In terms of the most vibrant West African cities, two cities rise to the occasion with passion, Lagos and Accra.
These two cities have an unparalleled appeal with vibrant cultural and historical sites around the city as well as modern city life.
No city in Africa has seen more migrants than Lagos. People continue to flock here daily and in large numbers for diverse reasons.
According to the Lagos State Government, the influx of people to Lagos averages 3,500 to 4,000 per day. Accra welcomes fewer visitors considering it is way smaller compared to Lagos.
In this all-encompassing tutorial, we explore how Lagos and Accra work and why they are irresistible tourist destinations, which should help you to make the best choice of where to go next.
Overview of Lagos and Accra
Lagos, the largest city and the commercial hub of Nigeria is a large city that is largely pumping with youthful energy and vigour.
According to the projection, as of August 2024, the total population of Lagos State is estimated to be 16.5 million people, and as such is the largest city in Africa. Lagos is often compared with New York in some aspects since it is a city where cultures mix and people get opportunities.
The capital city of Ghana, Accra is less vibrant but equally as interesting an urban city as Nairobi. The city proper is home to more than 1.9 million people according to World Population Review.
A city that has colonial influence, traditional markets, and also modern world infrastructure developments. It is one of the emerging cities with predictions indicating that its population could grow to, 9. 6 million by 2050.
It is important to know that both cities are colonial cities. Lagos was just a small habitation of Yoruba people but over time it developed into one of the major port cities under British rule.
Accra on the other hand was just the tribal area of the Ga people but with time it became an important trading center among several European powers.
Key Attractions in Lagos vs Accra
Here are key tourist attractions you can explore in both cities
Lagos
- Nike Art Gallery
This colorful building is a five-storied artistic building, which has more than eighty thousand different paintings and sculptures reflecting the Nigerian culture.
This is true because people can be able to view different paintings, sculptures as well as mixed media artworks from both senior and junior artists from Nigeria.
This gallery also provides art classes/workshops to the public making this place an active place appealing to art lovers and cultural tourists.
- Freedom Park Lagos
This park was used as a prison during the colonial period and transformed into a recreational and cultural hub. It has remnants of the original city, a museum, an open-air seating for theatrical productions, and horticultural and botanical landscapes.
As a venue of culture, it holds several cultural programs, music, and other art performances aimed at acquainting the visitor with Nigeria’s past and present.
- Lekki Conservation Centre
Lekki Conservation Centre is a 78-hectare nature reserve which is located in the middle of Lagos. It has the longest canopy walkway in Africa which is 401m allowing viewers to have a look at the green vegetation region.
While tour guide you can see monkeys, birds, and even crocodiles to enjoy nature trails and picnic zones.
- Tarkwa Bay
Tharkwa Bay is an artificial island beach that can only be accessed through water transport and this makes it an ideal getaway for people from the city rush.
For leisure and recreational activities it provides clean sand and water for swimming and also water sports activities such as water skiing among others.
Money realized from sales of the prawns is used to buy fresh fish and other seafood, coconuts, and fruits from local vendors which creates a natural atmosphere of the island-type setup.
- New Afrika Shrine
This legendary music destination proceeds the tradition of Nigeria’s Afrobeat legend Fela Kuti. This place is used often for live performances which include shows from Fela’s sons, Femi and Seun Kuti.
It is not only a music space but a cultural facility that shows Lagos state music and political protestation.
- Terra Kulture
This cultural center is an arena where most artwork produced in Nigeria is showcased which includes a theatre for live performances, an art gallery, an indigenous restaurant, and a bookshop of African literature.
It has a tradition for book readings, art exhibits, and cultural activities and has turned into a cultural center for experiencing Nigerian culture.
- Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge
The Lekki-Ikoyi Link Bridge is a 1.36 km cable-stayed bridge that offers amazing views of the Lagos Lagoon and skyline.
It’s a popular spot for tourists who go out for sightseeing, joggers, and photographers.
The bridge is especially beautiful at sunset and it symbolizes Lagos’s rapid development and modernization.
- Wave Beach
Wave Beach is located on the popular Elegushi Beach, it’s a popular leisure spot where people are always seen having the fun of their lives and carrying out different water activities.
The beach offers beach bars and regular live music events. It’s an excellent place to experience Lagos’s beach culture and nightlife.
- Jazzhole
This unique bookstore and music shop is a haven for bibliophiles and music lovers. It stocks a wide range of books on African history and culture, as well as an extensive collection of jazz and African music.
The cozy café inside makes it a perfect spot to relax and soak in Lagos’s intellectual atmosphere.
