In an age where we have begun to value and prioritize our mental health, the need for a work-life balance cannot be overemphasized. Thankfully these days there are quite a number of activities guaranteed to relieve stress and create fun. However, not a lot of people know about them, and some who do aren’t motivated enough to try them out for varying reasons like costs, schedule, and habit if we’re being honest because it can be difficult to break out of that workaholic routine.

In light of that, we’ve listed 10 fun and affordable activities every working-class Nigerian should do, and we are not taking no for an answer.

1.           Kayaking

Kayaking is an adventurous and fun water sport that involves paddling a kayak across a river, lake, stream, or the Atlantic. Kayaking should be on your bucket list of adventurous things to do in Lagos, especially if you have a fear of water because it not only helps you in conquering your fears whilst giving you an unforgettable experience in the process, it is quite safe and easy to do.

Unlike other water sporting activities that require technical skills, rigorous training, or experience, Kayaking is easy to learn. With a few instructions and guidance, you are ready to paddle away. In addition, the kayaking gear is just as important as the sport itself. They include a life jacket, kayak, first aid kit, whistle, helmet, and kayak paddle.

The best time to kayak is usually between 9 am and 5 pm. There are numerous Kayaking spots in Lagos. They include La Campagne, Omu Resort, Kampari Tours, Landmark Beach, Lagos Kayak, Whispering Palms, and Tarkwa Bay.

2.           Hiking

Would you believe that hiking is the new best thing to do amongst Nigerians? You would think that most people would be averse to the idea of taking long walks up hills and rocks on a weekend after a rather strenuous week but you would be surprised, and rightly so. Hiking is a  healthy lifestyle that produces a truly happy body, mind, and soul. Hiking and trekking are cheap and easy ways to stay fit while offering numerous other health benefits and fitness solutions. From beautiful landscapes to nature’s very own abundance of serenity and pure goodness, here are some of the best hiking and trekking trails Nigeria has to offer.

3          Chill at a beach resort

Nothing says I deserve the good things in life and I’m here for it more than a staycation at a beach resort. Just you, the sun, sky, ocean, and everything the beach has to offer for as long as you want.

Beach resorts are a good destination for much-needed reprieve if one needs to feel recharged and rejuvenated. In addition, they serve as great spots for private parties and celebrations.

4.          Wine & Dine

There is a universally accepted truth amongst Nigerians and we are here to reiterate it. Food is everything! One of the best ways to have a good time is to give yourself a culinary treat. Go out and eat, and drink!

There are so many restaurants to choose from. At this point, we recommend a food/restaurant tour. Carve out time to visit a different restaurant per week/weekend/month.

5.           Visit An Art Gallery

Art is beauty come alive and stories untold brought to life through the expressions of creative’s – in drawings, paintings, sculptures and so much more. There is no shortage of museums and galleries to visit to peruse and appreciate art in Lagos. Most popular is the Nike Art Gallery.

Founded by the legendary Oyenike Monica Okundaye Nike Art Gallery houses spectacular and unique art and also serves as an artist retreat and workshop, and a haven for creators and lovers of art.

The best part is entry to the gallery is free, although you’ll have the opportunity to make a purchase should something catch your eye – and we guarantee you that something will.

6.            Walk With Nature

You’ll find that the Lekki Conservation Centre is one of the most visited places in Lagos and that’s no surprise, to us. The Lekki Conservation Centre is a huge expansion of green like something out of a movie. It is a perfect contrast to the concrete and blocks that dominate the rest of the city. It’s a serene oasis of nature, tranquility, and wildlife tucked inside one of the world’s most congested cities.

You’ll be sure to see monkeys, birds, and fish on an organized tour through the center, where you’ll walk on planks over mangroves, learning about the fauna and flora which are native to the area.

In addition, you get to test your mettle via the longest canopy walkway in Africa, which will allow you to experience the forest from a different angle – and you get points for courage afterward!

7.           Sip & Paint

We’re not sure we can accurately summarize the amazing experience that a sip and paint party offers but we’ll try.  Basically, a group of people come together to drink wine or other beverages and paint artwork. There’s usually an instructor who guides the attendees on how and what to paint so don’t worry if you failed art class back in school. The whole experience is geared towards unlocking your inner Picasso, and it always works. Except you have a little too much wine.

Overall, it is a great way to meet and bond with people while unlocking or rediscovering your artistic side.

8.         Cultural & Historical Tours

Another great way to unwind and have fun in Lagos city is to go on tours. Thankfully there are no limits to what you can learn about Nigerian culture and history. A trip to the historic town of Badagry would enable you to explore relics of this unfortunate chapter of Nigerian (and world) history at the Badagry Black Heritage Museum.

Badagry is also a charming town in its own right and has several different beaches.  You can also tour the nearby Epe Mangroves! There you’ll find a smaller Yoruba community very different than Lagos, including a fascinating fish market you can peruse. There is also the floating town of Makoko to explore, as well as a variety of bus tours.

9.           Music & Vibes at Afrikan Shrine

Afrikan Shrine, an entertainment center built by the famous late musician Fela Kuti, is like the Nigerian coliseum of music and entertainment. It showcases some of Fela’s artwork and also serves as a community center. It is a great place to visit during the day, but it is even better to explore at night especially during one of the Shrine’s weekend concert events. For an unforgettable treat, visit the Afrikan Shrine in Ikeja during the annual Felabration festival and feel the Shrine pulse with Afrobeats.

10.             Paintballing

Paintballing is a competitive team shooting sport in which players eliminate opponents from play by hitting them with paintballs that break upon impact.  It is a great activity to try with friends and colleagues as a  team-bonding exercise.   Although it is not exactly a mainstream activity in this part of the world, Paintballing (and other extreme sporting/team-building activities) has a dedicated following in Nigeria, especially in Lagos State. It helps with physical and mental development and if you’re not sure you want to indulge in getting your adrenaline fix via paintballing, just picture shooting all those paintballs at a friend or colleague who has been getting on your nerves recently. Absolutely therapeutic

Thanks to this list you are officially out of excuses for not doing anything fun or worthwhile to balance your work life. You’re welcome. We implore you to make a habit of indulging in these activities henceforth. However, if you have before, we would love for you to share your experience with us via the comment section below.