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Calabar, Cross River

Area Guide

Calabar

Sights and sounds of Calabar, Cross River

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Calabar is the capital city of Cross River State in Nigeria. It is a port city in southern Nigeria, near the Cameroon border. It is renowned for its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. The city was a major trading hub during the colonial era, known for its connection to the transatlantic slave trade. Today, Calabar retains much of its historical charm and is a popular tourist destination.

Nevertheless, the city is home to several attractions, including the Calabar Museum, which offers insights into its past, and the Calabar Carnival, one of Nigeria's most famous and colorful festivals. The carnival, held annually in December, features elaborate parades, traditional performances, and a lively atmosphere.

Calabar is also known for its proximity to natural wonders, such as the Cross River National Park, which is home to diverse wildlife and plant species, as well as beautiful landscapes. The city's cuisine is a blend of local and international flavors, with an emphasis on seafood and traditional Nigerian dishes.

In recent years, Calabar has seen some development in terms of infrastructure and tourism, making it an increasingly popular destination for both domestic and international travelers.

Calabar, Cross River Area Guide
Calabar. Photo Credit: Nairabrains, website.

Table of contents

7 chapters

What's inside this guide

01 Interesting Facts Calabar boasts a myriad of captivating details within its tapestry of history. Its past is interwoven with the pivotal role it played as a hub for the transatlantic slave trade during the colonial era, housing pivotal European trading posts. Noteworthy is Calabar's distinction as the final resting place of Mary Slessor, a valiant Scottish missionary who staunchly opposed the tragic practice of twin infanticide. The city bursts into life with the world-renowned Calabar Carnival, an African marvel that beckons countless spectators with its lively processions, rhythmic melodies, and exuberant dance, establishing it as a vibrant gem in the realm of tourism. 02 Leisure and Shopping In Calabar, the fusion of leisure and shopping becomes an immersive experience, beckoning exploration of varied locales and retail delights. For those craving leisurely pursuits, the Marina Resort and Cultural Center Complex presents an enchanting haven, while aficionados of shopping indulgence can traverse the eclectic tapestry of Calabar Mall, the vibrant 8Miles Market, the inviting Peggy Supermarket, and a plethora of other captivating destinations. 03 Popular Estates Calabar boasts a collection of residential estates, each offering a diverse array of living choices for its inhabitants. These well-appointed estates provide an array of conveniences, safety provisions, and communal atmospheres tailored to a variety of tastes and ways of life. Among the noteworthy residential estates are Obasanjo Estate, Federal Housing Estate, Sugarland Estate, Blue Acres Estate, Santa Maria Estate, Ejuoekamme Estate, Felix Oben Estate, and Gold View Estate. 04 Day Life Calabar's day life is a captivating tapestry of experiences that captivates the senses. Local restaurants like "Mama Eba's Delight" and "Calabar Kitchen" tantalize taste buds with authentic delicacies, while cultural gems like the "Calabar Museum" and "Slave History Museum" weave narratives of heritage and history. Families flock to the "Tinapa Lakeside Hotel" and "Millennium Park" for leisurely strolls and amusement park thrills, while the "Calabar Botanical Garden" offers serene botanical beauty. Bustling markets like "Watt Market" showcase vibrant local commerce, while the "Calabar Carnival" adds a spectacular burst of color and revelry to this vivacious day-life tableau. 05 Night Life The likes of Jasper Nightclub, Marina Resort Nightclub, Watt Market Night Bazaar, Transcorp Hotels Nightclub, and Embassy Lounge embody this vibrant nightlife scene in Calabar. 06 Schools Calabar is home to a variety of educational institutions that cater to different levels of learning. Notable among them are the University of Calabar, renowned for its higher education programs, and the Federal Government Girls' College, which provides quality education for young women. Additionally, there are esteemed private schools like Marygold International School, Hillcrest College, and Passion-Crest International School, contributing to a diverse and vibrant educational landscape in the city. 07 Real Estate What it costs to live in Calabar today

INTERESTING FACTS

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts
Mary Slessor’s Tomb. Photo Credit: Fine Art America, Website.

One of the most interesting facts about Calabar is the Slave Trade history of the town. Calabar was a significant center for the transatlantic slave trade during the colonial era, with European powers establishing trading posts in the region.

