Nigeria's commercial capital and most populous city. The engine of Nigeria's economy, culture, and entertainment industry. Home to Nollywood, Africa's largest film industry, and a sprawling megacity of over 21 million in its metro area.
Top things to do in Lagos State.
Lekki Conservation Centre
Lekki, Lagos IslandA 78-hectare (193 acre) urban nature sanctuary managed by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation. The centrepiece is Africa's longest canopy walkway - a suspended boardwalk stretching 401 metres (1,316 ft) through the forest canopy at heights of up to 22 metres (72 ft), offering rare aerial views of the wetland ecosystem.
Nike Art Gallery
Lekki, LagosFounded by master textile artist Nike Davies-Okundaye, the Nike Art Gallery in Lekki is one of Africa's largest and most significant repositories of contemporary Nigerian and African art.
Badagry Heritage Museum
Badagry, LagosThe Badagry Heritage Museum stands as a solemn and essential monument to one of history's darkest chapters.
National Theatre Lagos
Iganmu, Lagos MainlandThe National Theatre is one of Nigeria's most iconic and instantly recognisable buildings.
Freedom Park
Lagos IslandFreedom Park occupies the site of the old Broad Street Prison - a colonial-era detention facility where Nigerian independence activists including Herbert Macaulay were held.
J. Randle Centre for Yorùbá Culture and History
Onikan Roundabout, Lagos Island, LagosA dedicated Yoruba cultural museum and creative hub at Onikan, Lagos Island. The centre brings together permanent and rotating exhibitions on Yoruba history, material culture, and contemporary creative expression under a single curatorial framework — the 'Yorùbá Create' programme.
Upside Down House at Landmark Lagos
Water Corporation Road, Victoria Island, LagosThe first upside-down house in West Africa, located inside the Landmark Lagos coastal complex on Victoria Island.
Eyo Festival
Lagos IslandLagos Island's iconic masquerade procession, where Eyo masquerades in flowing white robes and broad hats fill the streets carrying staffs (opambata). A centuries-old Yoruba tradition historically staged to honour a departed Oba or notable, it transforms Lagos Island into a sea of white.
Climate, month by month.
What to wear, by season.
Light breathable tops
Same as dry season. November is warm and increasingly dry.
Versatile layer
Evening temperatures dip slightly in November. One light cardigan covers the transition.
Light breathable tops
Cotton or linen. Humidity stays 65-78% even in dry season. Synthetics trap sweat quickly outdoors.
Light trousers or midi dress
Avoid shorts for evening events on the island. Most venues and beach clubs apply a smart-casual standard.
Sun protection
UV Index 7-9 in December. Hat and SPF 50 for outdoor daytime activity, especially on the water at Tarkwa Bay or Elegushi.
Light layer for AC venues
Restaurants and event spaces on the island run aggressive air conditioning. A light cardigan or linen shirt prevents the temperature shock.
Waterproof rain jacket
Light packable jacket that folds into a bag. Umbrella alone is insufficient in Lagos downpours.
Waterproof shoes or sandals
Avoid suede or canvas. Streets flood regularly in Surulere, Oshodi, and parts of the mainland.
Quick-dry clothing
Cotton takes too long to dry in Lagos humidity. Linen or moisture-wicking fabrics are better options.
Heavy-duty rain jacket or poncho
July and September see the heaviest downpours. A thin jacket is not enough for peak season Lagos rain.
Waterproof sandals
Flip flops for indoor use, proper waterproof sandals for street movement. Closed shoes get ruined quickly.
Portable umbrella
Full-size umbrella for the hotel. A compact one for transit.
Safety and health in Lagos State.
🛡️ Safety
Moderate riskCommon concerns
Petty Crime, Cybercrime, Civil Unrest, Road Hazard
Exercise caution
- Ojo after dark
- Ajegunle at night
- Lagos-Ibadan Expressway after 20:00
Smart-traveller checklist
- Use only Bolt or Uber for transportation - avoid unmarked taxis
- Keep valuables out of sight in traffic (window smash-and-grab is common)
- Avoid displaying expensive jewellery or electronics in public markets
- Use ATMs only inside bank branches, never standalone street ATMs
- Victoria Island and Ikoyi are significantly safer than Lagos Mainland
- Avoid political rally areas, particularly around election periods
Emergency numbers
💉 Health
Required vaccination
Yellow Fever
Recommended
Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, Meningococcal, Tetanus
Local disease notes
- Lassa Fever (low urban risk, higher in rural outskirts)
- Cholera (seasonal, particularly in flood-prone slum areas)
Nearest referral hospital
Eko Hospital, Victoria Island, Lagos
More of Nigeria.
On the map. See Lagos State in context on the interactive atlas. Open Lagos State on the map →
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