Foumban Travel Guide

Plan your perfect trip with our comprehensive guide to Foumban in Cameroon, covering everything from where to stay and what to eat, to cultural attractions, natural wonders, and tourist itinerary ideas.


Introduction to Foumban

Foumban is a charming city nestled in the Northwestern Highlands of Cameroon, Central Africa. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Foumban is a haven for travellers who are interested in exploring the African culture and history. The city is dotted with museums, palaces, and other historical landmarks that allow visitors to glimpse into the world of ancient kings and kingdoms that once ruled the area.

Beyond the city’s cultural attractions, Foumban has an array of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and camping. Additionally, the city has a vibrant food and drink scene, with plenty of local and international restaurants serving both traditional African and modern fusion cuisine.

If you’re planning a trip to Foumban, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your experience. From where to stay and what to eat, to cultural attractions, natural wonders, and tourist itinerary ideas, we’ve got you covered.

List of Places to Visit in Foumban

Travelling to a new place requires careful planning to ensure that you cover all the popular attractions and hidden gems the city has to offer. In Foumban, there are plenty of places that cater to different interests and preferences. Below is a list of popular places to visit during your trip to Foumban.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Foumban Royal Palace Museum: This museum is located in the heart of the town and is the oldest of the palaces in Foumban. Visitors can explore the museum’s impressive collection of traditional clothing, jewellery, and other artefacts that depict the traditional Bamoun culture.

  2. Bamoun Museum: The Bamoun museum is another excellent destination for anyone looking to learn more about the Bamoun culture. The museum’s impressive collection of historical artefacts includes musical instruments, jewellery, and other traditional Bamoun art.

  3. Njimon Palace: Njimon Palace was once home to the Bamoun kings and is one of the most significant historical buildings in Foumban. Visitors can tour the palace and learn about the Bamoun kingdom’s history and culture.

Natural Attractions of Foumban: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Mount Ndawara: Mount Ndawara is a popular hiking destination that provides stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The hike is suitable for all skill levels, and visitors can explore the nearby villages and natural springs.

  2. Lac Baleng: Lac Baleng is a scenic lake located about 45 minutes from Foumban town. The lake is perfect for swimming, fishing or taking a scenic boat ride. Visitors can also enjoy local cuisine in nearby restaurants.

  3. Dzama Waterfalls: The Dzama waterfalls are located about 20km from Foumban, surrounded by lush green forests. The falls are beautiful, and visitors can take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the cool refreshing mist.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Foumban

Hiking and biking are popular activities in Foumban, and the area has several beautiful routes that cater to different skill levels. Below are some of the most popular routes, including their level of difficulty and features.

  1. Mount Ndawara Hike: This hike is suitable for beginners and intermediate hikers and offers amazing views of the surrounding countryside. The trail is roughly 4km and takes about 2 hours to complete.

  2. Foumban to Koutaba Bike Ride: This bike ride is recommended for intermediate and advanced riders, with a distance of 28 km round trip. It offers stunning views of lush forests, waterfalls, and traditional African villages.

  3. Lac Baleng Circuit Hike: This hike takes visitors around the beautiful Lac Baleng lake and offers breathtaking views of the water and surrounding forests. The hike is suitable for all skill levels, and the trail is roughly 6km.

Best Things to Do in Foumban: Activities and Tours

You can never run out of things to do in Foumban, and it all depends on your interests and preferences. Below are some of the best things to do while in Foumban.

  1. Cultural Tours: Foumban is rich in cultural history, and you can explore this by visiting museums, palaces and other historical landmarks. Most of these attractions offer guided tours that provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the Bamoun Kingdom history and culture.

  2. Outdoor Adventures: If you love the great outdoors, Foumban has plenty of options, including hiking, biking, camping, and water sports. For a more immersive outdoor experience, visitors can participate in local farming or fishing activities.

  3. Shopping: Foumban is famous for its intricate and beautiful traditional art and craft items. Visitors can explore the local markets to buy souvenirs such as baskets, pottery, sculptures and traditional clothing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Foumban

A week in Foumban is enough time to explore the city’s major attractions while discovering nearby villages and natural attractions. Below is a 7-day itinerary that covers the best of Foumban.

Day Activity
Day 1 Arrival and orientation tour of the city
Day 2 Visit the Foumban Royal Palace Museum, Bamoun Museum and the Njimon Palace
Day 3 Hike Mount Ndawara and explore nearby villages
Day 4 Visit the Dzama Waterfalls and have a picnic overlooking the falls
Day 5 Take a bike ride from Foumban to Koutaba and back
Day 6 Visit Lac Baleng and try local cuisine in nearby restaurants
Day 7 Shop for souvenirs before departure

Food and Drink Scene of Foumban

The food and drink scene in Foumban is diverse, with both local and international cuisine options available. Below are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages you should sample while in the city.

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Ndolé: This is a traditional Cameroonian dish made of stewed bitter leaves with nuts, spices, and meat or seafood.