It is also important to note that the final resting place of Mary Slessor's Grave can be found in Calabar. Mary Slessor is a Scottish missionary known for her contribution to stopping the killing of twins. She lived in Calabar for over forty years until she passed away on January 13, 1915. Slessor was buried in a popular cemetery opposite Duke Town Secondary School on Anderson Street, not far from the Obong of Calabar Palace.

Nevertheless, Calabar is also popularly known for its street carnival which is called the Calabar Carnival. The Calabar Carnival is one of Africa's largest street parties and a major tourism event. It attracts thousands of visitors each year with its vibrant parades, music, and dance performances.

LEISURE AND SHOPPING

Leisure and Shopping

Leisure and Shopping
Calabar Mall. Photo Credit: Google Photos.

Marina Resort and Cultural Center Complex is situated near the scenic waterfront, the Marina Resort and Cultural Center Complex is a dynamic hub that encapsulates Calabar's cultural and recreational vibrancy. It offers a blend of leisure and cultural experiences, featuring well-maintained gardens, scenic views, and a range of activities. Visitors can explore the Calabar Museum, which showcases the region's history and heritage, as well as enjoy live performances, music events, and cultural exhibitions. The complex is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking relaxation, entertainment, and a glimpse into Calabar's rich cultural tapestry.

Calabar Mall stands as a modern retail haven, catering to diverse shopping needs. Boasting an array of shops, boutiques, and outlets, it offers a wide selection of products, from fashion and accessories to electronics and home goods. The mall provides a contemporary shopping environment with amenities such as food courts, entertainment zones, and comfortable spaces for leisurely breaks. It serves as a bustling destination for shoppers looking to explore a variety of brands and merchandise.

8Miles Market is a bustling and vibrant marketplace where locals and visitors converge to experience the energetic pulse of Calabar's commerce. It's a sensory-rich haven where colorful stalls offer an eclectic array of goods, from fresh produce and spices to clothing and artisan crafts. The market provides an authentic taste of daily life in Calabar, with its lively atmosphere, lively interactions, and a treasure trove of unique finds that reflect the city's local culture and trade.

Peggy Supermarket is a local shopping gem that caters to daily essentials and more. It provides a convenient shopping experience with a focus on groceries, fresh produce, household items, and daily necessities. The supermarket offers a friendly and accessible environment, serving as a go-to destination for residents seeking convenience and quality in their shopping endeavors.

POPULAR ESTATES

Popular Estates

Popular Estates
Blue Acres Estate. Photo Credit: Odunsi David, google reviewer.

Obasanjo Estate, named after the former Nigerian president Olusegun Obasanjo, this estate offers a blend of modern living and green spaces. It is known for its well-designed homes, lush landscapes, and a range of amenities such as parks, recreational facilities, and community. centers. The estate is often favored by those who appreciate a balanced lifestyle between urban convenience and natural beauty.

Sugarland Estate is a sweet spot for those seeking a tranquil and harmonious living environment. This estate is characterized by its well-manicured gardens, wide streets, and an emphasis on community fostering. Residents of Sugarland Estate enjoy a peaceful atmosphere while benefiting from essential amenities and security features.

Golf View Estate offers residents a glimpse of luxury and elegance. This estate is notable for its upscale architecture, premium amenities, and a focus on providing an elevated living experience. It often appeals to individuals and families who desire a higher standard of living, complete with state-of-the-art facilities and a sophisticated ambiance.

DAY LIFE

Day Life

Day Life
The Calabar Museum. Photo Credit: Google Photos.

The Calabar Museum is a cultural treasure trove, immersing visitors in the rich history and heritage of Calabar and the Cross River region. It houses an impressive collection of artifacts, artworks, and historical exhibits that chronicle the area's past, including its pre-colonial history, colonial era, and indigenous cultures. The museum offers insights into the slave trade, traditional art forms, local customs, and more, making it a significant educational and cultural destination.

Tinapa Lakeside Hotel is a hub of leisure and entertainment, offering a range of attractions for visitors of all ages. The hotel's amusement park is a favorite among families, featuring rides, games, and entertainment that provide a lively and enjoyable experience. The lakeside setting adds to the charm, making it an ideal place for relaxation, recreation, and creating cherished memories.

