Calabar - Discovering Nigeria

Travelling to Calabar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Calabar, a pretty good destination in Nigeria (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Calabar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Calabar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Nigeria, here's everything to know about Calabar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Calabar

Calabar is a city located in southeastern Nigeria. It is the capital of Cross River State and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nigeria. The city has a rich history and is known for its cultural festivals, including the annual Calabar Carnival. It is also home to several tourist attractions, including the Slave History Museum, Marina Resort, and Tinapa Resort. Calabar has a tropical climate, with rainfall throughout the year and an average temperature of 26°C. The official language is English, but Efik is also widely spoken. The city has a relatively low crime rate, making it a safe destination for travelers.

What to visit in Calabar

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Calabar, Nigeria: 1. Obudu Mountain Resort: Located in Obudu, this resort is a popular destination with a cable car that takes tourists on a scenic ride to the top of the mountain. Visitors can go hiking, horseback riding, and enjoy the natural scenery. It also has an awesome waterpark.
2. Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort: This resort is located in Calabar and features an artificial beach, waterpark, cinema, shopping mall, and more. It is a great place for families to spend time together.
3. Calabar Museum: This museum is located in Calabar and showcases the local culture and history. You can learn about the slave trade, colonial history, and the rich cultural heritage of the people of Cross River state.
4. Kwa Falls: This beautiful waterfall is located a few miles outside Calabar. Visitors can swim, take pictures, or enjoy a picnic in the surrounding area.
5. Cross River National Park: This is a protected area of rainforest and wildlife located in Calabar. Visitors can go on a safari or take a guided hiking tour to see some of the rare species of animals and plants in this area.
6. Drill Ranch: This is a sanctuary for drill monkeys, an endangered species of primate found in the rainforests of Nigeria and Cameroon. Visitors can learn about these amazing creatures and even sponsor one as a way of supporting their conservation.
7. Mary Slessor House: This historical site is located in Calabar and showcases the life and work of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who lived and worked in Calabar in the late 19th century. It is a great place to learn about the history of Christian missions in Nigeria.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Nigeria, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Calabar.

When to go on holiday to Calabar

The best time to visit Calabar, Nigeria is during the dry season between the months of November to February, when the temperature is cooler and there is less rainfall. However, there are also some festivals and events that take place during the rainy season between June and October, such as the Calabar Carnival which is held in December. Just be prepared for higher temperatures and more humidity during the rainy season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Calabar

Calabar can be easily reached by air or road.
By Air: The city of Calabar has an international airport, the Margaret Ekpo International Airport. Domestic airlines in Nigeria such as Arik Air, Dana Air, and Air Peace have regular flights to Calabar from Lagos and Abuja. There are also direct flights from some West African countries such as Ghana and Equatorial Guinea.
By Road: Calabar can also be reached by road from various parts of Nigeria. Buses and taxis run regularly from major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. The journey time can vary depending on your starting point but you should expect it to take at least 10 to 12 hours.
I hope that helps. Let me know if you need any further assistance.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Calabar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Calabar

Sure, here are some typical foods from Calabar along with short descriptions: 1. Edikang Ikong: A soup made with a combination of leafy vegetables, mostly pumpkin leaves (Ikong Ubong) and water leaves (Gbure), often accompanied with Garri or Fufu.
2. Efere Afang: A soup made with a combination of Afang leaf, Water leaves or Ukazi leaf and other condiments. It's usually served with fufu or Garri.
3. Editan soup: Made with the popular African salad, Editan, snails, dry fish, periwinkles and other ingredients. This soup is famous among the Efik and Ibibios people of Calabar.
4. Atama soup: Made with Atama (palm nut extract) as the base ingredient. Often times it is prepared with fish, meat or stockfish and eaten alongside Fufu or Garri.
5. Ekpang Nkukwo: Ekpang Nkukwo is a special delicacy in Kalabari land. It is made with grated cocoyam and water yam, spices and periwinkles. It is usually eaten as a standalone meal or accompanied by Moi Moi.
6. Obok Atem: This is a meal served during special occasions such as weddings and festivals in Calabar. It is a mixture of boiled beans and plantain served alongside different kinds of meat, with a spicy sauce poured over the top.
I hope this helps to give you a sense of the typical foods in Calabar, Nigeria.
You can find general info about typical foods in Nigeria here.

Is Calabar an expensive destination for tourists?

Calabar, Nigeria can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other destinations within the country. The cost of accommodation, transportation, and food is higher compared to other Nigerian cities like Lagos or Abuja. However, the prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and the time of year. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning your trip to Calabar.

Where to find accomodation in Calabar

The areas in Calabar that are recommended for accommodation options depend on your travel preferences and your budget. However, some of the popular and safe areas to stay in Calabar include Marina Resort, Tinapa Resort, and the central business district. These areas are close to major attractions such as the Calabar Museum, Slave Trade Museum, and the Calabar Botanical Garden. You can also find a range of hotel options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, in these areas. I recommend researching and booking in advance to get the best deals and availability.
You can check hotel prices at Calabar here:
Booking.com

Is Calabar a safe destination for tourists?

Calabar is generally considered a safe place for tourists in Nigeria. However, as with any other place, visitors should exercise reasonable caution and stay alert to their surroundings, especially at night. It is advisable to avoid walking alone in unfamiliar or poorly lit areas, and to avoid traveling after dark whenever possible. Additionally, visitors should be cautious when using public transportation and should take appropriate measures to protect their belongings. Overall, with the right precautions, Calabar can be a wonderful and safe destination for travelers.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Nigeria here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Calabar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Calabar the most?

Calabar is a great destination for families and young people looking for fun because of the various tourist sights and activities available. It offers a mix of entertainment, history, and culture.
For families, there are many places to visit such as the Slave History Museum, the National Museum, Tinapa Resort, and the Calabar Botanical Gardens. These places offer educational tours that can teach kids about history, culture, and nature.
For young people, Calabar offers a vibrant nightlife scene with bars and clubs that offer a variety of music, drinks, and entertainment. Some popular spots include the Marina Resort, Watt Market, and the Carnival Calabar.
Couples can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of Calabar, taking a walk along the waterfront of the Calabar River or taking a tour of the Kwa falls. The city also offers romantic restaurants with delicious local and international cuisine.
Therefore, Calabar has something for everyone and is an excellent destination for travelers with different interests and preferences.

How to get around Calabar

The most common modes of transportation in Calabar are taxis, buses, and motorcycles (known locally as "okadas"). It is also possible to rent a car if you prefer to have your own transportation. However, it is important to note that traffic can be quite congested in Calabar, so it may be easier to use taxis or hire a driver.

What to see around Calabar

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Calabar: 1. Obudu Mountain Resort - A popular destination for its natural beauty, wildlife, and breathtaking views.
2. Agbokim Waterfalls - A series of seven cascading waterfalls located in a lush rainforest. 3. Tinapa Business and Leisure Resort - A world-class integrated business and leisure resort, featuring retail, gaming, and entertainment facilities.
4. Kwa Falls - A serene waterfall located in a beautiful jungle environment.
5. Drill Ranch - A conservation center where visitors can see endangered primates such as the Drill monkey up close.
6. Marina Resort - A popular spot for families with children, featuring a large playground, mini zoo, and picnic areas.
7. Calabar Museum- A must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts, with exhibits that chronicle the heritage and traditions of the state. I hope you find this helpful and enjoy your trip!
For every travel information about Nigeria you can click here.

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