The moment you step off your flight at Murtala Muhammed Airport, Lagos’ bustling air gateway, the hum of Africa’s largest city envelops you. Bright signage directs you through arrivals filled with weary and excited travellers alike, while the scent of freshly brewed coffee mingles with the distant calls of taxi drivers. Outside, the Lagos skyline flickers in the early morning light, teasing the adventures that await you. Renting a car here is often the first chapter in a memorable Nigerian journey - but with its lively traffic and lively atmosphere, you’ll want insider insights to get on the road confidently. Whether it’s your business trip or holiday, this guide will let you breeze through your car rental at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG like a local.

Why Rent at the Airport?

Landing at Murtala Muhammed Airport and diving right into a rental car saves you precious time and stress. Imagine skipping the hassle of taxis, rideshares, or shuttles - instead, you’re in the driver's seat, ready to explore Lagos or beyond at your own pace. The airport hosts several internationally recognised rental agencies alongside local companies, offering a variety of vehicle types from budget sedans to rugged SUVs suited for Nigeria’s diverse roads.

Security at the rental desk and designated parking zones adds peace of mind, especially for first-time visitors. When I last landed at LOS, the efficiency of the rental centre impressed me: well-signposted counters, courteous staff, clear contract terms, and swift processing meant I was out in under 30 minutes.

The convenience of picking up a car right at arrivals means you can start your trip immediately, whether heading straight to a business meeting downtown or embarking on scenic road trips to destinations like Lekki or even the bustling city of Ibadan. Booking in advance often unlocks competitive rates and better vehicle choices - vital during peak travel seasons.

Step-by-Step Pickup Guide

1. Book in Advance: Use trusted rental websites or aggregator platforms to reserve the vehicle that suits your needs, ensuring licence and age requirements are met.
2. Confirm Flight Details: Check your arrival time closely to avoid conflicts with rental operating hours, considering possible delays.
3. Arrive & Locate Rental Desks: On arrival, follow rental car signs inside Terminal 2 arrivals hall where counters for international and local firms are grouped.
4. Present Documentation: Provide your driver’s licence, credit card, passport, and booking confirmation; some companies may ask for an international driving permit.
5. Inspect the Vehicle: Before accepting keys, inspect your chosen car thoroughly for scratches, dents, tyre condition, and fuel level; take photos to avoid disputes.
6. Understand Terms & Extras: Clarify insurance coverage, fuel policy, mileage limits, and any additional charges like GPS or child seats.
7. Sign Agreement & Collect Vehicle: Once terms are agreed, sign your rental contract, collect keys, and receive instructions on airport exit routes.
8. Start Your Engines: Set your GPS or map, and begin driving from Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG to city centre or your first destination with confidence!

Major Rental Brands Compared

Avis stands out as one of the leading car rental companies at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, offering reliable and convenient services for travellers looking to rent a vehicle.

Money-Saving Hacks

• Book online early to lock in lower rates and access special discounts; last-minute airport bookings often cost up to 25% more.
• Opt for economy cars if possible; they consume less fuel and typically have lower daily rates, perfect for city driving.
• Check if your credit card offers car rental insurance to avoid buying extras at the desk.
• Fill up the tank before returning the vehicle at the nearest 24-hour fuel station to dodge inflated fuel charges.
• Avoid extras like GPS or child seats included at the airport; bring your own or use phone navigation apps when feasible.

Driving Tips for a Smooth Start

Driving from Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG to city centre can be an adventure! Traffic is heavy during peak hours, so plan your route and timing carefully. Use well-known GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze to navigate the bustling Lagos roads.

Be prepared for a mix of local driving styles; horn usage is common, and road rules occasionally bend under the weight of practicality. Defensive driving and patience are your best allies.

Watch out for speed bumps, especially in residential zones, and respect the many informal market areas where pedestrians are abundant.

Also, ensure your phone is charged and you have emergency contacts saved, including roadside assistance.

Alternatives to Wheels

If you’re not ready to tackle driving yourself, public transport options from the airport exist but have limits. Buses operate on popular routes but are often crowded and irregular.

Rideshare apps such as Bolt or Uber provide safer, more comfortable transfer options to Lagos city centre at fixed prices, especially recommended for night travellers.

Private airport transfers can be pre-booked for seamless arrivals, popular among business travellers seeking comfort and reliability.

Return & After-hours Drop-off

When returning your rental car at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG, allow extra time during busy hours, as the rental-car centre often experiences queues. The designated drop-off zones are clearly marked near Terminal 2’s arrivals area.

If you expect to arrive outside regular hours, confirm out-of-hours procedures with your rental agency in advance; many allow key drop boxes but may levy a surcharge.

Refuel your car - affordable and accessible 24/7 fuel stations like the Shell on Admiralty Way simplify this step before handover, avoiding steep penalties.

Inspect your vehicle together with a staff member or take timestamped photos if dropping keys without inspection, to document condition and avoid unexpected charges.

Sample 3-Day Road-Trip Itinerary

• Day 1: Explore Lagos city centre: Visit the National Museum, Lekki Conservation Centre, and enjoy local cuisine at Tarkwa Bay Beach.
• Day 2: Head to Badagry: Discover historic slave trade landmarks and relax at the serene Badagry Beach.
• Day 3: Venture to Epe and the Lekki Peninsula for fishing villages, markets, and calm lagoons perfect for a scenic drive.

Hidden Corners & Local Gems

Beyond the well-trodden routes lie lesser-known treasures:

• Freedom Park Lagos: A beautifully restored colonial prison-turned-arts venue offering cultural exhibits and live performances.
• Nike Art Gallery: An expansive collection of Nigerian artworks – a perfect detour for lovers of creative spirit.
• Elegushi Royal Beach: A lively yet less commercialised coastline spot favored by locals for picnics and music.

Eight Mistakes Travellers Make

1. Not verifying the rental car’s insurance coverage upfront, leading to unexpected bills.
2. Failing to thoroughly inspect the vehicle before departure, causing disputes over damages.
3. Underestimating Lagos traffic, causing tardiness and frustration.
4. Ignoring local driving customs and speed limits, risking fines or accidents.
5. Returning the car without refuelling at the nearest station, incurring high fuel fees.
6. Booking without reading terms on extra fees like out-of-hours charges and additional drivers.
7. Relying solely on cash where credit cards are required for deposits or rentals.
8. Neglecting to keep emergency contacts and rental paperwork accessible while driving.

Frequently Asked Questions

What documents do I need for car rental at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG?

You will need a valid international or Nigerian driver’s licence, passport, a credit card for deposit, and your booking confirmation. An international driving permit is recommended but not always obligatory.

Is it safe to drive in Lagos, Nigeria?

Driving in Lagos demands alertness, patience, and defensive tactics due to heavy traffic and local driving styles. Avoid night driving if unfamiliar and always follow road signs and security advice.

Are there fuel charges on returning a rental car?

Most companies require you to return the vehicle with the same fuel level as at pickup. It’s cheapest to refuel at the nearby Shell Station on Admiralty Way to avoid inflated airport fuel fees.

Can I hire a car at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG for a one-way trip?

One-way rentals may be available but often come with additional fees. Confirm with your rental company during booking to plan accordingly.

Ready to Rent and Explore?

Your car rental at Murtala Muhammed Airport, NG unlocks Lagos and Nigeria’s incredible landscapes at your own pace. Share your experiences or questions below - subscribe for the latest tips to make your travel smoother and more memorable.