Arriving at Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS) in Lagos, you’ll find several options to reach the city center and your hotel. Getting to your destination can take anywhere from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on traffic, and costs will vary based on your chosen method. This guide will help you navigate your choices, balancing speed, comfort, and budget.
Official airport taxis are usually found outside the arrival halls. Look for clearly marked taxi stands, and always approach a uniformed attendant to arrange your ride. It’s best to ask about the approximate fare to your destination *before* getting into the taxi, and confirm they understand where you need to go. Be prepared to negotiate a bit, but aim for a fair price. Avoid anyone who approaches you *inside* the terminal offering taxi services; these are often unofficial and can lead to inflated fares.
Pre-booked private transfers offer a convenient and reliable option. When you book, you’ll typically specify a meeting point – often just outside the arrivals area, near a designated information desk or landmark. The transfer company will usually provide a contact number for assistance. Confirm the meeting details and the driver’s name or vehicle description before your flight. Prices for private transfers are generally fixed when you book, offering peace of mind. Expect to pay more than a regular taxi, but benefit from a smoother, pre-arranged experience.
Shared shuttle services and minibuses are available, offering a more economical way to travel. These are a good choice if you’re traveling light and aren’t in a hurry. They typically operate on fixed routes and may require a short walk to reach your final destination. Public buses also connect the airport to various parts of Lagos, but these can be crowded and less comfortable, especially with luggage. A train or metro system isn’t currently a practical option for airport transfers in Lagos.
Traffic in Lagos is a significant factor affecting travel time. During peak hours (typically morning and evening commutes), journeys can take considerably longer. Allow extra time, especially if you have a tight schedule. The distance to popular destinations will also influence the duration. For example, getting to Victoria Island or Ikoyi will generally take less time than traveling to areas further from the airport.
Here’s a quick comparison of your options:
| Option | Typical Time Range | Approximate Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi | 30 mins – 1.5 hours | $15 – $30 |
| Private Transfer | 30 mins – 1 hour | $30 – $60 |
| Shared Shuttle | 45 mins – 2 hours | $5 – $15 |
| Train/Metro | Not currently viable | N/A |
| Bus | 1 – 3 hours | $2 – $5 |
Times and prices vary by traffic and season.
Popular destinations from Murtala Muhammed International Airport include Lagos Island, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Festac Town. Be sure to have the address of your hotel or destination clearly written down to show the driver.
Using official airport taxis is generally safe. Always use the designated taxi stands and agree on a fare beforehand.
Many online services allow you to pre-book a private transfer. This offers a fixed price and a guaranteed pickup.
A taxi to Lagos Island typically costs between $15 and $30, but this can vary with traffic.
Ride-hailing apps operate in Lagos, but pickup locations at the airport can sometimes be inconsistent.
If you’ve pre-booked a transfer, contact the company to inform them of your delay. They usually monitor flights.
Yes, there are currency exchange services available at the airport, but rates may not be the best.
Shared shuttles or public buses are the most affordable options, but they take longer.
Depending on traffic, the journey to Victoria Island usually takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour.
It’s best to have cash in local currency (Nigerian Naira) or US dollars for taxi fares.
Information about bus routes can be found at the airport information desk, but it may be limited.
English is widely spoken in Lagos, so communication shouldn’t be a major issue.
If you believe you’ve been overcharged, try to calmly negotiate with the driver. If that fails, note the taxi number and report it to airport authorities.