Affordable African Destinations: If you’re based in Nigeria and dreaming about your first international getaway, the good news is you don’t have to break the bank or deal with stressful visa applications. If you’re in it for culture, nature, history, food, or just a little soft life, these five international destinations are all affordable, visa-free, and perfect for first-time travelers.

Pack your passport, grab your yellow card, and get ready to explore the world, one easy trip at a time.

Affordable African Destinations

1. Lagos to Accra, Ghana 

Ready to put your taste buds to the test? Ghana is calling. A quick and culturally rich escape, Accra offers beautiful beaches, bustling markets, historical tours (hello, Cape Coast Castle), and vibrant nightlife. And yes this is your chance to finally settle the jollof rice debate.

• By Bus: Budget around ₦170,000–₦180,000 for a round trip

• By Air: Return flights cost around ₦500,000

• Visa: Not needed for Nigerian passport holders

• Travel Tip: Travel by bus with GUO or GIGM if you’re feeling adventurous and want to take in the West African landscape

2. Lagos to Kigali, Rwanda

If you’re looking for a clean, calm, and visually stunning destination, Kigali is the underrated gem you’ve been missing. Think peaceful vibes, rolling green hills, gorilla trekking (if you’re up for it), and modern city charm. Rwanda is fast becoming a favorite for first-time African travelers.

• Return Flight: From ₦794,000

• Visa: Not required for Nigerians

• Travel Tip: Take a stroll through the Kigali Genocide Memorial for a sobering but powerful historical experience and don’t miss the local coffee

3. Lagos to Cotonou, Benin Republic

Sometimes, all you need is a quick escape and Benin Republic delivers. Whether it’s soaking up the sun in Ouidah, enjoying local seafood, or just lounging at a beachfront resort, this road trip is ideal for an affordable weekend abroad.

• By Bus: Round trip costs around ₦120,000

• Visa: Not needed for Nigerian travelers

• Travel Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the Python Temple or the Slave Route in Ouidah for some culture and history

4. Lagos to Dakar, Senegal

From the breathtaking Pink Lake (Lac Rose) to the historic Gorée Island, Senegal is a culture lover’s dream. Dakar, the capital, combines beautiful beaches with a strong sense of heritage, art, and food (hello, thieboudienne).

• Return Flight: Around ₦1.2 million

• Visa: No visa required

• Travel Tip: Add a day trip to Saint-Louis if you can this UNESCO World Heritage city is full of colonial charm and character

5. Lagos to Nairobi, Kenya

If you’ve always dreamed of an African safari, Kenya is where wild meets wonderful. Nairobi gives you the best of both worlds — modern city vibes plus access to unforgettable wildlife experiences. Visit the Giraffe Centre, David Sheldrick Elephant Orphanage, and take a weekend trip to the Maasai Mara or Amboseli.

• Return Flight: From ₦1.8 million

• Visa: Not required, but you’ll need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before traveling

• Travel Tip: Book your safari tours in advance to get the best rates and experiences

Quick Travel Tips for Nigerian First-Time Travelers:

• No visa needed for all these destinations but Kenya requires an eTA, so plan ahead

• You’ll need your yellow fever vaccination card (Yellow Card) for entry into any of these countries

• Flight prices fluctuate the earlier you book, the better your chances of scoring a good deal

• Pack light, stay safe, and keep digital and physical copies of your travel documents

Frequently Asked Questions About Affordable African Destinations

1. Do I need a visa for these countries?

No visa is required for Nigerian passport holders to visit Ghana, Rwanda, Benin Republic, Senegal, or Kenya. However, Kenya requires you to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival.

2. What travel documents do I need?

You’ll need:

• A valid Nigerian international passport

• A Yellow Fever vaccination card (Yellow Card)

• For Kenya, an approved eTA before departure

3. How can I keep flight costs low?

Book early, compare prices using flight search engines (like Google Flights or Skyscanner), and consider flying mid-week. Flexibility with travel dates and using budget airlines can also save you money.

4. Is it safe to travel to these countries alone?

Yes, these destinations are generally safe for solo travelers. However, always stay aware of your surroundings, avoid risky areas, and follow local travel advisories.

5. Can I travel by road to all these countries?

You can travel by road to Ghana and Benin Republic from Nigeria. Senegal is also accessible by road, but the journey is very long and requires crossing multiple borders. Rwanda and Kenya are best accessed by air.

Final Thoughts

Traveling internationally for the first time doesn’t have to be overwhelming or expensive. These five destinations offer the perfect balance of affordability, adventure, and accessibility for Nigerian passport holders. If it’s a weekend in Benin Republic or a full-on safari in Kenya, the world is waiting and your passport is your ticket to exploring it.