Top 10 Affordable International Destinations for Nigerian Travelers in 2024

Exploring the word doesn’t have to burn a hole in your pocket. Many Nigerians are eager to visit new and beautiful places but are bedeviled with the fear of the high costs associated with traveling abroad. Here’s the good news, you don’t have to break the bank to experience and travel to astonishing international destinations.

In this post, we have compiled 10 affordable international destinations for Nigerian travelers in 2024. Are you looking to visit vibrant cities or have rich cultural experiences? These selections will allow you to travel the world while staying within your budget.

Why Travel to Affordable International Destinations?

As the interest in traveling among Nigerians continues to grow, affordable international travel to budget-friendly destinations has become more appealing than ever. Traveling to new destinations without being anxious about the cost opens up a world of opportunities for you and other travelers.

If you seek to go on a solo adventure, a family vacation, or even a honeymoon, having and sticking to a budget doesn’t mean you’re compromising on the experience – you just have to know two things: where to go and how to control your spending.

Benefits of Budget Travel

Budget travel allows you to make the most of your trip without spending too much. Finding cheap flights and affordable accommodations will help you save money and have enough to spend on experiences such as sightseeing, local food, souvenirs, extending your trip or even visiting new places, making your vacation memorable and more rewarding.

How to Find Cheap International Travel Destinations From Nigeria

Of course, the key to budget-friendly travel is finding the right destination. There are plenty of options available to you, however, you have to look for places that offer good value for money. Here are three of many ways to ensure that you’re getting the best deals:

• Flight Deals: You can compare flights to find cheap flights on sites like WakaTheWorld, WakaNow, and Travestart. Ensure to be flexible with your travel dates to get the best deals.
• Affordable Accommodations: You can use platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Hostels, or budget hotels to find budget accommodation and save costs. You can find nice accommodation costing as low as $20 (N32,800 as of when writing this) per night.
• Travel During Off-Peak Seasons: Avoiding seasons with tourist rush not only saves you money on both flights and hotels because they are cheaper during the off-peak seasons but also ensures that you have a more relaxed experience.

Focusing on affordable travel locations for Nigerians will help you explore the world while keeping your expenses as low as possible. This post highlights ten beautiful destinations that offer amazing travel experiences without burning your pocket.

10 Best Budget-Friendly International Travel Destinations for Nigerians

As a Nigerian, embarking on international travel doesn’t have to cost you an arm and a leg. Here are ten affordable travel destinations offering a fabulous mixture of adventure, culture, and leisure for you in 2024 without going overboard on spending:

1. Dubai, UAE:

Dubai, the second largest city of the UAE is a vibrant city known for its futuristic skyline, beaches, ports, skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and endless entertainment options. It is a top destination for Nigerian travelers.

Why is Dubai Travel Affordable?

Dubai is affordable because of the frequent flight deals from Lagos to Dubai, especially with budget airlines. Despite Dubai being an exotic location with an air of luxury, there are budget-friendly accommodations with options like hotels and apartments.

Dubai’s Top Attractions

• Burj Khalifa: This is the tallest tower in the world with a height of 2,217 feet and is located at the Burj Park in Dubai. The $1.5 billion property with 163 floors is one of Dubai’s top attractions. Burj Khalifa was completed in 2010 after five years of construction. Getting a ticket to see the Burj Khalifa in 2024 costs N80,061.19.
• Dubai Museum: The Dubai Museum is located in Al Fahidi Fort, an old town in Dubai. This is an interesting destination for people who are interested in learning about the city’s heritage.
• Dubai Fountain Show (Downtown Dubai): The Dubai Fountain Show is an inevitable sight for you to see when in Dubai. It is located in Downtown, Dubai not far from the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall
• Desert Safari: This is a cultural escape and a short drive from the city into the Arabian dunes. The Desert Safari takes place in the Dubai Desert, it promises an exciting and breathtaking experience.
• Aquaventure Waterpark (Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE): This waterpark is a part of the Atlantis, The Palm Resort which is located on Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island in Dubai.
• IMG Worlds of Adventure (Dubai, UAE): The IMG Worlds of Adventure is a colossal indoor amusement park located along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road which is a short drive from central Dubai.
• Dubai Mall (Downtown Dubai, UAE): Dubai Mall is located next to the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai. It is the world’s biggest shopping mall, offering more than 1,200 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, and even a virtual reality park. The Dubai Mall is a top attraction spot for couples and families seeking entertainment while on tour.

