2-Day Dynamic Lagos Discovery Tour From Makoko To Lekki

Visiting Lagos, Nigeria’s bustling economic heart, is an adventure packed with contrasts—vibrant markets, lively music scenes, and stunning natural spots. This 2-day Lagos Discovery Tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the city’s diverse culture, history, and natural beauty, promising a trip that’s as insightful as it is fun. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and glowing reviews suggest it’s a well-balanced way to see Lagos without rushing.

What we love about this experience is the variety it offers—ranging from the floating homes of Makoko to the lush canopies of Lekki Conservation Center, and from vibrant art markets to iconic beaches. The experience is designed to be both educational and relaxing, with plenty of authentic moments that truly showcase Lagos’s personality. The only consideration might be the extensive schedule, which demands good energy and a sense of adventure. This tour appeals most to travelers eager to understand Lagos inside out, especially those interested in culture, nature, and local life.

Key Points

• Authentic Experiences: Visit Lagos’s most iconic and unusual sites, including the floating Makoko community.
• Diverse Attractions: From nature reserves to art galleries, the tour covers Lagos’s cultural and natural highlights.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable local guides help bring each location alive, sharing insights into the communities and history.
• Long but Rewarding Day: Expect 15-18 hours of exploration, with plenty of time to soak in each spot.
• Value for Money: Included entrance fees and a variety of experiences make the $398 price tag quite reasonable.
• Perfect for Curious Travelers: This tour is ideal for those who want a thorough, energetic introduction to Lagos.

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Lagos Tour

The Makoko Floating Village: A Unique Waterworld

Your adventure begins with a visit to Makoko, often called Lagos’s “Venice.” This floating community is a fascinating sight, with houses perched on stilts and canoes gliding through the canals. The tour includes a guided canoe ride that provides intimate views into the daily lives of around 850,000 residents, with some estimates close to 1 million.

Our guide, Seun, was praised for his deep knowledge of the area’s history and culture, explaining why people decided to settle on water and how they manage the challenges of regular rains. Reviewers appreciated the opportunity to see “Lagos’s own Venice,” and noted the experience of witnessing the community’s resilience firsthand.

Expect to see children playing, fishermen at work, and local markets floating along the water. The interaction with residents offers an authentic glimpse into a lifestyle vastly different from Lagos’s mainland, while also highlighting issues like flooding and infrastructure. This stop is a highlight for many, especially those eager for a meaningful cultural experience.

Lekki Conservation Center: Nature and Canopy Walks

Next, the tour takes you to Lekki Conservation Center, a breath of fresh air amidst Lagos’s hustle and bustle. The center’s canopy walkway is Africa’s longest, and walking across it provides an exhilarating bird’s-eye view of the treetops and wildlife below.

Visitors frequently mention the chance to spot monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Raised walkways allow you to admire the flora and fauna without disturbing the environment — a perfect spot for nature lovers and couples seeking a peaceful escape.

The center also features a conservation library and center, making this a learning experience as well as a scenic one. Reviewers appreciated the guides’ insights, saying, “The walkways and viewing points make you feel like you’re in a different world,” and expressing how the experience gave them a fresh perspective on Nigeria’s natural treasures.

Nike Art Gallery: A Feast for Art Enthusiasts

Moving on, the Nike Art Center is West Africa’s largest art gallery, housed in an impressive five-story building. With over 25,000 artworks, visitors can wander through displays of textiles, paintings, sculptures, and crafts from Nigerian and other African artists.

This stop is a treasure trove for anyone interested in African art, and the guided tour helps explain the cultural significance behind some pieces. Many reviewers comment that it’s a great place to pick up unique souvenirs or simply marvel at the creativity on display. The gallery’s vast size also allows for a leisurely visit, with plenty of space to appreciate each artist’s work.

The National Museum: A Cultural Time Capsule

The National Museum offers a curated look into Nigeria’s history, art, and archaeology. Founded in 1957, it houses everything from ancient carvings to ethnographic exhibits. Visitors often find the collection of Nigerian statuary and artifacts quite impressive, providing tangible links to the country’s past.

The museum’s location in a busy part of Lagos makes it accessible, and guides are on hand to help interpret the exhibits. Reviewers appreciated the museum’s role as a cultural anchor, noting that it gave them a deeper understanding of Nigeria beyond its modern image.

The New Afrika Shrine & Kalakuta Museum: Celebrating Fela Kuti

Music lovers will find these stops particularly engaging. The New Afrika Shrine is an open-air venue where Fela Kuti’s musical legacy lives on through performances by his sons, Femi and Seun Kuti. It’s the hub of Lagos’s Afrobeat scene and a site of cultural significance, having hosted the annual Felabration festival.

Adjacent to it is the Kalakuta Republic Museum, Fela’s former residence turned museum. Visitors can see his bedroom, personal effects, and even his musical instruments, gaining insight into his rebellious spirit and immense influence.

Reviewers have highlighted the guides’ stories about Fela, saying, “Walking through Fela’s house felt like stepping into history,” and appreciated the chance to connect with Nigeria’s musical evolution firsthand.

Lekki Market & Elegushi Beach: Shopping and Relaxation

The Lekki Arts and Crafts Market is a bustling hub for Nigerian crafts, textiles, and fashion. Visitors can browse hundreds of stalls, picking up handmade jewelry, fabrics, and souvenirs. It’s also a fantastic place to observe local artistry and style.

Finally, Elegushi Beach offers a relaxing break with its lively, yet calming atmosphere. You can enjoy walking along the shoreline, soaking your feet in the Atlantic waters, or just unwinding under palm trees. The beach’s popularity means it’s lively but still a perfect spot to unwind after a busy day.

Practical Details and Tips

Transportation and Group Size: The tour uses comfortable group transportation, with pickups offered, making logistics smooth. Most groups have around 25 travelers, allowing for a lively yet manageable experience.

Timing: The day starts at 10 a.m. and finishes by 6 p.m., with each stop carefully scheduled to maximize your time. Expect some long, full days of sightseeing—so wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated.

Price and Value: At $398 per person, including entrance fees and guided commentary, the tour offers good value for those wanting a broad yet intimate view of Lagos. Additional expenses, like shopping at Lekki Market or entry to some beaches, are not included but are optional.

Booking and Cancellation: Most travelers book about 77 days in advance. Cancellation is free if done 24 hours prior, making it flexible for planning.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Lagos tour is a well-rounded way to see the city’s highlights without feeling rushed. It offers a balanced mix of culture, nature, history, and relaxation, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those wanting to deepen their understanding of Lagos. The guides’ knowledge and the authentic sites, like Makoko and the art markets, bring Lagos to life in a way that photos alone can’t capture.

While the schedule is packed and the days long, the variety ensures you’ll leave with a genuine appreciation for Lagos’s vibrancy and resilience. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a nature lover, or simply curious about Nigeria’s largest city, this tour is a practical choice that promises memorable moments and a real sense of Lagos’s soul.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, pickup is offered, and transportation is arranged for the entire day, ensuring smooth transitions between sites.

How long are the stops at each attraction?
Most stops are around 2 hours, with the exception of Lekki Market and Elegushi Beach, which are about 3 hours each, allowing enough time to explore and relax.

Can I buy souvenirs during the tour?
Yes, especially at Lekki Market where many stalls sell local crafts, textiles, and art pieces.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for walking and outdoor activities is best. Don’t forget sun protection and water.

Are entrance fees included?
Most sites like Makoko, Lekki Conservation Center, Nike Art Gallery, the National Museum, Afrika Shrine, and Kalakuta Museum include entrance fees in the price. Lekki Market and beaches do not.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Generally, yes, but consider the long day and outdoor activities. It’s best for children who can handle extended hours and walking.

How many people typically join the tour?
Group sizes are capped at around 25 travelers, making it manageable and lively.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours before the start time. Less than that, and the full amount is non-refundable.

In the end, this Lagos tour offers a hearty dose of the city’s authentic flavor, natural beauty, and cultural richness—all in one memorable package. Whether you’re after a cultural awakening or a scenic escape, it’s a compelling way to uncover Lagos’s many layers.