Buea Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and naturally beautiful city of Buea in Cameroon with our comprehensive travel guide. Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Buea

Nestled in the scenic foothills of Mount Cameroon, Buea is a city rich in history and culture. Known as the “city of excellence,” Buea is the capital of the Southwest Region of Cameroon and a popular destination for travelers seeking adventure, cultural experiences, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the city’s museums and historical landmarks, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, or sampling local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Buea.

List of Places to Visit in Buea

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Buea is steeped in history and culture, and there are many museums and historical landmarks worth visiting in the city. The following are just a few:

  1. German Cemetery - The final resting place of German soldiers and colonial officials who once controlled the territory in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
  2. Buea Mountain Club - A private club established by German colonialists in 1901.
  3. Bismarck Fountain - Built in honor of Otto von Bismarck, a German statesman who governed the country during the 19th century.
  4. Buea Station - A historic train station built during the colonial era that now serves as a museum.

Natural Attractions of Buea: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Buea’s natural beauty is unparalleled, and there are many scenic spots worth visiting in the city. Here are some recommendations:

  1. Mount Cameroon - The highest peak in West Africa, and the focal point of many outdoor activities, including hiking, trekking, and mountain climbing.
  2. Limbe Botanic Garden - A beautiful botanical garden containing a vast array of flora from Cameroon and beyond, including orchids, palms, and tree ferns.
  3. Lake Barombi Mbo - A picturesque crater lake surrounded by lush vegetation, providing stunning scenery and a perfect spot for nature lovers.
  4. Debundscha Waterfalls - The highest waterfall in Cameroon, cascading almost 300 meters down a steep cliff, providing an impressive spectacle.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Buea

Buea is a hiker’s and biker’s paradise, with an abundance of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Below are some of the most popular routes:

  1. Summit Trail - A challenging trek to the summit of Mount Cameroon, taking around two days and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
  2. Canopy Walk - A thrilling walk-in Korup National Park, where you can walk among the trees on a 440-meter-long suspension bridge, providing an unforgettable experience.
  3. Bokwango Trail - A challenging hike in the heart of the Bakweri forest, where you can observe rare bird species and fauna unique to the region.
  4. Molyko Trails - A series of interconnected paths around Mount Cameroon, offering stunning views of the surrounding forests, valleys, and mountains.

Best Things to Do in Buea: Activities and Tours

Buea offers a vast array of activities and tours suitable for all ages and interests. Some of the most popular options are:

  1. Explore the City - Take a guided tour of Buea and explore its rich history and culture while seeing the most important historic buildings.
  2. Visit the Limbe Wildlife Center - A wildlife rescue center that offers tours where you can observe different species of animals, learn about their habitats, and contribute to conservation efforts.
  3. Go on a Birdwatching tour - Buea and surrounding areas are home to over 900 bird species, making it one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa.
  4. Take a Cooking Class - Learn how to prepare traditional Cameroonian dishes such as Ndole, a local delicacy known for its rich taste and nutrition.

Week-Long Itinerary for Buea

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long stay in Buea that will ensure you make the most of your visit:

Day Activity
1 Explore Buea City
2 Hike to Mount Cameroon
3 Visit the Limbe Wildlife Center
4 Visit Lake Barombi Mbo
5 Canopy Walk in Korup National Park
6 Take a cooking class
7 Debundscha Waterfalls

Food and Drink Scene of Buea

Cameroonian cuisine is flavorful, and the food scene in Buea offers a variety of delicious options to try.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ndole - A stew made with bitter leaves, peanuts, and meat or fish.
  2. Suya - A skewered and spiced meat dish that is grilled over an open flame.
  3. Poulet DG - A popular chicken dish that is usually served with plantains and vegetables.
  4. Pepper Soup - A spicy soup made with meat or fish, peppers, and spices.

Local Beverages

  1. Palm Wine - A traditional drink made from the sap of palm trees.
  2. Ginger Juice - A drink made with fresh ginger, lemon juice, and sugar.
  3. La Nfange - Traditional Cameroonian beer brewed from corn or millet.

Where to Stay in Buea: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are plenty of accommodation options available to suit a wide range of budgets. Here are some of the best:

  1. Check Inn Hotel Buea – A luxurious hotel located in the heart of Buea, with a swimming pool and restaurant.
  2. Makumba Hotel & Suites - A mid-range hotel offering comfortable rooms, located in a quiet area of Buea.
  3. Buea Road Apartments - Fully furnished apartments equipped with all amenities, perfect for longer stays.

What to Buy in Buea: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Buea offers several unique souvenirs that visitors can purchase to remind them of their trip. Some popular items include:

  1. Hand-carved wooden souvenirs such as masks, figurines, and bowls
  2. Traditional jewelry and accessories made with local beads, brass, and copper.
  3. Locally produced fabrics like Ankara, which is available in a variety of colors and patterns.

Local Culture and Customs of Buea

The people of Buea are known for their hospitality, and visitors are often welcomed warmly. It’s also essential to dress conservatively and respect local customs, particularly when visiting religious sites and cultural events.

Best Time to Visit Buea

The best time to visit Buea is during the dry season, from November to January, when you can enjoy a pleasant climate and enjoy outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Buea

Do:

  1. Dress appropriately for cultural and religious events.
  2. Respect the local customs and traditions.
  3. Exchange pleasantries and engage in friendly conversations with locals.

Don’t:

  1. Take pictures of people without their consent.
  2. Disrespect wildlife and the environment.
  3. Attempt to purchase or consume illegal substances.

Safety and Health

Safety in Buea

Buea is generally safe, but visitors should exercise common sense and take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.

Health in Buea

Visitors should be up-to-date on routine vaccinations before traveling to Buea. It’s also essential to take necessary precautions against malaria by using insect repellent and anti-malarial medication.

Getting to Buea: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Buea

The nearest airport to Buea is the Douala International Airport, located 78 km away.

Bus Stations Near Buea

The Buea Central Bus Station is a hub of activity with buses running to and from major cities in Cameroon regularly.

Other Options

Taxis and car rentals are also available for visitors to explore Buea and the surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Buea

Public transport is the most common and affordable method of getting around Buea. Taxis, buses and motorbikes (known locally as Okadas) are readily available.

Where to Go Next from Buea: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Buea is surrounded by several attractions and places to visit, including:

  1. The Limbe Beach - A beautiful beach town located 30 kilometers away from Buea.
  2. Korup National Park - A vast region of protected rainforest home to numerous species of birds and other wildlife.
  3. Douala - A vibrant city with a bustling port on the Wouri River, just a few hours from Buea.

Conclusion

Buea is an excellent destination for culture, outdoor activities, and adventure. With its unique mix of cultural and natural attractions, delicious cuisine, and friendly people, Buea is an unforgettable destination that will leave you yearning for more.