Looking for your next getaway? Nigeria's major airports offer convenient connections to a variety of exciting international and regional destinations. Here are five popular holiday spots easily accessible from airports like Lagos (LOS) and Abuja (ABV).

1. Dubai, UAE

A perennial favorite among Nigerian travelers, Dubai offers a perfect blend of ultramodern architecture, luxury shopping, desert adventures, and family-friendly attractions.

Why Nigerians Love Dubai

Dubai has become increasingly popular with Nigerian tourists for several reasons:

  • Shopping opportunities: From luxury brands at Dubai Mall to traditional gold and spice souks, Dubai is a shopper's paradise with competitive prices on designer goods and electronics
  • Visa accessibility: The UAE offers tourist visas that are relatively straightforward for Nigerians to obtain compared to some Western destinations
  • Family-friendly attractions: Theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure, waterparks, and indoor entertainment venues make it ideal for family vacations
  • Year-round destination: While summer months (May-September) can be extremely hot, the rest of the year offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities

Must-Visit Attractions

  • Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building offers spectacular views from its observation decks
  • Palm Jumeirah: Artificial island with luxury resorts, restaurants and Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
  • Desert Safari: Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin camps
  • Global Village: Cultural entertainment destination showcasing pavilions from different countries, including Nigeria
  • Dubai Marina: Upscale waterfront district with restaurants, yacht cruises, and the popular JBR Beach

Flight Information

Multiple daily direct flights connect Lagos and Abuja to Dubai:

  • Airlines: Emirates, Egypt Air, Ethiopian Airlines, and RwandAir offer services (with Emirates providing the only direct flights)
  • Flight duration: Approximately 7-8 hours for direct flights
  • Frequency: Daily flights available year-round, with increased options during peak seasons

Visa and Travel Tips

  • Nigerian passport holders require a visa to visit Dubai. Apply through authorized travel agencies or the official UAE visa website
  • Visa processing typically takes 3-5 working days but allow extra time during peak seasons
  • A confirmed hotel reservation and return flight are usually required for visa applications
  • Respect local customs and dress modestly in public places, especially during Ramadan

2. London, UK

Rich in history and culture, London attracts visitors with its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, vibrant theatre scene, and diverse neighborhoods.

The London Experience

London offers a compelling mix of history, multiculturalism, and entertainment that resonates with Nigerian visitors:

  • Historical connections: The historical ties between Nigeria and the UK make London culturally familiar for many Nigerian travelers
  • Cultural diversity: London has one of the largest Nigerian diaspora communities in Europe, with areas like Peckham offering Nigerian restaurants and shops
  • Educational opportunities: Many Nigerians combine tourism with university visits or educational interests
  • Business links: Strong economic connections make London a dual-purpose destination for business and leisure

Must-Visit Attractions

  • Royal landmarks: Buckingham Palace, Tower of London, and Westminster Abbey showcase Britain's royal heritage
  • World-class museums: The British Museum, Victoria and Albert Museum, and Natural History Museum offer free entry to their permanent collections
  • Parks and green spaces: Hyde Park, Regent's Park, and Hampstead Heath provide tranquil escapes from urban bustle
  • Shopping districts: Oxford Street, Westfield, Knightsbridge (home to Harrods), and Covent Garden cater to various shopping tastes
  • West End theatres: Experience world-renowned musicals and plays in London's theatre district

Flight Information

  • Airlines: British Airways and Virgin Atlantic offer direct flights from Lagos to London, while several other carriers provide one-stop options
  • Flight duration: Approximately 6.5-7 hours for direct flights
  • Airports: Flights from Nigeria typically arrive at London Heathrow (LHR)

Visa and Travel Tips

  • Nigerian citizens require a Standard Visitor visa to enter the UK
  • Apply online through the official UK government website at least 3-4 weeks before travel
  • Visa requirements include proof of accommodation, return flights, and sufficient funds
  • The best time to visit is late spring (May-June) or early autumn (September) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds
  • London's public transportation system (Tube, buses) is extensive and efficient for getting around
  • Consider purchasing an Oyster card or using contactless payment for public transport

3. Accra, Ghana

A vibrant and accessible West African neighbor, Accra boasts beautiful beaches, significant historical sites, lively markets, and a cuisine that shares similarities with Nigerian food while offering its own distinctive flavors.