- Omu Resort
Omu Resort is a place of fun that continues to charm the hearts of people within and outside Nigeria.
Occupying a total of 22 hectares this place provides just a perfect spot for the family with a diversified level of entertaining and relaxing opportunities.
The place is designed for fun and excitement, it has a Pendulum Ride that takes guests through a world without gravity, Magic Wings where guests feel like flying, Bumper Boats, an outdoor Adventure playground, a giant Jungle Snow Slide, the Splash Pad that is appealing to the guests of all ages and the Yah-Kaa Land of African Adventure where guests get to experience the African savannah.
Accra
- Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park & Mausoleum
This is a 5.3-acre park dedicated to Ghana’s first president and pan-Africanist, Kwame Nkrumah. It has a museum of personal effects, a tomb in which Nkrumah and his wife are buried and well-landscaped compounds.
It is a concrete monument reminiscent of the struggle of Ghanaians for their independence and the idea of the founder of the country’s first president Kwame Nkrumah about the unity of African states.
- Jamestown Lighthouse
This Jamestown lighthouse is a 28-metre tall lighthouse that was constructed in the 1930s and visitors get to gaze at landscapes of Accra and the Gulf of Guinea upon reaching the top.
The tower rises to a height of ninety-eight feet and has 112 steps for the visitors to reach the top to enjoy the fabulous views. The area surrounding Jamestown is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Accra.
The place is famous for its art on walls, fishermen, and shorelines.
- Makola Market
Makola market is a large open-air market and is the business district of the town of Accra where they stock and sell everything ranging from foodstuffs to local art crafts.
The marketplace is a full scan of colors, audio, and aroma, thus, giving an original picture of daily Ghanaian life.
Local arts and crafts, especially fabrics and beads, and other locally manufactured and produced items and testaments to locally brewed and distilled alcoholic brandy and beverages.
- National Museum of Ghana
The National Museum of Ghana was founded in 1957 and it is one of the largest museums consisting of Ghanaian history.
Displays of archeological, ethnological, and artworks help to give information on the history and development of Ghana’s culture from the prehistoric age to the modern period.
There are also local African crafts and current artwork from Ghana, due to its good standards in art.
- Labadi Pleasure Beach
Larabar Stimati is the most popular beach in Accra which has often been noted for its vibrancy, especially as it relates to the traditional dance demonstrations.
Tourists can engage in horseback riding, and beach activities which include volleyball, soccer among others, and tasty fish from the nearby markets.
On weekends, theticals; drumming; dancing; and gymnastics are performed at the beach.
- Independence Square
The Independence Square referred also to as the black star square is the largest public space in the country and has had several uses including celebrations of Independence Day on the 6th of March.
Arch of Independence, Black Star Gate, and the Flame of African Liberation are located at the square. It is considered one of the leading landmarks of independence of Ghana as well as an important venue for national occasions.
- Osu Castle
Formerly known as Fort Christiansborg, the Osu Castle is a 17th-century castle and was until 2013 the seat of government.
The interior of the building is closed to the public but from the architectural design, one is able to infer a little about the colonial history of Ghana as well as their struggle for independence.
- Aburi Botanical Gardens
These gardens can be found some 30 Km north of the central business district of Accra and are perhaps famous for their central green landscape.
This garden was established in 1890 and comprises exotic and indigenous plant species, nature trails, and Kapok tree avenue. It is an area where people organize picnics and take nature walks.
- Artists Alliance Gallery
This is a colorful three-storied art gallery that houses the best that Ghana has to offer in the style of art from the simple handicrafts and works of art shaping the society to the modern paintings and sculptures.
Established by esteemed Ghanaian painter Ablade Glover it is an excellent place for art lovers.
- Accra Mall
The Accra Mall is a relatively new and present-day shopping mall which gives a bit of a break from sweating under the sun and gives a feel of the modern-day Ghanaian city life.
It has all sorts of production to suit the local market and also other world-renowned production companies, a Food chain, and a cinema, thus it is a central point of convergence for locals and international people.
Cultural and Historical Experiences
Lagos’s cultural scene is vibrant and diverse, reflecting its status as Nigeria’s melting pot. The city hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from traditional Yoruba culture to contemporary art and music.
Places like Terra Kulture offer immersive experiences in Nigerian arts, culture, and cuisine.
Accra, on the other hand, provides a more concentrated dose of Ghanaian culture. The city’s history is palpable in its colonial-era forts and castles, now UNESCO World Heritage sites.
The vibrant art scene, exemplified by venues like the Artists Alliance Gallery, showcases both traditional and contemporary Ghanaian art.
