Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

A Day of Splashing Wonders and Culinary Heights

Today was nothing short of spectacular, a perfect blend of nature's grandeur and the vibrant tastes of Cross River. It’s days like these that remind me why I started this blog – to share the incredible experiences that connect us to the world and to each other. With Aisha and the kids in tow, we embarked on a journey that promised both breathtaking sights and delightful culinary adventures.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Himalaya bar restaurant. Tunde was particularly excited, having read online reviews praising their breakfast. Aisha opted for a traditional Nigerian breakfast, while Funke, ever the adventurous one, tried a local Cameroonian dish. I enjoyed some coffee and a light meal, soaking in the cozy atmosphere before we set off for our main destination: the Agbokim Waterfalls.


Explore the breathtaking Agbokim Waterfalls, a serene oasis in Cross River, Nigeria, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

The drive to Agbokim Waterfalls was an experience in itself. Leaving the park, we were greeted by rolling hills and lush greenery, typical of the Cross River region. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, showing my family the beauty of my home country. The roads, while a bit rough in places, were manageable, and the scenery kept us entertained. We even made a quick stop at a local market to pick up some fresh fruit and snacks for the road.

Agbokim Waterfalls: Nature's Masterpiece

As we approached Agbokim Waterfalls, the air grew cooler, and the sound of rushing water filled our ears. The kids were practically jumping out of their seats with excitement. And when we finally arrived, the sight before us was simply breathtaking! The Agbokim Waterfalls, also known as the Little Niagara of Africa, is made up of seven streams cascading down a high cliff into a lush, green rainforest. The sheer power and beauty of the falls were mesmerizing.

The sheer beauty and majesty of the Seven Streams cascading thunderously from the high cliff down below onto the lush green rainforest; the imposing backdrop of pitch-black high columns of Basaltic rock; and the spitting billows of misty dew midwifing an entrancing magical rainbow as it interacts with midday glow of clear sunshine. All of these presents out-of-the-world sights to behold. God! It is sublime.

We spent hours exploring the area around the falls. Tunde, with his keen interest in photography, was in his element, capturing the falls from every possible angle. Funke, ever the explorer, ventured into the surrounding rainforest, marveling at the towering trees and exotic plants. Aisha and I simply sat on a nearby rock, enjoying the cool mist and the soothing sounds of nature. It was a perfect moment of peace and tranquility, a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

One of the highlights of our visit was witnessing the magical rainbow that forms when the sunlight hits the mist from the falls. It was a truly enchanting sight, and the locals believe it brings peace and good fortune. I couldn't help but smile, feeling grateful for this incredible experience with my family.

I remembered reading about the history of Agbokim Waterfalls. It was discovered in the early 1900s by a hunter named Ntankum, who brought his family to settle here. The community that grew around the falls has worked hard to preserve its natural beauty, promoting afforestation and opposing deforestation. It's inspiring to see how they've managed to balance tourism with environmental conservation.

A Taste of Local Flavors at Fengiz Gabas

Experience authentic Nigerian flavors at Fengiz Gabas in Barkin Ladi - where every meal tells a story.

After our adventure at Agbokim Waterfalls, we were all famished. We drove to Fengiz Gabas for lunch, a restaurant known for its authentic Nigerian flavors. The restaurant was bustling with locals, always a good sign, and the aroma of spices filled the air.

We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including jollof rice, pepper soup, and suya. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. Even Aisha, who is a fantastic cook herself, was impressed. The kids particularly enjoyed the jollof rice, which had a slight smoky flavor that was simply irresistible.

As we ate, we chatted with some of the locals, learning about their lives and traditions. They were warm and welcoming, eager to share their culture with us. It's these interactions that make traveling so rewarding, connecting us to people and places in a meaningful way.

Evening Relaxation and Nightcap

In the evening, we decided to unwind at Moussa Bar, a local spot known for its relaxed atmosphere and friendly service.
Discover the lively atmosphere of Moussa Bar in Nkolangoung, Cameroon, where local culture and vibrant nightlife come together.

We sipped on some local beers and listened to live music, enjoying the cool evening breeze. It was a perfect way to end a perfect day.

For dinner, we decided to try Hard Rock Cafe.
Discover American cuisine and rock 'n' roll culture at Hard Rock Cafe Lagos - a vibrant dining destination in Nigeria.

The kids were thrilled, having heard so much about it. The Lagos branch can sit about 200 people and it has two floors and a beach front. The restaurant was themed with rock and roll memorabilia. We ordered burgers, fries, and milkshakes, indulging in some classic American comfort food. The atmosphere was lively and fun, and the kids had a blast dancing to the music. It was a great way to end our day, with full bellies and happy hearts.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. From the breathtaking beauty of Agbokim Waterfalls to the delicious flavors of Fengiz Gabas and the lively atmosphere of Hard Rock Cafe, today was a true celebration of Nigeria's natural and cultural treasures. I'm so glad I could share it all with my family.

Tomorrow, we're heading to Cross River National Park, another gem in Nigeria's crown. I've heard it's home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, and I can't wait to explore it with Aisha and the kids. We plan to have breakfast at Hootas Place Abuja, lunch at African Spicy Grill & Restaurant, and dinner at Tulip Bistro. I'm also hoping to visit Nigeria Travels and Tours to get some souvenirs for our friends back in Ottawa.

Until then, goodnight from Cross River!

P.S. I almost forgot! I managed to find a portable phone charger at a local shop today. One less thing to worry about for tomorrow's adventures! Also, I am glad I remembered to pack the traditional snacks, the family enjoyed them during the drive.