Where is Makoko Located? Lagos's Iconic Floating Community & Transport Guide

Detailed Route and Area Breakdown

Getting to Makoko involves reaching its land-based entry points, primarily around the Adekunle and Iwaya areas of Yaba. From there, you can explore the land-based parts or transition to water transport to experience the floating community.

From Major Lagos Hubs to Makoko Land Entry Points

Here’s how you can typically reach the land-based parts of Makoko from different parts of Lagos:

From Yaba Terminus

Yaba is arguably the closest major transport hub to Makoko. From Yaba Terminus, you can easily find:

• Commercial Buses (Danfo): Enter a bus heading towards Adekunle or Iwaya. These buses are frequent and offer a direct route.
• Tricycles (Keke Napep): You can hire a Keke Napep directly to Adekunle, Iwaya, or even deeper into the land-based parts of Makoko.
• Motorcycles (Okada): While restricted on major roads, you might find Okada riders who can take you closer to the inner parts of Makoko from Yaba, especially off the main roads.

The journey from Yaba is usually short, depending on traffic, often taking between 10-25 minutes.

From CMS (Marina)

If you're coming from the Lagos Island side, specifically CMS, you'll need to cross the Third Mainland Bridge.

• Commercial Buses (Danfo/BRT): Enter a bus at CMS heading towards Yaba or Fadeyi. You will need to drop at Adekunle or Iwaya bus stop, which are entry points to Makoko.
• Ride-Hailing Services: Options like Uber or Bolt are readily available from CMS and can take you directly to the Adekunle or Iwaya areas.

For more detailed information on navigating from this key area, check out our guide: [Where is CMS Marina Located in Lagos? LGA, Landmarks & Transport Guide](/where-is-cms-marina-located-in-lagos)

From Ikeja

Ikeja, being on the mainland but further west, requires a slightly longer journey.

• Commercial Buses: From Ikeja Under Bridge or Computer Village, enter a bus going to Yaba. From Yaba, follow the instructions above (take another bus or Keke to Adekunle/Iwaya).
• Ride-Hailing Services: A direct ride-hailing service from Ikeja to Makoko (Adekunle/Iwaya) is also a convenient option, though it will be pricier.

For a complete breakdown of this route, read our guide: [How to travel from Ikeja to Makoko](/from-ikeja-to-makoko)

From Lekki Phase 1

Traveling from Lekki Phase 1 involves crossing the Lagoon and navigating through the mainland.

• Commercial Buses: From Lekki Phase 1, you can find buses heading towards Obalende. From Obalende, you'll need to take another bus to Yaba, then transfer to a bus or Keke going to Adekunle/Iwaya.
• Ride-Hailing Services: This is often the most straightforward option from Lekki Phase 1, taking you directly to the Makoko entry points.

Planning this trip? Our guide has you covered: [How to travel from Lekki Phase 1 to Makoko](/from-lekki-phase-1-to-makoko)

Navigating Within Makoko

Once you reach the land-based parts of Makoko (Adekunle or Iwaya axis), you'll notice the transition to the water settlement.

• Canoes: This is the primary mode of transport within the floating community. Local canoe operators are always available to ferry passengers through the intricate network of waterways. This is an experience in itself!
• Walking: On the land-based sections, walking is common.
• Motorcycles (Okada) / Tricycles (Keke Napep): These can take you through the accessible land routes, but they cannot go into the floating parts.

Current Fare Estimates Table (2026)

Please note that transport fares in Lagos can fluctuate based on fuel prices, time of day (peak hours), and demand. The ranges provided below are estimates for 2026 to help you budget your journey.

Best Departure Points and Terminals

When planning your trip to Makoko, starting from a well-known and active transport hub will make your journey smoother.

• Yaba Terminus: This is by far the most convenient departure point. You'll find numerous buses and tricycles heading towards Makoko's entry points (Adekunle/Iwaya).
• CMS Bus Stop: If you're coming from Lagos Island, CMS is a major hub where you can catch buses going towards Yaba.
• Obalende: Another key transport interchange on Lagos Island. From Obalende, you can find buses going towards Yaba, from where you'll connect to Makoko.
• Ikeja Under Bridge: For those starting from Ikeja, this is the main bus park to find vehicles heading towards Yaba.

Safety and Travel Tips for Makoko

Visiting Makoko can be an enriching experience, but it's important to be prepared and respectful of the local environment and culture.

• Respect Local Culture: Makoko is a close-knit community. Be polite, ask for permission before taking photos of people, and engage respectfully.
• Dress Appropriately: Opt for modest and comfortable clothing.
• Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Like any busy area in a major city, it's wise to be vigilant. Keep an eye on your belongings.
• Bargain for Fares: While canoe fares within Makoko are generally fixed and low, for Keke Napep or Okada rides to the entry points, it's good practice to confirm the fare before you embark.
• Prepare for Water Travel: If you plan to explore the floating community, be ready to board a canoe. Life jackets might not always be readily available, so exercise caution.
• Visit with a Guide (Optional but Recommended): Especially for first-time visitors, having a local guide can enhance your experience, help you navigate, and provide deeper insights into the community.
• Protect Valuables: Keep your phone, wallet, and other valuables secure and out of sight.
• Cash is King: While some places might accept transfers, cash is the most accepted form of payment for transport and local purchases.

Makoko offers a unique glimpse into Lagosian life, showcasing incredible adaptability and community spirit. With this guide, you should be well-equipped to locate and navigate this fascinating part of Lagos.

Recommended Reads

• How to travel from Ikeja to Makoko
• How to travel from Lekki Phase 1 to Makoko
• Where is CMS Marina Located in Lagos? LGA, Landmarks & Transport Guide