Book flights to Port Harcourt (PHC)

Book your visit to Port Harcourt

Prosperous, welcoming, and lively, Port Harcourt is one of Nigeria’s best-kept secrets. This city may have been built on the wealth of its rich oil fields, but it still retains that authenticity and friendly atmosphere that makes it such a great city break destination. Its stunning sandy beaches also make it one of Nigeria’s best beach destinations.

Bustling markets sit beside modern malls, and fine dining competes with street food vendors for the attention of gastronomes. Tranquil parks let you take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city, while Port Harcourt’s location in the southeast region of Nigeria makes it a starting point for exploring the coast.

Add in that it’s a budget-friendly city and you have one of the most interesting and affordable travel destinations in Africa.

Things to do in Port Harcourt

If you’re here with the family and fancy a day away from the beach, Port Harcourt Pleasure Park has an amusement park that younger travellers will love. Isaac Boro Park is focused more on eco-friendly tourism, with scenic trails to explore that are suitable for all ages and abilities.

If you want to see a selection of exotic animals without travelling into the bush on safari, Port Harcourt Zoo focuses on conservation and education in a fun and family-friendly environment.

If you can’t resist the call of the fairway, Port Harcourt Golf Club is open to non-members and has some challenging holes. And after all that excitement, a stroll down to the beach gives you incredible views of the sunset and the chance to find a local restaurant selling fresh fish and spicy Nigerian culinary specialities.

Activities in Port Harcourt

If you’re in Port Harcourt just before Christmas, you’ll get the chance to join in with the festivities of the Carniriv Festival. This week-long celebration embraces the cultural diversity and heritage of Nigeria with parades, music and dance.

If you’ve never experienced the sheer exuberance of an African football match, book some tickets for a match at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium along with 38,000 other supporters. The Stadium also hosts music concerts and events.

Immerse yourself in the art of Nigeria at the Delaroke Art Gallery, which showcases the work of up-and-coming young creatives as well as internationally renowned artists.

Treat yourself to a little pampering at one of the city’s luxurious spas, or take a guided cultural tour of the city’s trendiest locations.

Food in Port Harcourt

Southern Nigerian food is filled with soups, stews, and fish dishes, all carefully prepared with a unique range of herbs and spices. One of the most popular is Boli and fish. Boli is roasted plantain served with smoked or roasted fish with a tangy pepper sauce.

For a quick snack on the go, suya is the Nigerian version of kebabs, with grilled chicken or beef skewers marinated in spices and grilled over an open fire.

Soups play a big part in Nigerian cuisine, such as Banga soup made from palm fruit or afang soup, made from afang leaves and meat such as beef or mutton. If you prefer something lighter, try jollof rice cooked with tomatoes and spices.

In the downtown area of the city you’ll find international cuisine from around the world with a particular emphasis on Chinese and Asian food.

Shopping in Port Harcourt

The most popular souvenirs to buy in Port Harcourt include brightly-coloured fabrics and textiles, bead jewellery and hand-tooled leather boxes. Take a stroll down Mile One or Mile Three market. Slightly chaotic, noisy and great fun, this is the place to grab a bargain. Be prepared to haggle.

If you prefer the comfort of air-conditioned retail, Port Harcourt Mall is the place to go with a large food court, entertainment and outlets selling electrical goods, fashion and accessories.

In the downtown area you’ll also come across several large art galleries selling work by local artists.

Explore the side streets off Market Three and you’ll find local sellers offering all sorts of trinkets. For fresh produce, the city’s malls have plenty of fruit and delicious local treats on offer.