Distance from Accra to Lagos

About This Route

407 km is the great-circle distance between the two city centres, calculated with the haversine formula. Flight paths are usually somewhat longer because aircraft follow air-traffic routes, and airports are not in the city centres. From Accra, Lagos lies to the east.

Flights

Nonstop flights take about 1 hour and are operated by Ghanaian and Nigerian airlines (for example Africa World Airlines and Air Peace); several flights a day are usual.

The flight time shown (1 h) assumes a nonstop flight at an average of 800 km/h plus about 30 minutes for take-off and landing. Airports: Kotoka International Airport (ACC) and Murtala Muhammed International Airport (LOS).

By Road and Land Borders

The coastal road runs through Togo and Benin: Accra – Aflao/Lomé (Ghana–Togo border) – Sanvee-Condji/Hillacondji (Togo–Benin) – Cotonou – Kraké/Seme (Benin–Nigeria) – Lagos. It is about 470 km, but three borders and heavy traffic mean the trip usually takes 10–12 hours or more. Coaches run daily. ECOWAS citizens travel visa-free; others need visas for Togo, Benin and Nigeria (Togo and Benin issue e-visas).

About Accra, Ghana

Ghana's capital and largest city, on the Gulf of Guinea coast. It is the country's political and commercial centre and a common starting point for trips to the Cape Coast and Elmina castles.

About Lagos, Nigeria

Nigeria's largest city and commercial centre, and one of the largest urban areas in Africa. Lagos was Nigeria's capital until 1991, when the capital moved to Abuja.

Practical Tips

• Time: Lagos is 1 hour ahead of Accra.
• Currency: Accra uses the Ghanaian cedi (GHS); Lagos uses the Nigerian naira (NGN).
• Visas: Entry rules between Ghana and Nigeria depend on your nationality; check our visa requirements tool and official sources before travelling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far is Accra from Lagos?

Accra is 407 km (253 miles) from Lagos in a straight line. By road the distance is about 470 km.

How long is the flight from Accra to Lagos?

A nonstop flight takes about 1 h, based on 407 km at an average 800 km/h plus about 30 minutes for take-off, climb and landing. Scheduled times vary with winds and routing.

Can you travel from Accra to Lagos by road?

Yes. The coastal road is about 470 km via Lomé (Togo) and Cotonou (Benin), crossing the Aflao, Hillacondji and Seme borders. Allow 10 to 12 hours or more because of border delays.

What is the time difference between Accra and Lagos?

Lagos is 1 hour ahead of Accra.