Estimated Travel Costs to Dubai from Nigeria

Flights to Dubai from Lagos can start as low as N350,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N33,000.

2. Accra Ghana:

It takes 60 minutes to fly from Lagos to Ghana. Talk about beaches, rich African culture, food, and lively city life, you will find it all in Accra. Accra is a perfect place away from home for Nigerians seeking to chill in a country not far away from home.

Why is Accra Travel Affordable?

The affordability of Accra as a great travel destination is because of its proximity, lower flight costs compared to other places, and easy-on-the-pocket accommodation options. Besides, for Nigerians, no visa is required to travel to Accra which further reduces visa application stress and additional expenses.

Accra’s Top Attractions

• Labadi Beach: Located 8km east of Accra, Labadi Beach is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. If you are looking to have fun at the beach with other people, the best time to visit is on weekends when activities are rife. Football games, horse riding along the sand, loud music in the bar, dancers, and beachside cafeterias. However, if you seek a much calmer ambiance, come on a weekday.
• Kwame Nkrumah Mausoleum: This peaceful park is named after the first leader of Ghana, Kwame Nkrumah. It contains bronze statues, fountains, and even peacocks. The museum inside the park stores the coat worn by Nkrumah when he declared Ghana’s independence, along with copies of personal letters and numerous pictures of him and various world leaders.
• Bojo Beach: You would never believe that Bojo Beach, which is just a short drive west of Accra city, is so peaceful and clean. After paying a modest entrance charge upon arrival, you’ll be rowed across a crystal-clear body of water to a spotless beach with sun loungers and refreshments. It’s an adequate substitute for the busy Labadi Beach.
• Holy Trinity Cathedral: The Holy Trinity Cathedral in Accra is over one hundred and twenty years old. It is an ordinary-looking building on the outside but an architectural wonder on the inside. This gracious red-brick Anglican Church was completed by the British in 1894.
• Osu Castle: Originally known as Christiansborg Castle and constructed by the Danes in 1659, Osu Castle served as the nation’s capital until 2013, when the president and his staff relocated to Flagstaff House. It is currently closed to visitors, and taking pictures is prohibited.

Estimated Travel Cost to Ghana from Nigeria

Flights to Accra from Lagos can start as low as N245,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N17,000.

Also read: How to Find Cheap Flights for Lagos to Any Destination in the World

3. Cairo, Egypt:

Egypt as a nation is rich in ancient landmarks and history rooted in its early civilization. Cairo, which is the capital city, is home to the great pyramids and the Khan El-Khalili bazaar which is the most famous market in Cairo. Egypt is a budget-friendly destination, and its low cost of living is one of the key attractions for tourists.

Why is Cairo Travel Affordable?

Egypt is known for its low cost of living among tourists and direct flights from Nigeria to Cairo are fairly cheap. There are also affordable hotels and local dining options, these make Egypt a great choice for budget travel.

Cairo’s Top Attractions

• The Great Pyramids of Giza: This is the largest Egyptian pyramid. Built in 2600 BC, it is the place where the Pharoah Khufu, who ruled in the fourth dynasty of the old kingdom was buried. The Great Pyramids of Giza is the only one of the seven wonders of the world that has largely remained intact.
• The Egyptian Museum: The Egyptian Museum in Cairo stores over 170,000 artifacts, and is the oldest archeological museum in the Middle East. The largest assemblage of Pharaonic relics is found in this museum. It is a must-see for you if you find yourself in Cairo.
• Khan El Khalili Bazaar: is a historic trade center in Cairo in the Mamluk era, and the most famous market in Egypt today. Originally built on the site of an old mausoleum, it has been a trade center for both local and foreign merchants since the 14^th century. This beautiful bazaar is filled with cafes, cafeterias, jewelry shops, and all kinds of shops selling everything from clothing to home equipment to spices to mementos. Don’t miss out on seeing Khan El Khalili bazaar whenever you are in Cairo.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Cairo

Flights to Cairo from Lagos can start as low as N840,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N15,000.

