By Eteteonline
Because of its lush rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, distinctive animals, and biodiverse protected areas, Cross River State in southeast Nigeria is one of the best places in the nation for ecotourism and natural attractions. It is frequently referred to as a West African ecotourism attraction and hotspot for biodiversity.
Offering a variety of natural landscapes, cultural history, historic monuments, wildlife, and contemporary leisure attractions, the state is one of the most tourist-rich in the nation, attracting both domestic and foreign tourists.
The following are some of Cross River State’s top ecotourism destinations and natural attractions:
- The Mountain Resort of Obudu
The Sankwala Mountains (Obudu Plateau) are home to Obudu Mountain Resort. This highland resort provides outdoor sports, expansive vistas, and milder temperatures. It is well-known for ecotourism-friendly options in addition to its breathtaking natural landscape.
Renowned for its cool mountain air, cable car rides, hiking paths, panoramic views, beautiful photography, birdwatching, and nature walks, this picturesque highland location close to the Cameroon border is perfect for leisure and adventure.
Obudu Cattle Ranch, another name for the Mountain Resort, is located at an elevation of 1,575.76 meters (6,200 feet) above sea level. It is roughly 104 square kilometers in size. The resort is free of Tse Tse flies and enjoys a moderate climate.
It features lovely, rolling terrain and good pastures on 27 grazing ranges. The Ranch has a Presidential Lodge and an international hotel for visitors. One of West Africa’s top resorts is The Ranch.
- The Cross River National Park
Rich animal resources in Cross River State have been utilized to create a National Park.
A huge tropical rainforest and biodiversity hotspot that is home to many bird species, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and endangered animals like the Cross River gorilla. Excellent for ecotourism, wildlife viewing, and guided jungle hikes.
This national park, one of Nigeria’s top ecotourism sites, preserves large areas of virgin rainforest and is home to a huge variety of flora and fauna. The park is divided into two primary areas:
• The Oban sector is a dense lowland rainforest with massive trees, a wide variety of birds, and abundant flora and animals. The Akamkpa Local Government’s Oban sector is roughly 1,497 square kilometers in size.
• Boshi/Okwangwo sector: rough terrain, chilly mountain air, and montane forest sceneries. This sector covers 720 square kilometers of territory and stretches from Kanyang in Boki Local Government to parts of Obudu Mountain Resort.
Iroko, Ebony, Iron Wood, Nancisa, Cain-wood, Edo, and Mahogany are among the wood species that are frequently found in these industries.
For endangered animals, such as chimpanzees, leopards, and Cross River baboons, the park provides vital habitat.
Buffalos, bush pigs, mates, antelopes, high forest elephants, and high forest monkeys are among the other animal species that can be found in both areas.
The Boshi/Okwangwo forest reserve is home to gorillas, which were once thought to be extinct in Nigeria and West Africa.
Hiking, wildlife tracking, birdwatching, and learning about the ecosystem of West Africa are all excellent in these areas.
Indeed, one of Cross River State’s most popular tourism destinations is the preservation of wildlife in its natural habitat.
Guided nature walks and woodland hikes, birdwatching (more than 350 species have been identified), primate sightings, biodiversity tours, and cultural visits to neighboring communities are all available to tourists.
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