By Bassey Asuquo
Agbokim waterfalls are situated in Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State, close to its border with Cameroon. The waterfalls are about 17 kilometres (9.3 mi) from Ikom and 320 kilometres (200 mi) from Calabar.
Named after the host town, Agbokim Waterfalls are made up of seven streams which display a breathtaking cascade of fresh water plunging down the high cliff into the beautiful tropical rainforest, which is the reason it is called, the seven –faced wonder. This site is surrounded by steep hills, valleys, and luxuriant vegetation.
Agbokim falls which have attractive scenery, has over the years, been a centre of attraction for visitors to Cross River State and tourists.
Mr. Ekpo Edem, an indigene of Big Qua Town, in Cross River State, has this to say, ”Agbokim Waterfalls is made up of seven streams which display a breathtaking cascade of fresh water plunging down the high cliff into the beautiful tropical rainforest.
This is why it’s often called the ‘seven-faced’ wonder. It is surrounded by steep hills, valleys, and luxuriant vegetation. Agbokim Waterfalls, which is one of the waterfalls in Cross Rivers State, has attractive scenery and has for years been a centre of attraction for tourists”.
Research findings show that the existence of the waterfalls dates back to the early 90’s when a hunter by name, Ntankum discovered the site. On discovery of the waterfall, he later moved with his family to reside around the site. Over the years, indigenes of Agbokim community have worked together to develop the site. Since the water is from the remains of plants, they have also encouraged a forestation which has aid the increase in the volume of water.
Again, Mr. Ekpo Edem said, “The history of Agbokim Waterfalls dates back to the early 90’s when a hunter named Ntankum made the discovery of the waterfall. He later brought his family members to reside around the waterfall area. Over the years, members of Agbokim community have worked collectively to ensure that they develop this place. Due to the fact that the source of the water is from the remains of plants, they’ve encouraged a forestation. The forestation also helps to increase the volume of the water.”
According to research, the best time for a tourist to get the best out of his trip to Agbokim falls is during the rainy season where he could be lucky to catch a glimpse of the rainbow across the falling sheets of water. Tourists are advised to go there with a foot wear that is not slippery, but water- resistant to enable them climb the rock properly. The closeness of the site to Cameroon gives one an opportunity for a cross-border experience
Mr Felix Etung, an indigene of Etung Local Government Area of Cross River State where the site is situated says, “In order to get the best out of your trip to Agbokim Waterfalls, you should visit this place during the rainy season. You could be lucky to catch a glimpse of the rainbow across the falling sheets of water. Rainy season in Cross River occurs between April and September, with a short break in August. You should also have a non-slippery footwear with you, which is both water-resistant and would enable you to climb the rock effectively. Also, its proximity to Cameroon gives you an opportunity for a cross-border experience.”
Mr. Archibong Edet Ekpo, an indigene of Odukpani Local Government Area, also bared his mind thus, “Agbokim Waterfalls is situated 17 kilometres from Ikom Local Government Area of Cross River State and about 315 kilometers from Calabar. Agbokim Waterfalls is not far from the Nigeria-Cameroon border.
Agbokim waterfalls is a collection of seven cascades which pour over a cliff creating an impressive seven-part waterfall. If you are lucky you will catch the falls at a time when the mist drifting from the crashing water conjures up rainbow colours.
Agbokim Waterfalls is surrounded by lush greenery, valleys and steep hills which are enveloped in a rainbow-like aura. Its freshness is captivating and has an alluring serenity.
It is an ideal location for a picnic, vacation, getting back into nature and regaining your creative productivity and general well being. Agbokim Waterfalls is most spectacular during the rainy season when on a lucky day you have a chance to see the rainbow across the face of the waterfall. Its proximity to neighbouring Cameroon offers a unique opportunity for cross-border experience.”
Getting to Agbokim Waterfalls is simple. Margaret Ekpo International Airport (Calabar Airport) is the closest airport to the site. The distance between Calabar Airport and Agbokim Waterfalls is about 315 kilometres. Thus, if you arrive at Calabar by flight, you would find taxis at the airport that would take you to a park in Calabar City. At this park, you would board a taxi to Ikom Local Government Area, from where you would find another taxi to the waterfalls.
At Agbokim Waterfalls, you can carry out several activities, such as, feeding your eyes with the view of this captivating seven-part picturesque waterfall; serenading yourself with the sound of the water gushing down the beautiful terraces into the rainforest; taking pictures of beautiful sights at the waterfalls, which include the occasional appearance of the rainbow as well as the birds swirling in the air; visiting the Nigeria-Cameroon border, as it would afford you the opportunity of having the cross border experience and organizing a picnic with your friends and family members on the lush vegetation at the Agbokim Waterfalls.
You can also lodge at the Agbokim Waterfalls, as there are rooms at this place where you can spend the night. In the event that you are planning to spend the night, ensure that you carry your beddings.
Indeed, at this waterfall, you would be left in awe of the glowing beauty and serene environment, in addition to getting lost in the euphoria of nature’s awesomeness. Without any doubt, this is an ideal location for that romantic getaway in an environment surrounded by the loving arms of Mother Nature. It is also a great spot for a picnic with family and friends.
