Road trip from Lagos to Abidjan itinerary

Planning a road trip from Lagos to Abidjan? This ultimate road trip from Lagos to Abidjan itinerary will guide you through every detail, from scenic routes to must-see stops along the way.

Whether you’re a travel enthusiast seeking adventure, a foodie craving local flavors, or someone eager to immerse yourself in West African culture, this journey promises an unforgettable experience. Drive through vibrant towns, picturesque landscapes, and coastal highways while discovering hidden gems that make this cross-country road trip truly special.

Why Take a Road Trip from Lagos to Abidjan?

While flying from Lagos to Abidjan is fast, a road trip from Lagos to Abidjan offers a far richer experience. Driving allows you to explore hidden gems, enjoy scenic stops, and immerse yourself in the local culture along the way.

Instead of rushing from one airport to another, you control your schedule, choose where to stop, and fully experience the diverse landscapes and vibrant towns of West Africa.

Benefits of Driving vs Flying:

• Flexibility: Stop whenever you want, explore offbeat towns, or change your route.

• Scenic Views: Enjoy coastal roads, beaches, forests, and bustling markets.

• Local Experiences: Taste street food, visit cultural landmarks, and interact with locals.

• Cost Efficiency: For groups or families, driving can be more economical than multiple flights.

Highlights Along the Route:

Best Route Options for Your Lagos to Abidjan Road Trip

The journey from Lagos to Abidjan covers multiple West African countries, offering a mix of bustling cities, serene coastal roads, and picturesque towns. The most common route follows major highways, ensuring smoother travel and access to essential stops.

Main Route:

Lagos → Seme Border (Nigeria/Benin) → Cotonou (Benin) → Lomé (Togo) → Accra (Ghana) → Takoradi (Ghana) → Ivory Coast Border → Abidjan (Ivory Coast)

Approximate Distance & Driving Time:

• Total Distance: ~1,100–1,200 km (varies by exact stops)

• Estimated Driving Time: 20–24 hours (excluding border delays and rest stops)

Route Highlights:

• Lagos to Seme Border: The starting stretch through Lagos to the Benin border, about 100 km, takes roughly 2–3 hours depending on traffic.

• Cotonou to Lomé: Coastal highway with beach views and lively markets; ~180 km, around 3–4 hours.

• Lomé to Accra: Cross Togo-Ghana border and drive along the scenic eastern coast of Ghana; ~260 km, roughly 5 hours.

• Accra to Takoradi: Major highway with occasional coastal detours; ~230 km, about 4–5 hours.

• Takoradi to Abidjan: Cross into Ivory Coast and follow the main highway to Abidjan; ~350 km, around 6–7 hours.

Visual Aid for SEO & Engagement:

Including a map or infographic showing the route, major stops, and approximate driving times can significantly boost user engagement and improve SEO ranking. Tools like Google Maps or Canva can help create a simple, shareable route map.

Break down day by day

Day 1: Lagos → Cotonou

• Distance & Time: ~100 km, 2–3 hours depending on Lagos traffic and border delays.

• Highlights: Explore Ganvie, the famous stilt village near Cotonou; relax at Fidjrosse Beach.

• Food & Fuel Stops: Stop at Lekki or Badagry for quick snacks or fuel before the Seme border. In Cotonou, enjoy local Beninese cuisine like amiwo or grilled fish.

• Accommodation Suggestions: Hotel du Lac, Novotel Cotonou La Marina.

• Tips:

  • Ensure all travel documents and vehicle papers are ready for the Nigeria-Benin border.

  • Arrive early to avoid long customs queues.

Day 2: Cotonou → Lomé → Accra

• Distance & Time: ~440 km, 8–9 hours total driving.

• Highlights:

  • Lomé: Lome Market, Independence Monument, and the coastal promenade.

  • Scenic coastal drive through Togo into Ghana.

• Food & Fuel Stops: Refuel in Lomé and enjoy local street food such as Akpan or fresh seafood. Quick lunch breaks along the highway in Togo.

• Accommodation Suggestions in Accra: Labadi Beach Hotel, Kempinski Gold Coast City.

• Tips:

  • Carry small change for tolls and road checkpoints.

  • Plan driving hours carefully; avoid night driving through less populated areas.

