Contact Us10 Best Attractions in Mount Cameroon National Park
Located in the southwest of Cameroon, the Mount Cameroon National Park is one of the most magnificent natural attractions in the Central African region. The park occupies an area of more than 60,000 hectares and includes rainforests, wildlife and Mount Cameroon, the highest volcano in West Africa. Famous for its scenic and diverse geography, this national park is a favorite destination for travelers, hikers and wildlife enthusiasts. If you are interested in climbing steep terrains, exploring virgin waterfalls or experiencing the traditions of the local people, then the Mount Cameroon National Park will be very interesting for you.
With its status as one of the top attractions in Cameroon, the park offers a number of things of interest to any traveler. From the mountainous region of Cameroon, around the active Mt Cameroon to the tranquil crater lakes such as the Lake Manengouba, there is so much to see. Tourists interested in wildlife will enjoy the park because it boasts of wildlife such as the gorillas and chimpanzees which are on the verge of extinction. For those who like to take risks and get some thrilling experience, visiting the park’s trails will be one of the most interesting and demanding experiences in the region, as well as the opportunity to enjoy the views and meet with animals.
It is also a cultural experience to visit Mount Cameroon National Park. The park is home to the Bakweri people of Cameroon and the culture of the people can be seen in the park especially in the Mountain. Additional cultural attractions make any visit to the area more exciting, and discovering the village life, the culture of the Bakweri people, and the customs will be a nice addition to the trip. All these and much more make Mount Cameroon National Park one of the best destination for tourists, hikers and those interested in cultural encounters.
Top ten things to do in Mount Cameroon National Park, detailing why it is one of the top tourist destinations in Cameroon.
1. Mount Cameroon Volcano
The most important attraction of Mount Cameroon National Park is Mount Cameroon Volcano which is 4,040 meters (13,255 feet) high. Mount Cameroon is the highest in West Africa and is an active volcano that has erupted severally in the past. There are many attractions for tourists, but when it comes to adventure, one of the most exciting activities is a climb up this volcano. The physical journey of moving through such varied terrain as tropical forests and volcanic country provide the traveler with an exciting adventure. At the top one can see the surrounding forest, the ocean in the distance, and towns below. The journey however is tough hence it is such a great achievement to those who dare to overcome the journey.
2. The Mount Cameroon Hiking Trails
The series of Mount Cameroon Hiking Trails is one of the best places for hikers in Cameroon. These trails vary in difficulty ranging from moderate to a difficult level that will suit all types of hikers. Walking on trails give a good opportunity to observe the variety of the park’s flora and fauna starting from the tropical forest on the lower elevations up to the tundra on the upper slopes. One of the attractions of these trails is the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, an international mountain running event. For pleasure hikers or race enthusiasts, there is something for everyone on the trails.
3. Buea Town
Buea is a beautiful town located at the base of Mount Cameroon with a moderate altitude climate. With many colonial buildings and historical landmarks, Buea is an ideal place to start a journey to Mount Cameroon National Park. Tourism is another area that Buea can develop; tourists can have a sightseeing of the volcano and also learn some of the history of the town. Buea was the administrative capital of the German colony of Kamerun and there are still some relics from this time around today. The park is located near Buea and from here you can start your hiking experience. Without doubt, it is one of the most interesting destinations for tourism in Cameroon, especially for both the cultural and the natural tourism enthusiasts.
4. The Rainforest of Mount Cameroon.
Mount Cameroon National Park is a rainforest that is endowed with different types of plants and animals. The forest is also a natural reserve of vegetation where wild animals are found and this is among the exciting features at the park. A bird watcher will enjoy the many species of birds that are unique to this park such as the African grey parrot, the blue-headed wood dove, and the black colobus monkey. It is also a perfect ground for trekking and is among the world’s best places to visit in Cameroon for eco-tourism. Being one of the most popular destinations in Cameroon, this forest welcomes those who want to enjoy the calm of nature.
5. Lake Manengouba
Located outside the park, but within close proximity, is the beautiful natural volcanic Crater Lake of Manengouba. It is located in a volcanic crater and has a green area around which offers quiet and relaxing atmosphere. For tourists, there is a possibility to walk around the lake or to walk along the lakeshore admiring the views of the hills. It is less populated compared to other sites in Mount Cameroon National Park and thus provides solitude to nature lovers unlike other attractions.
6. The Savanna and Moorland Zones
On your way up Mount Cameroon, you will meet savanna and moorland biomes which are so different from the lower ones. These zones are characterized by large open grasslands, few acacia trees and high altitude grounds. The moorland zone is especially noteworthy for its flora and the possibility to meet such large animals as antelopes and birds of prey. The terrain is quite different from the rich, wet lowland forests and is home to many species within the park. For photographers and adventure travelers, these zones are some of the most beautiful in the park.
7. The Ekom Waterfalls
Situated at the base of Mount Cameroon, the Ekom Waterfalls are one of the best attractions for anyone visiting the park. The falls are free falling over the rocks giving the water an impressive look as it falls on the river below. The surrounding forest also contributes to the theme as the vegetation and animal life is green in this region. Ekom waterfalls is also the perfect place to take a break while on your hike as well as take some great pictures. These make it one of the best natural attractions that are found in Mount Cameroon National Park.
8. Wildlife Watching in the Park
The Mount Cameroon National Park is a perfect place for those who like watching the wildlife, as there are many animals on the territory of the park. Some of the endangered species found within the park are the lowland gorillas, chimpanzees and different species of antelopes. There are also hundreds of bird species, reptiles and other small mammals which visitors can observe. Both professional wildlife photographers and casual lovers of nature and wild animals will find it easy to immerse themselves in the natural world around Mount Cameroon. Without any doubt, it is among the best things a visitor to Cameroon should consider for a visit especially if they are lovers of animals and conservation.
9. Ethnopharmacological Investigation with the Bakweri Ethnics
The people of Bakweri are native to the area around Mount Cameroon and they have a great cultural background that tourists can learn from. A visit to the nearby villages helps one learn about the past, culture and traditions of the Bakweri people. They can participate in cultural activities including learning about native artifacts, watching dances and eating local foods. The Bakweri people are very connected to the land and the volcano and having a cultural aspect to the park enhances your understanding of the area and its culture.
10. Conservation Measures of the Mount Cameroon National Park
The management of Mount Cameroon National Park is very much concerned in the conservation of the park’s ecosystems and wildlife. Sustainable tourism, restoration of degraded habitats, and the protection of threatened species are major conservation strategies in the park. When you visit the park, you support the conservation programs that would be put in place to protect the various systems within the park. This makes the park one of the best eco tourism sites in Cameroon due to the commitment of preserving its natural resources.
Conclusion
Without doubt Mount Cameroon National Park is one of the best tourism destinations in Cameroon due to its natural endowments, wildlife and cultural attractions. From the volcano department to the rainforest and savanna departments this park is a must for any traveler. Do not forget to obtain your Cameroon visa before traveling and prepare for the majestic beauty of the nature that can be observed in Mount Cameroon. If you are an adventurer, a nature lover, a cultural lover, then Mount Cameroon National Park is a perfect place for any traveler.
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