The Calabar Botanical Garden is a serene oasis that showcases the region's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Spanning acres of lush greenery, the garden boasts a diverse collection of plants, including indigenous species, rare flora, and vibrant flowers. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along well-maintained paths, admire exotic plant life, and revel in the tranquil ambiance that offers a refreshing escape from the urban hustle.

Watt Market is a bustling marketplace that encapsulates the vibrant spirit of Calabar's local commerce. This lively hub offers an array of goods, from fresh produce and local crafts to clothing and household items. Strolling through the market provides an immersive experience into the daily life of Calabar's residents, where the vibrant atmosphere, vibrant colors, and friendly interactions offer a glimpse into the heart of the city's culture and commerce.

NIGHT LIFE

Night Life

Night Life
The Jasper Night Club. Photo Credit: Google Photos.

The Jasper Night Club is another noteworthy establishment in Calabar's nightlife landscape. Known for its energetic ambiance and dynamic music selection, this club attracts a diverse crowd of partygoers looking to dance the night away. With its lively atmosphere and lively crowd, Jasper Night Club contributes to the city's reputation as a hub for nightlife enthusiasts.

The Marina Resort Nightclub is a pulsating hub of nightlife activity in Calabar. Situated within the iconic Marina Resort complex, it offers a unique blend of entertainment, including electrifying music from skilled DJs, live performances, and an energetic dance floor. This nightclub is a magnet for locals and tourists alike, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and camaraderie. With its prime location near the waterfront, it provides a stunning backdrop for revelers to unwind and enjoy the night..

The Watt Market Night Bazaar infuses the essence of Calabar's bustling marketplace with an evening twist. As the sun sets, this open-air market transforms into a lively gathering place where you can indulge in delectable street food, shop for local crafts, and immerse yourself in the local culture. The colorful array of stalls, the aroma of delicacies, and the vibrant ambiance contribute to a sensory-rich experience that's emblematic of Calabar's lively nightlife..

Situated within the upscale Transcorp Hotels, this nightclub elevates the nightlife experience in Calabar. With its modern décor, cutting-edge sound systems, and top-notch hospitality, the Transcorp Hotels Nightclub offers a premium environment for those seeking a more sophisticated and upscale night out. The nightclub often hosts live music performances, themed parties, and special events that cater to diverse tastes..

The Embassy Lounge offers a more laid-back yet stylish setting for those seeking a relaxed evening out. It's a great place to unwind with friends over well-crafted cocktails, engage in meaningful conversations, and enjoy live performances that span different genres. The lounge's sophisticated ambiance and emphasis on quality entertainment add a distinct flavor to Calabar's nightlife offerings.

SCHOOLS

Schools

Schools
University of Calabar. Photo Credit: Vanguard News, Website.

The University of Calabar (UNICAL) is a public research university located in Calabar, Nigeria. It was established in 1975 and offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs in various fields of study, including arts, sciences, social sciences, management sciences, and more. UNICAL is known for its commitment to academic excellence and research.

The Federal Government Girls' College (FGGC) in Calabar is a girls' secondary school established and funded by the Nigerian federal government. These schools are known for providing quality education and fostering an environment that empowers young women to excel academically and personally.

Marygold International School is a private institution in Calabar that offers both primary and secondary education. It emphasizes a holistic approach to education, focusing on academic excellence, character development, and extracurricular activities.

Hillcrest College is another prominent private school in Calabar. It provides education from nursery to secondary levels. The school is known for its rigorous academic standards, as well as its commitment to nurturing students' talents and promoting a well-rounded education.

Passion-Crest International Schools is a private educational institution that offers a comprehensive curriculum from preschool to secondary school levels. The school aims to provide a supportive and enriching environment for students to develop their intellectual, creative, and social skills.

Real Estate

Real Estate

Do you want to know how much it would cost to live in Calabar? Here are the average property prices in Calabar, Cross River.