Day 3: Accra → Takoradi → Ivory Coast Border

• Distance & Time: ~580 km, 9–10 hours total including border crossing.

• Highlights:

  • Takoradi: Beaches, local markets, and Ghanaian delicacies.

  • Scenic highway en route to the Ivory Coast border.

• Food & Fuel Stops: Stop at Takoradi for lunch and refueling. Have some snacks for the border crossing, as queues can take 1–2 hours.

• Tips:

  • Ensure passports, visas (if required), and vehicle insurance are ready for the Ghana–Ivory Coast border.

  • Keep water and snacks handy; fuel stations can be sparse in remote areas.

Day 4: Arrive Abidjan

• Distance & Time: ~350 km, 6–7 hours driving from the border.

• Highlights & Attractions in Abidjan:

  • Plateau: Central business district and iconic buildings.

  • Treichville Market: Local crafts and street food.

  • Banco National Park: For nature lovers and a break from the city.

  • Île Boulay: Coastal escape if you want a scenic detour.

• Accommodation Suggestions: Sofitel Abidjan Hotel Ivoire, Novotel Abidjan.

• Tips:

  • Use local transport apps or guides for inner-city navigation.

  • Enjoy Ivorian cuisine such as attieke with grilled fish or chicken.

This itinerary balances driving time with sightseeing, local experiences, and essential travel tips, making your road trip from Lagos to Abidjan smoother and more enjoyable.

Travel Tips & Precautions for a Lagos to Abidjan Road Trip

A successful road trip from Lagos to Abidjan isn’t just about the route—it’s also about preparation. From border crossings to safety, here’s what you need to know:

Border Crossing Tips

• Documents: Ensure passports, visas (if required), vehicle registration, and international driving permits are ready.

• Vehicle Papers: Carry proof of vehicle ownership and insurance valid in all countries en route (Nigeria, Benin, Togo, Ghana, Ivory Coast).

• Timing: Cross borders during daylight hours to avoid long queues and improve safety.

• Customs: Be prepared for inspection of luggage; avoid prohibited items.

Visas & Currency

• Visas: Check the visa requirements for each country; some West African nationals may need visas while others may travel visa-free.

• Currency: Carry local currency for small purchases, tolls, and fuel. Credit cards may not be widely accepted outside major cities.

• ATMs: Available in major towns, but it’s wise to carry cash in smaller denominations for roadside expenses.

Local Traffic Rules

• Drive on the right-hand side in all countries on this route.

• Observe speed limits: 60‑80 km/h in towns, 100‑120 km/h on highways.

• Always wear seatbelts and ensure passengers do the same.

• Avoid unnecessary honking and respect local traffic signals.

Safety Tips for Night Driving & Road Conditions

• Avoid driving at night where possible, especially in rural or less-lit areas.

• Watch out for potholes, livestock, and slow-moving vehicles on highways.

• Carry a first aid kit, spare tire, and basic car repair tools.

• Share your route with someone for safety and check in periodically.

Best Times to Travel

• Dry Season (November to April): Roads are generally safer, and border crossings are less affected by rain.

• Avoid Rainy Season (May to October): Heavy rains can cause flooding and poor road conditions, especially in Benin and Togo.

• Early morning departures help avoid traffic in major cities like Lagos and Accra.

This section ensures travelers are well-prepared, minimizing stress and maximizing enjoyment while driving from Lagos to Abidjan.

Food, Culture & Experiences Along the Lagos to Abidjan Road Trip

One of the most rewarding aspects of a road trip from Lagos to Abidjan is immersing yourself in the diverse cultures and cuisines of West Africa. From street food stalls to local festivals, every stop offers something unique.

Nigeria

• Must-Try Foods: Jollof rice, suya (spicy grilled meat), pounded yam with egusi soup, and akara (bean cakes).

• Cultural Experiences: Explore Lagos markets like Balogun Market or Lekki Arts & Crafts Market. Enjoy music scenes with Afrobeat performances.

Benin (Cotonou)

• Must-Try Foods: Amiwo (spicy corn dough), grilled fish, and wagasi (local cheese).

• Cultural Experiences: Visit Ganvie stilt village, known as the “Venice of Africa,” or explore the Dantokpa Market for crafts.

