Attractions and History of Obudu Mountain Resort

Obudu Mountain Resort, also called Obudu Cattle Ranch, is a beautiful place to visit in Cross River State, Nigeria. It is located on top of the Obudu Plateau, about 1,576 metres high. The air is cool, and there are pretty mountains and green trees all around, making it a perfect place to escape from busy city life and enjoy nature.

Where Is Obudu Mountain Resort?

• Location: Obudu Mountain Resort is in Cross River State, Nigeria. It is near the border between Nigeria and Cameroon, about 532 kilometres (332 miles) from Lagos.

• Beautiful Views: The resort is surrounded by tall mountains, green hills, and lots of plants and trees. It is a very picturesque place, and people from all over the world come to see it.

The Story of Obudu Mountain Resort

• How It Started: In the 1950s, a man from Scotland named McCaughley saw the Obudu Plateau and thought it would be a great place to start a cattle farm. He loved the cool weather and the beautiful land.

• Becoming a Tourist Destination: The Nigerian government decided to make it a tourist destination in the 1960s. They built roads, cabins, and other facilities to make it comfortable for visitors.

• Official Opening: The resort officially opened on 26th November 1981. Many important people, including Nigeria's then-President Alhaji Shehu Shagari, attended the opening ceremony.

• Making It Better: In 1987, the government of Cross River State improved the resort for visitors. Since then, Obudu Mountain Resort has become one of the top places to visit in Nigeria.

Things to Do at Obudu Mountain Resort

1. Ride the Cable Car

• The resort features a 4-kilometre cable car, which is the longest in Africa. The cable car ride is very exciting! It takes you high above the trees, and you can see all the green forests and mountains below. It is a fantastic way to take in the beauty of the area.

2. Visit Agbokim Waterfall

• Agbokim Waterfall is a very tall waterfall that cascades from over 200 metres high. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in Africa. Many people visit every year to see the water and take pictures. The area around the waterfall is also perfect for having a picnic or taking a hike.

3. Walk on the Canopy Walkway

• The canopy walkway at the resort is a path high above the forest. You can look down and see all the trees and maybe even some animals. It feels like being a bird, seeing the forest from high up. It is both fun and peaceful.

4. Watch Birds

• Bird Watching is a favourite activity at the resort. There are over 250 species of birds to see! You can go on a tour with a guide who will help you find the birds and share interesting facts about them. Bird lovers will have a great time here.

5. Play Golf

• The resort has a beautiful golf course with green grass and amazing views of the mountains. Even if you do not play golf, it is a nice place to relax and enjoy the scenery.

6. Swim in the Heated Pool

• There is a heated swimming pool at the resort. The pool water is warm and feels very nice, especially when the air is cool. You can swim and look at the mountains at the same time. There are also comfortable chairs around the pool where you can relax.

7. Go Hiking

• There are many hiking trails at Obudu Mountain Resort. The trails go through forests and up hills. They are perfect for people who like to walk and enjoy nature. Some trails are easy, and some are a little harder, but they all have beautiful views.

8. Ride a Mountain Bike

• You can ride a mountain bike at the resort and explore the Obudu Plateau. There are different trails for beginners and for experienced riders. It is a fun way to see the landscape and enjoy an adventure.

9. Stay Overnight

• Accommodation Options: There are different types of places to stay at the resort. You can stay in a standard room, a chalet, or a villa. There is something for everyone, whether you are with your family or on a romantic trip.

• Accommodation Prices: The cost depends on the time of year and the type of room. In the busy season, prices are higher. Rooms start from ?20,000 per night, and larger suites can cost up to ?150,000 per night. It is a good idea to check prices before booking.

Learn About the Local Culture

• Local Villages: You can visit nearby villages to learn about the culture of the local people. There is also a cultural centre at the resort that showcases the history and traditions of the area. Visitors can watch traditional dances and see how local people live. It is a wonderful way to learn more about the area and its culture.

Other Interesting Places at the Resort

1. Intestinal Road View

• Twisting Roads: The Intestinal Road View is a special road with many twists and turns. It leads up the hill and has beautiful views of the valleys and mountains. Driving on this road is an adventure with great views.