Beaches and Natural Beauty: Lagos vs Accra
Lagos boasts several beautiful beaches, each with its own character. From the serene Tarkwa Bay to the more developed Elegushi Beach, there’s a coastal experience for every preference.
The Lekki Conservation Centre offers a unique opportunity to experience lush mangrove swamps and diverse wildlife within the city limits.
Accra’s coastline is equally appealing, with Labadi Beach being the most famous. The nearby Ada Foah, where the Volta River meets the Atlantic Ocean, offers a unique coastal landscape.
While Accra may not have Lagos’s extensive green spaces, it compensates with well-maintained urban parks and the nearby Aburi Botanical Gardens.
Dining and Nightlife: Lagos vs Accra
Lagos is renowned for its dynamic food scene and pulsating nightlife. From high-end restaurants in Victoria Island to local “bukas” serving traditional Nigerian dishes like Jellof rice, Nigerian swallows, and many more. The city caters to all tastes and budgets. The nightlife is legendary, with countless bars, clubs, and live music venues keeping the city awake until dawn.
Accra’s culinary area is equally diverse, offering both traditional Ghanaian cuisine and international options. The city’s nightlife, while perhaps not as frenetic as Lagos, is vibrant and varied. From beachside bars to chic lounges and nightclubs, Accra offers plenty of after-dark entertainment.
Safety and Convenience for Tourists
Both Lagos and Accra present typical urban challenges, but with some precautions, tourists can navigate these cities safely. Lagos, being larger and more chaotic, can be more challenging for first-time visitors.
However, areas like Lekki, Victoria Island, and Ikoyi are generally considered safe and tourist-friendly.
Accra is often perceived as more manageable and slightly safer for tourists. Its smaller size and more laid-back atmosphere make it easier to navigate.
However, as with any large city, visitors should remain vigilant and take standard precautions.
In terms of transportation, both cities have improved their infrastructure in recent years. Lagos has introduced a Bus Rapid Transit system and is expanding its rail network, but the Lagos traffic really gets crazy sometimes.
Accra boasts well-paved roads and a reliable bus service, with plans for a light rail system in the works.
Which City is More Budget-Friendly?
Generally speaking, Accra is more budget-friendly for tourists. Accommodation, food, and transportation costs are often lower in Accra compared to Lagos.
However, Lagos offers a wider range of options, from budget to luxury, allowing travelers to find options that suit their financial constraints. It’s worth noting that both cities can be expensive by West African standards, particularly in areas frequented by expatriates and tourists.
Budget-conscious travelers might consider staying in less touristy areas for better deals.
Best Times to Visit Lagos and Accra
Lagos has two main seasons: dry (November-March) and wet (April-October). The best time to visit is during the dry season when temperatures are more comfortable and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
Accra’s climate is similar to that in Lagos, with a long dry season from November to May and two rainy seasons (May – June and September – October). The most pleasant time to visit is between November and April when the weather is dry and relatively cool.
Final Verdict: Which City is Better for Tourists?
Choosing between Lagos and Accra ultimately depends on what you’re looking for in your West African adventure.
Choose Lagos if you:
- Crave a high-energy, fast-paced urban experience
- Are interested in contemporary African art and music scenes
- Are interested in Nigeria’s colonial history and independence
- Want to explore a diverse culinary landscape
- Are comfortable navigating a large, sometimes chaotic megacity
- Are interested in Nigeria’s film industry (Nollywood)
Choose Accra if you:
- Prefer a more laid-back, manageable urban environment
- Are interested in Ghana’s colonial history and independence struggle
- Want easier access to beaches and coastal activities
- Are looking for a more budget-friendly option
- Prioritize ease of navigation and perceived safety
Both cities offer unique and rewarding experiences for tourists. Lagos provides an unparalleled insight into the dynamism and complexity of urban Africa, with its vibrant art scene, diverse cuisines, and pulsating nightlife. It’s a city that never sleeps, always pushing boundaries and redefining what it means to be a modern African metropolis.
Accra, while smaller and less frenetic, offers a more digestible slice of West African urban life. Its rich history, beautiful coastline, and emerging creative scene make it an attractive destination for those looking to dip their toes into the region’s culture and lifestyle.
Ultimately, the adventurous traveler might consider visiting both cities to experience the full spectrum of West African urban life. Each city offers a unique window into the region’s past, present, and future, promising unforgettable experiences and insights for those willing to explore.
Remember, whichever city you choose, approach your visit with an open mind and a willingness to engage with local culture and customs. Both Lagos and Accra have much to offer, and your experience will be greatly enriched by embracing the vibrant energy and warm hospitality that characterize these remarkable West African capitals.