Kumbo Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Kumbo with this comprehensive travel guide. Learn about the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, and more.


Kumbo is a colorful and bustling city located in the Northwest Highlands of Cameroon. Known for its rich culture, beautiful natural landscapes, and friendly people, Kumbo is a must-visit destination for those looking to explore the heart of Africa. To make the most of your time in Kumbo, we’ve put together a comprehensive travel guide with everything you need to know before you go.

Introduction to Kumbo

Kumbo is the third largest city in the Northwest Province of Cameroon and is the main commercial center for the surrounding regions. Surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains, Kumbo is famous for its rich cultural heritage, including its traditional dances, music, and food. The people of Kumbo are known for their hospitality, and visitors will feel very welcome here.

List of Places to Visit in Kumbo

There are many places to visit in Kumbo, from natural attractions to cultural landmarks, museums to markets. Here are some of the top attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mbenjeh Cultural Centre - A museum dedicated to showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Bamunka people of Kumbo.
  • Kumbo fon’s Palace - The official residence of the Kumbo king, with impressive architecture and beautiful gardens.
  • Nkar Market - A bustling local market offering a wide range of local products and handmade crafts.
  • Lake Awing - A beautiful lake surrounded by lush green mountains, perfect for a relaxing day trip.

Natural Attractions of Kumbo: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Oku - The highest peak in the West/Central Africa Region, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Menchum Falls - A beautiful waterfall located near the town of Wum, just a short drive from Kumbo.
  • Bui National Park - A diverse nature reserve full of wildlife and unique plant species, offering a wide range of outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and camping.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kumbo

The beautiful landscapes and mountainous terrain make Kumbo a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Some of the best routes include:

  • Mount Oku - A challenging hike to the highest peak in the West/Central Africa Region, featuring breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys.
  • Bui National Park - A diverse nature reserve with many hiking trails, ranging from short and easy walks to multi-day treks.
  • Lake Awing - A scenic loop around the lake that can be explored on foot or by bike.

Best Things to Do in Kumbo: Activities and Tours

There are many things to do in Kumbo, from exploring the local markets to participating in traditional cultural events. Here are some of the best activities:

  • Join a traditional dance group - Kumbo is known for its traditional dances, and visitors can learn to dance alongside locals.
  • Visit a local farm - Kumbo is an agricultural hub with many farms producing rice, beans, maize, and more.
  • Take a village tour - Explore some of the surrounding villages and learn about the daily life of the local people.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kumbo

If you’re looking to spend a week in Kumbo, here’s a suggested itinerary:

Day Activities
Day 1 Arrive and settle into your accommodation
Day 2 Visit Mount Oku
Day 3 Take a tour of the Mbenjeh Cultural Centre and Kumbo fon’s Palace
Day 4 Explore Bui National Park
Day 5 Visit the Menchum Falls
Day 6 Take a village tour
Day 7 Shop at Nkar Market and depart

Food and Drink Scene of Kumbo

Kumbo is famous for its food, with many dishes featuring locally grown ingredients like maize, beans, and peanuts. Here are some must-try dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ndole - A popular Cameroonian dish made with bitter leaves, nuts, and meat.
  • Koki - A steamed bean pudding served with plantains, yams, or cassava.
  • Achu soup - A thick soup made with pounded cocoyam and spicy meat.
  • Fu-fu - A staple food made from cassava or yams served with soup or stew.

Local Beverages

  • Palm wine - A popular alcoholic drink made from the sap of palm trees.
  • Hibiscus juice - A refreshing and sweet drink made from hibiscus flowers.
  • Ginger beer - A non-alcoholic carbonated drink made from ginger.

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

Kumbo offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the top options include:

  • La Charme de Kumbo - A comfortable and affordable guesthouse located in the heart of the city.
  • Nso Palace Hotel - A beautiful hotel in a historic building with great amenities and friendly staff.
  • Sanctuary Suites - A luxurious hotel with beautiful decor, a pool, and a restaurant.

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

Kumbo is a great place to shop for locally made crafts and souvenirs. Here are some of the top items to buy:

  • Handmade baskets - Made from local materials like bamboo and rattan.
  • Traditional clothing - Colorful and intricately patterned clothing made from locally sourced fabrics.
  • Pottery - Made by local artisans using traditional techniques.
  • Spices - Many locally grown spices are available for purchase, including ginger, turmeric, and cumin.

Local Culture and Customs of Kumbo

The people of Kumbo are known for their friendly and welcoming nature. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, which include:

  • Greeting people with a handshake.
  • Dressing modestly.
  • Removing shoes before entering a home or place of worship.

Best Time to Visit Kumbo

The best time to visit Kumbo is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. This is the best time for outdoor activities and for exploring the surrounding natural landscapes.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kumbo

Do:

  • Learn some basic French or Pidgin English to communicate with locals.
  • Explore the local markets and try some traditional dishes.
  • Respect local customs and traditions.

Don’t:

  • Take photographs of people without their permission.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.
  • Wander around after dark in unfamiliar areas.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kumbo

Kumbo is generally a safe city to visit, but visitors should take the usual precautions to ensure their safety. These include:

  • Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or valuables.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark.

Health in Kumbo

Visitors to Kumbo should take precautions to ensure they stay healthy during their stay. These include:

  • Drink only bottled or boiled water.
  • Ensure all food is thoroughly cooked.
  • Use insect repellent to prevent mosquito bites.
  • Visit a travel health clinic before your trip to get necessary vaccinations.

Getting to Kumbo: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kumbo is accessible by several modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Kumbo

  • Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport - Located in the capital city of Cameroon, Yaoundé, approximately 4 hours from Kumbo.

Bus Stations Near Kumbo

  • Bafut Motor Park - Located in Bafut, approximately 25 km from Kumbo.
  • Santa Motor Park - Located in Santa, approximately 30 km from Kumbo.

Other Options

  • Private car hire - Visitors can hire a private car with a driver to transport them to Kumbo from other parts of Cameroon.

How to Get Around in Kumbo

Kumbo is a walkable city, and many attractions are located within walking distance of each other. Other transportation options include:

  • Taxis - Taxis are readily available and affordable in Kumbo. Visitors should negotiate the fare with the driver before their journey.
  • Motorbikes - Motorbikes are a popular mode of transportation in Kumbo and are often used to navigate the city’s narrow streets and alleys.

Where to Go Next from Kumbo: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many destinations near Kumbo that are worth exploring, including:

  • Bamenda - A vibrant city known for its cultural festivals and traditional dance groups.
  • Wum - A small town located near the Menchum Falls, a beautiful waterfall that is a popular day trip from Kumbo.
  • Limbe - A coastal town located on the southwest coast of Cameroon, approximately 6 hours from Kumbo.

Conclusion

Kumbo is a truly unique destination, offering a rare glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Northwestern region of Cameroon. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that it’s becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers. By following this guide, you’ll be well prepared for your trip, and ready to experience all that Kumbo has to offer.

Panorama of Kumbo, with the Cathedral in the middleground Panorama of Kumbo, with the Cathedral in the middleground Façade of the Cathedral Façade of the Cathedral Mother with Child at the Mus'Art Gallery Mother with Child at the Mus'Art Gallery Statue of lion in inner courtyard of Fon's Palace Statue of lion in inner courtyard of Fon's Palace