Northwest Highlands Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Northwest Highlands, Cameroon with our comprehensive travel guide. Find the top cultural and natural attractions, hiking and biking routes, food and drink scene, accommodation options, and much more.


Introduction to Northwest Highlands

The Northwest Highlands region of Cameroon is a wonderful destination for those who love nature and adventure. This mountainous region is the perfect place to explore if you’re looking for stunning landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities. You will find a rich cultural heritage and a range of outdoor activities in several towns and villages scattered in the highlands.

List of Places to Visit in Northwest Highlands

If you’re planning a trip to the Northwest Highlands, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do here. Here are some of the most popular places to visit:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Immerse yourself in the Northwest Highlands’ culture and history by paying a visit to some of its most culturally important attractions. The Bamenda Museum, located in the heart of Bamenda, is a must-see destination. The museum offers an unparalleled glimpse into the unique customs and traditions of the Northwest Highlands people. Another prominent historical place is the Bansoa Palace. The 1932 building is the residence of the Head of Bamessi Fondom.

Natural Attractions of Northwest Highlands: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

The Northwest Highlands is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with plenty of natural attractions to explore. Some popular options include Lake Ossa, Bali Waterfalls, Menchum Waterfalls, and Mount Oku. The best way to enjoy these natural attractions is by hiking, biking or birdwatching. Cameroon’s longest river, River Benue, also flows through the region and provides excellent opportunities for kayaking and fishing,

Hiking/Biking Routes of Northwest Highlands

If you’re planning to explore the highlands on foot, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. The Mount Oku trail is one of the most popular hiking routes in the area. From basecamp to the summit, the trail is an exhilarating trek that is both physically challenging and breathtakingly beautiful. The Tubah-Bafut Trail runs through several villages and provides an excellent opportunity to explore the region’s cultural heritage while enjoying a nature walk.

Best Things to Do in Northwest Highlands: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are plenty of other activities and tours to enjoy in the Northwest Highlands. You could go on a wildlife tour and spot unique species such as the black duiker or the pangolin, take an eco-tour of the heart of the Bafut-Ngemba forest, visit plantations where tea, coffee, and cocoa are grown, and more.

Week-Long Itinerary for Northwest Highlands

If you have a week to spend in the Northwest Highlands, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your trip:

Day Plan
1 Visit Lake Ossa and spend an afternoon kayaking on the lake.
2 Go on the Tubah-Bafut Trail and visit the Bafut Palace.
3 Visit the Bamenda Museum and Bansoa Palace.
4 Explore the forests of the Bafut-Ngemba area on a nature walk.
5 Hike Mount Oku and enjoy the stunning views from the summit.
6 Visit the Bali Waterfalls and Menchum Waterfalls.
7 Relax and enjoy some local cuisine, and souvenirs before leaving Northwest Highlands.

Food and Drink Scene of Northwest Highlands

Cameroon has a diverse and delicious food scene, and the Northwest Highlands is no exception. Here are some of the best dishes and local beverages to try:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ndole: This is a traditional Cameroonian dish made with bitterleaf, peanuts, and meat or fish.
  • Fufu: This is a staple dish in many African countries, including Cameroon. It is made from cassava or yams and served with soup or stew.
  • Koki: This is a steamed dish made from ground beans, palm oil, and spices.

Local Beverages

  • Palm wine: This is a popular alcoholic beverage made from the sap of palm trees.
  • Ginger beer: This refreshing drink is made from a mixture of ginger root, sugar, and lemon juice.

Where to Stay in Northwest Highlands: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are several accommodation options to choose from in the Northwest Highlands. Budget travelers can opt for guesthouses or hostels, while those who are looking for a more luxurious stay can select from a range of hotels. Some popular options include the Azam Hotel and the Mountain Hotel in Bamenda.

What to Buy in Northwest Highlands: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

The Northwest Highlands is a great place to pick up some unique souvenirs and local products. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Woven baskets: These baskets are handcrafted by local artisans and are available in a variety of designs and sizes.
  • Traditional clothing: You can find traditional outfits in many local markets and shops.
  • Souvenirs: Postcards, keychains, and magnets are just some of the souvenirs you can find in the region.

Local Culture and Customs of Northwest Highlands

The Northwest Highlands is home to several ethnic groups, including the Bafut, Tikar, and Bali, each with unique cultural practices and traditions. Visitors are advised to be respectful and mindful of local customs, such as wearing modest clothing and seeking permission before taking photographs.

Best Time to Visit Northwest Highlands

The best time to visit the Northwest Highlands is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant, and the trails are easier to navigate.

Do’s and Don’ts of Northwest Highlands

Here are some tips to help you make the most of your trip to the Northwest Highlands:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Stay hydrated, especially if you’re planning to spend time outdoors.
  • Carry appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking and exploring.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter and protect the environment.
  • Do not wander off the marked trails during hikes.
  • Don’t incite, offend locals or Illegal reconnaissance activities.

Safety and Health

Safety in Northwest Highlands

The Northwest Highlands is a safe destination for travelers. However, like in any other place, basic safety precautions should be practiced. It is advisable to be mindful of your surroundings, lock your valuables, and keep a photocopy of your passport and credit cards

Health in Northwest Highlands

While there are no specific health concerns in the Northwest Highlands, visitors should take the necessary precautions to avoid malaria, especially during the rainy season. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for travelers coming from countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission.

Getting to Northwest Highlands: Transportation Options and Logistics

To reach the Northwest Highlands, you can take a flight to the Bamenda Airport, then take a taxi to your destination. Direct buses are also available from Douala to Bamenda, the road network in the region is well developed, and there are reliable car rental services available.

Airports Near Northwest Highlands

The Bamenda Airport is the closest airport that serves the highlands. From here, visitors can take a taxi or a bus to their destination.

Bus Stations Near Northwest Highlands

Several bus stations serve the Northwest Highlands, with the most common being the Bamenda Bus Station.

Other Options

Car rentals and taking taxis are the most widely available options to reach the highlands.

How to Get Around in Northwest Highlands

Visitors can take taxis or hire a car to get around the Northwest Highlands. Bikes and bicycles are also fashionable for exploring.

Where to Go Next from Northwest Highlands: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations and excursions that visitors can explore after visiting the Northwest Highlands. The Waza National Park in the Far North region and the Korup National Park in the Southwest region are just some of the nearby attractions that are worth visiting.

Conclusion

The Northwest Highlands is a hidden gem in Cameroon that offers an abundance of natural and cultural attractions. With so much to explore, visitors can experience unforgettable hiking trails, stunning views of lakes, waterfalls, and rivers, and an immersion into Cameroon’s diverse culture.



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