Christmas in Nigeria: The Ultimate Travel Guide

Table of Contents

Christmas in Nigeria: Introduction

If you are spending your first Christmas in Nigeria? What a vibe! You are ready to do Detty December. Nigeria has gained popularity in the last few years and for such good reason. I love spending time in Nigeria for Christmas. The good food, music, sun and spending time with family. are all reason to spend your first Christmas in Nigeria. Here is the ultimate guide to your first Christmas in Nigeria.

Whether it’s your first time returning home in ages or your very first Nigerian Christmas experience, there are a few things you’ll want to know before you board that flight. Get your visa and head out for your Detty December retreat LOL! From cultural tips to travel hacks, this guide will help you make the most of your festive season in Naija (Nigeria).

So, let’s dive in, and if you’ve got your own Christmas in Nigeria gems to share, drop them in the comments. I want this to be a forum where we can help one another!

The Ultimate Guide To Your First Christmas in Nigeria

Key Things to Know Before Doing Christmas in Nigeria

Internet: You’ll definitely want internet while exploring. I usually use **Airalo for an eSIM**, which allows you to get mobile data as soon as you land.
Travel Insurance: I recommend that anyone travelling should have travel insurance, which you can get via SafetyWing here.
Payments: Most places in Nigeria accept card payments or transfer. I use Lemfi to transfer, so I am not carrying lots of cash, but it’s still worth also having cash too.
The address of UK Embassy in Nigeria: There are two British Embassies in Nigeria. One in Abuja, the capital, and another in Lagos. Here is the address: 1. Abjua – Plot 1137, Diplomatic Drive, Central Business District Abuja FCT Nigeria. 2. Lagos – 11 Walter Carrington Crescent, Victoria Island, Lagos, Nigeria
You can always check your country’s Embassy on Embassies.info. You should always do this before you travel.

Why Nigeria for Christmas?

There’s truly nothing like Christmas in Nigeria. If you are going to Lagos, you will know that during December, it’s know to be vibrant, chaotic, heartfelt, and absolutely unforgettable. The energy is unmatched: from endless owambes (parties) and family gatherings to the aroma of jollof rice, fried meat, Nigerian suya, and freshly made puff-puff in the air. Whether you’re returning to reconnect with your roots or visiting for the first time, celebrating Christmas in Nigeria is an immersive experience of culture, community, and pure joy.

The Ultimate Guide To Your First Christmas in Nigeria

1. Get your vaccinations

I am going to state the obvious – get your vaccinations!! It’s already December so I would like to believe you have already sorted this out, but if you haven’t book that emergency appointment, please.

I travel back home at least every two years, so these usually last for me, but if you’re unsure of what you need, contact your doctors immediately!

The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Nigeria and Ghana: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio and tetanus.

Don’t forget your malaria tablets! And please don’t go and spend a fortune in Boots or Superdrug. Head over to Asda the pills are much cheaper than the other companies. I usually get the daily ones, but there are other options for you to choose from. Speak to your GP for more info.

2. Be mindful of the weather

The Harmattan is a season in the West African subcontinent, which occurs between the end of November right through to March. It is characterised by the dry and dusty northeasterly trade wind, of the same name, which blows from the Sahara Desert over West Africa into the Gulf of Guinea. The name is related to the word haramata in the Twi language, meaning the temperature is cold and in most places, it can also be hot. This all depends on local circumstances.

Be mindful of the weather. When I was last in Nigeria (in 2017, which seems years ago now)! I didn’t really feel that it was actually hot. The locals kept going on about haramata time, which made no sense to me. I later realised that it is actually a thing. If I was you, I would be sure to prepare for this weather and don’t just pack for summer clothing. I would also suggest wearing glasses, which may help protect your eyes from the dust!

3. The Shows

There are many art gallery in Lagos as well as shows and events that are happening. It will not even stop from the moment you arrive in the motherland (without me)! Yes, I am hella hating! Returning home involves some form of turn up. And you know us Africans know how to enjoy ourselves!

In Ghana, you will have Afrochella and the Year of Return. Nigeria, (my motherland) will have a million events to attend. And I am sure the rest of Africa will have some fantastic things planned for those returning home. So please enjoy for me, and make sure you do Instagram lives for me so I can really enjoy well!

In all the fun, please please be mindful of your safety! The level of security is not always monitored as well as us Westerner know it to be so please ensure you make the necessary arrangements for your own well-being.

