Nigeria is a country where the rich, the poor, and the middle class survive. There is something for everyone!
So, if you’re planning to visit the country, keep in mind there is everything you need to stay and spend like a boss or enjoy a stay without emptying your pocket.
Here is a rundown on how to plan your next trip to Nigeria on a budget. Take it from a local!
Travel during off-peak season
If you are planning your travel to Nigeria, avoid travelling during major holidays like Christmas or Easter, when prices for flights and accommodations skyrocket. Instead, choose less busy times for cheaper rates.
Book your flight on time
If you are conversant with travelling by flight, you already know that flight fares tend to hike as the departure date approaches.
Booking early can help you save a few dollars, ensure you get a seat on your preferred flight, and give you time to sort out visa requirements calmly, vaccinations, and other necessary travel documents without a last-minute rush or having to pay extra for quick service.
Carry cash and use local currency
Photo Source: Freepik
Nigeria is still largely cash-based, especially in smaller towns. To avoid excessive currency exchange fees at airports or hotels, exchange your money for naira at local exchange bureaus or use ATMs.
However, if you already have a Nigerian account, you can make swift transfer payments since many businesses in Nigeria accept this payment method.
Plan to visit budget-friendly cities
As earlier stated, Nigeria is a tourist country where anyone can find a footing and enjoy their stay.
For example, some cities in Nigeria are more budget-friendly than the orders. Cities like Calabar, Enugu, Abeaokuta, Jos, and Ibadan are more affordable to tour.
On the other hand, cities like Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Uyo can leave your pocket empty before you realise it. All of the cities above are safe and welcoming and offer rich Nigerian experiences, just at different budget levels.
Plan to stay in budget-friendly accommodations
Your accommodation is another critical factor to consider when planning a trip to Nigeria. There are modest hotels and guest houses across all Nigerian cities. So, wherever you visit Nigeria, you’ll find hotels, motels, or guest houses for as low as $10-$25 per night.
There are also Airbnb’s that offer affordable stays if you’re looking for something with a cultural flair. Couchsurfing is another effective way to save money while meeting with locals, providing a more authentic and adventurous travel experience.
Plan to eat more local food
Photo Source: Rozy’s Kitchen (YouTube).
The good thing is that Nigeria is blessed with many tasty and nutritious local delicacies and street foods.
One of the easiest things to do is get healthy foods on a low budget. For as low as $1, you can get local street foods like Suya, Akara, Fries, Bole (roasted plantains and sauce), or simple puff puffs and buns.
But if you want to eat proper meals, just locate the nearest local restaurant or ‘Buka’ and enjoy delicious Nigerian meals such as Jollof Rice, Stew, Soup and Swallows, Ofe Akwu, and Porridge Beans, without messing up your budget.
Plan to pick affordable transport options
Transportation by bus (Danfo), tricycle (Keke), or motorcycle (Okada) is the cheapest way to get around Nigeria.
We recommend you use buses, especially for long-distance destinations, as they are safer and cheaper.
However, if you’re the type that values privacy and better safety, you can book rides like Uber, Bolt, and inDrive. These are popular rides in Nigeria, and you get to know the prices of rides upfront before booking.
Ride-hailing apps like inDrive allow you to negotiate ride prices.
As of 2024, these means of transportation cost as little as $1, depending on the distance.
Negotiate prices
Bargaining is common in Nigeria, especially in markets with local vendors. Always negotiate to get the best price on goods and services.
The locals tend to double the price of goods or services as soon as they realise you are a foreigner, so it’s crucial to sharpen your bargaining game or go around accompanied by a local.
This is a very important tip to remember if you’re planning to travel to or visit Nigeria, especially if you’re planning a budget-friendly trip. Good bargains can help you save a reasonable amount.
Opt for budget-friendly or free activities
Tour on a budget. Many Nigerian tourist attractions cost little or nothing.
For example, in Lagos, you can visit places like the National Museum or the Lekki Conservation Centre, where you can see and interact with wildlife, take a canopy walk, and enjoy beautiful views with entrance fees as low as $5.
Other low-cost attractions in Nigeria include Olumo Rock, Zuma Rock, Bar Beach, Yankari National Park, and Gashaka-Gumti National Park.
Photo Source: Expedia.com.
Another fun thing to do in Nigeria for free is to walk around local markets. It’s the best way to experience the everyday bustling life of locals.
You get to interact with the people, buy good Nigerian-made crafts at a good bargain, and take memorable pictures of the authenticity and life of the people while enjoying their vibrant culture.
Some of the best markets to check out include Lekki Arts and Crafts Market in Lagos, Jankara Market in Lagos, Balogun Market in Lagos, Ariaria International Market in Aba, Kurmi Market in Kano, and Onitsha Main Market.
Also, you can visit many beaches in Nigeria. A lot of them are free or cost as low as $5. If you’re in Lagos, beaches like Tarkwa Bay, Elegushi Beach, Coconut Beach, and La Campagne Tropicana Beach are great spots for budget-conscious travellers.
Plan group activities
Another beneficial tip to consider when planning your travel to Nigeria is to go with a group. Group travel can reduce costs by splitting accommodation, transportation, and food expenses. Some tours or activities also offer group discounts.
To enjoy your stay in Nigeria on a budget, you must be open-minded and flexible. With proper planning and willingness to live like a local, travelling to Nigeria on a budget is not just possible; it’s fun!