The short answer
For West Africa, decide your cabin and your dates first, then compare direct and connecting flights from London and the regions. Check visa and health requirements for Nigeria, Ghana or The Gambia before you pay, and ask about flexible fares if your plans may change.
The main West African gateways
Four cities cover most journeys from the UK to West Africa. Each has its own airlines, busy periods and entry rules, so it is worth comparing more than one if your plans are flexible.
| Country | City and airport code | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Nigeria | Lagos (LOS) | Nigeria's largest city and a major business centre |
| Nigeria | Abuja (ABV) | The capital; often used for government and business trips |
| Ghana | Accra (ACC) | Ghana's capital and main international gateway |
| The Gambia | Banjul (BJL) | The Gambia's main international airport |
You can start a search for any of them from our flight search, or call 0800 007 4114 and a consultant will compare the options for you.
Choosing economy, premium economy or business
Many travellers on these routes choose a higher cabin for comfort, extra baggage or lounge access. Whether a flat bed matters depends on the aircraft and the flight time on your date, so ask which aircraft is operating before you decide. Compare what each fare includes, not just the headline price. Our guide to business class flights for less explains how to compare cabins.
Flexible fares for changing plans
Business trips, family events and weddings often move. A fare that cannot be changed may cost more in the end if your dates shift. Ask what it costs to change the date, whether the ticket is refundable and whether the name can be corrected, and compare a flexible fare with a cheaper fixed one.
Entry rules for Nigeria, Ghana and The Gambia
Entry requirements depend on your passport and the purpose of your trip, and they change. Check the official GOV.UK Nigeria, Ghana and The Gambia travel advice before you pay for flights, and use the official government application site for any visa or authorisation you need. Check your passport validity too.
Health and travel insurance
Some countries ask for proof of vaccination, such as yellow fever, and others recommend vaccines or malaria precautions. Check TravelHealthPro and speak to a health professional well before you travel. Take out travel insurance that suits your itinerary; see the official GOV.UK travel insurance guidance.
When demand is highest
Demand rises over the UK school holidays and the Christmas and New Year period, when many people travel for family occasions and events. Book earlier for those dates. Our guide to the best time to book flights explains how to plan around them.
Airport assistance and lounges
If you want a smoother airport experience, tell your consultant. Lounge access, fast-track and assistance services depend on the airline, the airport and your fare, so we confirm what applies to your booking before you pay.
Book your West Africa flights
Send your route and dates through the flight search or call 0800 007 4114. A UK-based consultant confirms the live fare, baggage and change rules before you pay. Need somewhere to stay? See our hotels and holiday packages pages.
Fares, baggage rules and entry requirements change. Always confirm current details with the airline and the official sources linked above before you travel.