Obudu Travel Guide

Discover the beautiful attractions, enticing culture, and delicious food of Obudu with this comprehensive travel guide. Explore the best places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and how to get around this stunning region of Nigeria.


If you’re looking for a destination that has it all, Obudu in Nigeria is the place to be. The beautiful landscape, rich culture, and delicious cuisine make Obudu a must-visit location for anyone traveling to Nigeria. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore everything Obudu has to offer, from must-see attractions and beautiful scenery to vibrant culture and delectable cuisine.

Introduction to Obudu

Obudu is a beautiful region located in Cross River State, South South Nigeria. It is known for its picturesque landscapes and endless outdoor activities that cater to all ages and skill levels. Obudu is home to Obudu Mountain Resort, a popular tourist attraction known for its beautiful scenery, cable car rides, and outdoor activities.

List of Places to Visit in Obudu

Obudu has much to offer for visitors, including culturally important attractions, natural wonders, and other outdoor adventures. Here is a list of some of the must-visit places in Obudu:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Museum, Calabar: Located in the nearby city of Calabar, the National Museum is a must-visit for history buffs interested in learning about the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria. It features a vast collection of artifacts, including stunning terracotta figurines, textiles, and musical instruments.
  • Tinapa Resort: Also located in Calabar, Tinapa Resort is a modern shopping and leisure destination with a variety of shops and restaurants. It also features a cinema, waterpark, and a mini-amusement park, making it a fun outing for the whole family.
  • Marina Resort: This unique facility is located in Calabar and features a range of sports facilities, including a golf course, lawn tennis courts, and a swimming pool. It is the perfect place to enjoy a day out.

Natural Attractions of Obudu: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Obudu Mountain Resort: Located at an altitude of 1576 meters, Obudu Mountain Resort is a must-visit attraction when traveling to Obudu. This beautiful resort features a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, cable car rides, and horseback riding, among others. It also offers stunning views of the surrounding area, making it a photographer’s paradise.
  • Kwa Falls: Kwa falls is a picturesque waterfall located close to Obudu. It is a popular spot for picnics and other outdoor outings.
  • Afi Mountains Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in the nearby town of Afi Mountain, this wildlife sanctuary is a must-visit for nature lovers. It is home to endangered species of primates and birds, as well as other animals such as leopards and baboons.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Obudu

Obudu is an excellent destination for outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and biking. Here are some of the best routes you should try:

  • Cable Car Route: Take a ride on the popular cable car to the mountain’s summit before embarking on a scenic hike through the lush greenery of Obudu.
  • Obudu Ranch Resort Route: This route takes you on a guided tour through the beautiful Obudu Ranch Resort, complete with stunning mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and vast grasslands.

Best Things to Do in Obudu: Activities and Tours

Obudu has a myriad of activities and tours that cater to all ages and interests. Here are some of the best things to do when visiting Obudu:

  • Take a cable car ride to the mountain summit for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Go hiking or biking through the lush greenery of the mountainside.
  • Visit Kwa Falls for an exhilarating dip in the water or a relaxing picnic.
  • Take a guided tour of the Afi Mountains Wildlife Sanctuary and marvel at the magnificent flora and fauna.
  • Take a leisurely walk through Obudu Ranch Resort or enjoy a horse ride through the meadows.
  • Sample traditional Nigerian food at one of the local restaurants and learn about the local culinary culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Obudu

A week-long itinerary will help you make the most of your stay in Obudu. Here are some of the best things to do on a week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Arrive in Obudu
2 Take a cable car ride to the mountain summit and explore the scenic views
3 Visit Kwa falls for a relaxing picnic and take a dip in the refreshing water
4 Take a guided tour of the Afi Mountains Wildlife Sanctuary
5 Hike or bike through Obudu’s scenic trails
6 Take a leisurely walk through Obudu Ranch Resort or enjoy a horse ride through the meadows
7 Sample traditional Nigerian food and drinks at a local restaurant and learn about the local culinary culture

Food and Drink Scene of Obudu

No trip to Obudu is complete without indulging in the delicious food and drink scene in the area. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages of Obudu:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Edikang Ikong Soup: A rich, vegetable-based soup made with a blend of spinach, pumpkin leaves, water leaves, and assorted meat.
  • Afang Soup: A traditional Nigerian soup made with water leaves, afang leaves, and a variety of meat.
  • Egusi Soup: A thick, nutty soup made with melon seeds and garnished with meat.

