Explore Africa in 2025: Cheap & Easy Travel Destinations for Nigerians

Explore Africa in 2025: Cheap & Easy Travel Destinations for Nigerians

If you’re itching to travel beyond Nigeria but don’t want to break the bank, Africa has plenty of nearby gems. These destinations are visa-free or visa-easy for Nigerians, budget-friendly, and packed with culture, beaches, and adventure.

Cape Verde

• Why go? Stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a unique blend of Afro-Portuguese culture.
• Visa status: Visa-free for Nigerians (valid for 30 days).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos ₦1,500,000–₦1,900,000 [Roundtrip] If booked early. Budget hotels from ₦20,000/night.
• Vibe: Perfect for couples and solo travellers looking for a tropical escape without the Dubai price tag.

Things to do

• Visit Santa Maria Beach (Sal) in the Plateau District of Praia and listen to morna music at local bars.

Safety tips

• Petty theft can occur — lock up belongings and don’t leave bags unattended on beaches.
• Heat & sun are intense — pack sunscreen, hat, and stay hydrated.
• Portuguese/Creole are widely used; have basic phrases or a translation app.
• Confirm boat or island transfers in advance; use reputable operators.

The Gambia

• Why go? Known as “The Smiling Coast of Africa,” The Gambia offers beaches, culture, and super-friendly locals.
• Visa status: Visa-free for Nigerians (90 days).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos ₦700,000–₦900,000 [Roundtrip]; guesthouses from ₦12,000/night.
• Vibe: Laid-back, budget paradise — great for group trips and backpackers.

Things to do

• Visit Kololi Beach–Kombo Beach Hotel/Kotu Beach–Abuko Nature Reserve–Albert Market–river cruises on the Gambia River.

Safety tips

• Beware of persistent beach hustlers (“bumsters”) — be polite but firm.
• Use official guides for river trips; check boat safety.
• Avoid isolated beaches after dark.
• Keep bottled water and sunscreen handy; small towns may have limited supplies.
• Carry small local currency for market stalls and tips.

Kenya (Mombasa)

• Why go? Cheaper than Nairobi safaris, but Mombasa still has stunning beaches, Swahili culture, and nearby wildlife.
• Visa status: E-visa available for Nigerians (~$50).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos: ₦700,000–₦900,000 (Round-trip). Stays: ₦18,000/night.
• Vibe: Ideal for beach lovers who want a taste of safari on a budget.

 

Things to do

• Visit the Nairobi National Park safari–Giraffe Centre–David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage–Mombasa for Diani Beach & Fort Jesus.

Safety tips

• Use trusted safari operators; don’t try unlicensed wildlife drives.
• In Nairobi, avoid isolated areas and keep valuables secure.
• For coastal towns, stick to busy, recommended beaches and don’t swim where advised against.
• Carry insect repellent (malaria risk exists in some areas) and seek antimalarial advice before travel.
• Agree on prices for boat rides or tours before boarding.

 

 Rwanda (Kigali)

• Why go? Africa’s cleanest city, safe, organized, with affordable guesthouses and buzzing culture.
• Visa status: E-visa on arrival for Nigerians (~$50).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos: ₦700,000–₦900,000 (Round-trip), budget hotels: ₦15,000/night.
• Vibe: Perfect for solo travelers and culture seekers who love art, history, and eco-tourism.

Things to do

• Visit the Kigali Genocide Memorial–Nyamirambo cultural tour–cafés and art galleries–volcano gorilla treks (from Kigali).

Safety tips

• Rwanda is relatively safe, but still, follow local rules (strict fines apply for littering).
• Carry ID and be polite/respectful in interactions.
• Book gorilla treks through official channels and book early (permits are limited).
• Avoid participating in political demonstrations and stay informed by following local news for any advisories.
• Check visa and permit requirements for wildlife trekking ahead of time.

Ghana (Accra)

• Why go? Just an hour’s flight away — buzzing nightlife, Afrobeat culture, festivals, and street food.
• Visa status: Visa-free for Nigerians (90 days).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos ₦500,000–₦700,000 [Roundtrip], hostels from ₦10,000/night.
• Vibe: The ultimate quick getaway — fun, vibrant, and very Nigerian-friendly.

Things to do

• Visit the Labadi Beach–Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park–Makola Market–Osu (Oxford Street) nightlife.