4. Nairobi, Kenya:

Nairobi is a doorway for travelers who are seeking adventure. Adorned with incredible safaris and wildlife, the city offers an exciting balance between nature and urban living, making your trip adventurous.

Why is Nairobi Travel Affordable?

Budget airlines going to Kenya often offer discounts on flights, visa requirements to Kenya are not herculean for Nigerians. Once you’re there, accommodation options are numerous for you to choose from which range from hotels to guesthouses and lodges.

Nairobi’s Top Attractions

• Nairobi National Park: The Nairobi National Park is home to varieties of wildlife such as cheetahs, leopards, buffaloes, hyenas, giraffes, over 400 species of birds, and black rhinos which is an endangered species. There are picnic sites where tourists can entertain themselves, walking trails for people who love hiking, and three campsites.
• Masai Mara: The Masai Mara is located in southwestern Kenya, which is not far from the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. It is one of the most famous game reserves in Africa; if you are an adventure seeker and a nature lover, the Masai is an experience you would love to have, at least once in your lifetime. In the Mara, you will find varieties of wildlife which include leopards, lions, buffalos, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, tigers, zebras, and a host of other animals.
• Giraffe Center: Located in Lang’ata which is about 20km away from the central part of Nairobi. The Giraffe Center was founded in 1979 by Jock Leslie Melville and Betty, his wife, to protect endangered giraffes in East Africa. This has seen great success since its establishment. The major attraction of this place for tourists is feeding the giraffes from an elevated stand. There are also warthogs roaming the giraffes in the Giraffe Center.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Nairobi

Flights to Nairobi from Lagos can start from N850,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N20,000.

5. Istanbul, Turkey:

Istanbul is a major city in Turkey that connects Asia and Europe across the Bosphorus Strait. It is rich in history and was called Constantinople and Byzantium. It was useful to ancient empires and till today, still has architectural marvels from ancient times and monuments which are remnants of the empires that still exist. Some of the things you will experience in Istanbul are the rich culture, historic sites, beautiful and bustling markets, and their food.   

Why is Istanbul Affordable?

Budget-conscious travelers will find Turkey a suitable destination due to the low cost of living. There are often cheap flights to Istanbul from Lagos, and on getting to Turkey, plenty of affordable accommodations like hostels and hotels suit your budget.

Istanbul’s Top Attractions

• Basilica Cistern: The Basilica Cistern, also known as the Sunken Palace, dates back to the 6^th century and is the largest cistern from Istanbul’s Byzantine era. About 336 marble and granite columns include the famous two Medusa heads in the underground chamber.
• The Blue Mosque: The blue mosque was built between 1609 and 1616 and has 6 towers. One of the reasons it is called “Blue Mosque” is because the inside is covered in blue Iznik tiles.
• Hagia Sophia Mosque: Constructed in the 6^th century, there are about 30 million gold tiles displayed inside the Hagia Sophia Mosque. It is indeed an architectural wonder and a place tourists love to visit whenever they go to Istanbul.
• Topkapı Palace: For about 400 years, this extravagant fortress used to be the royal home of the Ottoman kingdom. As you walk through the ostentatious courtyards and the ceremonial room that houses all the possessions and relics, you will glance through the royal life of the Sultans. There is also a private area with over 400 tastefully bejeweled rooms called the Harem which the sultan shared with his family.
• Boat Cruise along the Bosphorus: The Bosphorus Strait separates Asia from Europe, and any tour of Istanbul without going on a Bosphorus boat cruise, the signature experience, is not a complete tour.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Istanbul

Flights to Istanbul from Lagos can start from N860,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N30,000.

6. Zanzibar, Tanzania:

Zanzibar is an archipelago (a group of islands) located off the coast of East Africa. The distance between Nigeria and Zanzibar is 4257 km, and it takes 8 hours and 58 minutes to get to Zanzibar from Nigeria by flight. It is a perfect option if you are seeking inexpensive Island experiences.

