Akwa Ibom State Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, food to try, and activities to do in Akwa Ibom State. Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom is a beautiful state located in the South Southern region of Nigeria. The state is blessed with natural resources, a rich cultural heritage, unique tourist attractions, and friendly people. If you are planning a visit to Akwa Ibom State, this comprehensive guide will help you discover the best places to visit, things to do, and food and drink to try.

List of Places to Visit in Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom State has many attractions, ranging from historic sites to natural wonders. Here is a list of the top places to visit in Akwa Ibom State.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum of Colonial History: This museum has a rich collection of artifacts that showcase the colonial history of Nigeria. It is located in the capital city, Uyo.
  • Ibom E-Library and Gardens: This is a modern library that has a digital center, cinema, and beautiful gardens. It is located in Uyo.
  • Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly: This is the legislative arm of the state government, located in Uyo. The complex houses a museum that showcases the history of the state government in Nigeria.
  • Ibeno Beach: This is a long stretch of sandy beach located in Ibeno. The beach is suitable for swimming and relaxing. There are also beachside restaurants and bars.
  • Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is home to chimpanzees, gorillas, and other primates. It is located in Akampa, about 50 kilometers from Uyo.

Natural Attractions of Akwa Ibom State: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Amalgamation House: This is the historic house where the British merged the Southern and Northern protectorates of Nigeria in 1914. It is located in Ikot Abasi.
  • Ibom Plaza: This is a popular shopping mall in the heart of Uyo. It has a beautiful fountain and park, and is a great place to relax.
  • The Ibom Connection: This is a suspension bridge that connects Ibeno and Esit Eket. It provides a spectacular view of the Atlantic Ocean.
  • The Ibeno Sandbar: This is a natural sandbar located at the mouth of the Qua Iboe River. It is a great place for birdwatching and boat tours.
  • The Obudu Mountain Resort: This is a luxurious resort that is located on the Obudu Plateau, near the Cameroon border. It has beautiful scenery, hiking trails, and a cable car that provides a panoramic view of the landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Akwa Ibom State

There are several hiking and biking routes in Akwa Ibom State, ranging from easy to difficult. Here are some popular routes:

  • The Mary Slessor Trail: This is a hiking trail that follows the footsteps of the Scottish missionary who lived in Calabar in the 19th century. The trail is about 20 kilometers long and passes through historic sites and scenic views.
  • The Mfon Abasi cycling challenge: This is an annual event that attracts cyclists from all over Nigeria. The route covers about 50 kilometers of scenic terrain.

Best Things to Do in Akwa Ibom State: Activities and Tours

There are many activities and tours to do in Akwa Ibom State. Here are some ideas:

  • Visit the beaches: Akwa Ibom State has some of the best beaches in Nigeria. Ibeno Beach and Eket Beach are both great spots to relax and soak up the sun.
  • Go on a boat tour: The state is surrounded by water, so taking a boat tour is a great way to explore. There are many tour operators in Uyo that offer boat tours.
  • Visit the markets: Uyo has several colorful markets that sell everything from fresh produce to handicrafts. The Itam Market and the Mile 2 market are both great places to visit.
  • Attend a cultural festival: Akwa Ibom State has a rich cultural heritage, and there are several festivals that celebrate this. The Ekpe festival, which takes place in Calabar and Uyo, is one of the most important cultural festivals in Nigeria.

Week-Long Itinerary for Akwa Ibom State

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Akwa Ibom State:

  • Day 1: Arrive in Uyo, visit the Ibom E-Library and Gardens, and have dinner in a local restaurant.
  • Day 2: Visit the National Museum of Colonial History and the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.
  • Day 3: Take a boat tour of the Qua Iboe River and the Ibeno Sandbar.
  • Day 4: Hike the Mary Slessor Trail and have lunch in a local restaurant.
  • Day 5: Relax on Ibeno Beach and have dinner at a beachside restaurant.
  • Day 6: Visit the Obudu Mountain Resort and take a cable car ride.
  • Day 7: Attend a cultural festival in Uyo or Calabar.

Food and Drink Scene of Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom State has a rich culinary tradition, with many delicious dishes and local beverages to try. Here are some must-try dishes and drinks:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Afang Soup: This is a popular soup made with vegetables, meat, and fish.
  • Ekpang Nkukwo: This is a dish made with grated cocoyam and vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. It is usually served with fish or meat.
  • Edikang Ikong: This is another popular soup made with vegetables, meat, and fish.

