Why go
Badagry was one of West Africa's largest slave-trade departure points from the 16th to the 19th century, and the town still carries the physical infrastructure: the Brazilian Barracoon, the Slave Museum, the Mobee Family Museum, and Gberefu — Point of No Return — reached by a short canoe across the lagoon. It's a difficult, essential day for anyone with a serious interest in Nigerian and Atlantic history. Don’t do it as a Sunday between beach visits; it needs the emotional space.
How to do it
Distance: 90km from Lekki, 2 to 3 hours each way depending on traffic on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway (works in progress can double the time). Hire a car with driver from Lekki for the day, $60 to $100 including fuel — much better than Bolt-hopping, which won’t work reliably outside Lagos. Leave by 7am, aim to be at the first museum by 10am. Entry to each site is $2 to $5 plus $3 to $5 for a guide, and guides are essential — the material makes little sense without one.
What to see and eat
Order: Brazilian Barracoon slave holding cell, Mobee Family Museum (chains and shackles kept by a family with generations of custodianship), Seriki Faremi Williams Abbass Slave Museum, then the canoe crossing to the Point of No Return. Budget 4 to 5 hours across the sites. Lunch in Badagry town is basic — a plate of jollof and grilled fish at a local buka for $4. Back in Lekki by 7pm if you leave Badagry by 3.30pm. It's a hard day. Do it anyway.
Good to know
Is it appropriate for children?+
The material is graphic and heavy. Older teens with context can benefit; under-10s should sit this one out. There are no barriers or softened displays.
Can I do it as part of an organised tour?+
Yes — several Lagos operators run Badagry day tours for $80 to $150 per person including transport, guide and entry fees. Motherland Nigeria and Roots Lagos are established. Worth the premium for a first-timer who wants context throughout.