The 5 best day trips to do from Lagos

Lagos is top of the mind for most people visiting Nigeria. It’s the country’s long-standing commercial and entertainment capital full of thrills and treats. But then, the city can sometimes be too much to handle.

At times like these, Lagosians travel the relatively short distance to nearby cities like Abeokuta and Ibadan, both of which offer a heartwarming combination of scenic views, historical and cultural gems.  If you have a free day, or two, on your itinerary, consider filling them up with any of these day-trip options. 

Abeokuta

Why go? To hike Olumo Rock, buy traditional adire cloth and learn some history

Abeokuta is famous for its rocky terrain. Begin your sightseeing at Olumo Rock, its most visited attraction. Hike to the top (137m) to get a birds-eye view of the ancient town and some of its top landmarks. The tour begins with a briefing at the Lisabi Garden, named after one of the town’s earliest warrior-leaders; here, you can buy bottled water or palm wine to take with you on the climb. 

On your way up, guides narrate the story of how this place served as a shelter for thousands fleeing the multiple wars in Yorubaland in the 19th century, including bloody and repeated battles with the warriors of Dahomey. You get to step  back in time by entering one of the caves preserved from that period. There are at least two shrines – usually with priests seated in front of…