especially solo travellers. It is advisable to keep your phone charged at all times when travelling so you can stay in touch with your loved ones.
Carry a power bank with you everywhere because, while certain cities in Nigeria enjoy a consistent power supply, others do not.
6. Never run out of cash – always have extra cash with you
Another mention on our list of Nigeria travel tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey is that you should always have a supply of cash. Always have some cash on you whenever you want to hit the road or visit any of the country’s attractions.
This eliminates the risk of being stranded on the road, especially in areas with little or no nearby ATMs. This is very important for first-timers or solo travellers.
5. Be up to date with the weather – the weather over there can be unpredictable
Nigeria experiences varied but generally good weather throughout the year. For most of the year, Nigeria is hot and dry in the north, with occasional rainy spells in the south.
Depending on the region of Nigeria you plan on visiting, be sure to research the weather and pack appropriately before stepping out.
4. Take swimming precautions – for when you visit a pool or beach
The seas at Nigerian coasts can be hazardous with heavy currents, and there have been multiple records of drowning. So be sure to observe the directives and cautions issued by regional authorities.
Swim in a life-guarded area at all times. Regardless of age or swimming ability, never go swimming without proper supervision. Stay within your swimming and aerobic limits, observe the water and weather conditions, and pay attention to advice.
3. Book travel tickets ahead – to avoid disappointment
It’s a general rule to book travel tickets ahead of time, regardless of which country you plan to visit. Especially as a first-time visitor. Purchasing your ticket in advance generally has numerous benefits.
If you book early, you may be eligible for a discount or other exclusive deals. Additionally, it’s a good idea to book your flights on the airline’s website and confirm your reservation by calling an hour before you leave your residence.
2. Have a working internet – always!
Purchase a Nigerian SIM card once you arrive in the country if you want constant access to the internet, especially when you’re not in your hotel or other lodging. The streets don’t have Wi-Fi, and internet connectivity may not be reliable everywhere.
Obtaining a local SIM card requires registration. Have your passport with you for the registration. This is so that the SIM card will be linked to your passport information and name.
As an alternative, you can obtain an e-SIM, which allows you to activate a carrier’s cellular plan without requiring an actual SIM card. It also relieves the burden of going through the SIM card registration process.
1. Familiarise yourself with some simple local phrases – especially the Nigerian–Pidgin English
First on our list of Nigeria travel tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey is to familiarise yourself with some local phrases.
Although English is the official language of Nigeria and is generally spoken all over the country, it can be beneficial to acquire a few simple words in regional languages such as Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo, and most importantly, Pidgin English.
It’s very common to hear natives using Nigerian Pidgin English, a vernacular English language with broken phrases spoken throughout West Africa and Nigeria.
Nigerians speak over five hundred languages and dialects, with Pidgin English as a linguistic bridge across the country’s 250 ethnic groups.
In conclusion, Nigeria is a welcoming country to foreigners. Always respect the law, be kind to the locals, carry identification and enjoy your trip.
