Hostels in CALABAR, NIGERIA

City Calabar – A Peaceful Place with Distinguished Charm

The capital of Cross River State in Southeast Nigeria, Calabar is referred by various names like Callabar, Calabari, Kalabari and so on. Watered by the Calabar River, the Cross River and the Great Qua Rivers, the city has a distinctive charm with friendly residents and some interesting tourist attractions.

Accommodation Options
Budget hotels, luxury hotels and resorts can be found in all parts of the city to make a stay. A number of guest house options can also be located all over the city. Hotels located on the Mariam Road, Barracks Road, city centre and many other areas are safe and preferred by the tourists. Local people talk in Efik, Ibibio and many other old regional languages.

History
The town was originally established with the name of Atakpa. The European sailors were familiar with the town way back in the 15th century. However, its importance as the seaport grew in the 16th century. The products like palm oil were exported to the European countries from here. From the late 17th century to the 19th century, the port became an important point for conducting slave trade. The city also served as the government seat for the Niger Coast Protectorate and the Southern Protectorate. From the very beginning, the city showed the potential for tourism and hospitality industry.

Popular Places
The Duke Town Church is an important tourist attraction of the city, as it is considered as one of the oldest churches of the country. The church also has a cemetery that offers mesmerizing views of the town. The tomb of famous missionary Mary Slessor is also accommodated inside the cemetery. The Afi Mountain Ranch and the Drill Monkey Rehab Center are also counted among the notable places in the city. The Calabar Museum located on a hilltop is a good place to learn about the city’s history. Artefacts and original documents related to Nigeria can be found here. Also, there are many other buildings that represent the colonial architecture.

Getting Around
One can walk around the city along with a guide to closely explore the most popular places. Taxi and cabs can also be found in various parts of the city, if you wish to hire them and visit the nearby places.

Places of Entertainment
The Cross River State Annual Christmas Festival is an annual festival worth attending. It is famous for music performances by local and international artists. There are many other annual events like the Boat Regatta, Calabar Carnival, Ekpe Festival, Christmas Festival and so on. Tinapa is another entertainment section in the city and it consists of shopping complexes and emporiums. Watt Market is famous for buying wax items and jeans. Marian Market can be visited to purchase fresh farm produce. The Africa Club, the first of its kind in Nigeria and a botanical garden are other entertaining venues. 

Currency
Calabar has its official currency as the Nigerian Naira. Look for currency exchange points in the city and you will easily find them. You are recommended to find exchange rates through the regularly updated online news. 

Calabar group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotels