10 Practical Ways to Avoid Traffic as a First Timer In Lagos
If you’ve just arrived in Lagos, buckle up—traffic here can turn a 20-minute drive into a three-hour adventure. For first-timers, moving through the city’s maze of roads can feel like a case of ‘Who send me?’ as Nigerians would ask. But don’t panic just yet! With the right tips, you can actually get to your destination on time.
Plan Your Travel Time
Timing is everything in Lagos. Knowing when to move is the key to avoiding traffic if you’re a first-timer. Early morning hours or late evenings are usually your best bets for a smooth ride. By planning your travel like a strategic general, you can outsmart the traffic before it even knows you’re there.
Take the BRT Bus
While Lagos traffic can feel like a never-ending sea of cars, one vehicle might just be your lifeline—the BRT bus. These buses have priority lanes that avoid some of the most congested parts of the city. Hopping on a BRT can help—just make sure you’re at the bus stop early to beat the crowds.
Use Google Maps (or Waze) Like Your Life Depends on it
Google Maps or Waze should be your best friend while moving around Lagos. These apps give you real-time traffic updates and help you make informed decisions about your routes based on traffic conditions and even accidents. If you’re stuck in a bottleneck, these apps often suggest alternative routes you might not have considered.
Ride a Boat on the Lagoon
Did you know that Lagos has an entire network of waterways? A boat ride on the Lagos Lagoon can sometimes be faster than braving the city’s congested roads. With the introduction of water transport services like the Lagos Waterways, you can hop on ferries that connect different parts of the city.
Be Friends with Uber or Bolt Drivers
If driving through Lagos traffic isn’t your idea of a good time, consider calling an Uber or Bolt. These ride-hailing services have become a lifesaver for many Lagosians and offer convenience with local expertise. Most drivers know the city like the back of their hands and can navigate shortcuts to reach their destination faster.
Avoid the Island at 5 PM
For those venturing to Lagos Island, be warned—the hour between 5 PM and 7 PM is nothing short of chaotic. The roads leading to and from the Island are mostly jam-packed during this time, with commuters rushing to get home. If you plan to be on the Island after work, try to finish early in the afternoon.
Consider Living Close to Your Work (or Work Close to Your Home)
One great way to avoid traffic in Lagos is to live where you work (or work where you live). The city’s congestion is driven by the vast number of people commuting from the outskirts into the central business districts. If you’re looking to settle in Lagos, consider finding a home close to your place of work.
Cycle or Walk (If You’re Feeling Brave)
If you have an adventurous spirit, cycling or walking could be your ticket to bypassing the city’s traffic. Certain areas, especially Lekki and Victoria Island, have adopted bike lanes and pedestrian-friendly spaces. If you’re close enough to your destination, a leisurely walk or a short bike ride might be the fastest way to get around.
Seek Alternative Routes
In Lagos, the usual route might not always be the fastest—sometimes, the detour is the shortcut you didn’t know you needed. As a first-timer, exploring alternative routes can be a game changer, especially when the main roads are packed like sardines in a tin. Be prepared for the occasional pothole, as the lesser-known roads can be unpredictable.
Master the Art of “Lagos Traffic Patience”
Finally, you’ll need to cultivate patience. Lagos traffic will test your nerves no matter how much planning you do. But the key to surviving it is a calm attitude and a sense of humor. When you’re stuck in traffic for hours, take it in stride. Listen to a podcast, call a friend, or enjoy the chaos around you.
