Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Lagos. Murtala Muhammed International Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 150 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
Before heading into Lagos, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for Nigeria vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: Lagos is roughly 150 minutes from LOS via Taxis/Ride-sharing apps (e.g., Bolt, Uber). Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in NGN. Avoid exchanging money at the airport if you can — city-center ATMs usually give you a better deal.
Transport from Murtala Muhammed International Airport to Downtown
From LOS, the Taxis/Ride-sharing apps (e.g., Bolt, Uber) gets you to Lagos in around 150 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 170 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxis/Ride-sharing apps (e.g., Bolt, Uber) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Things to Do During Your Layover
Two recommendations for your time in Lagos:
Start with City Center Walk. It’s the kind of area you can wander through at your own pace. Then, if time allows, make your way to Local Market. Great for picking up a quick snack or souvenir between flights.
If you’d rather stay inside LOS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Airport Lounge
- Duty Free Shopping
Eating Well on a Lagos Layover
In Lagos
If you make it into town, Local Restaurant is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Popular Eatery.
Inside LOS
If you’re staying in the terminal, Airport Cafe is your main option. Terminal Restaurant works too if you want something quick.
Layover Budget Breakdown
Quick budget math for your Lagos layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$5 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$20 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Luggage Storage at LOS
You can store your luggage at Not generally available at the airport.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Lagos as well.
Staying Connected
WiFi at LOS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Nigeria and you’re good to go.
Resting at the Airport
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at LOS.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Lagos is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Lagos.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.