How to Get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG: Your Complete Guide to Taxi, Train & Bus Transfers

You’ve just booked your ticket. The anticipation of your trip floods your thoughts, but one question sharpens your focus: how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG? Whether you’re stepping out from Lagos city centre or returning from a visit to Nigeria’s bustling commercial hub, the clock ticks loudly in the background. The sun has just risen or perhaps the evening lights blink across the megacity skyline. You imagine the traffic, the crowds, and the journey ahead - every step poised to either streamline your day or add a dash of stress. Your suitcase is ready; your flight time fixed; but the path to Lagos’s busiest airport, with its complex transport options, is a decision you must make wisely.

When I last landed at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, the city hum was palpable - the frenetic energy of millions converging around a single point of arrival and departure. The roads buzzed with yellow and white taxis weaving nimbly alongside motorbikes, while the ever-present honking reminded me how crucial it was to time my transfer precisely. I recall standing on a busy street corner, taxi fares negotiated, rideshare apps pinging, and buses approaching - all promising a route to the international terminal just minutes ahead. The cityscape, vibrant and unpredictable, made clear one thing: preparation is key. But how do you plan your airport transfer to navigate Lagos efficiently, avoid surprise costs, and make your journey smooth? Let’s explore your options together.

Why Plan Your Airport Transfer?

When it comes to how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, planning is more than advisable - it’s essential. Lagos is a sprawling metropolis with one of the most dynamic and sometimes unpredictable transport ecosystems on the continent. Without a clear plan, you risk missing flights, paying inflated fares, or spending hours stuck in traffic jams that are common during peak hours. Beyond timing, choosing the right mode affects your comfort, your budget, and how relaxed you feel before your flight.

Unlike airports with seamless public transit, Murtala Muhammed caters to a variety of travellers - from business commuters to holidaymakers - each with different priorities. Taxi to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, might sound easiest, yet price fluctuations and city traffic can shadow that convenience. The Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG train offers speed but limited coverage. Buses, both local and express, are economical but often come with their quirks.

Planning ahead also means accounting for baggage, timing your trip to avoid Lagos’s notorious rush hours, and choosing accessible options if mobility is a concern. When I last navigated these routes, a little pre-trip research saved me from a midnight driver’s strike that caused mayhem across the city (January 2025). In your hands, being informed primes your journey for success, turning airport transfers from a hassle into a straightforward start to your trip or a relaxed finish after landing.

Price & Time Grid: Your Options at a Glance

As you decide how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, price and time are top considerations. Taxis and rideshares offer door-to-door convenience but can vary widely in fare and duration due to Lagos’s unpredictable traffic. The newly expanded Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG train delivers a swift and reliable 25-minute journey, making it a fantastic choice for punctual travellers. Express buses strike a balance with affordable fares and reasonable trip durations, while local buses offer unbeatable prices but require patience for longer travel times and stops. Picking the right option depends hugely on your budget, luggage, and schedule.

Step-by-Step Guide for Each Mode

Taxi

1. Head to a recognised taxi stand or book via a trusted operator at least 30 minutes before your preferred departure.
2. Confirm the fare upfront to avoid surprises; negotiate if possible, especially during peak hours.
3. Ensure your driver uses the meter or agree on a fixed price in writing if available.
4. Load your luggage securely in the boot; keep valuables close.
5. Allow extra time during Lagos peak traffic, particularly in the mornings and late afternoons.
6. Pay only after you reach the airport; carry small denominations of Naira for easier transactions.

Rideshare

1. Download and open your preferred app, such as Bolt or Uber, and input your pickup location.
2. Select Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG as your destination; check fare estimates offered by the app.
3. Choose vehicle type depending on your passenger and luggage needs.
4. Confirm your booking and track the driver’s arrival in real-time.
5. Once picked up, monitor traffic via the app and adjust your timing accordingly.
6. Pay through the app or in cash if the app supports it; tip your driver if service was exceptional.

Rail

1. Locate the station nearest your starting point for the Murtala Muhammed Airport Express Rail.
2. Purchase tickets at the station or via official online platforms.
3. Board the train at the scheduled departure; trains run every 15–30 minutes from 05:00 to 22:00.
4. Prepare your luggage as space is limited; avoid peak hours for added comfort.
5. Disembark directly at the airport station, which is integrated with the terminal complex.
6. Follow signposts to Departures or Arrivals, depending on your needs.

Bus

1. Identify the nearest bus stop serving either express airport shuttles or local routes.
2. Pay your fare upfront, preferably in cash; verify if a card is accepted.
3. Board the bus early, as seats fill quickly especially on express services.
4. Keep your luggage close and be prepared for multiple stops if on a local route.
5. Disembark at the designated airport terminal stop; ask the driver or conductor for confirmation.
6. Allow at least 90 minutes if you choose local buses, given potential traffic and stop delays.

Returning a Rental Car

1. Top up your fuel tank to the same level as at pickup to avoid extra charges (Hertz, March 2025).
2. Follow signs to the car rental return area located near the Cargo Terminal.
3. Park in the allocated zones as directed by airport attendants or company staff.
4. Complete the paperwork with the rental agent; inspect the car jointly for condition records.
5. If after hours, use the secured drop-box facility for keys and documents.
6. Catch the free shuttle service that runs frequently between the rental return lot and Departures.
7. Confirm shuttle timing ahead to avoid long waits, especially for early morning flights.

