Garoua Travel Guide

Find everything you need to know about Garoua, including top attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, cultural etiquette, and transportation options.


Introduction to Garoua

Garoua is a city located in northern Cameroon, in Central Africa. This region of Cameroon is known for its sprawling savannahs, beautiful national parks, and diverse cultural heritage. Garoua is the largest city in the North Region and serves as a commercial and transportation hub for the surrounding areas. It is home to over 400,000 people and is located on the banks of the Benue River.

List of Places to Visit in Garoua

If you’re planning a trip to Garoua, there are several must-see attractions that you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s rich history or immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region, there’s something for everyone.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Lamido’s Palace: This palace was once home to the former traditional ruler of Garoua and is now open to the public for tours. It is a great place to learn about the city’s history and culture.
  • Musee Departemental du Nord: Also known as the North Regional Museum, this museum is home to a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the cultural heritage of the region.
  • The Great Mosque of Garoua: This mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and is an important religious and cultural landmark in the city.

Natural Attractions of Garoua: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Benue National Park: This national park is located just outside of Garoua and is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalos, and lions.
  • Lake Maga: Located in the far north of Cameroon, this beautiful lake is surrounded by stunning natural scenery and is a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching.
  • Mount Ngaoundere: While not located in Garoua, this mountain is a popular day-trip destination that offers beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Garoua

Garoua and its surrounding area offer some incredible options for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just looking for a casual outing, there are plenty of routes to choose from. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Benue National Park Guided Hike: Join a guided hike through the national park to see some of the park’s most beautiful sights and learn about its wildlife and ecosystem.
  • Biking to Lake Maga: Rent a bike in Garoua and take a scenic ride to Lake Maga. The trip will take you through some beautiful countryside and is a great way to get some exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the area.

Best Things to Do in Garoua: Activities and Tours

There’s no shortage of things to do in Garoua, whether you’re looking for a cultural experience, an outdoor adventure, or something in between. Here are some top picks:

  • Tour of the Lamido’s Palace: Take a guided tour of the Lamido’s Palace to learn about the history and cultural significance of this important landmark.
  • Wildlife Safari in the Benue National Park: Join a guided tour to see some of the park’s incredible wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and more.
  • Shopping at the Garoua Market: This bustling market is a great place to find local handicrafts, clothing, and other souvenirs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Garoua

Day Activities
Day 1 Tour the Lamido’s Palace and North Regional Museum in Garoua
Day 2 Take a day trip to the Benue National Park for a wildlife safari
Day 3 Explore the Great Mosque of Garoua and the city’s historic center
Day 4 Hike to Lake Maga and enjoy a picnic lunch
Day 5 Take a guided bike tour of the countryside around Garoua
Day 6 Visit nearby Mount Ngaoundere for a day of hiking and sightseeing
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the local food and drink scene in Garoua

Food and Drink Scene of Garoua

Garoua is known for its vibrant and flavorful cuisine. From delicious stews to fresh produce, you’ll find a wide range of dishes to savor during your stay.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ndole: a traditional dish made with stewed bitterleaf, peanuts, and meat or fish.
  • Koki: a hearty bean cake made with black-eyed peas and spices.
  • Moin moin: a savory steamed bean pudding that’s often served with rice or cassava.

Local Beverages

  • Dolo: a traditional beer made from sorghum or millet that’s popular throughout Cameroon
  • Bissap: a refreshing hibiscus iced tea that’s perfect for hot weather.
  • Ginger juice: a spicy and invigorating drink made with fresh ginger and citrus.

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

There are plenty of accommodation options in Garoua, whether you’re looking for a luxurious hotel or a budget-friendly guesthouse. Here are a few recommendations:

  • Hotel Safari: This centrally located hotel offers comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and on-site restaurants.
  • Chez Esther Guesthouse: This cozy guesthouse is a great budget option and offers simple but comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel Ponte: Located just outside of Garoua, this hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for a peaceful and tranquil setting.

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

Garoua is known for its beautiful handicrafts and unique souvenirs. Here are a few ideas for what to buy during your visit:

  • Handmade baskets and woven goods made by local artisans
  • Hand-carved wooden figurines and masks
  • Traditional clothing and textiles, such as batik fabrics

Local Culture and Customs of Garoua

Cameroon is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage, and Garoua is no exception. Some customs and etiquette tips to keep in mind include:

  • Greeting others politely and using formal titles when appropriate
  • Removing shoes before entering a home or religious space
  • Dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious or historical sites

Best Time to Visit Garoua

The best time to visit Garoua is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, temperatures are moderate and the weather is generally sunny and dry. The rainy season, from May to September, can be very hot and humid, with heavy rainfall and occasional flooding.

Do’s and Don’ts of Garoua

Do:

  • Learn some basic French or take a language course before your trip, as French is the official language of Cameroon
  • Take time to explore the natural beauty of the region, including the Benue National Park and Lake Maga
  • Respect local customs and traditions

Don’t:

  • Expect everything to run on a strict schedule; time-keeping is more relaxed in Cameroon
  • Wear revealing clothing or dress immodestly when visiting religious or historical sites
  • Take photos of people or places without permission

Safety and Health

Safety in Garoua

Garoua is considered relatively safe for tourists, but like any city, it’s important to take some basic safety precautions. These include:

  • Avoid traveling alone at night
  • Keep valuables hidden and secured
  • Follow local safety guidelines and heed the advice of trusted sources

Health in Garoua

It’s important to take steps to protect your health while traveling to Garoua. Some tips to keep in mind include:

  • Drink only bottled water, as tap water is not safe for consumption
  • Take precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing long sleeves and using insect repellent
  • Seek medical attention immediately if you develop symptoms of malaria or other illnesses

Getting to Garoua: Transportation Options and Logistics

Garoua is served by several transportation options, including:

Airports Near Garoua

  • Garoua International Airport

Bus Stations Near Garoua

  • Garoua Central Bus Station

Other Options

  • Hire a private car and driver
  • Take a train from Yaounde or Douala

How to Get Around in Garoua

While Garoua is a walkable city, there are several transportation options available to help you get around:

  • Taxis: These can be hailed from the street and are a convenient way to get around the city.
  • Motorbikes: Motorbike taxis are a popular mode of transportation in Cameroon and can be found throughout Garoua.
  • Car rentals: If you prefer to drive yourself, there are several car rental companies available in Garoua.

Where to Go Next from Garoua: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cameroon is a diverse country with many incredible destinations to explore. If you’re looking to continue your adventure after Garoua, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Waza National Park: This park is located just north of Garoua and is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and more.
  • Ngaoundere: Located to the south-east of Garoua, Ngaoundere is known for its rugged natural beauty, traditional craft markets, and rich cultural heritage.
  • Kribi: A coastal town with white sandy beaches, Kribi is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers alike.

Conclusion

Whether you’re interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Garoua, immersing yourself in natural wonder, or simply enjoying the local food and drink scene, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful city. Use this comprehensive guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in Garoua.