  2. Koki: Made from crushed beans and palm oil, Koki is a staple food in Cameroon and is often served with rice or plantains.

  3. Banga: Made from palm fruit extract, this soup is a favourite during weddings and other traditional celebrations.

Local Beverages

  1. Palm Wine: This is the sap extracted from palm trees and is fermented to create a mild alcoholic drink.

  2. Zom: This is a sugarcane-based drink and is a popular refreshment in Cameroon.

  3. Hibiscus Tea: Also known as Bissap, this drink is made from dried Hibiscus flowers and is a popular non-alcoholic drink.

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

Foumban has several accommodation options to choose from, including hotels, guesthouses, and hostels. The choice of accommodation depends on your budget and preference. Below are some of the best options.

  1. Hotel Plein Sud: This is a top-rated hotel in the city and offers air-conditioned rooms, a restaurant, pool, and free Wi-Fi access.

  2. Hostel Ebongue: Located in the heart of the city, this hostel offers affordable accommodation options for travellers on a budget.

  3. Hotel Jangolo: This hotel offers comfortable rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi access.

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

Foumban has a vibrant art and craft industry, and visitors should take advantage of this to grab some unique souvenirs. Below are some of the popular items to buy in Foumban.

  1. Pottery and Ceramics: Foumban is famous for its handcrafted pottery items such as cooking pots, jugs, vases and serving plates.

  2. Traditional Clothing: Visitors can buy traditional Bamoun clothing, including colourful fabrics and woven garments.

  3. Wood Carvings and Sculptures: These are great souvenirs and are available in various sizes and designs.

Local Culture and Customs of Foumban

As a visitor to Foumban, it’s essential to understand and respect the local culture and customs. The Bamoun Kingdom has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors should be mindful of the traditional practices and norms. Below are some of the essential things to keep in mind.

  1. Dress Code: Visitors should dress conservatively, with most of the skin covered when visiting religious sites or public places.

  2. Greetings: It’s customary to greet people by shaking their hands or bowing slightly, followed by a conversation.

  3. Respect for Elders: Respect for elders is an integral part of the culture, and visitors are expected to show respect and follow traditional customs.

Best Time to Visit Foumban

The best time to visit Foumban is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. The weather is pleasant during this time, and there are fewer bugs and mosquitoes. The rainy season runs from April to October and can be quite humid, with frequent rain and thunderstorms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Foumban

Do:

  1. Respect local customs and traditions.

  2. Learn some French or the local Bamoun language to communicate with locals.

  3. Drink plenty of water and use mosquito repellent to avoid contracting malaria.

Don’t:

  1. Do not take photographs of people without seeking their permission.

  2. Do not litter or contribute to pollution by leaving waste behind in natural settings.

  3. Do not disrespect the local religion or culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Foumban

Foumban is a relatively safe city to visit, but visitors should take basic precautions to avoid any incidents. Visitors should avoid walking alone at night and should take taxis instead. Additionally, it’s recommended that travellers have travel insurance that covers theft and medical emergencies.

Health in Foumban

Visitors should seek medical advice before coming to Foumban and get the necessary vaccinations. Malaria is a prevalent disease in Cameroon, and it’s recommended that visitors take anti-malarial drugs while in the country. Also, visitors should drink bottled water and avoid eating food from unhygienic places.

Getting to Foumban: Transportation Options and Logistics

Foumban is well-connected to other parts of Cameroon by road and air. There are several transportation options available for visitors, including buses, taxis, and car rentals.

Airports Near Foumban

  1. Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport: Located about 320km from Foumban, Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport is the largest airport in Cameroon and receives several international flights.

  2. The Bamenda Airport: Located about 100km from Foumban, Bamenda airport is a regional airport that receives several domestic flights.

Bus Stations Near Foumban

  1. Foumban Bus Station: Located in the town, this station has buses that travel to other parts of Cameroon.

  2. Yaoundé Bus Station: Yaoundé is the capital city of Cameroon and a major transportation hub for intercity travel.

Other Options

Car rentals are also available in Yaoundé, Douala or other major cities with reliable transport links to Foumban.

How to Get Around in Foumban

Visitors can use taxis, rental cars, or motorbikes to get around the city. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation and can be found for hire at taxi stands around the city.

Where to Go Next from Foumban: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are several nearby destinations to explore after your visit to Foumban.

  1. Bamenda: Located about 100km from Foumban, Bamenda offers charming mountain views and is a great destination for hikers, bikers, and nature enthusiasts.

  2. Yaoundé: As the capital city of Cameroon, Yaoundé offers a more bustling and cosmopolitan experience, with lots of cultural events and modern amenities.

Conclusion

Foumban offers a unique travel experience for visitors who want to explore the rich culture and history of Cameroon. The city offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from cultural tours and natural wonders to outdoor adventures, local cuisine, and more. You’ll have a great time exploring this vibrant and charming city. Make sure to visit the popular sites, take part in the local customs, and bring home some unique souvenirs. Enjoy your trip!