Plizio Visual Lab

Alok Ikom Stone Monoliths

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

The Alok Ikom Stone Monoliths are an astonishing collection of over 300 intricately carved volcanic stones located in Cross River State. Scattered across several communities in circular formations, these phallic-shaped stones, known locally as Akwanshi, feature stylized human faces, geometric patterns, and intricate inscriptions. Archaeologists believe they were carved between the 2nd and 16th centuries, though their exact origins and the tools used to carve the hard basalt remain highly debated. They are generally believed to represent revered ancestors of the local Ekoi people. These enigmatic stones are currently on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	26	27	27	26	25	25	25	25	25	26	25
Rain mm	13	38	91	185	218	258	240	265	285	287	97	7

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The site is outdoors and freely accessible; visitors can walk among the over 300 stone circles carved with human faces. There are no buildings or barriers, so the monoliths can be viewed during daylight without restrictions.

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Typical hours

Since it is an open-air site, there are no fixed opening hours; visiting is typically possible from sunrise to sunset. During the dry season the dirt paths are more passable and visibility is clearer.

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Photography

Photographing the stone carvings is generally allowed, but one should be considerate of their spiritual significance. To capture the details of the carvings well, a medium focal length lens and a polarizing filter to reduce reflections are recommended.

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Time needed

A thorough walk among the stone circles and viewing the faces takes about one to two hours. Those interested in the history of the monoliths can add extra time for reading information boards.

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Combine with

In the Alok Ikom area there are other traditional settlements with similar stone circles that can be combined. The Cross River National Park is also not far and features a varied natural backdrop.

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Getting there

The monoliths are located off main roads, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle or a guided tour is recommended. From Calabar the area is reached via the road to Ikom; local guides help with orientation on site.

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Insider tip

Since there is little shade on site, bring sun protection, plenty of water and sturdy footwear. Local guides can tell fascinating background stories about the individual stones - ask them about their services.

Geography

Coordinates

6.13640, 8.36140

Facts

Located in the Ikom region of Cross River State, southeastern Nigeria.
Consists of over 300 carved volcanic basalt stones, known locally as Akwanshi.
Features highly stylized human faces, beards, and complex geometric inscriptions.
Estimated to have been carved between the 2nd and 16th centuries AD.
Traditionally believed to represent the spirits of revered community ancestors.
Currently listed on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.