The Ultimate Guide
Lagos is one of the busiest cities in Africa, full of amazing culture, delicious food, and friendly people. But getting around can be a bit tricky if you’re not prepared. Don’t worry; this ultimate guide will help you navigate the city like a local! Whether you’re using a bus, hailing a taxi, or even hopping on a boat, you’ll know exactly what to do after reading this. Let’s get started!
Getting Around Lagos
Lagos is big, busy, and full of energy.
The roads can be crowded, but there are plenty of ways to travel if you know your options. Below, we’ll go over different ways you can get around safely and comfortably.
1. Yellow Danfo Buses
Danfo buses are the iconic yellow buses you’ll see everywhere. They are the most common way to get around Lagos, and they’re affordable too. But keep in mind, these buses can be crowded, and you’ll need cash to pay.
Pros: Cheap and available everywhere.
Cons: Crowded, sometimes hard to know where they’re going.
Image Idea: A picture of a bright yellow Danfo bus in traffic.
2. BRT Buses
If you want a more comfortable bus experience, BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) buses are a great choice. They have dedicated lanes, which means you avoid some of the traffic jams. You need a BRT card or Cowry card to pay for these buses, so make sure you get one at a station.
Pros: Less crowded and faster.
Cons: Not available everywhere.
Image Idea: People boarding a clean BRT bus at a bus station.
3. Ride-Hailing Apps
Apps like InDrive, Uber and Bolt are very popular in Lagos. They’re safer and more convenient compared to other forms of transport. You can book a car using your phone, and it will pick you up from wherever you are.
Pros: Convenient and reliable.
Cons: More expensive than buses.
4. Okada (Motorcycles)
For those who want a quick way to beat traffic, there’s Okada — motorcycle taxis. They’re very fast, but not always the safest option. If you’re in a hurry, this is your best bet, but wear a helmet for safety (have your personal helmet because they do not offer wear a helmet).
Pros: Very fast, great for avoiding traffic.
Cons: Risky, not the best for long distances.
5. Keke Napep (Tricycles)
Another option you’ll see a lot in Lagos is the Keke Napep, which is a three-wheeled tricycle. It’s good for short trips and is safer than an Okada. They are affordable and easy to catch, especially in neighborhoods.
Pros: Affordable and safe for short trips.
Cons: Limited to shorter distances.
6. Ferries and Boats
Did you know you can also travel by boat in Lagos? Lagos has waterways that make it easy to get from one area to another, avoiding the road traffic altogether. There are ferries that connect areas like Ikoyi, Lekki, and Apapa. See the Lagos state water ways terminals and jetties
Pros: Scenic and no traffic.
Cons: Not available everywhere.
7. The Lagos Blue Line Rail
The Lagos Blue Line Rail is a major leap forward in modernizing the city’s transportation system. This rail line has enhanced the daily commute, reducing traffic congestion and promoting sustainable transport. See their schedules here
With the Cowry Card, you can pay for public transportation. With just a TAP, commuters can easily access the Blue Line Rail, ferries, BRT buses, and more — all without the hassle of handling cash. Safety Tips for Getting Around Lagos
Getting around Lagos can be fun, but it’s important to stay safe. Here are a few quick tips to keep you safe:
- Always use reputable ride services like Uber or registered taxis.
- Avoid traveling at night if you’re unfamiliar with the area.
- Keep your valuables close, especially in crowded areas.
- If you’re using Danfo buses, make sure you know your stop in advance.
Best Times to Travel
Lagos traffic can be very busy, especially during rush hours (7–9 AM and 4–7 PM). If you can, try to travel outside of these times for a smoother experience. Early mornings and late evenings are usually the best times to avoid heavy traffic.
FAQs
Q: Is it safe to use motorcycles (Okada) in Lagos?
A: Okada are very fast and can get you through traffic, but they can be risky. Avoid using them for long distances.
Q: How do I pay for BRT buses?
A: You need a Cowry card to pay for these buses. You can buy and recharge a card at major BRT stations.
Q: Are ride-hailing apps like InDrive, Uber and Bolt available everywhere in Lagos?
A: Yes, ride-hailing apps like InDrive, Uber and Bolt are available in most parts of Lagos. They are a safe and convenient way to get around.
Q: What’s the best way to avoid traffic in Lagos?
A: The best way to avoid traffic is to travel early in the morning or late in the evening. You can also use boats to skip road traffic altogether!