2. Angels View

• Panoramic View: Angels View is a peaceful spot at the top of a hill. From there, you can see all the mountains, valleys, and trees around. It is a lovely place to take photos or just sit quietly and enjoy nature.

3. Presidential Villa

• The resort has a Presidential Villa for guests who want a special and private place to stay. It is very comfortable and offers amazing views. The villa is perfect for those who want a little more privacy and luxury.

4. Holy Mountain

• Holy Mountain is 4,000 feet high. People who want a peaceful and spiritual experience love visiting this mountain. There are trails for walking up to the top, and you can enjoy the view from there. The mountain is also a place where visitors can pray and take part in spiritual activities.

5. Helipad

• The resort has a helipad, so you can arrive by helicopter. This is a special way to get to the resort and see the beautiful scenery from above. It also makes the resort easier to reach in case of an emergency.

Other Fun Activities

Here are some other things you can do at Obudu Mountain Resort:

• Horseback Riding: Ride a horse and explore the area with a guide. It is a fun way to see the beautiful landscapes.

• Fishing: Relax by fishing in the quiet waters around the resort.

• Quad Biking: For a thrill, you can ride a quad bike and explore the trails.

• Spa Services: The resort has a spa where you can get a massage or other treatments to relax.

• Dining Options: There are many places to eat at the resort. You can try Nigerian food or dishes from other countries. Enjoy your meal while looking at the mountains.

Getting to Obudu Mountain Resort

• How to Get There: You can get to the resort by car or by plane. There are flights from cities like Lagos, Calabar, and Enugu to airports near the resort. You can also drive to the resort, enjoying the lovely views along the way. The roads are well-kept, so the drive is comfortable.

• Travel Time: If you drive from Calabar, it will take about 5-6 hours to get to the resort. The distance is about 332 kilometres (206 miles). It is a good idea to plan your route before you go.

Weather at Obudu Mountain Resort

• Cool and Fresh Weather: The weather at Obudu Mountain Resort is cool and fresh because it is high up in the mountains. The temperature is usually between 10°C and 25°C, but it can get as low as 5°C between November and February.

• Best Time to Visit: The rainy season is from March to October, and the dry season is from November to February. The dry season is the best time to visit because the weather is pleasant, and you can see the mountains clearly. It is perfect for outdoor activities.

Eating at Obudu Mountain Resort

• Food Choices: There are many kinds of food to try at the resort, such as local Nigerian dishes like Afang soup and Ofe Nsala, as well as food from other countries like Italian and Chinese. The chefs use fresh ingredients to make tasty meals.

• Breakfast Options: Breakfast includes pastries, fruits, cereals, pancakes, waffles, and more. You can enjoy your breakfast while admiring the beautiful views.

• Cafes: There are also cafes where you can have snacks and drinks while resting after exploring the resort.

Entry Fees and Special Packages

• Entry Fee: There is an entry fee for the resort, which depends on the activities you want to do, like riding the cable car or going horseback riding. You can also buy a day pass or an overnight package that includes meals and activities.

• Special Packages: The resort has special packages for different types of visitors:

  • Honeymoon Package: Perfect for newlyweds, including a romantic stay, a candlelit dinner, and a couple's massage.

  • Adventure Package: For people who like adventure, this package includes hiking, zip-lining, and horse riding.

  • Family Package: A package with fun activities for parents and kids, like bird watching, swimming, and games.

  • Weekend Getaway Package: A relaxing two-day stay with meals and sightseeing activities, ideal for those who need a short break.

Disclaimer

Please note that Obudu Mountain Resort is currently undergoing renovations. All intended visitors should check with the local authority before embarking on a trip to ensure the facilities are available and safe to visit.

For more information about tourism in Nigeria, you can visit Finelib's Nigerian Tourism Page or learn more about Nigerian Hotels and Resorts. You can also check the official Cross River State tourism website and the Nigerian Tourism Development Corporation for the latest updates.

Conclusion

Obudu Mountain Resort is a wonderful place to visit. It has beautiful views, fun activities, and a chance to learn about local culture. Whether you want adventure or relaxation, the resort has something for everyone.

Its beauty and activities make it a great place to visit. Whether you are by yourself, with friends, or with family, Obudu Mountain Resort is a perfect place for a special adventure in Nigeria.

Plan Your Visit to Obudu Mountain Resort Today!