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Getting Around Calabar

Getting Around Calabar

Calabar Cross River State, Nigeria Travel Guide

Overview of Public Transit Systems

Calabar does not have a metro, tram, or formal municipal bus setup with scheduled routes. The main modes of "public" transportation are pool taxis and Keke Napep (motorized tricycles). These options offer a quick way to travel short to medium distances within the city.

No official route maps exist for shared taxis or Keke Napep. They operate on flexible routes, largely based on demand. You typically find these vehicles at busy intersections, markets, or other popular areas where people gather. Drivers often call out popular destinations.

Public Transit Features

  • Shared taxis operate on common routes.
  • Keke Napep (motorized tricycles) for flexible, short-to-medium travel over long distances.
  • Fares are settled with cash directly to the driver; small denominations of Naira are useful.
  • Vehicles operate from early morning (around 6 AM) until late evening (around 9-10 PM).

No Official Maps

Public transit lacks official route maps; routes are flexible and demand-driven.

Limited Accessibility

Public transportation generally does not provide accessibility for travelers with mobility challenges.

Hailing a Ride

Find vehicles at busy intersections or markets; drivers often call out destinations.

Tips for Navigating Public Transport

Fare and Destination
  • Always confirm your destination with the driver.
  • Agree on the fare before getting on any shared taxi or Keke Napep.
  • Carry small denominations of Naira for fares.
Keke Napep Specifics
  • Specify "drop" for a private, direct ride to your destination.
  • Request "along" for a shared ride, that is cheaper but could include detours.
  • How often it happens is high during peak hours, making it easy to find a ride.

Overview of Public Transportation in Calabar

Shared Taxis

Common and flexible routes.

Keke Napep

Motorized tricycles, main local transport.

Cash Fares

Payment directly to drivers with small Naira.

No Schedules

No formal routes or timetables exist.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer more direct and often more comfortable transportation options in Calabar.

Licensed Taxis

  • Identification: Taxis feature colors (often yellow or green) and may carry a taxi sign.
  • Hailing: Flag them down on the street or find at designated stands (airport, major hotels).
  • Fares: Always agree on the fare before starting; meters are rarely used. Cash (Naira) is standard payment.
  • Safety: Use reputable services, especially from hotels. Avoid unmarked taxis at night. Share ride details.

Ride-Sharing Services

  • Recommended App: Bolt is the most common ride-sharing application in Calabar. Uber's presence might be limited or non-existent.
  • Pros: Transparent pricing, trackable journeys, and safety features (driver identification).
  • Cons: Availability varies (outside peak hours/central areas). A working local SIM card or internet connection is mandatory.
  • Airport/Station: Taxis are readily available at Margaret Ekpo International Airport. Pre-negotiate fares. Taxis and Keke Napep are at bus terminals.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing Advantages

  • Direct routes to your destination.
  • Greater comfort compared to shared options.
  • Often quicker for specific journeys.
  • App-based services offer trip tracking for added safety.
  • Ideal for late-night travel when public transit reduces.

Taxi Fares & Payment

Short City Rides

NGN 2,000 to 5,000, depending on distance and negotiation.

Longer City Rides

NGN 5,0THE hours of 12 to 10,000+, negotiation needed.

Payment Method

Cash (Nigerian Naira) is the standard and often only payment option.

Rental Options for Tourists

Rental options in Calabar are typically limited, with a strong a choice for rentals that include a driver.

Car Rental with Driver

  • Car rental is available, but often comes with a driver. This option is Highly recommended for safety and ease of navigation.
  • Self-drive requirements (if chosen): International Driving Permit (IDP) and national driving license are mandatory. Minimum age (usually 23-25) and credit card for deposit.
  • Companies: Look for local rental agencies or multinational brands operating through local partners. DiscoverCars.com offers comparisons.
  • Drivers know roads and local customs, providing a smoother travel experience.

Other Rental Limitations

  • Motorcycle and Scooter Rentals: Not commonly accessible to tourists. Okada (motorcycle taxis) are widely used by locals but generally Not recommended for tourists due to safety concerns and lack of helmets.
  • Bicycle Sharing Programs and Rentals: Calabar lacks formal bicycle sharing programs or readily available bicycle rentals for tourists.
  • Driving Laws: Drive on the right-hand side. Speed limits exist but are not always strictly observed. Seatbelts are mandatory. Roads can be different widely.
  • Parking: Generally informal street parking. Hotels often provide secure parking for guests.

Walking and Cycling in Calabar

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

Calabar's city center and tourist areas (Marina Resort, Calabar Museum surroundings) are relatively pedestrian-friendly during the day.

Sidewalks can be uneven or non-existent; vigilance is important.

Walking Tour Options

Some local tour operators offer walking tours with a guide of historical sites, providing valuable insights.

Self-guided tours are possible in concentrated historical areas, demanding awareness of surroundings.

Cycling & Safety

Calabar lacks dedicated bicycle infrastructure. Cycling on main roads is Not recommended due to heavy traffic and varying road conditions.

Avoid isolated areas for walking or cycling, notably at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour & Water Options
  • Tour Buses: Calabar does not offer formal hop-on-hop-off tour bus services. Tour operators arrange private buses or vans for groups, especially for excursions.
  • Boat Taxis: Limited to local fishing boats or privately arranged boat trips on the Calabar River. Often for specific excursions rather than regular public transport.
  • Accessibility Services: Very limited. Infrastructure plus transportation systems are generally not designed for accessibility. Pre-arrangement with hotels or specialized tour operators is mandatory for travelers with mobility needs.
Unique Local Transport
  • Cable Car: A cable car exists at the Obudu Mountain Resort, located several hours drive from Calabar, but not within Calabar city itself.
  • Keke Napep: Motorized tricycles (Keke Napep) represent an unique and common local transport method for daily commuting within Calabar.
  • For specific needs or experiences, specialized transportation often requires advance booking or area recommendations.

Important Accessibility Note

  • Infrastructure for travelers with mobility needs is highly limited.
  • Pre-arrangement with hotels or specialized tour operators is mandatory.
  • Public transport (taxis, Keke Napep) is generally not equipped for wheelchairs.
  • Contact providers directly to assess feasibility before travel.
  • Walking surfaces can be uneven or absent in many areas.
  • Exercise caution and seek assistance where needed.
  • Communicate specific needs clearly and in advance.
  • Research accessible accommodations and services thoroughly.

Final Transportation Tips

Confirm fares and destinations before beginning any journey. For farther travel or inter-state travel, using reputable bus services or car rentals with a driver is safer.

Always prioritize your safety, especially when traveling at night or in less familiar areas. A local SIM card with data for ride-sharing apps and maps enhances your travel experience.

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