A Weekend Guide to Calabar: Culture, Food, and Fun

Do you desire a weekend in Calabar? If you’ve ever heard the phrase “Come and see Calabar,” you know it isn’t just a casual invitation—it’s a promise of adventure.

Nestled in Cross River State, Calabar is one of Nigeria’s most fascinating cities, blending culture, history, and a lively hospitality that makes you want to stay longer than planned. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, nature lover, or just someone looking to unwind, Calabar has something for you. This A Weekend Guide to Calabar is your ultimate map to culture, food, and fun in just 48 hours.

Let’s dive right in.

Why Choose Calabar for a Weekend Getaway?

Calabar is often described as Nigeria’s tourism capital, and for good reason. It is clean, green, and full of cultural landmarks that celebrate Nigeria’s diverse heritage. The city is famous for the Calabar Carnival, tagged as “Africa’s Biggest Street Party,” but even outside December, Calabar is bursting with life. Its historical sites, culinary delights, and outdoor adventures make it ideal for a quick but memorable trip.

Unlike Lagos or Abuja, Calabar offers a slower pace of life while still giving you the thrill of discovery. The best part? You don’t need a month to explore it. A well-planned weekend can give you a satisfying taste of everything Calabar represents.

Day One: Arriving and Exploring the City

Morning: Take in the History

Start your weekend with a trip back in time. Calabar is home to some of the most important museums in Nigeria.

• The Slave History Museum: Located inside the Marina Resort, this museum documents Nigeria’s role in the transatlantic slave trade. It’s not just about old relics; it’s an emotional journey through history. Expect to leave thoughtful, maybe even teary-eyed, but more appreciative of resilience and freedom.
• Old Residency Museum (National Museum of Calabar): This colonial building tells the story of British rule in Nigeria. From pre-colonial artifacts to independence-era collections, it’s a perfect starting point for history lovers.

By noon, you’ll have learned so much you might feel like a walking encyclopedia.

Afternoon: Lunch and Local Cuisine

After soaking up history, your stomach will start protesting. Calabar cuisine is legendary in Nigeria. The Efik people, who dominate the region, are culinary masters.

Some dishes you simply cannot miss:

• Afang Soup: Made with vegetables, water leaves, stockfish, meat, and periwinkles. It’s heavy, rich, and unforgettable.
• Edikang Ikong: Another vegetable soup packed with nutrients and flavors. It’s not just food—it’s medicine.
• Ekpang Nkukwo: A delicacy made with grated cocoyam wrapped in leaves. Labor-intensive to cook, but worth every bite.

You can grab these at local restaurants like Mama Calabar Kitchen, Duke’s Bistro, or even smaller bukas where the food is cooked with passion and precision.

Evening: Relax at Marina Resort

When the sun begins to set, head to Marina Resort. This place is a blend of leisure, history, and relaxation. You can take a boat ride on the Calabar River, enjoy a chilled drink by the water, or even catch a movie at the on-site cinema.

If you’re feeling adventurous, ask about the speedboat rides that take you across the river—just don’t forget to hold your wig or cap tight. The wind can be unforgiving.

Day Two: Nature and Fun

Morning: Visit Drill Ranch

Your second day should start with something wild—literally. Drill Ranch is a conservation center dedicated to saving the endangered drill monkey, a species closely related to baboons and mandrills.

It’s not a regular zoo; the animals are rehabilitated and live in semi-wild conditions. The staff are passionate conservationists who will teach you about biodiversity and why protecting wildlife matters. Don’t be surprised if a drill monkey looks at you like it’s judging your life choices—it’s all part of the charm.

Afternoon: Explore the Agbokim Waterfalls

If you’re willing to venture a little outside Calabar, Agbokim Waterfalls should be on your list. Located about 1.5 hours from the city, this breathtaking natural wonder is worth the trip.

Picture seven streams cascading down into one basin, surrounded by lush green forest. It’s a photographer’s dream and a perfect picnic spot. Just remember to pack some snacks and water—you won’t find a Shoprite out there.

Evening: Experience Nightlife in Calabar

Calabar is not all quiet museums and nature walks. The nightlife is vibrant and colorful. From lounges to nightclubs, you’ll find plenty of places to enjoy live music, dance, and cocktails.

Top picks include:

• Channel View Hotel Bar – perfect for a more relaxed evening.
• Mayfair Lounge – where you can dance until you can’t feel your legs.
• Pizzamania Lounge – combining food and nightlife in one spot.

If you’d rather keep it chill, stroll along the streets at night. Calabar is one of the safest cities in Nigeria, and the calm evening air makes walking around refreshing.

What to Pack for a Weekend in Calabar

Don’t overpack—you’re only going for the weekend. Still, a few essentials can make your trip smoother:

• Light, breathable clothing (it gets humid).
• Comfortable walking shoes for exploring.
• Swimwear for waterfalls and resorts.
• A power bank (because your phone battery will be crying after all those pictures).
• Insect repellent (mosquitoes respect no one).

Tips to Maximize Your Weekend in Calabar

1. Plan: Book your accommodation early, especially if it’s during the carnival season.
2. Go local: Don’t just stick to big hotels; smaller guesthouses and local restaurants give you a true taste of Calabar.
3. Stay hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid. Carry bottled water wherever you go.
4. Engage locals: Calabar people are warm and welcoming. Ask them for directions or recommendations—you might stumble upon hidden gems.
5. Balance your time: Don’t try to see everything at once. Pick a few highlights and savor them.

Beyond the Weekend: Why You’ll Want to Return

Two days in Calabar will leave you wanting more. You’ll realize that you only scratched the surface. From the Obudu Mountain Resort (about five hours away) to the cultural festivals sprinkled throughout the year, Cross River State has an endless list of attractions.

But here’s the thing: the magic of Calabar isn’t just in the places—it’s in the people, the food, and the relaxed vibe. You’ll leave with a full stomach, a lighter heart, and perhaps a heavier suitcase (because who leaves without a bag of smoked fish?).

Conclusion: A Weekend Guide to Calabar

This weekend guide to Calabar shows that you don’t need a long holiday to immerse yourself in culture, food, and fun. In just two days, you can experience Nigeria’s rich history, taste unforgettable dishes, and enjoy natural wonders that refresh your soul.

So the next time you’re itching for a quick getaway, skip the usual destinations and head to Calabar. Trust me, once you’ve been there, you’ll understand why people always say, “Come and see Calabar.”