Safety tips

• Use ride-hailing apps (such as Bolt or Uber) after dark rather than walking.
• Keep valuables (phone/wallet) zipped and out of sight in crowded markets.
• Carry small cedi notes for market purchases — avoid flashing large amounts of cash.
• Drink bottled water if you are unsure about the quality of the local tap water.
• Beware of unofficial tour offers; use licensed guides/tour operators.

Morocco (Marrakech & Casablanca)

• Why go? Colorful souks, Sahara Desert tours, camel rides, and a mix of Arab & African culture.
• Visa status: E-visa available for Nigerians (~$50).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos: ₦800,000–₦1,200,000 (Round-trip). Riads/guesthouses: ₦20,000/night.
• Vibe: Perfect for culture lovers and Instagrammers — Morocco is photogenic at every corner.

Things to do

• Visit Hassan II Mosque (Casablanca)–Wander the Medina & Souks (Marrakech)–Tea Houses–Camel Rides–Day Trips to Rabat/Atlas Mountains.

Safety tips

• In crowded medinas, expect aggressive vendors; be friendly but set clear boundaries.
• Dress modestly at religious sites; respect local customs.
• Keep a firm hold on your bags/purses; pickpocketing is a common occurrence in tourist spots.
• Bargain respectfully in souks — it’s expected, but stay polite.
• Avoid unlicensed tour guides offering “special” excursions.

Mozambique (Maputo & Bazaruto Islands)

• Why go? Underrated paradise with white sandy beaches, diving spots, and fresh seafood.
• Visa status: Visa on arrival for Nigerians (~$50).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos ₦900,000–₦1,200,000[Roundtrip] hotels from ₦18,000/night.
• Vibe: Ideal for honeymooners or travelers seeking a tropical, less crowded experience.

Things to do

• Visit the Maputo Central Market–Iron House–Seafood dining–Day trips to Inhaca Island or Ponta do Ouro.

Safety tips

• Use central/tourist zones and day visits; avoid poorly lit streets at night.
• Withdraw cash during daytime at bank ATMs; watch for anyone loitering near machines.
• Portuguese is common — translation aids help.
• Protect electronics on beaches; don’t leave items unattended.
• Check ferry/boat services in advance for schedules and safety standards.
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South Africa (Cape Town & Johannesburg)

• Why go? Stunning mix of beaches, mountains, nightlife, and culture. Cape Town, in particular, is a favorite for Nigerians.
• Visa status: E-visa for Nigerians (~$50).
• Costs: Return flights from Lagos ₦700,000–₦1,000,000 [Roundtrip] mid-range hotels from ₦25,000/night.
• Vibe: Perfect for groups, adventurers, and luxury lovers on a budget.

• Things to do
• Visit the Apartheid Museum, take a Soweto tour (including Mandela House), go on a Pilanesberg safari day trip, and shop in Sandton.

Safety tips

• Stick to well-known/tourist areas and organised tours, especially at night.
• Use registered taxis or Uber; avoid walking alone in quiet/neighbourhood streets after dark.
• Don’t flaunt expensive electronics or jewelry.
• Keep copies of passport and travel documents; store originals securely.
• Be cautious around ATMs — use ones inside malls/banks, during the daytime.

Quick Tip

While flights are usually the most significant cost, you can save by booking months ahead and using low-cost local airlines once you’re in Africa. Also, most African countries accept USD — so it’s smart to travel with a mix of naira (for flights) and dollars (for spending).

General Cross-Country Checklist

• Travel insurance: Always get it (medical + evacuation).
• Vaccines & Health: Check visa/entry vaccination rules (yellow fever may be required) and consult a travel clinic for recommended vaccinations and antimalarials.
• Documents: Carry both digital and physical copies of your passport, visa, insurance, and emergency contacts.
• Money: Mix of cash (small notes) and cards; know the card acceptance levels where you’re going.
• Local SIM/Connectivity: Purchase a local SIM or a roaming plan for maps and rides.
• Respect local customs: Dress and behave respectfully — it lowers risk.
• Avoid political demonstrations: Refrain from attending protests, as they can become unpredictable and potentially violent.
• Emergency Plan: Familiarize yourself with the location of your country’s embassy or consulate, as well as its hotline, in the destination country.