Why is Zanzibar Affordable?

Frequent flights are going to Zanzibar from Lagos, and some low-priced airlines offer direct or one-stop flights. The city of Zanzibar is well-known for its low-cost accommodations from budget lodges to nice resorts that are not too pricey.

Top Attractions in Zanzibar

• Nungwi Beach: This is a top tourist beach in Zanzibar and is famous for its immaculate white sands, greenish-blue waters, and oscillating palm trees which create a calm atmosphere.  Some of the activities you can enjoy at the Nungwi beach are snorkeling, swimming, sunbathing, and scuba diving.
• Stone Town Tour: This is a fascinating experience that takes you through the beautiful city, showing you the rich culture and history of the island. You will visit historical landmarks like the House of Wonders, sightsee the busy markets, and go through coiled roads to view the beautiful architecture.
• Boat Trip to Prison Island: The Prison Island is about 15 minutes by boat from the Stone Town beach. While on the island, you will be able to snorkel, swim, and sunbathe. You will also be able to feed the tortoises on the island.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Zanzibar

Flights to Zanzibar from Lagos can start from N830,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is $16.

7. Addis Ababa, Ethiopia:

Addis Ababa is the capital of Ethiopia and is also the largest city in the country. it takes 5 hours and 33 minutes to get to Ethiopia from Nigeria by air. Addis Ababa is a culturally rich city with a lot of museums. Ethiopia is the one country that was never colonized, it is the oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world. Ethiopia’s history is worth exploring. Addis Ababa is an affordable holiday destination to explore Ethiopia’s historical spots.

Why is Addis Ababa Affordable?

Discounted flights from Nigeria by Ethiopian Airlines, affordable accommodations in Addis Ababa, and low cost of food and transportation.

Top Attractions in Addis Ababa

• National Museum: Popular for its archaeological discoveries, the national museum has a lot of historical artefacts for tourists who want to learn about the history of Ethiopia. Some archaeological discoveries in the museum include the fossils of early hominids, the most popular hominid remains called “Lucy,” a partial skeleton sample of Australopithecus afarensis.
• Entoto Hill: When Emperor Manelik II came from Ankober, he lived and established his palace in this historical place, Entoto Hill. There are a lot of activities for visitors which include rope course, zipline, spa, biking, hiking, and cafeterias. There is also a beautiful view of the city from the hilltop.
• Mercato Market: This is the largest open-air market in Africa. It has over 7,000 businesses and employs over 13,000 people. Locally made agricultural produce like coffee is the common merchandise sold in the market.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Addis Ababa

Flights to Addis Ababa from Lagos can start from N970,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is $14.

8. Kigali, Rwanda:

Kigali is the capital city of Rwanda and is known for its cleanliness, security, and ease of access to some of the finest wildlife experiences in Africa. The distance from Kigali to Nigeria is about 3,128 km and it takes about 4 hours and 30 minutes to travel to Kigali by air. It is an affordable travel destination for adventure-seeking Nigerian travelers.

Why is Kigali Affordable?

Cheap flights, affordable accommodations, and easy-to-get visas for Nigerians make traveling to Rwanda budget-friendly and an effortless experience.

Top Attractions in Kigali

• Kigali Genocide Memorial: This is a place of learning and remembrance of the victims of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi that happened in Rwanda. About 250,000 people were buried in this place. There is a learning center for visitors and students who want to learn more about the massacre.
• Volcanoes National Park: This place is located in Northwest Rwanda, and it serves to protect endangered species of animals like the mountain gorillas, the golden monkeys and other wildlife species.
• Art Galleries: Kigali is endowed with artistic beauty. There are many art galleries in Kigali worth your time. Some of them include the Niyo Art Gallery, Inema Art Center, Choose Kigali Art Gallery, Ivuka Arts Kigali, MADS Kigali, Inkingi Arts Space, Sundays Arts Hub, Indiba Art Space, Mama Rwanda Village, Np Art Gallery, Kigali arts center, Tongo arts gallery, Abien arts center, Kigali Soul gallery, Ikaze Showroom, Kigali center for photography, Irebe baskets, Mothaland arts, Iteme arts space, Talking through arts, and many more.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Kigali

Flights to Addis Ababa from Lagos can start from N750,000 while the average cost of mid-range accommodations per night is N22,000.

