There’s a certain thrill to turning a layover in Ibadan into a quick city adventure. From IBA, the Taxis / Ride-hailing services can get you into town in around 75 minutes. Below, we’ll walk you through transport, budget, bags, and what’s actually worth seeing.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave IBA:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Nigeria. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Ibadan takes about 75 minutes by Taxis / Ride-hailing services. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is NGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
What to See and Do in Ibadan
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Ibadan, two standouts are:
- Bower’s Tower — A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
- Agodi Gardens & Park — A calm place to walk around and decompress before your next flight.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside IBA, you can spend time at General Waiting Lounge or try Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
The Best Way Into Ibadan from IBA
The most straightforward way into Ibadan is the Taxis / Ride-hailing services, which takes about 75 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 95 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxis / Ride-hailing services is usually the smarter call.
Best Bites Near IBA
- In the city: Martha’s Kitchen and Zenith Restaurant are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Ibadan.
- At the airport: Ibadan Airport Canteen and Airside Refreshments will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Ibadan layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$6 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$21 |
Cards are increasingly accepted in Ibadan, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at IBA for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Ibadan or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Storing Your Luggage at Ibadan Airport
Luggage storage options at IBA can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Ibadan for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at IBA, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Ibadan count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave IBA. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.