Bakassi Travel Guide

Explore the best places to visit, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, and more in Bakassi, Nigeria. Plan your trip with this ultimate travel guide.


Introduction to Bakassi

Bakassi is a small peninsula in Cross River State, Nigeria, located in the South-South region of Nigeria. Despite its small size, Bakassi is known for its exotic flora and fauna, sandy beaches, and waterways. It is home to several fishing communities and is known for its unique culture and traditions. The area was once a source of dispute between Nigeria and Cameroon but has been under Nigerian control since 2008.

List of Places to Visit in Bakassi

Here is a list of places to visit in Bakassi during your trip:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mary Slessor’s House: This historical site was the residence of Mary Slessor, a Scottish missionary who worked in Nigeria from 1876 until her death in 1915.
  • The Calabar Museum of Slavery: This museum showcases the dark history of the transatlantic slave trade in Nigeria, including the role of Cross River Province in the trade.
  • Obutong Beach: This beach is known for its stunning scenery, and it is perfect for swimming, picnics, and relaxation.
  • Ibeno Beach: This beach is an ideal location for outdoor activities such as surfing, swimming, and sunbathing.

Natural Attractions of Bakassi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cross River National Park: Located in the southeast of Nigeria, this park is known for its unique biodiversity, with over 1,500 plant species, 300 bird species, and 40 mammal species.
  • Kwa Falls: This beautiful waterfall is located in Akamkpa, Nigeria, and is a popular spot for picnics and swimming.
  • The Drill Ranch: This sanctuary is home to the endangered Drill monkey, and visitors can learn about the work of conservationists in protecting the rare primate.
  • The Caves of Akampka: These natural caves are located in Akamkpa and are a popular spot for tourists looking to explore.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bakassi

Bakassi offers several hiking and biking routes for adventure enthusiasts. Some of the most popular routes are:

  • The Cross River National Park Trails
  • The Kwa Waterfall Trail
  • The Obudu Mountain Tour
  • The Drill Ranch Nature Walk

Best Things to Do in Bakassi: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to take in Bakassi:

  • River Safari on the Cross River
  • Tour of the Calabar Free Trade Zone
  • Visit to the famous Calabar Carnival
  • Canopy Walk at the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary

Week-Long Itinerary for Bakassi

Day 1: Arrival in Calabar, explore the city Day 2: Visit the Cross River National Park Day 3: Visit the Drill Ranch and Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary Day 4: Explore the city of Calabar, visit the Calabar Free Trade Zone Day 5: Visit the Caves of Akampka and Kwa Waterfall Day 6: River safari on the Cross River Day 7: Departure from Calabar

Food and Drink Scene of Bakassi

Nigeria is known for its diverse cuisine, and Bakassi is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Jollof Rice: This dish is a staple in Nigerian cuisine and is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a unique blend of spices.
  • Suya: This is a popular street food made of grilled meat seasoned with a spicy blend of ground peanuts, cayenne pepper, and other spices.
  • Afang Soup: This delicious soup is made with Afang leaves and a variety of meats and fish.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: This drink is made from the sap of the Palmyra palm tree
  • Zobo: This drink is made from the calyx of the Hibiscus plant and is served cold.

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

Bakassi offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from hotels to guesthouses. Some of the best options include:

  • Tinapa Lakeside Hotel
  • Calabar Harbour Resort and Spa
  • Obudu Mountain Resort

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

Bakassi is home to several markets that sell local products such as handicrafts, art, and textiles. Here are some places to check out for souvenirs:

  • Watt Market, Calabar
  • Marian Market, Calabar

Local Culture and Customs of Bakassi

The people of Bakassi are primarily Efik and Ibibio, with a mix of other cultures due to its history as a trading hub. The people of Bakassi are known for their hospitality, and their festivals and cultural celebrations, including the Calabar Carnival, which is a major attraction in Nigeria.

Best Time to Visit Bakassi

The best time to visit Bakassi is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. The weather is usually sunny, and there are no rains to disrupt travel activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bakassi

Do:

  • Respect the customs and traditions of the local people.
  • Dress modestly when visiting cultural or religious sites.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Take pictures without asking first
  • Overstay your visa or travel documents.
  • Engage in activities that are illegal or dangerous.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bakassi

Bakassi is generally safe for tourists, but you should always take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. It is advisable to avoid traveling alone at night and to keep valuables in a safe place.

Health in Bakassi

Visitors to Bakassi should ensure they have all necessary vaccinations and medications before traveling. It is also advisable to drink bottled or purified water during your stay.

Getting to Bakassi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Bakassi can be accessed through air, water, and road transportation. Here are some logistics and transportation options:

Airports Near Bakassi

  • Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar, Nigeria

Bus Stations Near Bakassi

  • Calabar Bus Terminal (Ibom Motor Park)

Other Options

  • Rent a Car – rent a car option is also available in Calabar.
  • Ferry – You can travel to Bakassi through the Cross River from Calabar or Marina.

How to Get Around in Bakassi

The best way to get around Bakassi is to hire a car or use taxi services. You can also use the local motorcycle taxis known as Okada, which are popular in Nigeria.

Where to Go Next from Bakassi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bakassi is located in the vibrant South-South region of Nigeria, which offers several exciting destinations and excursions. Here are some nearby destinations to explore:

  • Obudu Mountain Resort
  • Tinapa Business Resort
  • The Drill Ranch
  • Calabar

Conclusion

Bakassi is a small but beautiful peninsula in the South-South region of Nigeria, with lots of exciting places to visit, food to try, and things to do. This comprehensive travel guide has provided all the information you need to plan and execute a fulfilling trip to Bakassi. Whether you are traveling for business or leisure, Bakassi is definitely worth a visit.