9. Bangkok, Thailand:

It is famous for its energetic street life, rich and strong culture, and magnificent shrines like the Grand Palace. It is an interesting and one of the affordable international destinations for Nigerian travelers who seek to have an exceptional experience.

Why is Bangkok Affordable?

The cost of living in Thailand is one of the lowest in all of Asia, flights from Nigeria to Bangkok are relatively affordable and their prices are competitive between airlines. Roadside meals and budget-friendly hotels make this destination a suitable place to visit.

Top Attractions in Bangkok

Some of the top places to visit when you’re in Bangkok are:

• Grand Palace: Built in 1782 by King Rama I, the Grand Palace is a complex of buildings at the center of Bangkok. This was where the kings lived at the time.
• Wat Arun temple: This is one of the most famous and recognized Buddhist temples in Bangkok. Also called the “Temple of Dawn,” named after Aruna, the god of dawn, it is one of Thailand’s iconic attractions.
• Nightlife in Bangkok: the city of Bangkok offers an energetic bustling nightlife for you to enjoy on your visit to Thailand. Glamorous bars, cafeterias, clubs, rooftop bars, dance halls, and live music venues come alive to give the city the best nightlife you can ever imagine.
• Pattaya Beaches: Enjoy amazing beach trips and skydive experiences with ocean views on Pattaya Island when you get to Bangkok.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Bangkok

Flights to Bangkok from Lagos can start from N1,000,000 while the most affordable accommodations per night start from N18,000.

10. Cape Town, South Africa:

Cape Town is the oldest city in South Africa and the capital city of the country. It is a great place to visit for tourists due to its numerous attraction spots like art galleries, clubs, stylish bars, and, world-class restaurants. It is a pocket-friendly destination for Nigerians.

Why is Cape Town Affordable?

Relatively cheap flights to South Africa from Nigeria, affordable accommodations, and the fact that Nigerians don’t need a visa to travel to South Africa make this destination affordable and budget-friendly.

Top Attractions in Cape Town

• Table Mountain: Also called “Hoerikwaggo,” Table Mountain is famous for its flat top which looks like a tabletop. Table Mountain is home to a variety of wildlife including the rock hyrax, and the Table Mountain Ghost Frog which is a rare species of frog. 
• Robben Island: Robben Island was used between the 17^th and 20^th centuries as a hospital for people who aren’t socially accepted, a maximum-security prison, and a military center. Nelson Mandela served 18 years out of the 27 years in the Robben Island prison.
• Camps Bay: Camp Bay Beach is a beautiful getaway spot for travelers in Cape Town. Residents eat al fresco and play in the intense Atlantic Ocean waves. You and your family can swim safely at the flagged bathing areas.

Estimated Travel Costs from Nigeria to Cape Town

Flights to Cape Town from Lagos can start from N700,000 while the cheapest accommodations per night start from N33,000.

These 10 destinations for international travelers are a perfect blend of culture, adventure, and leisure without hurting your finances. No matter the kind of experience you are seeking, these often-underrated travel destinations have something special for you.

Tips for Budget International Travel from Nigeria

Do you want to save money while having an explosive experience traveling to different destinations from Nigeria? The first step is adequate planning. Proper planning will make a huge difference in your trip. Here are some tried and trusted tips for you:

1. Flight Booking Tips

Getting the best flight deals is key to affordable international travel. First of all, you can compare flights on platforms like WakaTheWorld, WakaNow, and Travelstart. These platforms help you compare flight prices and airlines, allowing you to get the best deal for your trip.

After comparing flights and getting the best deal, booking early is crucial because the prices of flights increase as the travel date approaches. Booking your international flights 2 – 3 months in advance is recommended if you are looking for the best flight deals. In addition, be flexible with your flight dates, midweek flights, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than weekends. Turning on price notifications on these flight booking/comparison platforms will also help keep tabs on price drops and inform you so you can get your tickets at the lowest price.