Local Beverages

  • Palm wine: This is an alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees.
  • Zobo: This is a refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers.

Where to Stay in Akwa Ibom State: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many accommodation options in Akwa Ibom State, ranging from luxury resorts to budget guesthouses. Here are some options:

  • Le Meridien Ibom Golf Resort: This is a luxury resort located in Uyo. It has a golf course, swimming pool, and other amenities.
  • Ibom Hotel and Golf Resort: This is another luxury resort located in Uyo. It has a spa, fitness center, and conference facilities.
  • The Monty Suites: This is a mid-range hotel located in Uyo. It has comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
  • De Ritz Hotel: This is a budget hotel located in Uyo. It has clean rooms and a restaurant.
  • Guesthouses: There are many guesthouses in Akwa Ibom State that are affordable and comfortable.

What to Buy in Akwa Ibom State: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Akwa Ibom State has many local products that make great souvenirs. These include:

  • Handicrafts: There are many skilled artisans in Akwa Ibom State who make beautiful handicrafts such as baskets, pottery, and wood carvings.
  • Fabrics: Akwa Ibom State has a rich textile tradition, and there are many shops that sell colorful fabrics such as akwete and adire.
  • Local food products: You can also buy local food products such as garri and palm oil.

Local Culture and Customs of Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom State has a rich cultural heritage, with many customs and traditions that are still observed today. The people are known for their hospitality and welcoming nature, and visitors are often treated like family. However, there are some customs and taboos to be aware of, such as not pointing with your fingers, and not whistling at night.

Best Time to Visit Akwa Ibom State

The best time to visit Akwa Ibom State is between November and February, when the weather is cooler and drier. March and April are also good months to visit, as the rainfall is not too heavy. May to October is the rainy season, so it is best to avoid this period if possible.

Do’s and Don’ts of Akwa Ibom State

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Akwa Ibom State:

Do:

  • Dress modestly and respect local customs.
  • Ask permission before taking photographs.
  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water.
  • Use illegal drugs.
  • Disrespect local customs or beliefs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Akwa Ibom State

Akwa Ibom State is generally a safe place to visit, with low levels of crime. However, visitors should take normal precautions such as not carrying too much cash or valuables, being aware of their surroundings, and avoiding isolated areas at night.

Health in Akwa Ibom State

Visitors to Akwa Ibom State should take basic health precautions such as getting vaccinated and using mosquito repellent. Malaria is prevalent in Nigeria, so visitors should take appropriate measures to protect themselves.

Getting to Akwa Ibom State: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Akwa Ibom State

  • Akwa Ibom International Airport: This is the main airport serving the state, located in Uyo. It has flights to many major cities in Nigeria, as well as international destinations such as Dubai.

Bus Stations Near Akwa Ibom State

  • God Is Good Motors: This is a reputable bus company that operates services to and from major cities in Nigeria.
  • Cross Country Motors: This is another bus company that operates services to and from major cities in Nigeria.

Other Options

  • Taxis: Taxis are a common mode of transportation in Akwa Ibom State, especially in Uyo.
  • Car rental: Visitors can also rent cars from local companies or international chains.

How to Get Around in Akwa Ibom State

The best way to get around Akwa Ibom State is by taxi or car. Taxis are readily available in Uyo and other major cities, while car rental companies are also available. Visitors can also take public buses, but this can be challenging for first-time visitors.

Where to Go Next from Akwa Ibom State: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions that visitors to Akwa Ibom State might be interested in:

  • Calabar: This historic city is located about 150 kilometers from Uyo. It has a rich colonial history and is known for its culture and festivals.
  • Lagos: Lagos is Nigeria’s largest city, located about 1000 kilometers from Uyo. It is a vibrant, bustling city with many attractions.
  • Cameroon: Akwa Ibom State is located near the Cameroon border, and visitors can take a short trip across the border.

Conclusion

Akwa Ibom State is an amazing destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find plenty to do in Akwa Ibom State. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty and wonder of this amazing state.



    Eket
    Etinan
    Ibeno
    Ikot Abasi
    Mkpat-Enin
    Nsit Ibom
    Nsit-Ubium
    Oron
    Upenekang