Ikom Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Ikom with our helpful travel guide, featuring must-see attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Ikom

Located in the southern part of Nigeria, Ikom is a relatively small town in the Cross River State. This charming town is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural attractions, and its hospitable people.

Ikom’s scenic beauty is breathtaking, with its lush green hills, valleys, and waterfalls. The town is also known for its exquisite handicrafts, local cuisine, and cultural practices that date back to ancient times.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about Ikom, from the best attractions to visit, the best things to do, where to eat and stay, the local culture and customs, safety and health, and much more.

List of Places to Visit in Ikom

If you’re planning a trip to Ikom, there are plenty of places to visit, including:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ikom Monoliths: These are ancient stones that were carved into different shapes, including human forms, and are believed to date back over 1,000 years.

  • Twin Necked Hill: A historical site that is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of the town.

  • Agbokim Waterfalls: These iconic waterfalls are located about 17 km from Ikom town.

  • Mfum Rock: Mfum Rock is a historical and religious site where the Ikom people worship their ancestors and offer prayers for their protection.

Natural Attractions of Ikom: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary offers visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of nature while observing rare and endangered species of monkeys and birds.

  • Kwa Falls: Located about 18 km from Ikom town, Kwa Falls is a gorgeous natural wonder with a stunning 234-feet drop.

  • Obudu Mountain Resort: This famous resort offers visitors a chance to relax in a serene environment. With its fresh mountain air, picturesque views, and wide range of fun activities, Obudu Mountain Resort is a must-visit.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ikom

Ikom is an excellent place for hiking and bike riding, with its hilly terrain and lush green vegetation. A few routes that are worth exploring include:

  • Agbokim Waterfalls: The route to Agbokim Waterfalls offers an amazing hiking experience through the lush jungle, making for an unforgettable experience.

  • Odot Hills: Odot Hills offers a stunning view of Ikom town and the surrounding areas. It’s also an excellent place for mountain biking.

Best Things to Do in Ikom: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking, exploring historical sites and enjoying nature, there are plenty of other exciting things to try while in Ikom, including:

  • Local Cuisine Tour: Ikom town is known for its mouth-watering cuisine, and you cannot leave Ikom without trying some of the traditional dishes.

  • Craft Making Workshop: Learn how to make the famous handicrafts of Ikom, such as the akwacross basket, and take home a unique souvenir made by you.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ikom

If you’re planning a week-long itinerary for Ikom, here’s a suggested breakdown:

Day Activity
Day 1 Explore Ikom Monoliths, Twin Necked Hill, and Mfum Rock.
Day 2 Visit Agbokim Waterfalls and hike through the jungle to the falls.
Day 3 Play golf, swim or participate in other indoor activities at the Obudu Mountain Resort.
Day 4 Take a tour of the Afi Mountain Wildlife Sanctuary and observe rare and endangered species of monkeys and birds.
Day 5 Hike through the Odot Hills or go mountain biking.
Day 6 Tour the local markets and try out a local cuisine such as Afang soup or edi-kanikong (vegetable soup).
Day 7 Relax at one of the nearby beaches such as Calabar beach or Duke town beach.

Food and Drink Scene of Ikom

The food and drink scene of Ikom is unique and will leave your taste buds tingling. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages to indulge in while in Ikom:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Afang Soup: A traditional soup made with ground vegetables, stockfish or dried fish, and chicken or beef, is a must-try when visiting Ikom.

  • Edi-Kanikong Soup: This soup is a mixture of spinach, pumpkin, palm oil, and crayfish or smoked fish, and is often served with garri, a popular Nigerian staple made from cassava.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: This drink is a local favorite, made from the sap of palm trees, and is considered a great source of vitamin C.

  • Zobo: Made from the hibiscus flower, this drink is a popular and refreshing beverage in Nigeria.

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

Ikom has a variety of accommodation options that cater to a range of budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in Ikom:

  • Obudu Mountain Resort

  • Jorany Hotel and Suites

  • Favour Villa Hotels

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

A visit to Ikom is incomplete without buying a souvenir to remind you of your time there. Here are some of the things you should consider buying:

  • Akwacross Baskets: These baskets are made from palm fronds and are woven into intricate patterns. They are both decorative and functional.

  • Ukara Cloth: This traditional cloth is made from locally sourced materials and is decorated with a variety of patterns and colors

Local Culture and Customs of Ikom

The people of Ikom are welcoming and proud of their rich cultural heritage. A few customs and behaviors to observe when visiting Ikom include:

  • Dressing: When visiting any of the public spaces, it is important to dress appropriately.

  • Greeting: Greetings are a big part of Nigerian culture. It is polite to greet people when you meet them, especially the elderly.

Best Time to Visit Ikom

The best time to visit Ikom is during the dry season, which lasts from November to April. The rainy season, which starts in May and ends in October, can make outdoor activities and sightseeing challenging.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ikom

Do:

  • Dress Appropriately: Wear appropriate clothing when visiting public spaces.

  • Greet People: Greetings are important in Nigerian culture. Always greet people when you meet them, especially the elderly.

Don’t:

  • Smoke in Public: Smoking in public spaces is illegal in Nigeria.

  • Take Pictures Without Permission: Always ask for permission before taking pictures of people or their property.

Safety and Health

Safety in Ikom

Overall, Ikom is a safe place to visit, but it is important to take necessary precautions to ensure your personal safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Avoid Walking Alone at Night: It is advisable to avoid walking alone in dark alleys or deserted streets at night.

  • Beware of Pickpockets: Pickpocketing is common, so be cautious of your valuables in busy areas such as markets and bus stations.

Health in Ikom

It’s essential to be aware of potential health risks when traveling to Ikom. Here are some tips to ensure your health stays in top shape:

  • Vaccinations: Up-to-date vaccinations are important when traveling to Nigeria, and it’s recommended to consult your doctor before visit.

  • Hygiene: Maintain high standards of hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly and avoiding street food, to reduce the risk of illness.

Getting to Ikom: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ikom is accessible by air, road, and water. Here are some of the ways you can get to Ikom:

Airports Near Ikom

  • Margaret Ekpo International Airport, Calabar

Bus Stations Near Ikom

  • Ikom Bus Terminal

  • Ekang Bus Terminal

Other Options

  • Boat: Renting a boat to Ikom is possible.

How to Get Around in Ikom

Getting around in Ikom can be done by taxi or rented car. Taxis are abundant and are usually stationed at major bus stops, hotels and tourist sites.

Where to Go Next from Ikom: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations and excursions to visit after exploring Ikom:

  • Calabar: Visit Calabar, just 2 hours away, known for its rich history and culture.

  • Obudu: Check out the Obudu Cattle Ranch, another popular destination in Cross River State.

  • Akwa Ibom: Visit Akwa Ibom, a neighboring state, famous for its beaches, cuisine, and cultural practices.

Conclusion

Ikom is a hidden gem in Nigeria, waiting to be explored. As you plan your trip to Ikom, this comprehensive guide will help you to make the most of your experience. From the stunning natural attractions, delicious food, rich cultural heritage, and hospitable people, Ikom has everything you need for the trip of a lifetime.

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