Togo (Lomé)

• Must-Try Foods: Fufu, grilled seafood, and akpan (fermented maize dessert).

• Cultural Experiences: Check out Lomé’s Independence Monument and the local voodoo shrines, which are integral to Togolese culture.

Ghana (Accra & Takoradi)

• Must-Try Foods: Banku with tilapia, Kelewele (spicy fried plantains), and Waakye (rice and beans dish).

• Cultural Experiences: Visit Makola Market, Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum, and local festivals like Homowo (if timing aligns).

Ivory Coast (Abidjan)

• Must-Try Foods: Attiéké (cassava couscous) with grilled fish or chicken, Alloco (fried plantains), and Ivorian street food like kebabs and brochettes.

• Cultural Experiences: Explore Plateau, Treichville Market, and Banco National Park. If traveling in August, the Fête de la Musique festival showcases Ivorian music and dance.

Pro Tip: Stop at roadside eateries or local markets along the route—you’ll get authentic flavors and interact with locals, making the journey as memorable as the destinations.

Conclusion

Embarking on a road trip from Lagos to Abidjan is more than just a journey—it’s an adventure through diverse landscapes, cultures, and flavors of West Africa. With this detailed itinerary, travel tips, and cultural insights, you’re fully equipped to plan a smooth, safe, and unforgettable road trip.

Don’t wait—start mapping your journey today! Explore each stop, taste local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures along the way.

For more inspiration and practical tips, check out our related guides:

• Top Road Trips in West Africa

• Lagos to Abidjan Travel Tips

• West African Cuisine to Try on the Road

Plan ahead, enjoy every moment, and make your Lagos-to-Abidjan adventure one to remember!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days from Lagos to Ivory Coast?

Traveling by road from Lagos (Nigeria) to Abidjan (Ivory Coast) can vary considerably depending on your route, stops, and pace. The direct driving distance is approximately 980–1,000 km (about 600 miles).

On paper, assuming continuous driving, you could cover the distance in about 12 to 15 hours under ideal conditions. However, in practice when you factor in border crossings, customs inspections, fuel and rest stops, traffic, and possibly overnight stays, most travellers spread the journey over 2 to 3 days to ensure a safer and more comfortable trip.

Many routes will deliberately break the journey into segments: day one to the border or halfway, day two reaching the destination or final leg. If you’re travelling in a more relaxed manner or want to sightsee en route (e.g., stops in Benin or Togo), you might well make it a 3-day trip and possibly more if you include tourist detours.

How many hours from Lagos to Abidjan by bus?

If you take a bus from Lagos to Abidjan, the time required depends heavily on the bus company, comfort level, route taken, how many borders you cross, and how many stops the bus makes.

Published guides suggest that the bus trip is commonly estimated at 12 to 18 hours in favourable conditions. Another listing shows bus travel via the route taking up to 24 hours or more when you include less favourable conditions, multiple stops, or slower segments.

Therefore, if you plan to travel by bus, you should allow for at least half a day (12 hours) and likely up to a full day (18–24 hours) or more to complete the journey from Lagos to Abidjan.

Do Nigerians need a visa for the Ivory Coast?

No, Nigerian citizens do not need a visa to enter the Ivory Coast for short‑term visits (tourism, business, family) of up to 90 days. The Ivory Coast is part of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region, which grants visa‑free entry among member states for designated purposes.

That said, entry still requires a valid travel document (passport or appropriate national ID if recognised) and typically proof of yellow fever vaccination. It’s advisable to verify that your passport has sufficient validity, you meet health requirements, and that you comply with any border formalities.

How much is Cotonou to Abidjan by road?

While exact up‑to‑date fares for the road segment from Cotonou (Benin) to Abidjan are not widely published, there is data on the larger Lagos-to-Abidjan bus route, which passes through Cotonou and Lomé.

Bus fares for Lagos to Abidjan in 2025 are commonly estimated between ₦75,000 to ₦120,000 depending on bus class, service level, and whether you hold a passport.

Using that as a rough benchmark and knowing that Cotonou-to-Abidjan is a segment of that corridor, the cost for this section would likely be somewhat lower. Actual ticket prices vary widely depending on departure point, bus company, and travel date. Travelers should consult bus operators directly for precise rates.