2. Accommodation Hacks

After booking your flight, I guess the next thing would be finding a budget-friendly place to stay – and some great places to get affordable accommodation options are Airbnb, Hostelworld, and Booking.com. Hostelworld offers great options like shared hostels and private rooms in local homes, and it is great for you if you’re comfortable with a more social setting. But if you are particular about privacy without breaking the bank, then Booking.com and especially Airbnb offer plenty of affordable apartments and guest houses.

3. Saving on Transportation

Transportation can be a huge cost in another country, however, there are ways to save money on transport. Take public transport such as buses, trains, or metro systems. Many cities offer travel passes to help you save on multiple trips. You can use car-sharing apps that allow you to rent a car for a short period during the day when you go for sightseeing or day trips. Uber or Bolt are more affordable alternatives to taxis.

4. Off-Season Travel

Traveling during the off-season is one great way to save money. Peak seasons are always expensive – prices of flights, accommodations, and even tickets to the places you want to visit increase. However, off-season travels are always cheaper – fewer crowds, affordable hotels, and stays allow you to enjoy your holiday on your terms. For example, you can save a huge amount of money if you travel to Europe during late winter or early spring, or visit countries in the tropical regions during their rainy season. Be sure to do your research on the weather of the country you want to visit so you’re ready.

International travel doesn’t have to take up your life savings. With proper planning and thorough research about the destinations you want to travel to, you can travel from Nigeria affordably and explore the world without compromising on your experiences.

I guess it’s time you should begin to plan your next adventure country especially now that you know the top affordable international destinations for 2024. WakaTheWorld is here to help you all the way.

Now that you know the top affordable destinations for 2024, it’s time to start planning your next adventure. Whether you’re looking for cheap flights or travel tips, WakaTheWorld is here to help you every step of the way.

Ready to explore these destinations without breaking the bank? Let WakaTheWorld guide you to the best flight deals and help kickstart your budget-friendly adventure today!

FAQs on Affordable International Travel Destinations

1. Do I need a visa to visit these destinations?

Depending on the country you are visiting, visa requirements vary. Some countries like Kenya and Ghana let Nigerian travelers enter either without a visa or visa on arrival, while countries like Turkey and Thailand require you to get a visa before traveling. The best practice is to check the visa requirements for the country you want to travel to before planning your trip to forestall any surprises.

2. What’s the best time to visit these affordable destinations?

Well, it depends on the kind of experience you want to have. If your goal is to save money, consider traveling during the off-season when flights and stays are much cheaper. For example, Dubai is much cheaper if you visit during the hot period (June to August). For a place like Cape Town, the shoulder season, which is the period between the off-season and peak season (March-May and September–November) is the best time to visit, because the weather is great and prices are affordable.

3. How much should I budget for meals and activities?

Again, these vary by location, however, you can still travel without spending huge and not missing out on remarkable experiences. Roadside food in Bangkok is both inexpensive and tasty, costing about N1,500 – N3,000. Local food in Cairo, Egypt could cost you between N2,000 and N3,500, and slightly higher in Zanzibar. Visit parks and museums on free entry days or go to the beaches if you want to enjoy low-cost activities.

4. How do I find cheap flights to these destinations?

By using flight comparison platforms like WakaTheWorld, you can find and book cheap flights from Nigeria to these international destinations. Ensure to book early and consider mid-week flights to save money on your flight because weekend flights tend to be pricier.

5. Can I travel to these destinations on a tight budget?

Yes, of course! Every one of these places offers a wide range of inexpensive options from reasonably priced accommodations like hostels or Airbnb to cheap and tasty meals at local eateries or street food sellers. Plan your trip on off-season days to enjoy huge cost savings on your travel.

6. What should I pack for budget-friendly trips?

Check the weather at the place you are traveling to, if it is winter, make sure you pack suitable clothing for the weather. Also don’t forget travel essentials like reusable water bottles, power banks, toiletries, toothbrushes, torchlight, and shoes. 

Check out things to pack for a budget-friendly trip