Traveling from Lagos to Cotonou by road is one of the most popular cross-border trips for Nigerians. The journey normally last for 2h 45 min if road is clear. Whether you are heading there for business, leisure, or a family visit, this journey offers both adventure and cultural experience. If your looking for How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road transport companies like ABC motors, Guo motors, Chisco and Cross country pry this rout on a daily basis. But as simple as it sounds, there are key things you must know to make the journey smooth, safe, and stress-free.
This guide will give you everything you need to know about How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road, from the best transport options, border crossing procedures, documents required, to safety tips and travel tips.
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Why Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road?
Lagos and Cotonou are neighboring West African cities. Cotonou is the economic capital of Benin Republic. It is just about 120km from Lagos. Road travel between both cities has grown over the years. Here’s why:
- It’s cheaper than flying.
- You can travel same-day and return.
- You experience real West African culture.
- Traders find it easy for business.
- It’s perfect for road trip lovers.
What Documents Do You Need?
This is one of the most important parts of your journey. Without the right documents, you may be delayed or denied entry. Though many people are traveling from How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road without any document but it is important you have your document to avoid delay.
Documents you need:
- International Passport
- Valid for at least 6 months.
- ECOWAS Travel Certificate (optional but helpful)
- Obtainable at any Nigerian immigration office.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Card
- Very important. Immigration officers will ask for this.
- Valid Visa (if needed)
- Nigerians don’t need a visa to enter Benin for short visits (up to 90 days).
- Vehicle Documents (if driving yourself)
- Vehicle license
- International Driver’s Permit
- Insurance (ECOWAS Brown Card)
- Customs Papers (if using a private or foreign plate car)
Transport companies that travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road
This are the transport companies that offer Lagos to Cotonou trips:
- ABC Transport: Comfortable, air-conditioned, and reliable.
- Chisco Transport
- GUO Motors
- Cross Country
You can book online or go to their terminals at Jibowu or Yaba.
Car Hire / Charter Services
Many people prefer to hire a car (with driver) for privacy and speed. Prices are higher but worth it for some.
- From Mile 2 or Festac, car hire ranges from ₦100,000 to ₦500,000 depending on vehicle and comfort.
Self-Drive
If you have all your car documents and permits, you can drive. Just know the route and what to expect at the border.
You can also pass through the water to Cotonou
Where to enter bus from Lagos to Cotonou by Road
- Jibowu Terminal (Yaba)
- Mile 2 (popular for car hires and local transport)
- Ojuelegba
- Ojota (for most major transport companies)
Ask clearly if the bus is going to Cotonou or stopping at Seme Border.
Lagos to Seme Border – What to Expect
The first part of your journey takes you to Seme border.
- Distance: About 50km from Lagos mainland.
- Road Condition: Improving, but there are some bad patches.
- Time: Around 2-3 hours, depending on traffic.
- Common stops: Badagry, Agbara
Be ready for police and customs checkpoints. Always remain calm and polite.
At the Seme Border
This is where you cross from Nigeria into Benin Republic.
Nigerian Side
- Immigration officers will check your passport and Yellow Card.
- They may ask questions like “Where are you going?” “Why are you traveling?”
- If your documents are complete, you’ll be stamped out.
Benin Side
- Present same documents.
- You may need to pay a small official fee (though ECOWAS citizens usually go free).
- Avoid touts. Don’t give money to people claiming to help you.
Tips:
- Have your documents ready.
- Don’t engage in arguments.
- Don’t take photos at the border.
- Always hold extra cash for unexpected fees (₦2,000 – ₦5,000).
Seme Border to Cotonou City
Once you cross the border:
- You’ll board another vehicle into Cotonou.
- Distance: About 40km.
- Transport cost: Around ₦1,500 to ₦3,000 (or 2,000 to 3,000 CFA).
You’ll pass through:
- Krake
- Hilacondji
- Tokpa Market area (Cotonou)
Travel time: About 1 hour depending on traffic.
Change Naira to CFA
Benin Republic uses CFA Franc.
- Change money at official BDC (Bureau de Change).
- Avoid roadside changers unless recommended.
- You can also change a little at the border (but rates are lower).
Where to Stay in Cotonou
If you plan to sleep over and you don’t have any body in Cotonou rent a hotel room:
Budget Hotels:
- Hotel du Port
- Residence Mahouena
- Jericho Hotel
Mid-Range:
- Hotel Maison Rouge
- Sun Beach Hotel
High-End:
- Golden Tulip Le Diplomate
- Novotel Cotonou
You can book via Booking.com or simply walk in.
