9 Days Lagos, Benin, Abuja, Osun, and Abeokuta

From stunning natural environments to Yoruba shrines and bustling ports, Nigeria is one of those countries that always has something to offer to every traveler. The country is diversified and eclectic in its own way, with its diverse geography, climates and people. On this 9-day tour, you'll get to experience both the vibrant and laid-back versions of this country as you explore the local hangouts, natural landmarks, culture and history-rich establishments, religious and spiritual sites, and so much more.

Itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Lagos

Upon arrival, you will be picked up from the Murtala Muhammed International Airport by your guide/driver. From here you will transfer to your hotel for rest and the evening.  

Day 2: Lagos

Start the day with an early morning breakfast at the hotel. You'll then be picked up by your driver-guide and have a quick run-through Lagos for a few dawn photos of buildings. This way, you'll be able to evade the crowd and have those gorgeous photos. If time permits, the driver will also take you to a beautiful palm-tree lined beach nearby.

Then, visit Lekki Conservation Centre where you'll be greeted by monkeys, crocodiles, and birds while on a canopy walk. You'll also get a chance to mingle with the locals and have a major feel of what Lagos life in general looks like at the Lekki Craft Market.

Spend the night at your hotel in Lagos.

Day 3: Lagos - Benin City

Travel east and explore Benin City, one of the oldest cities in Nigeria, for a peek into the rich history of the Edo State. Step back to the pre-colonial times at the Benin City National Museum, where you'll see terracotta sculptures and other interesting artifacts from the Benin Empire. You will also swing by other major landmarks of the city.

End the day at your Benin City hotel.

Day 4: Benin City - Abuja

Leave Benin City early in the morning and traverse northeast to Abuja. The ride will take about 7 hours depending on the day's traffic condition.

Arrive in Abuja in the late afternoon and check-in at your hotel.

Day 5: Abuja

After a sumptuous breakfast at your hotel, your guide will take you on a fun city tour of Abuja. Abuja is an amazing city offering a ton of green spaces, Abuja emits a more laid-back vibe.

Visit a local craft center for some display and sales of authentic African handicrafts before taking a photo stop at the National Christian Centre. Marvel at the beauty of the Abuja National Mosque, an imposing modern landmark that you can't miss while touring the city center. You will also stop by a viewpoint of Zuma Rock, a 300 meter-high monolith located west of the city and often referred to as the "Gateway to Abuja from Suleja".

Overnight at Abuja hotel.

Day 6: Abuja - Osun

Leave Abuja in the morning and set out to Osun. While in Osun, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove. The dense forest of the grove is some of the last remnants of primary high forest in southern Nigeria. Within the sanctuary are forty shrines, sculptures and artworks erected in honor of Osun and other Yoruba deities. There are also sacred places and worship points strung along the banks of the meandering Osun river.

End the day at your Osun hotel.

Day 7: Osun - Abeokuta

Depart from Osun and travel west to the town of Abeokuta. Stop at Olumo Rock, the founding site of the city which once served as a natural fortress during inter-tribal warfare in the 19th century. On the way up, you'll see shrines, sacred trees, and tribal war-time hideouts before reaching the top for a rewarding view of the city.

Spend the night in Abeokuta.

Day 8: Abeokuta - Lagos

After breakfast, head back to Lagos and visit Fela Kuti's former-house-turned-museum Kalakuta Republic. Hang around on the rooftop terrace of the legendary musician's place, you might even chance upon a band rehearsal and performance. Just a stone's throw away is the New Afrika Shrine, an open-air entertainment center that will let you experience the authentic Nigerian and African music scene.

Day 9: Departure from Lagos

Today is your last day of the tour and you will be dropped off to the airport by your driver-guide. But not before you get to see and relax at the Inagbe Beach Resort, a waterfront facility with bars and restaurant and beach access. 

Services conclude with a drop off to the airport.

Includes

• Certified driver-guide
• Private air-conditioned car transport
• Fuel
• Airport pick up and drop off
• Daily breakfast
• Hotel accommodation
• Hotel pick up and drop off

Excludes

• Airfare
• Entrance fees
• Visa and visa application fees
• Travel/medical insurance and immunizations
• Meals, beverages, and snacks not included in the itinerary
• Hotel incidentals (if any)
• Tips and gratuities
• Personal expenses