Some available property in Calabar

Riverside Plot of Land
Featured
4
₦4,000,000

Mixed-use land for sale

Riverside Plot of Land

Riverside Groove Estate -- Calabar Invest in a prime property at Riverside Groove Estate, an exciting development within the Idundu Mega-City project in Calabar, Cross River State. Enjoy a well-planned estate with features such as gated entry, good access roads, drainage system, recreational centre, and beautiful beach views. Payment Packages: - ₦4M -- Instant (Documentation Inclusive) - ₦4.5M -- Regular (0--3 Months) - ₦5M -- Easy Plan (4--6 Months) Title: Registered Survey & Deed of Assignment (Freehold) Landmarks: Margaret Ekpo International Airport Naval War College Site Lafarge Plant 2 Minutes from Jonathan Bypass Secure your plot today in this fast-developing location. Call/WhatsApp: +2347059962471 Email: [email protected] [email protected]

Calabar, Cross River
Propertysage Limited
Strategically Located Plots of Dry Land with a 5bedroom Duplex
Featured
23
₦200,000,000

Mixed-use land for sale

Strategically Located Plots of Dry Land with a 5bedroom Duplex

This land is strategically located in a well developed Estate. It is in an Estate that has a good returns on investment. It has an Excellent rental and resale values with 23hours power supply and good Security in place at Federal Housing Estate, by Ikot Ansa High Way , Calabar, Cross River State. Features: - A corner plot - On the major road - Beautiful place to live - Fantastic location for school, mini Estate, eatery, etc - In a very serene and well developed Estate - Fully Fenced and gated - Beautiful Location for building - Proximity to School, Hospital, market, hotel etc - Good location for all purposes (Built for Rent) - Close to the Market and Hospitals - Good Accessibility - 23Hours Power supply (PHCN) in the Estate - Situated in a safe, quiet and conducive environment - Has Good value for rent/resale title: Certificate of Occupancy ( CofO) price: N200,000,000 For further enquires/arrangement for inspection, please contact: Samuel - 08177766118 (Call/WhatsApp) sampson - 08177766181 (Call/WhatsApp) Bluehedge Realtors - Estate agency and Property marketing - Real estate development and Advisory Tel: +234-8032065685 (Call/ WhatsApp), 08177766110-9 (Call/ WhatsApp) Website: www.bluehedgerealtors.com Email: [email protected] Instagram: bluehedgerealtors

Federal Housing Estate by Ikot Ansa High Way, Calabar, Cross River
Bluehedge Realtors
Featured
$10,000,000

Tank farm for sale

Petroleum Storage Terminal

Ofze Petroleum Storage Terminal -- Calabar Free Trade Zone, Nigeria Prime investment opportunity to acquire a fully operational petroleum products storage terminal strategically located within the Calabar Free Trade Zone (CFTZ), nearest to the Calabar Port Wharf. The facility offers significant tax and customs advantages under nepza regulations and is built to international operational standards. Key Features: * Total storage capacity: 30,000m³ across 6 tanks (PMS, ago, DPK & LPFO) * Triple-jetty connectivity via: * Calabar New Port Wharf * Northwest Jetty * Dozzy Jetty * 3-bay loading gantry loading up to 6 tankers simultaneously * Dedicated truck holding bay for 25 trucks * Independent power infrastructure with 500kVA transformer + backup generators * Comprehensive firefighting & qhsse systems * Fully operational turnkey facility with established infrastructure Location: Calabar Free Trade Zone, Cross River State, Nigeria Asking Price: US$10 Million Ideal for downstream oil & gas operators, storage investors, and energy infrastructure funds seeking a strategic logistics asset in Nigeria.

Free Trade Zone, Calabar, Cross River
12 Pearls Ventures
5-Bedroom Duplex
Featured
4
₦10,000,000

Detached duplex for rent

5-Bedroom Duplex

Well maintained 5 bedroom duplex on a full plot of land with ample parking space.

Asari Eso Layout, Off MCC, Calabar, Cross River State, Calabar, Cross River
5
Jide Taiwo and Co. Estate Surveyors and Valuers
Nicely Furnished 1 Bedroom Apartment
Featured
2
₦150,000

Flat / apartment short let

Nicely Furnished 1 Bedroom Apartment

16927TWP - Nicely furnished 1 Bedroom Shortlet in Calabar Features: * Gated and Secured Estate * 24/7 Power Supply * Serene environment * Free WiFi * Daily cleaning * En-suite Bedrooms * Netflix / YouTube * Daily housekeeping * Dedicated car park space * Equipped kitchen * Tastefully furnished This place will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Calabar, Cross River
1 1 1 1
Ray Integrated Technologies Limited