Local Beverages

  • Palm Wine: A traditional African beverage made by extracting sap from palm trees.
  • Zobo: A traditional Nigerian juice made from the hibiscus flower.
  • Kunu: A non-alcoholic beverage made from millet or sorghum.

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

Obudu offers a range of accommodation options for all budgets and preferences. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Obudu Mountain Resort: This beautiful resort offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit all budgets. It also features a range of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, and outdoor pool.
  • Obudu Ranch Resort: This budget-friendly option offers comfortable rooms and chalets in a peaceful setting. It also features a restaurant and bar, as well as outdoor activities and breathtaking views.
  • Nature’s Gift Guest House: This charming guesthouse offers comfortable rooms and apartments with views of Obudu’s beautiful landscapes. It also features a garden, terrace, and barbeque facilities.

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

Obudu offers a variety of local products and souvenirs that make perfect gifts for friends and family. Here are some of the best things to buy in the area:

  • Beaded Jewelry: Obudu is known for its beautiful beaded jewelry, which features intricate patterns and bright colors.
  • Pottery: Local artisans create beautiful pottery using traditional techniques and clay from the region.
  • Fabrics and Textiles: Obudu offers a range of fabrics and textiles, including vibrant prints and patterns that reflect the local culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Obudu

Obudu is steeped in rich cultural heritage and customs, which are still celebrated and practiced today. Here are some of the customs and traditions to look out for when visiting Obudu:

  • Calabar Carnival: Obudu is a host to the annual Calabar Carnival, which takes place in December. The carnival attracts people from all over Nigeria and features colorful parades, live music, and dance performances.
  • Ekpe Festival: This festival takes place in nearby Calabar and is a traditional cultural celebration of the Efik people of Calabar.
  • Cross River State Cultural Festival: This festival takes place in several communities in Cross River State and showcases the rich cultural heritage of the area.

Best Time to Visit Obudu

The best time to visit Obudu is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. This period is characterized by sunny days and mild temperatures, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Do’s and Don’ts of Obudu

Here are some essential do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Obudu:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs
  • Dress appropriately, especially when visiting religious and cultural sites
  • Pack comfortable, sturdy shoes for outdoor activities
  • Try the local food and drink

Don’t:

  • Wear revealing or inappropriate clothing
  • Litter or damage the environment
  • Ignore road safety measures

Safety and Health

Obudu is a relatively safe destination for visitors. However, it’s important to take standard safety precautions when traveling in the area, such as:

Safety in Obudu

  • Avoid walking alone or in unlit areas at night.
  • Stay aware of your surroundings and valuables at all times.
  • Take precautions while traveling by road, such as wearing seat belts and avoiding driving at night.

Health in Obudu

  • Come prepared with any necessary vaccinations and medications.
  • Be aware of the risks associated with malaria and take appropriate measures to prevent infection, such as using insect repellent and wearing protective clothing.
  • Drink bottled water and avoid consuming uncooked or undercooked food.

Getting to Obudu: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Obudu is relatively easy, as it is accessible by air, road, and water. Here are some of the transportation options available:

Airports Near Obudu

The nearest airport to Obudu is the Margaret Ekpo International Airport, located in nearby Calabar.

Bus Stations Near Obudu

The main bus stations that connect to Obudu are located in Calabar.

Other Options

Obudu can also be reached by private car or hired taxi from Calabar.

How to Get Around in Obudu

Getting around in Obudu is straightforward, as most of the sights are located in close proximity to each other. Here are some of the transportation options available:

  • Rental Car: Car rental companies are available in Obudu and offer a variety of vehicles for rental.
  • Hired Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Obudu and can be hired to take you to your desired destination.
  • Walking: Walking is a great option in Obudu due to the scenic landscape and proximity of major sights.

Where to Go Next from Obudu: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Obudu is a great base to explore other nearby destinations in Nigeria. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions worth considering:

  • Calabar: Visit the nearby city of Calabar, known for its rich history, culture, and vibrant nightlife.
  • Tinapa Resort: Visit the nearby Tinapa Resort, a modern shopping and leisure destination with a variety of shops, restaurants, and leisure activities.
  • Cercopan: Take a guided tour of Cercopan, home to endangered primates and monkeys.

Conclusion

Obudu offers visitors a wealth of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and culinary delights. From the stunning scenery to the vibrant culture, you won’t be disappointed when visiting Obudu. This comprehensive travel guide will help you make the most of your visit to Obudu and experience everything that this destination has to offer.