Why Visit Accra

For Nigerians seeking an international experience without venturing too far, Accra offers several advantages:

  • Cultural familiarity: Shared West African heritage makes Accra feel both familiar and different for Nigerian visitors
  • Proximity: Short flight time means minimal jet lag and quick weekend getaways are possible
  • Value: While not inexpensive, Accra often offers better value than European or Middle Eastern destinations
  • Political stability: Ghana's reputation for safety and stability makes it appealing to travelers
  • English language: As in Nigeria, English is widely spoken, easing communication

Must-Visit Attractions

  • Cape Coast Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site and former slave trading fortress with powerful historical significance
  • Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park: Dedicated to Ghana's first president and Pan-African visionary
  • Labadi Beach: Popular beach with weekend music and entertainment
  • Makola Market: Vibrant marketplace for experiencing local culture and purchasing crafts and textiles
  • Jamestown: Historic neighborhood with colonial architecture and the famous lighthouse
  • National Museum of Ghana: Showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage

Flight Information

  • Airlines: Africa World Airlines, Air Peace, and Kenya Airways offer direct services
  • Flight duration: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Lagos
  • Frequency: Multiple weekly flights from Lagos and Abuja

Visa and Travel Tips

  • ECOWAS citizens (including Nigerians) can enter Ghana visa-free for up to 90 days
  • Bring your valid Nigerian passport, yellow fever vaccination certificate, and return ticket
  • The local currency is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS) – exchange some currency before departure or at the airport
  • While English is widely spoken, learning a few phrases in Twi (like "Akwaaba" – welcome) is appreciated
  • Try local dishes like waakye, banku with tilapia, and kelewele (spiced fried plantains)
  • December's "Detty December" events attract many Nigerian visitors for year-end celebrations

4. Istanbul, Turkey

Where East meets West, Istanbul captivates with its stunning mosques, bustling bazaars, ancient history, and flavorful food.

The Appeal of Istanbul

Istanbul has gained popularity among Nigerian travelers for several compelling reasons:

  • Cultural richness: The unique blend of European and Asian influences creates a fascinating cultural tapestry
  • Historical significance: As the former capital of the Byzantine and Ottoman Empires, Istanbul offers extraordinary historical landmarks
  • Visa accessibility: Turkey offers e-Visa options that are relatively straightforward for Nigerian passport holders
  • Shopping opportunities: From the historic Grand Bazaar to modern malls, Istanbul offers diverse shopping experiences
  • Halal-friendly destination: As a predominantly Muslim country, Turkey provides halal food options and accommodates religious practices

Must-Visit Attractions

  • Hagia Sophia: Once a church, then a mosque, then a museum, and now a mosque again, this architectural marvel spans Byzantine and Ottoman eras
  • Blue Mosque (Sultan Ahmed Mosque): Famous for its blue-tiled interior and six minarets
  • Topkapi Palace: The former seat of Ottoman power, featuring opulent courtyards and the treasury
  • Grand Bazaar: One of the world's oldest and largest covered markets with over 4,000 shops
  • Bosphorus Strait: Take a cruise along the waterway that divides Europe and Asia
  • Spice Bazaar: A feast for the senses with colorful spices, teas, and Turkish delights

Flight Information

  • Airlines: Turkish Airlines offers direct flights from Lagos and Abuja to Istanbul
  • Flight duration: Approximately 6-7 hours
  • Frequency: Multiple weekly flights, with daily options from Lagos
  • Istanbul Airport: A modern aviation hub with excellent transit facilities if you're connecting to other destinations

Visa and Travel Tips

  • Nigerian citizens need to obtain an e-Visa before traveling to Turkey
  • Apply online through the official Turkish government e-Visa website
  • Visa requirements include a valid passport, return ticket, and hotel reservation
  • The best seasons to visit are spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant temperatures
  • The Istanbul Card (Istanbulkart) provides discounted access to public transportation
  • Try Turkish specialties like kebabs, baklava, Turkish tea, and authentic Turkish coffee
  • Bargaining is expected in bazaars and markets, but not in established retail shops

5. Johannesburg, South Africa

A gateway to South Africa's wildlife and stunning landscapes, Johannesburg itself offers poignant historical sites, vibrant urban culture, and access to some of Africa's most spectacular natural wonders.

