Family Adventure in Gashaka Gumti National Park

Whispers of the Rainforest

Today was nothing short of magical. Leaving the bustling energy of Abuja behind, we ventured into the serene embrace of Cross River National Park. As a software engineer, I often find myself lost in lines of code, but today, I was immersed in a different kind of intricate system – the delicate balance of nature. It was a journey that reminded me of my roots and the importance of sharing Nigeria's natural wonders with my family.


Explore Cross River National Park, Nigeria's lush rainforest, home to diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers.

Our day began early with breakfast at Hootas Place in Abuja. The aroma of freshly made akara and hot tea filled the air, fueling us for the long drive ahead. Aisha, ever the organized nurse, made sure we had everything we needed: enough water, snacks, and of course, the ever-essential bug spray. Tunde, my eldest, was in charge of the camera, eager to capture the park's beauty, while Funke, with her infectious enthusiasm, kept us all entertained with stories and jokes.


Discover the heart of Abuja's culinary scene at Hootas Place – where delicious food meets vibrant social experiences.

The drive itself was an experience. Leaving Abuja, the landscape gradually transformed from urban sprawl to rolling hills and lush greenery. I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride as we passed through local villages, each with its unique character and charm. It was a stark contrast to the digital world I inhabit back in Ottawa, and a welcome change of pace.

We made a stop at Nigeria Travels and Tours. I wanted to get some advice on navigating the park and perhaps pick up a few souvenirs. The staff were incredibly helpful, offering insights into the best trails and wildlife spotting locations. It’s always reassuring to connect with locals who are passionate about their country's natural beauty.


Uncover Nigeria's vibrant culture and stunning landscapes with Nigeria Travels and Tours, your trusted partner for unforgettable adventures.

Finally, we arrived at Cross River National Park. The air was thick with humidity, and the sounds of the rainforest enveloped us – a symphony of chirping insects, rustling leaves, and distant calls of exotic birds. The park, a vast expanse of green, felt like stepping into another world.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.

Our first adventure was a guided hike through one of the park's trails. We opted for a moderate route, mindful of the children's stamina. Our guide, a local man named Ekong, was a wealth of knowledge, pointing out various plant species and explaining their medicinal properties. He showed us ancient trees, their roots sprawling like giant pythons, and colorful birds flitting through the canopy.

I was particularly fascinated by Ekong's stories of the Cross River gorillas, the park's most famous residents. While we didn't spot any gorillas today, just knowing they were somewhere nearby added an element of excitement to our hike. Tunde was in his element, snapping photos of everything – from the smallest insects to the tallest trees. Funke, meanwhile, peppered Ekong with questions about the local flora and fauna, her curiosity insatiable.

Aisha, who often deals with the stresses of hospital work, seemed to visibly relax as we walked deeper into the forest. I caught her smiling to herself, her eyes closed, as she breathed in the fresh, earthy air. It was moments like these that reminded me why we needed this trip – a chance to disconnect from our busy lives and reconnect with each other and with nature.

For lunch, we stopped at African Spicy Grill & Restaurant. The jollof rice was particularly memorable. The restaurant was a great place to immerse ourselves in the local cuisine.


Discover authentic African flavors at African Spicy Grill & Restaurant in Abuja - where tradition meets taste.

As the afternoon wore on, we visited the Kwa Falls, a series of cascading waterfalls that plunged into a cool, refreshing pool. The sight was simply breathtaking. We spent some time taking photos and simply enjoying the scenery. The falls were a perfect spot to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures.

One of the highlights of the day was spotting a troop of monkeys swinging through the trees. They were playful and curious, and we watched in amusement as they chased each other and chattered amongst themselves. It was a reminder of the incredible biodiversity that this park protects.

Of course, no adventure is complete without a few hiccups. I realized I had forgotten my portable phone charger, a rookie mistake for a tech-savvy traveler like myself. And Aisha reminded me that we had also left the rain ponchos behind. Luckily, the weather held up, but it was a good reminder to double-check our packing list next time.

As the sun began to set, we made our way back to Abuja. For dinner, we dined at Tulip Bistro. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was delicious – a perfect end to a long day.


Discover exquisite flavors at Tulip Bistro in Abuja – where local delicacies meet international culinary delights.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Cross River National Park is a true gem, a place of incredible beauty and biodiversity. It's a place that deserves to be protected and cherished for generations to come. I am so glad I could share this experience with my family, and I hope that it will inspire them to appreciate and respect the natural world.

Tomorrow, we prepare to return to Gashaka Gumti National Park. It will be an early start with breakfast at BluCabana Restaurant & Cafe, followed by more exploration within the park [i]. I also intend to visit the Naija Gift Land shop [i].

As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I can still hear the whispers of the rainforest in my ears. It's a sound that will stay with me long after we leave Nigeria, a reminder of the beauty and wonder that awaits us when we take the time to explore our world.

I encourage everyone to take some time to explore and appreciate the natural wonders around them.