Detty December in Port Harcourt: the Garden City guide

What is Detty December like in Port Harcourt?

Port Harcourt's Detty December is built around homecoming. Many families from Rivers State and the wider Niger Delta return for Christmas, weddings and village visits, and the city's lounges, clubs and restaurants fill up from mid-December. It is smaller and more local than Lagos, with a strong food and party culture of its own. People from PH are proud of it, and the nightlife reputation is well earned.

Where to stay in Port Harcourt

1. Old GRA: established, leafy and central, with hotels, restaurants and lounges.
2. New GRA: upscale residential streets, popular for short-lets and nightlife.
3. Trans Amadi: the industrial and business district, with some newer hotels.
4. D-Line: busy and central, close to shops and eateries.

Book early. December demand from returning families pushes up hotel and short-let prices.

6 things to do in Port Harcourt in December

1. Port Harcourt Pleasure Park: a large family park with green space and activities.
2. Isaac Boro Park: a central park named after the Niger Delta activist and soldier.
3. Port Harcourt Tourist Beach: a waterfront spot for relaxing and seafood.
4. Lounge and club nights in GRA: the heart of PH's December nightlife.
5. Weddings and family events: December is peak wedding season.
6. Local markets: for fabric, crafts and fresh seafood.

What to eat in Port Harcourt

• Boli and fish: roasted plantain with grilled fish and spicy pepper sauce. PH's signature street food.
• Fisherman soup: a rich seafood soup with fresh fish, periwinkle and prawns.
• Native soup: a Rivers speciality, full of seafood and spices.
• Pepper soup: fish or goat, served everywhere.
• Palm wine: fresh from local tappers.

How to get to Port Harcourt

• Fly: about 1 hour from Lagos or Abuja to Port Harcourt International Airport (PHC) at Omagwa. The airport is outside the city, so allow time for the drive in.
• Road: long journeys from Lagos are not recommended for a short trip.

Safety in Port Harcourt

Port Harcourt is a busy commercial city. Most visitors spend their time in GRA and central areas without problems. Check your government's current travel advice for Rivers State and the Niger Delta before you travel, stay in secure accommodation, use a trusted driver, and avoid travelling outside the city at night.