Money-Saving Hacks

• Book your taxi or rideshare rides well in advance to avoid surge pricing during peak times.
• Use the Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG train for fast, fixed-cost transfers without traffic worries.
• Travel light to squeeze into express buses instead of taxis, saving up to ₦4,000 per trip.
• Consider group sharing in rideshares or taxis to split costs when travelling with company.
• Avoid airport taxi queues where fares can be locally inflated; pre-book or walk a few blocks to catch cheaper rides.

Peak-Hour vs Off-Peak Travel Times

Understanding Lagos’s traffic flow is key when working out how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG. Morning peak hours between 6:30 am and 9:30 am and the evening rush from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm can double your journey time by car or bus. Expect more stress and higher fares as demand spikes. Conversely, travelling outside these hours often means smoother, quicker trips and better pricing, especially for taxis and rideshares. Weekends might see different traffic patterns so checking local updates always helps.

Lagos’s dynamic urban environment means flexibility is your friend. Services like the airport train maintain consistent schedules unaffected by road traffic - a real boon when timing is tight before your flight. When I timed my transfer after 10 pm, I found the empty roads a refreshing change. Though fewer public transport options operate late at night, taxis and rideshares fill the gap - just remember to factor in night surcharges.

Accessibility & Luggage Factors

If you have mobility requirements or are travelling with substantial luggage, these need close consideration when planning how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG. Taxis and rideshares typically offer door-to-door service and can accommodate up to 2–3 medium-sized suitcases, but confirm vehicle size during booking. The airport rail service offers level boarding and dedicated space for luggage, making it an excellent accessible choice.

Buses, especially local ones, often experience crowding and limited luggage space. Express bus shuttles fare better with reserved seating and luggage racks but might require careful timing to avoid rush periods. For wheelchair users, taxis with accessible vehicles can be arranged in advance through certain providers, though availability varies. Planning ahead to request special assistance at the terminal complements your transfer choice, ensuring a seamless journey from start to finish.

Carbon-Smart Alternatives

For environmentally minded travellers discovering how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, shared shuttles offer an eco-friendly option by reducing individual car emissions. Several local companies provide minibus services that connect major Lagos points to the airport, balancing cost and carbon footprint. Bike-and-ride solutions have yet to gain traction widely here due to city infrastructure, but short-term parking facilities encourage drivers to park outside congested zones and use express public transport.

Park-and-ride schemes located near Lagos motorways combine parking lots with bus or rail access to the airport, trimming fuel use and roadside congestion. While these may add a transfer step, they cut down your overall carbon output, appealing to eco-conscious visitors seeking smarter travel choices.

Sample 08:00 Flight Timeline

• T-12 hours (previous day 20:00): Confirm transfer booking or download rideshare app; pack luggage carefully.
• T-4 hours (04:00): Wake and double-check documents; organise transport payment method.
• T-2 hours (06:00): Depart for Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG via your chosen mode avoiding morning peak congestion.
• T-0 (08:00): Arrive with time to spare; pass security and prepare for boarding.

Hidden Pitfalls & Local Quirks

When mapping out your route on how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, bear in mind some peculiar local factors that can trip up the unwary.

• Strike Days: Drivers’ union strikes occur sporadically and can cripple taxi and bus services; check news ahead of travel.
• Cash-Only Buses: Most buses won’t accept cards or mobile payments; have small notes and coins ready.
• Motorway Tolls: Some routes may involve tolls not included in rideshare fare estimates - confirm with your driver.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

1. Underestimating journey times during Lagos’s notorious peak traffic.
2. Not confirming taxi fares upfront, leading to unexpectedly high payments.
3. Failing to check rideshare surge pricing, especially during holidays.
4. Ignoring the train option thinking it’s limited or expensive.
5. Booking buses last minute without cash prepared.
6. Overpacking luggage that’s hard to manage on public transit.
7. Not verifying rental car return procedures, risking fines or delays.
8. Neglecting to factor in night surcharges for late or early transfers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG from Lagos centre?

The airport express rail currently offers the fastest consistent journey of about 25 minutes, unaffected by road traffic conditions.

Are rideshares reliable for night transfers to the airport?

Yes, rideshare services operate 24/7, though expect slightly higher fares at night due to demand-based surcharges.

Can I take a local bus to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG with heavy luggage?

While local buses are the most affordable, their luggage space is limited and the journey longer, so consider express buses or taxis if you travel with large bags.

How early should I return my rental car before my flight?

Aim to return your car at least two hours before your flight to accommodate refuelling, paperwork, and shuttle transfer to Departures.

Call to Action

Planning how to get to Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG need not be stressful. Whether you choose taxi, rideshare, rail, or bus, making informed choices ensures a smooth start or end to your journey. Have you experienced Lagos airport transfers? Share your tips or questions below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more traveller guides that keep you confidently on the move. Safe travels!