4. Get Yourself a Power Bank

You are going to be out most of the day and night! You know recording for yourself and me of course! Please, you will want to record everything for me to see.

Be sure to have a power bank and even consider collecting a sim card while you are out there! Honestly, you and I both don’t want to miss out on live videos and content! Give me content please and take two power banks!

Get yourself a Power Bank!

5. Be aware of insects

Please note, I was invited to cover the We Drifters event and kindly gifted with a set of pyjamas. All views are my own.

Insects and mosquitos don’t play out there! I was literally chewed alive while I was out there in 2017! Just take a look at this huge bite!

a mosquito bite — A mosquito bite picture

I was recently invited to an event with a company called We Drifters to hear about four women’s travelling experiences. The owner Naudia shared her story of how she began building her brand, which led her to create anti-insect sleepwear.

At the end of the event, Naudia was kind enough to gift me with the sleepwear. The sleepwear is made of bamboo fabric and technology, which keeps the insects away!

I will definitely be wearing mine when I travel to Jamacia next year. And of course, give a hands-on experience of what it was like! If you are interested in buying yourself an anti-insect sleepwear kit, then buy yours here.

Find out more about We Drifters:
- Website: www.wedrifters.co.uk
- Instagram: @wedrifters
- Facebook: @wedrifters.co.uk
- Twitter: @we_drifters

Where to Stay: Hotel Recommendations in Nigeria

Whether you’re flying into Lagos, Abuja, or heading to your family’s hometown, finding a comfortable, secure place to stay is key. There are 5star hotel in Nigeria, Airbnb and more. Here are a few hotel recommendations across Nigeria that combine great service, central locations, and festive vibes:

Lagos

Radisson Blu Anchorage, Victoria Island – Waterfront views, central location, and great for post-party recovery. Book the hotel here.
The Wheatbaker, Ikoyi – Chic and serene with great brunch options. Book the hotel here.
Ibis Lagos Airport Hotel – Convenient for short stays or early departures. Book the hotel here.

Abuja

Transcorp Hilton Abuja – A top-tier choice for luxury, networking, and classic Nigerian hospitality. You can book here.

Other Cities

Protea Hotel, Ikeja or Benin City – Reliable comfort and amenities if you’re visiting extended family. Book this hotel here.

MBV Travel tip: Many 5star Hotel in Nigeria can and will fill up fast during Christmas, especially in popular cities. Book early and double-check cancellation policies in case your plans change.

Stay Safe: Quick Travel Tips for a Smooth Christmas in Nigeria

Nigeria during Christmas is buzzing! It can be a little intimidating if you have never been, so it’s worth keeping these tips in mind:

Stay alert in busy areas: Markets, airports, and transport hubs can get hectic. Keep your belongings close by and be mindful of your surroundings.
Sort your transportation early: Book trusted drivers in advance or use reliable ride apps like Bolt. Avoid wandering around looking for taxis at night.
Keep your essentials secure: Always have a backup of your passport, ID, and local SIM card in case of emergencies.
Don’t overshare your location: You don’t need to post where you are in real-time. I would say this about anywhere I travel.
Trust your instincts: If something feels off, it probably is. Act accordingly when something feels off.

Your Christmas in Nigeria Travel Checklist

And finally. Before you zip up that suitcase, here are a few must-haves to make your trip smooth and festives:

✅ Nigerian visa and passport (double-check the expiry date!)
✅ Local SIM or eSIM for data and calls. You can use Airalo (an eSIM) – grab it here and use my code ADEBOL5279 for a discount.
✅ Small cash in Naira not everywhere accepts cards
✅ Comfortable outfits for both owambes and chill days
✅ Gifts or snacks for family (yes, it’s expected lol)
✅ Reusable water bottle please stay hydrated!
✅ A solid Spotify or Apple Music playlist for long drives and for getting ready to party!

The goal is to enjoy the warmth, reconnect with people, and build beautiful memories. And you will!

Read the following useful articles on Nigeria below:

Thank you for taking the time to have a read the ultimate guide to your first Christmas in Nigeria. I would also like to thank We Drifters for my gift and inviting me to such an amazing event.

Do you have any tips to share? Go ahead in the comment section below. Either way, I hope you all enjoy yourself and make sure you take explicit videos and pictures so I can be at home enjoying in my headscarf!

Speak shortly,

MBV x