Things To Do
in Calabar
Calabar, located in southeastern Nigeria, is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant history. The city serves as a major port and is often called the 'Cultural Capital of Nigeria' due to its annual festivals, including the famous Calabar Carnival. Surrounded by lush greenery and the Calabar River, it offers a unique blend of urban and natural attractions.
Visitors can explore colonial architecture, local markets, and enjoy warm hospitality from the locals.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Calabar Museum to learn about the city's history and artifacts.
Head to the Slave History Museum to understand the impact of the trans-Atlantic slave trade on the region.
Enjoy traditional Calabar cuisine at the popular Calabar Kitchen, followed by a stroll along the Calabar River waterfront.
Visit the beautiful Tinapa Resort for leisure activities and a chance to shop at the entertainment complex.
Explore the Calabar Botanical Gardens to witness diverse flora and a serene environment.
Experience the local nightlife at the Canaan City Mall, where you can dine and enjoy live music performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a local restaurant | $5 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel night | $50 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within the city | $3 |
| ☕Cup of coffee | $2 |
| 🛍️Shopping at local market | $10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Delicious and diverse local cuisine.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- Public transportation can be limited.
- Some areas may have safety concerns at night.
- High humidity during the rainy season can be uncomfortable.
- "Kedu" - Hello
- "Biko" - Please
- "Dalu" - Thank you
- "Na where you dey go?" - Where are you going?
- "O di egwu" - It's beautiful
Places to Visit in Calabar
Visit one of these nice places.
Capture stunning views of the river, especially during sunset when the sky lights up.
A poignant site that offers opportunities to photograph historical artifacts and architecture.
The resort offers picturesque views and vibrant landscapes, perfect for capturing fun moments.
Food in Calabar
Calabar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick vegetable soup made with fluted pumpkin leaves and assorted meats.
Must-Try!
A spicy broth typically made with fish or meat, flavored with local spices.
A traditional soup made with bitter leaves, often served with pounded yam.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors.
Known for its variety of local snacks and traditional dishes offered by street vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people politely, often with a handshake or local greetings.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites, to show respect for local customs.
Always show politeness and respect towards elders in social settings.
Safety
Tipping in Calabar
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for services, generally around 10% of the bill.
Cash is widely used, but many places also accept mobile payments and credit cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect hot and dry weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Frequent rain showers occur, so pack waterproof gear; however, the lush greenery is stunning.
A dry and dusty wind from the Sahara can cause low visibility, but cool temperatures make exploring pleasant.
Major cultural festivals like the Calabar Carnival take place in December, offering vibrant celebrations and events.
Calabar at Night
Hiking in Calabar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail offering stunning views of the Obudu Mountains, suitable for all skill levels.
Features trails through lush rainforests, where hikers may encounter diverse wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Calabar by plane.
Located about 15 kilometers from Calabar, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Efik people are the predominant ethnic group in Calabar, known for their rich cultural traditions and history.
The Ibibio community is also significant in the region, contributing to the cultural diversity of Calabar.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Calabar, with many local teams and vibrant community support.
Basketball is also gaining popularity, with several local courts and youth leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calabar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While local dishes often include meat, you can find vegetarian-friendly options at many restaurants.
Always inform your server about any food allergies, as dishes may contain local spices that vary.