What to Do in Cotonou
- Visit Fidjrosse Beach
- Explore Dantokpa Market
- Eat local Beninese food (try Akassa, grilled fish, and Wanke)
- Tour the Artisanal Center
- Visit Ganvie, the Venice of Africa (a town on water
Safety Tips for Road Travelers
- Travel early in the day.
- Don’t flash cash or expensive items.
- Keep your passport in a safe pouch.
- Don’t engage touts at the border.
- Avoid night travel if possible.
- Use a SIM card from MTN Benin or Orange for easy calls/data.
How Much Does it cost to travel How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road
Here is the latest travel costs and transport companies from Lagos to Cotonou:
| Transport Company / Mode | Estimated Fare (₦) | Departure Terminal (Lagos) | Journey Time |
|---|
| ABC Transport – 14-seat Executive/Sprinter | ₦86,000 – ₦98,000 | Jibowu (Yaba) | Approx. 5 hrs |
| Chisco Transport – 13-seat | ₦81,750 – ₦93,000 | Jibowu | ~9 hrs (varies) |
| Edegbe Line | ₦86,500 – ₦88,500 | Jibowu | — |
| GUO Transport | ₦70,500 – ₦92,500 | Jibowu | — |
| God Is Good Motors (GIGM) | ₦74,500 – ₦95,500 | Jibowu | — |
| Budget Shared Minibuses (to Seme Border) | ₦83,000 | Mile 2, Iyana‑Ipaja | ~1–2 hrs to Seme |
| Border‑to‑Cotonou Taxi | ₦3,500 | Seme Border | ~1 hr |
| ABC Transport | ₦87,000 | Jibowu | ≈ 5 hrs |
FAQs: How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road
1. Do I need a visa to enter Cotonou from Lagos?
Answer: No, you don’t. If you’re a Nigerian citizen, you can visit Benin Republic visa-free for up to 90 days, thanks to the ECOWAS treaty. However, your international passport must be valid.
2. What documents do I need to travel from Lagos to Cotonou by road?
Answer:
You’ll need the following documents:
- Valid International Passport
- Yellow Fever Vaccination Card
- (Optional) ECOWAS Travel Certificate
- If driving: valid driver’s license, car papers, insurance (ECOWAS Brown Card)
3. Can I travel without an international passport?
Answer: Not advisable. While some touts may promise to get you across without one, it’s risky and illegal. A valid international passport is the safest and most accepted travel document.
4. How much is the transport fare from Lagos to Cotonou?
Answer:
It depends on the mode of transport:
- Executive buses (ABC, Chisco, GUO): ₦76,000 – ₦95,000
- Budget shared transport (via Seme): ₦62,000 – ₦75,000 total
- Chartered car hire: ₦100,000 – ₦500,000 depending on car type
5. Where can I board a bus from Lagos to Cotonou?
Answer:
Popular bus terminals include:
- Jibowu, Yaba – for ABC, Chisco, GUO, etc.
- Mile 2 – for budget buses or car hire
- Ojota, Ojuelegba – smaller motor parks and taxis to the border
6. What is the travel time from Lagos to Cotonou by road?
Answer:
It typically takes 4 to 6 hours, depending on the route, traffic, and border delay.
- Lagos to Seme border: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Border formalities: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Seme to Cotonou city: about 1 hour
7. Is it safe to travel to Cotonou by road?
Answer: Yes, generally. But avoid traveling late at night. Stick with recognized transport companies and carry your documents. Be polite at checkpoints and avoid unnecessary arguments with officials.
8. Do I need to change currency before crossing the border?
Answer:
Not mandatory, but advisable. Benin Republic uses the CFA Franc. You can exchange Naira at the border or in Cotonou. Just be careful with roadside changers; use a Bureau de Change if possible.
9. What’s the cheapest way to travel to Cotonou from Lagos?
Answer:
The cheapest method is:
- Take a shared bus or taxi from Mile 2 to Seme border (₦7300–₦16,000)
- Cross the border on foot or bike
- Take a local taxi or bus to Cotonou (₦14,500)
Total cost: under ₦30,000
10. Can I do a round trip to Cotonou in one day?
Answer:
Yes, if you leave very early in the morning (before 7am), you can return the same day.
Conclusion: How to Travel from Lagos to Cotonou by Road
Traveling from Lagos to Cotonou by road is a journey many Nigerians and West Africans take every day—for business, tourism, or even a quick getaway. It is both affordable and flexible, especially with the wide variety of transport options available. From luxury bus services like ABC and Chisco to the more budget-friendly shared minibuses through Mile 2, there’s a method to suit every traveler’s pocket and preference.
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