Planning a trip to Cameroon and curious about the top spots to check out? Cameroon, often called “Africa in miniature,” is a diverse country situated between West and Central Africa. It boasts a range of attractions, from stunning white-sand beaches and active volcanoes to mountains, rainforests, and savannas. Local travel agencies offer various tours including safaris, primate tracking, and hiking adventures.
Mount Cameroon is a must-visit. It’s one of Africa’s largest volcanoes, standing at 4,040 meters, making it the highest peak in West Africa. Hikers love this mountain, and you can start your trek from the town of Buea. To hike Mount Cameroon, you need to either hire a guide or join a guided tour. Prices vary based on the group size and length of the hike, with options for two-day or three-day tours. The three-day hike not only includes reaching the summit but also exploring the mountain’s lakes and craters. Even if reaching the summit isn’t for you, there are hikes available up to an altitude of about 2,500 meters.
Cameroon also offers gorilla safaris, although the gorilla tracking experiences aren’t as developed as in some other African countries. You can still see the western lowland gorilla in certain national parks.
Yaoundé, the capital of Cameroon, is spread across seven hills and is known for its mix of architectural styles. Notable landmarks include the Our Lady of Victories Cathedral with its striking triangular roof, Palais des Congrès, and Yaoundé Unity Palace. The Reunification Monument, built in the 1970s, is uniquely shaped and worth a visit. To learn more about Cameroon’s rich history, culture, and traditions, check out the city’s museums. Mefou National Park, located nearby, is a rescue and rehabilitation center for several primate species, including gorillas.
Waza National Park is another highlight. This UNESCO biosphere reserve is home to around 30 species of mammals such as lions, West African giraffes, African bush elephants, hyenas, antelopes, gazelles, and Sudan cheetahs. Bird enthusiasts will also find species like North African ostriches, pelicans, herons, storks, and ibis. Guided safari tours are required to explore the park.
Kribi is a notable beach resort in Cameroon, famous for its extensive white-sand beach lined with palm trees and waterfront hotels. The relaxed vibe and beautiful beaches make Kribi a top destination. Don’t miss the Waterfalls of Lobé, located just a few kilometers from the beach. These unique 20-meter-tall waterfalls are among the few in the world that empty directly into the ocean. Near Kribi, various species of sea turtles come to lay their eggs. You can take a guided turtle walk in Ebodjé, a town about 50 km south of Kribi, which features pristine, palm-lined beaches.
Lastly, the Mandara Mountains run along the northern Cameroon-Nigeria border and are known for their lunar-like peaks. The highest point is Mount Oupay at 1,494 meters, but Kapsiki Peak near Rhumsiki is particularly notable for its needle-like spires and is one of the most photographed spots in the range. Numerous local travel agencies organize hiking tours in this area, with Rhumsiki serving as the gateway to these mesmerizing mountains.