Lagos -> Getting There
Airport arrivals.
Till a short while back, tourists landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport were subjected to the most inhospitable kind of treatment. The attitude of officials (especially customs) was most unpleasant and rude. The behavior was uncivilized and the language almost vulgar. After going through the formalities connected with visa, health certificates, luggage and body search, etc., most travelers would have been happy to have been as far from Lagos as possible. However things are changing for the better and officials can be very polite and helpful. Getting to the city from the airport can be a problem as there are only a limited number of licensed taxis at the airport and no bus service. It is advisable to settle fares in advance according to the rates provided at the airport as well as the tariff card that all taxi drivers are expected to carry with them. This can help to prevent unpleasant situations and overcharging at the end of the ride. In the daytime, those who are fit enough can take the 2 km walk out of the airport to the main road, where busses and shared taxis are available. For travelers arriving after it becomes dark, finding hotel accommodation as quick as possible should be given top priority – even if it means spending a little extra on taxi fare.
Arriving by long-distance taxi.
The long-distance taxi services operating to Lagos generally arrive at one of several specific points on the mainland Mile Two, Yaba, Ojota or Iddo. Travelers can continue to Lagos Island by means of the ill-maintained, yellow colored private busses or by the government managed red and white busses. Taking a taxi from the bus stop to nearby hotels will not be too expensive.
Arriving by ship.
Passenger services to Lagos by ship are not common, though there are a few cargo carriers that have a limited number of berths available. Ships are berthed at Apapa, opposite Lagos Island.
The mainland.
Travelers arriving in Lagos can divide the area into four distinct zones: the mainland, Lagos Island, Ikoyi and Victoria Island. Those intending to be there for more than a couple of days would do well to get hold of a good city atlas – the Winnay Lagos Street Atlas, published by Macmillan, is strongly recommended.
The mainland consists mainly of continuous stretches of working-class districts, industrial zones and dilapidated towns. Ikeja is located at the northern extremity and is mainly an administrative and industrial district. The international airport is at the northwestern end and is about 20 km from Victoria Island. Shomolu is comparatively close to the center of the city and is an inexpensive residential area about 15 km from Victoria Island. A few commercial ventures can be found here. Other areas close to the city center include Yaba – which is a schooling district about 10 km away, Sunrlere – a mix of residences, schools, lively nightspots and the National Stadium, also located about 10 km away, and Ebutte Metta – about 8 km away and where the National Theater Complex is located.
