Things to do in Port Harcourt

The Gem of Rivers State – Exploring Nigeria’s Fifth Most Populous City

Port Harcourt is the capital of Rivers State and the fifth most populous city in Nigeria. Also known as “The Garden City,” Port Harcourt is one of the central oil-producing states in Nigeria and is famous for its suburban atmosphere. The city has a mix of retro and modern styles and has different cultural displays. The sprawling water and beautiful creeks make it a primary source of livelihood for many people. This fantastic city is a hub of diners and restaurants that delight your taste buds with tasty seafood cuisine. This coastal city beckons tourists with significant tour interests, from the blanket of green hues that pervades the topography to a spectacle of lakes and rivers embracing the shores with coveted attention. 

Fascinating in every way, the city welcomes you with a towering view of the dense rainforest lounging on both sides of the road. A drive from Omagwa International Airport provides a grand spectacle of Gmelina trees billowing in the air, providing a tropical welcome into the country’s treasure trove. The city is easy to get to, and there is a good network of taxi services that tourists can use whenever they want. Upon arrival, tourists can book a ride with Pamdrive, Bolt, Opay, Ceetay Taxi, Easyride, Cabby NG, Alpha1 Rides, or 247 Taxicabs. With these cab-hailing services, a drive through Port Harcourt gives you a shared perspective of the city’s beauty, and the city beckons with all the luxury bestowed in its landscape. 

Finding Tranquillity and History in Rivers State’s Hidden Corners

Historical places in its arms will make your heart race back in time. This coastal city will take you on a memorable and noteworthy adventure, from the ancient kingdom of Bonny to the historical tour of the legendary King Jaja of Opobo. To flee the hustle of city life, you can cosy up in one of the hotels in the Government Reserved Areas (GRA) and within the central metropolis. You can enjoy good lodges in the suburbs and city areas with a lean budget. Local restaurants called “Buka” can be found all over the streets and corners. Their signs invite people to try their mouth-watering local dishes and cuisines. Rivers State is famous for tasty delicacies such as Onunu, fresh fish pepper soup, native soup, and other healthy and nutritious meals. 

So, if you are considering visiting Nigeria and wondering about the best place, fret no further because Port Harcourt is the right place for you. Instead, settle in and enjoy a tour of the most beautiful city premised along the coastal lines of the Niger Delta Creeks of southern Nigeria. Port Harcourt, located along the Bonny River, is surrounded by gorgeous streams and river tributaries, which provide a healthy source of nourishment for the terrain’s lush vegetation and towering trees. 

So, pack your bags and take a trip that will bring you delight and excitement. Are you still thinking of what to do in Port Harcourt? Here are our favourite tips.

Things to do in Port Harcourt during the day 

Delight your taste buds with goodness at Woodhouse Café: Woodhouse Café, located at 3 Louis Drive, off Sani Abacha Road, Port Harcourt, is a walk-in café seen bubbling over with fresh off-the-oven pastry and meals that nourish your bowels every time you visit. Mornings at the café are filled with the pleasant aroma of tasty fries served with freshly squeezed juice, tea, or coffee. So, if you are planning to visit Port Harcourt and need a serene environment serving wholesome meals, search no further. Woodhouse Café has you covered with all you need to satisfy the craving for eye-worthy and good-tasting meals. King Jaja’s Opulent Legacy and Opobo’s Cultural & Traditional Explore the historic feat of the legend King Jaja of Opobo in the ancient kingdom of Opobo. Just about 76 km from the city of Port Harcourt lies an ancient town whose name resonates with a historical legend, the King Jaja of Opobo. He is famous for his rise to fame, from a slave boy to an affluent oil palm merchant who dealt directly with the Britons and amassed so much recognition. The town can be accessed using speed boats at Kono Waterside in Bori or a jetty at Ikot Abasi, Akwa Ibom State. The boat ride gives you a rich overview of the stretched-out rivers hugging the coastal town with deep affection. Alternatively, tourists can take the newly constructed road linking the city through the Opobo-Nkoro road.

Take a Boat Cruise on Bonny Island: For a tranquil escape, head to Bonny Island, located in the southern part of Rivers State. Enjoy a scenic boat cruise along the Bonny River, surrounded by lush mangrove forests and picturesque landscapes. The island is also home to historic sites like Finima Beach and the Bonny Museum, offering insights into the region’s rich history.

Discover the Natural Wonders of Port Harcourt Tourist Beach: If you’re looking for a popular destination for both locals and tourists, Port Harcourt Tourist Beach is a great option. Relax on the sandy shores, dip in the Atlantic Ocean, or engage in water sports. The beach also hosts cultural events and live music, providing a lively atmosphere for visitors. There are also other beaches in River State; some are privately owned.

Explore Isaac Boro Park: For a serene green space in the heart of Port Harcourt, visit Isaac Boro Park, named after a Nigerian military officer and activist. It’s ideal for picnics, jogging, and unwinding amidst nature. The park also features monuments and statues commemorating the state’s historical figures.

Immerse Yourself in Culture at the Rivers State Cultural Centre: The Rivers State Cultural Centre in Port Harcourt is a hub for arts and culture. Attend traditional dance performances, art exhibitions, and theatre shows to better understand the state’s rich cultural heritage.

Go Wildlife Spotting in Port Harcourt Zoo: Finally, if you’re a nature enthusiast, visit Port Harcourt Zoo. Home to various wildlife species, including lions, giraffes, and primates, the zoo offers a unique opportunity to get up close with Nigeria’s diverse fauna.

Opobo Historical Attraction in State: Opobo, nestled in the heart of the Niger Delta region within Rivers State, Nigeria, stands as a captivating destination steeped in history and culture. Founded in the late 19th century by the influential King Jaja of Opobo, this town has played a pivotal role in shaping the economic and political landscape of the region and the entire country.

King Jaja, a visionary leader renowned for his business acumen, transformed Opobo into a bustling trading hub specialising in commodities like palm oil and other natural resources. The town’s distinctive stilt houses, gracefully lining the waterways, reflect its historical ties to trade and transportation, adding to the charm of Opobo’s picturesque setting.

Opobo’s allure extends beyond its architectural uniqueness; it is a living testament to cultural preservation. Traditional festivals, dances, and rituals are woven into the fabric of daily life, serving as vibrant expressions of the town’s deep-rooted traditions. Opobo’s people, known for their colourful celebrations adorned with elaborate costumes, music, and dance, create an atmosphere of lively cultural richness.

Despite facing environmental issues and economic shifts, Opobo remains resilient. The community’s unwavering commitment to preserving its cultural identity has elevated Opobo to a continued significance. Today, it stands as an essential cultural and historical centre in Nigeria, inviting visitors to experience a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity.

Explorers of Opobo can immerse themselves in its history by visiting iconic sites such as King Jaja’s Palace and the Opobo Town Hall. The town’s captivating landscapes and cultural vibrancy make Opobo a must-visit destination for those seeking to unravel its diverse and enchanting heritage.