Eket Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and where to eat and stay in Eket, Nigeria. Plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Eket

Eket is a city in the southern part of Nigeria, located in Akwa Ibom State. The city is home to lively markets, magnificent natural attractions, culturally significant landmarks, and a welcoming local community eager to share their history and traditions with visitors. Whether you are a fan of outdoor adventures, exploring historical sites or just soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of a new place, Eket has it all.

This comprehensive travel guide will help you plan your trip to Eket, Nigeria. We have rounded up the best attractions, activities, where to stay and eat, cultural tips and much more to help you make the most of your visit.

List of Places to Visit in Eket

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Eket has a rich cultural history, and there are several museums and historical attractions worth visiting. Some of the must-see landmarks include:

Ibeno Beach

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a trip to the stunning Ibeno Beach, located near Eket. This long and beautiful strip of beach is great for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach has a serene atmosphere, and you can enjoy the view of the Atlantic Ocean.

Eket Central Market

Eket Central Market is bustling with vendors selling everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts and textiles. This vibrant marketplace provides a glimpse into local life and is known for its friendly vendors and unique finds.

Oyotunji African Village

Oyotunji African Village is a cultural center and community that serves to promote traditional Yoruba culture. Visitors can see traditional Yoruba architecture and learn about the history of the Yoruba people through displays of artifacts and traditional ceremonies.

Eket Museum

Eket Museum showcases the traditional art and culture of the people of Akwa Ibom State. The museum boasts a large collection of masks, carvings, textiles, and other cultural artifacts. Guided tours are available but must be booked in advance.

Natural Attractions of Eket: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Eket has breathtaking natural attractions that are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy trekking, hiking, or bird watching, there is something for every nature lover in Eket. Here are some of our favorite natural attractions to visit:

The Plateau

The Plateau is a beautiful location in Eket for hiking and picnicking. The Plateau offers a fantastic view of the Eket township and is perfect for enjoying the sunset.

Akwa Ibom State Forest Reserve

The Akwa Ibom State Forest Reserve is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts who love trekking and wildlife watching. The reserve is home to various species of monkeys, birds, reptiles and several rare plants.

Ibom Oasis

The Ibom Oasis is a serene and idyllic location in Eket that boasts rushing streams, towering trees, and hiking paths. It is an excellent place to relax and reinvigorate.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Eket

Eket offers some of the best hiking and biking trails in Nigeria. Here’s a list of routes to try:

  • The Plateau hiking trail
  • Ibom Oasis hiking trail
  • Akwa Ibom State Forest Reserve trekking route

Best Things to Do in Eket: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Eket, here are some popular activities and tours:

  • Ibeno Beach Water Sports: Surfing and Swimming
  • Guided tours of the Eket Museum
  • Cultural walking tours of Eket city
  • Birdwatching in the wildlife reserves

Week-Long Itinerary for Eket

If you’re planning to spend a week in Eket, here’s a sample itinerary that covers some of the best attractions in the city:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Eket Museum and Central Market
Day 2 Explore the Plateau and go hiking
Day 3 Head to Ibeno Beach and enjoy water sports
Day 4 Visit the Akwa Ibom State Forest Reserve and go trekking
Day 5 Cultural walking tour of Eket city
Day 6 Visit Oyotunji African Village
Day 7 Shopping for souvenirs at the Central Market

Food and Drink Scene of Eket

Must-Try Dishes

Eket’s local cuisine consists mostly of cassava, yam, plantain, and seafood. Here are some must-try dishes:

  • Edikang Ikong Soup: Made with a blend of pumpkin leaves and waterleaf, served with fufu or eba.
  • Afang Soup: Made with vegetables and meat or fish, served with fufu or eba.
  • Ekpang Nkukwo: A popular native delicacy made with cocoyam, grated coconut, and spices.

Local Beverages

For a unique drinking experience, here are some local beverages to try:

  • Palm wine: Fermented sap from the palm tree
  • Zobo: A refreshing drink made from Hibiscus flower
  • Kunu: A traditional drink made from grains

Where to Stay in Eket: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Eket offers several accommodation options catering to all budgets. Here are some of the best options:

  • Royal Billiant Hotels and Suites
  • Blue Park Hotel
  • Esit Uruk Eshie Guest House
  • Orion International Guest House

What to Buy in Eket: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

If you’re looking for gifts for your loved ones or souvenirs to take home, consider buying:

  • Handmade crafts and textiles from the Central Market
  • Wooden carvings and masks from the Eket Museum
  • Traditional Yoruba clothing from Oyotunji African Village

Local Culture and Customs of Eket

The people of Eket are known for their hospitality and friendly demeanor. Here are some customs and etiquette to keep in mind:

  • Greet everyone you meet with a smile and a handshake.
  • Dress modestly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
  • Always ask for permission before taking photographs or videos of people.

Best Time to Visit Eket

The best time to visit Eket is during the dry season, from November to April. The weather is warm and sunny, and there’s a low chance of rain. From May to October is the rainy season, which could make outdoor activities more challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Eket

Do:

  • Try local cuisines and beverages
  • Respect the customs and traditions of the local people
  • Ask for permission before taking photos or videos of people

Don’t:

  • Use your left hand to give or receive things as it is considered impolite
  • Dress in revealing clothes when visiting religious or cultural places
  • Litter or damage natural attractions

Safety and Health

Safety in Eket

Eket is generally safe for visitors. However, as with any city, it is advisable to avoid walking alone at night and not to carry large sums of money with you.

Health in Eket

Visitors are advised to drink only bottled or boiled water and to use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites that could cause malaria.

Getting to Eket: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Eket

The nearest airport to Eket is the Akwa Ibom International Airport, located in Uyo, around an hour’s drive from Eket.

Bus Stations Near Eket

Several bus companies operate services to Eket from neighboring cities like Uyo and Calabar.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are available in Eket to move around the city.

How to Get Around in Eket

The best way to get around Eket is by driving or taking a taxi. Car rentals are available, but it is essential to clarify the terms and conditions before-hand.

Where to Go Next from Eket: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Eket, visitors can plan for excursions to:

  • The Ikot Abasi Beach
  • The Mary Slessor Home in Calabar
  • The National Museum in Calabar

Conclusion

Eket has something for everyone, from outdoor adventures to cultural landmarks and fantastic cuisine. We’ve provided a comprehensive guide to help you plan your visit to Eket, offering you insights into the best places to visit, things to do, where to eat and stay, and how to make the most of your trip to this beautiful Nigerian city.