The Cross River National Park (CRNP) is a 4,000 km² conservation park featuring diverse ecosystems, including tropical rainforests and mangrove swamps. This park is one of the last remaining closed-canopy rainforests in Africa and houses numerous endangered species.
CRNP is divided into two main sections—the Oban and Okwangwo divisions—each offering a unique connection with nature.
Things to do at the Cross River National Park
- Watch out and spot various endangered and localized species of plants and animals, including elephants, buffalo, drill monkeys, red foxes, leopards, and baboons—depending on how lucky you are.
- Take exciting pictures of yourself and the animals.
- Focus on connecting with nature without any distractions, as the park is a dead zone with no reception.
- Enjoy local delicacies at their in-house lodge, which features a restaurant.
How to visit the Cross River National Park
To visit Cross River National Park, follow these steps for a memorable experience:
Getting There
The Cross River National Park is about 105km from Calabar, so be ready for a long drive. From Mary Slessor Avenue:
- Take Etta Agbo Rd to Calabar – Ikang Rd/Ekang-Oban-Duke Town Rd/IBB Way/New Ikang Road
- Head southeast on Duke Town Rd/Mary Slessor Ave
- Pass by Girls Power Initiative (GPI) (on the right)
- At the roundabout, take the 3rd exit onto Etta Agbo Rd
- Pass by Travis I.C.T (on the right)
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Calabar – Ikang Rd/Ekang-Oban-Duke Town Rd/IBB Way/New Ikang Road
- Pass by Obyno Concept (on the right)
- Continue on Mcc Rd. Take Mbebu to Calabar-Ikom Rd/Ekang-Oban-Duke Town Rd/Ikot Offiong – Ekang Rd in Ojuk North
- At the roundabout, take the 1st exit onto Ifeta Bch Rd/Mcc Rd
- Pass by JONATHAN BYPASS ROUNDABOUT (on the left)
- Continue onto Ifeta Beach Rd
- Continue onto Mbebu
- Pass by the church (on the right in 2 km)
- Slight right
- Keep left
- Pass by MATISON-JEF GUEST HOUSE (on the left in 2.1 km)
- Continue onto Ekang-Oban-Duke Town Rd
- Slight left at the church onto Calabar-Ikom Rd/Ekang-Oban-Duke Town Rd/Ikot Offiong-Ekang Rd
- Continue to follow Calabar-Ikom Rd/Ikot Offiong – Ekang Rd
- Pass by AG FASHIONS (on the left)
- Turn left
- Continue to your destination
Visiting Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Plan your trip during the dry season (November to March) for clear weather and optimal trekking conditions.
- What to Bring: Pack sturdy hiking boots, insect repellent, water bottles, snacks, and comfortable clothing to ensure a pleasant visit. Don’t forget your camera for capturing unforgettable moments!
- Activities to Enjoy: Engage in thrilling activities like gorilla tracking, bird watching, hiking through scenic trails, fishing in serene rivers, or cruising along waterways.
- Guided Tours: For an enhanced experience, hire a local guide who can provide expert knowledge of the park’s trails and wildlife while ensuring your safety.
Looking for a complete Calabar experience? Make Cross River National Park part of your custom Calabar adventure with our tailored tour packages. We’ll handle the planning while you enjoy a perfectly crafted itinerary combining the CRNP with other amazing Calabar attractions.
