Cross River: The ultimate reset for the 2026 travel scene 

Cross River, known as the “People’s Paradise,” is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Whether you’re looking for that “Nature Core” aesthetic for your feed or a quie...

Cross River, known as the “People’s Paradise,” is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. Whether you’re looking for that “Nature Core” aesthetic for your feed or a quiet spot to actually disconnect from your Slack notifications, this state hits the mark. It’s clean, green, and serves as the perfect backdrop for a slow-travel itinerary.
​Here is how to experience Cross River in 2026.​1. Ride the cable car at Obudu Mountain Resort
Cable car ride at Obudu Mountain Resort with scenic mountain views in Cross River Nigeria
Cable Car at Obudu Mountain Resort

​High up on the Oshie Ridge, Obudu is the country’s top mountain getaway. The views are best from the sky. The cable car takes you from the warm base to the cool, cloudy peaks in minutes. You’ll get a clear look at the “devil’s elbow”, which is the famous, sharp road that twists up the mountain.

​2. Visit Agbokim Waterfalls

Agbokim Waterfalls flowing through tropical forest in Cross River Nigeria
Agbokim Waterfalls

​A short drive from Calabar brings you to Agbokim, where seven different waterfalls crash into a green valley. It’s loudest and most impressive during the rainy season. On sunny mornings, look out for the rainbows that form in the water spray.

3. See the Slave History Museum

Slave History Museum building in Calabar showing historical artifacts and exhibits
Slave History Museum

​Calabar has a long history as a key port. At the Marina Resort, the Slave History Museum uses life-sized figures and recordings to tell the story of the past. It’s an important place to visit to understand the local heritage and the impact of the slave trade on the region.

4. See the Drill monkeys at Drill Ranch

Drill monkey sitting at Drill Ranch conservation center in Cross River Nigeria
Drill Monkey at Drill Ranch

​The Pandrillus Drill Ranch works to protect the endangered Drill monkey. You can check out their center in Calabar or head to the forest at Afi Mountain. It’s one of the few places where you can see these primates living safely in their natural habitat.

​5. Walk the Obudu Mountain Canopy Way

Obudu Mountain canopy walkway suspended above rainforest in Cross River Nigeria
Obudu Canopy Walkway

​If you want a different view of the rainforest, head to the Afi Mountain walkway. Walking across rope bridges high above the ground lets you see the forest just like the birds do. It’s a quiet, scenic walk through the trees.

​6. Eat Real Edikang Ikong

Edikang Ikong soup served with assorted meat and vegetables in Nigeria
Edikang Ikong soup
​Food is a huge part of the culture here. Cross River is famous for Edikang Ikong (a thick vegetable soup) and Afia Efere (white soup). Order a bowl of pounded yam to see why people travel from all over Nigeria just for a taste.
Oluwagbemisola Sadare

Guardian Life

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