Why South Africa Appeals to Nigerian Travelers

  • African connection: Visiting another African nation offers cultural connections while experiencing different landscapes and traditions
  • Wildlife opportunities: South Africa offers world-class safari experiences relatively close to home
  • Diverse experiences: From urban exploration to wildlife viewing to wine tasting, South Africa offers variety in a single trip
  • Infrastructure: Well-developed tourism infrastructure makes travel comfortable and convenient
  • Value: Favorable exchange rates often make South Africa an affordable luxury destination

Must-Visit Attractions

  • Apartheid Museum: A powerful and moving tribute to South Africa's struggle against apartheid
  • Soweto Township: Visit Nelson Mandela's former home and experience vibrant township culture
  • Constitution Hill: Former prison complex now housing South Africa's Constitutional Court
  • Kruger National Park: A few hours' drive or short flight from Johannesburg, offering exceptional wildlife viewing
  • Maboneng Precinct: Revitalized urban district with art galleries, restaurants, and weekend markets
  • Gold Reef City: Theme park and entertainment complex built around a gold mine
  • Cradle of Humankind: UNESCO World Heritage Site with fossil sites of early human ancestors

Flight Information

  • Airlines: South African Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and RwandAir connect Nigeria with Johannesburg
  • Flight duration: Approximately 6-8 hours depending on connections
  • Airport: O.R. Tambo International Airport is the main gateway, well-connected to the city by various transport options

Visa and Travel Tips

  • Nigerian passport holders require a visa to visit South Africa
  • Apply through VFS Global, which handles South African visa applications in Nigeria
  • Requirements include proof of accommodation, return flights, bank statements, and travel insurance
  • Visa processing typically takes 5-15 working days
  • South Africa's seasons are opposite to Nigeria's – winter is June-August (cool and dry), summer is December-February (warm with afternoon thunderstorms)
  • Arrange airport transfers or car rentals in advance for safety and convenience
  • Consider side trips to Cape Town, the Garden Route, or safari destinations while in South Africa

Planning Your Trip

When to Book

Timing can significantly impact both availability and pricing for international travel from Nigeria:

  • Flights: Book 2-3 months in advance for the best fares, especially for peak seasons like Christmas, Easter, and summer holidays
  • Accommodation: Secure hotels 4-6 weeks before travel; longer for luxury properties or during major events
  • Visa applications: Start the process at least 1 month before intended travel (longer for complex applications)
  • Last-minute deals: While sometimes available, these are risky when visas are required

Travel Documentation

Ensure all your paperwork is in order before departure:

  • Passport validity: Most countries require at least six months' validity beyond your return date
  • Visa requirements: Research specific requirements for your destination and allow ample processing time
  • Health documentation: Carry international vaccination certificates (particularly for yellow fever)
  • Travel insurance: Increasingly required by visa-issuing authorities and essential for medical emergencies abroad
  • Hotel and flight confirmations: Print copies and save digital versions for immigration purposes

Budgeting Tips

  • Currency considerations: Research exchange rates and consider getting some foreign currency before departure
  • Card notifications: Inform your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocks for suspicious activity
  • Daily expenses: Research typical costs for meals, transportation, and attractions at your destination
  • Hidden costs: Budget for airport transfers, tips, tourist taxes, and mandatory fees at accommodations
  • Emergency fund: Always set aside extra funds for unexpected situations

Health and Safety

  • Travel advisories: Check Nigerian government advisories and destination country information
  • Healthcare access: Research healthcare facilities at your destination and carry important medications
  • Cultural awareness: Understanding local customs helps avoid unintentional offense
  • Emergency contacts: Save Nigerian embassy/consulate contacts for your destination
  • Travel registration: Consider registering with the Nigerian embassy at your destination for emergencies

Making the Most of Your Trip

  • Local SIM cards: Purchase these at your destination for affordable data and calls
  • Offline maps: Download maps and translation apps before departure
  • Guided experiences: Consider local tours for cultural insights beyond the tourist trail
  • Packing smartly: Research weather patterns and pack appropriate clothing
  • Airport arrival: Arrange for early arrival at Nigerian airports, particularly Lagos (LOS) and Abuja (ABV), to navigate security and check-in procedures comfortably

Whichever destination you choose, traveling from Nigeria offers exciting opportunities to explore diverse cultures, histories, and landscapes. With proper planning and preparation, your international holiday can be a rewarding and smooth experience.