If you’re heading to Lagos for Detty December 2025, brace yourself, the first real challenge won’t be traffic; it’ll be finding a place to stay. The city’s annual homecoming rush has turned accommodation into a full-blown competition. For IJGBs (“I Just Got Back” Nigerians) and foreign visitors, short-lets and Airbnbs have become painfully expensive, sometimes doubling in price by December. Demand always outstrips supply, especially for clean, secure apartments with 24/7 power and working Wi-Fi.
Here’s your 5-step guide to finding a great short-let without draining your travel budget.
Book Early - Way Before November
By late November, prices hit “Detty December” levels, often 50% -100% higher.
- Best move: Secure your apartment by October.
- Pay upfront: Most hosts demand full payment to confirm December stays.
- Be flexible: Arriving before Dec 20th or staying past the New Year can save you a lot.
Pick Location for Convenience, Not Clout
Traffic in Lagos is no joke. Don’t book just for aesthetics, book for access.
- Party hotspots: Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lekki Phase 1 (close to concerts, lounges).
- Easy airport access: Ikeja GRA, Magodo (great for Mainland visitors).
- Mid-range gems: Ikate, Ilasan, Ajah - more affordable yet still on the Island.
Always verify location on Google Maps - “Lekki” can mean 45 minutes away in traffic.
Electricity and water aren’t guaranteed luxuries. Check that your apartment has:
- Generator or inverter (24/7 power)
- Fast Wi-Fi
- Working air conditioning
- Secure compound with CCTV or guards
Read Reviews Like Your Stay Depends on It
Because it does.
Look for recent reviews (last 3–6 months) mentioning power, cleanliness, and host response. If there are no reviews, ask for a short video walkthrough before booking.
Travel Smart - Split Costs
Group travel cuts costs. A ₦300,000/night short-let shared among four people is ₦75,000 each - often cheaper than hotels on the Island. Plus, you get a kitchen, a living room, and full privacy.
