Let’s be real! When you hear “sustainable travel,” you probably imagine cutting back on everything fun, right? No wild food adventures, no thrilling city tours, and no crazy shopping sprees.
Well, guess what? That’s a total myth! You can explore Nigeria’s most vibrant cities, live your best travel life, and keep it eco-friendly.
So, whether you’re hopping on a keke in Lagos, feasting on suya in Abuja, or vibing at a beach in Calabar, here’s how to travel Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun!
7 Ways To Travel Nigerian Cities Sustainably Without Missing Out On Fun
- Ditch the gas gulpers and ride like a local
- Sleep like an eco king and queen
- Eat like a Nigerian(and save the planet while at it)
- Shop but make it sustainable
- Explore the wild side without wrecking it
- Party smart because sustainability can be fun too.
- Give back while you travel.
1. Ditch the Gas Gulpers and Ride Like a Local
Think about it: what’s more exciting—being stuck in Lagos traffic in a private car or zipping past in a BRT bus, soaking up the city’s energy? Exactly.
- Hop on a BRT bus in Lagos; it’s affordable, fast (by Lagos standards), and way better for the environment than single-occupancy cars.
- Catch a keke napep (tricycle) for short distances. They’re fun and breezy and give you an authentic city experience.
- Walk or cycle when possible. Strolling through Jabi Lake Park in Abuja or Lekki Conservation Centre is an adventure. Plus, your step count will thank you!
This is how to travel Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun: faster, cheaper, and with fewer traffic headaches.
2. Sleep Like an Eco-King or Queen
Your accommodation choice can make or break your travel experience. And yes, you can be comfy while keeping things green!
- Book hotels that use solar power and have water-saving policies. Nigeria has enough sun, so why not?
- Stay in locally owned guesthouses or Airbnbs that support community development. They’re often cosier and way more authentic than big chain hotels.
- Want to feel adventurous? Eco-lodges in places like Jos and Cross River let you wake up surrounded by nature; imagine that Instagram content!
Picking the right accommodation is how to travel to Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun. Who doesn’t love comfort with a side of eco-friendliness?
3. Eat Like a Nigerian (and Save the Planet While at It)
Let’s be honest, the best part of travelling is the food. And in Nigeria? Oh, you’re in for a treat! The trick is to eat like a local while keeping it sustainable.
- Street food is your best friend! A hot plate of jollof rice from a buka? Roasted plantain (boli) by the roadside? Yes, please! It’s fresh, affordable, and not wrapped in unnecessary plastic.
- Ditch plastic bottles and carry a reusable water bottle instead. It’ll save you money and reduce waste.
- Eat seasonal foods and stick to locally grown fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and bananas. Bonus: They taste better than imported ones!
Eating right is how to travel to Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun. You get the best meals and leave a positive impact.
4. Shop But Make It Sustainable
Shopping is part of the travel experience, but do it correctly! The trick to traveling Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun is making smart purchases.
- Skip the mass-produced souvenirs and buy handmade items from local markets. Think Aso-Oke fabric, beadwork, or leather goods from Kano.
- Carry a reusable shopping bag when visiting Balogun Market or Wuse Market. No one needs 100 extra plastic bags.
- Avoid items made from wildlife products; that ivory bracelet does not look good (for the environment or your conscience).
5. Explore the Wild Side Without Wrecking It
If your idea of fun is getting out in nature, Nigeria has plenty to offer, but there’s a right way to do it. Want to know how to travel to Nigeria’s cities sustainably without missing out on fun while sightseeing? Follow these tips:
- Visit national parks like Yankari or Cross River, but don’t litter, don’t disturb the wildlife, and for heaven’s sake, don’t carve your name on trees.
- Stick to eco-friendly tours and support guides who act about conservation.
- Respect historical sites like Badagry Slave Museum or Kano’s ancient city walls. These places have deep stories, so don’t be that tourist who ruins it for everyone.
READ MORE:
- Zero-Waste Travel: How to Explore Nigerian Cities Without Leaving a Trace
- How Digital Nomads Can Travel Sustainably in Nigeria’s Urban Hubs
- How Indigenous Knowledge Can Inspire Sustainable Living in Nigeria
- Eco-Influencers: How Gen Z is Promoting Sustainable Travel in Nigeria
6. Party Smart Because Sustainability Can be Fun, too
Nigeria’s nightlife? Legendary. But you can party without trashing the environment.
- Pick clubs and lounges that recycle; some upscale spots in Lagos are catching on to this trend.
- Say no to plastic cups and straws. Carry a reusable cup if you must.
- Try outdoor festivals like Calabar Carnival or Felabration, where you can dance under the stars instead of wasting electricity indoors.
7. Give Back While You Travel
Want to make your trip even more meaningful? Do something good while having fun!
- Join a beach clean-up in Lagos or Port Harcourt (you’ll meet cool people, too!).
- Volunteer at an animal conservation centre; Lekki Conservation Centre has adorable monkeys, and they’d love some responsible visitors.
- Support community projects; even something as simple as shopping from local artisans instead of big brands makes a huge difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is it Expensive to Travel Sustainably in Nigeria?
Not at all! Travelling sustainably can be more affordable. Public transport, eco-friendly guesthouses, and eating at local bukas are all budget-friendly options.
2. How Can I Enjoy Nigeria’s Nightlife Sustainably?
Choose bars and clubs that recycle bottles, share rides home instead of taking multiple cars, and support local drinks like palm wine or Nigerian-made beer to reduce the environmental impact of imports.
3. Is it Safe to Use Public Transport in Nigeria?
Yes, but always be cautious. Use well-known transport options like the Lagos BRT or reputable ride-sharing services. If taking local buses or kekes, be aware of your surroundings and secure valuables.
Final Thoughts
Now you know how to travel sustainably to Nigeria’s cities without missing out on fun, and it sounds even more exciting, right?
Sustainable travel isn’t about restrictions; it’s about making smarter choices while still enjoying everything Nigeria has to offer. So pack that bag, grab your reusable bottle, and go explore Nigeria’s cities in a fun and responsible way!