How much is the road trip from Nigeria to Côte d’Ivoire?

Estimating the cost of a self‑drive road trip from Nigeria (Lagos) to Côte d’Ivoire (Abidjan) depends on fuel efficiency, fuel prices, tolls, accommodation, and food. One calculation suggests driving one way costs about US $103–$140 for fuel under standard assumptions.

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These estimates do not account for local variations in fuel costs, border fees, car hire or rental, maintenance, or overnight stays. In practice, budgeting for a full road trip from Nigeria to Côte d’Ivoire should include fuel, accommodation, food, and contingency, likely amounting to several hundred US dollars or equivalent in local currency.

Is the Ivory Coast richer than Nigeria?

When comparing the wealth of Ivory Coast and Nigeria, it depends on how you define “richer” — by total economy size or by average income per person.

Total economy size (GDP): Nigeria has a much larger economy in sheer volume. Nigeria’s nominal GDP is estimated at around US $188 billion, while Ivory Coast’s is approximately US $86.5 billion. This means Nigeria’s economy overall is more than twice the size of Ivory Coast’s.

Average income (GDP per capita): However, when looking at GDP per capita — which gives a sense of average income per person — Ivory Coast fares better. The figures show Ivory Coast’s GDP per capita at about US $2,710, whereas Nigeria’s is much lower at around US $807. So in terms of what the average individual might experience, Ivory Coast is “richer” than Nigeria.

Other factors:

• Cost of living data shows that living in Ivory Coast tends to be more expensive than in Nigeria.

• Population also plays a role: Nigeria’s population is much larger (~233 million) compared to Ivory Coast’s (~32 million).

• Given the larger population in Nigeria and its structural challenges (e.g., infrastructure, inequality, informal economy), the average Nigerian has less income than an Ivorian based on the per‑capita measure.

Conclusion:

To answer the question: No, Ivory Coast is not “richer” than Nigeria if you measure by total economy size (Nigeria is larger). But yes, Ivory Coast could be considered “richer” than Nigeria in terms of average income per person (GDP per capita). The distinction depends on which perspective you use.

Which country is closest to the Ivory Coast?

The Ivory Coast shares land borders with five neighbouring countries: Liberia, Guinea, Mali, Burkina Faso, and Ghana.

If the question is about which country lies closest to a specific part of Ivory Coast, it depends on the border region, but the immediate neighbor along its eastern border is Ghana. The Ghana–Ivory Coast border runs approximately 720 km and stretches from the northern tripoint to the Atlantic coast.

In practical travel terms, if you’re driving from Nigeria toward the Ivory Coast via the coastal route, you’d pass through Ghana just before reaching Ivory Coast (from the east side). Therefore, Ghana would be considered the closest country on that route.

How much is a visa from Nigeria to the Ivory Coast?

For citizens of Nigeria traveling to the Ivory Coast, the visa requirement is generally not applicable for short stays. As a member of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), there is visa-free access for Nigerians to Côte d’Ivoire for short visits (usually up to 90 days) for tourism, business, or family visits.

Since there is no visa required in that scenario, there is no direct cost for a tourist or business visa. However, if you intend to stay longer, work, or reside in the country, different rules apply, and costs may be incurred for residence or work permits. Travelers should always check current regulations before traveling, as policies can change.

Can a Nigerian work in Côte d’Ivoire?

Yes, a Nigerian can legally work in Côte d’Ivoire, but there are legal and administrative requirements. Working in the country involves employment contracts, work permits, and possibly residence permits.

Key points:

• A prospective foreign employee must have a work contract or employment letter from an Ivorian employer. The employer must show that the vacancy cannot be filled by a local candidate.

• The employer files the contract with the relevant labor or employment authority for approval.

• The foreign worker must obtain a work permit, often combined with a residence permit, before starting employment. These permits are typically valid for one year and are renewable annually.

• Both Nigeria and Ivory Coast are ECOWAS members, which facilitates movement, but working still requires formal work authorization.

• A Nigerian seeking employment must obtain the correct visa category (usually a work visa) and residence authorization.

In short, while a Nigerian can work in Côte d’Ivoire, it is legal only if the proper procedures — contract, employer sponsorship, work permit, and residence permit — are followed.