Cross River National Park Travel Guide
Explore the natural and cultural attractions of Cross River National Park. Discover top things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get there in this comprehensive travel guide.
- Introduction to Cross River National Park
- List of Places to Visit in Cross River National Park
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Cross River National Park
- Kwa Falls Trail
- Obudu Plateau Trail
- Best Things to Do in Cross River National Park: Activities and Tours
- Canoe Rides
- Cultural Tours
- Week-Long Itinerary for Cross River National Park
- Food and Drink Scene of Cross River National Park
- Where to Stay in Cross River National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- Obudu Mountain Resort
- JiJi Greentree Hotel
- What to Buy in Cross River National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Traditional Fabrics and Clothing
- Handcrafted Items
- Local Culture and Customs of Cross River National Park
- Best Time to Visit Cross River National Park
- Do’s and Don’ts of Cross River National Park
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Cross River National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Cross River National Park
- Where to Go Next from Cross River National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Lagos
- Jos
- Conclusion
Introduction to Cross River National Park
Cross River National Park is a beautiful nature conservation area located in Cross River State, Nigeria. Spanning over 4000 square kilometers, the park is known for its diverse wildlife, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage. The park is divided into two sections, the Oban Hills and the Okwangwo Division. Both regions offer visitors a unique experience of the natural and cultural wonders of Nigeria.
List of Places to Visit in Cross River National Park
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
Cross River State Museum
Located in the city of Calabar, the Cross River State Museum is a great place to start exploring the history and culture of the region. The museum houses a vast collection of traditional artifacts and historical exhibits that tells the story of the diverse ethnic groups that occupy Cross River State.
Alok Ikom Monoliths
The Alok Ikom Monoliths are a group of carved stones located in the town of Ikom. These prehistoric sculptures are believed to have been created between the 6th and 12th centuries and are a testament to the early civilization of the area.
Natural Attractions of Cross River National Park: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Kwa Falls
Kwa Falls is a breathtaking cascade located in the Oban Hills division of the park. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and offers a great place for swimming, picnicking or relaxing.
Okwangwo Division
The Okwangwo Division of the park is a great place for exploring the natural beauty of the park. Visitors can take a guided tour of the forest, camp out under the stars, or take a hike to the top of Obudu Plateau.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Cross River National Park
Kwa Falls Trail
The Kwa Falls Trail is an easy 2km hike that takes you through the forest to the base of the Kwa waterfall. The trail offers incredible views of the park and is an excellent way to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Obudu Plateau Trail
The Obudu Plateau Trail is a more challenging hike that takes you to the top of the Obudu Plateau. The trail covers a distance of about 10km and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Best Things to Do in Cross River National Park: Activities and Tours
Canoe Rides
Taking a canoe ride on the Calabar River is an excellent way to explore the surrounding waterways and see the diverse wildlife in the park.
Cultural Tours
Visitors can take guided tours of the Oban Hills and Calabar to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Week-Long Itinerary for Cross River National Park
| Day | Activity |
|---|---|
| 1 | Explore Calabar city, visit the Cross River State Museum, and Alok Ikom Monoliths |
| 2 | Take a canoe ride on the Calabar River |
| 3 | Visit the Kwa Falls and take a short hike in the Oban Hills |
| 4 | Explore the Okwangwo Division of the park, take a guided forest tour, and camp out under the stars |
| 5 | Climb the Obudu Plateau |
| 6 | Take a cultural tour of the Oban Hills region |
| 7 | Relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the park, take a last-minute hike or swim. |
Food and Drink Scene of Cross River National Park
Must-Try Dishes
Edikang Ikong
Edikang Ikong is a traditional soup made with fresh vegetables, stockfish or dried fish, and crayfish. It is served with fufu, a starchy dough made from cassava, plantains, or yams.
Afang Soup
Afang soup is another popular dish in Cross River State. It is made with Afang leaves, a type of vegetable that is commonly found in the area, and served with fufu.
Local Beverages
Palm Wine
Palm wine is a traditional alcoholic drink made from the sap of palm trees. It is a popular beverage in Cross River State and has a slightly sweet flavor.
Kunu Drink
Kunu Drink is a non-alcoholic beverage made from millet, spices, and sugar. It is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot weather.
Where to Stay in Cross River National Park: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Obudu Mountain Resort
The Obudu Mountain Resort is a luxurious hotel located on the Obudu Plateau. The resort is surrounded by a stunning natural landscape and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, swimming pool, and golf course.
JiJi Greentree Hotel
The JiJi Greentree Hotel is a budget-friendly hotel located in Calabar. The hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a bar.
What to Buy in Cross River National Park: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Traditional Fabrics and Clothing
Cross River State is known for its vibrant and colorful fabrics, which are often used to make traditional clothing, such as shirts, dresses, and wrap-around skirts.
Handcrafted Items
Handcrafted items are popular souvenirs in Cross River State. These include items such as woven baskets, carved wooden sculptures, and beaded jewelry.
Local Culture and Customs of Cross River National Park
The people of Cross River State are proud of their rich cultural heritage and celebrate it in various ways throughout the year. Traditional dances, music, and festivals are an essential part of the local culture and offer visitors a unique glimpse into the rich local traditions of the area.
Best Time to Visit Cross River National Park
The best time to visit Cross River National Park is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and there is less chance of rain. However, be sure to pack warm clothing as temperatures can drop at night.
Do’s and Don’ts of Cross River National Park
Do:
- Follow park rules and regulations
- Respect the local culture and customs
- Stay on designated trails
- Bring appropriate clothing and gear
- Pack insect repellent and sunscreen
Don’t:
- Litter or disturb the natural environment
- Disturb wildlife
- Leave the designated trail
- Wear inappropriate clothing or gear
Safety and Health
Safety in Cross River National Park
The park is generally safe, but visitors should exercise caution when hiking in remote areas. Always hike with a guide and inform park officials of your itinerary.
Health in Cross River National Park
Visitors should take precautions against malaria, which is prevalent in the area. It is also recommended to get vaccinated against yellow fever and carry a mosquito net to prevent mosquito bites.
Getting to Cross River National Park: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Cross River National Park
The nearest airport to Cross River National Park is the Margaret Ekpo International Airport in Calabar. The airport offers flights to major cities in Nigeria.
Bus Stations Near Cross River National Park
There are several bus stations in Calabar that offer regular services to cities and towns within Nigeria.
Other Options
Private taxis and car rentals are also available in Calabar.
How to Get Around in Cross River National Park
The best way to get around Cross River National Park is by hiring a local guide. Guides are familiar with the park and can navigate visitors safely through the trails and forests.
Where to Go Next from Cross River National Park: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Lagos
Lagos is a bustling city located in the southwestern part of Nigeria. It is the economic and cultural hub of the country and offers visitors a unique blend of modern amenities and traditional culture.
Jos
Jos is a city located in the central region of Nigeria. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and offers visitors a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, and rock climbing.
Conclusion
Cross River National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the natural and cultural wonders of Nigeria. With its stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and exciting outdoor activities, Cross River State offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience of West African life and tradition.
