Bamenda - Discovering Cameroon

Travelling to Bamenda

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bamenda, a pretty good destination in Cameroon (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bamenda and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bamenda, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cameroon, here's everything to know about Bamenda for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bamenda

Bamenda is a city located in the northwestern region of Cameroon. It is the capital of the North West Region and the third-largest city in the country. The city is known for its cultural diversity, as it is home to over 20 different ethnic groups. Bamenda also serves as a hub for agriculture and commerce, with local farmers producing crops such as coffee, tea, and beans. The city is surrounded by many natural attractions, including scenic hills and waterfalls. It is a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring Cameroon's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

What to visit in Bamenda

Here are some popular tourist attractions in Bamenda, Cameroon along with their brief information: 1. Bamenda Ring Road: A circular road that runs around the Bamenda highlands, Bamenda Ring Road is a breathtaking 223 kilometers road trip that takes visitors through rural villages, waterfalls, and scenic valleys.
2. Mankon Museum: Founded in the early 1960s, Mankon Museum is one of the oldest museums in Cameroon. It exhibits various traditional objects including musical instruments, clothing, masks, and artwork from the Mankon culture.
3. Lake Awing: Located in the mountains of the Oku region, Lake Awing is a tranquil mountainous lake surrounded by lush vegetation. It is also a great place for hiking and bird watching.
4. Bamenda Food Market: One of the best ways to experience Bamenda's culture and local cuisine is by visiting the Bamenda food market. It offers a wide range of street food including Ndolé, Eru, and local beers.
5. Bafut Palace: The Bafut Palace is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most notable and well-preserved examples of traditional Fon architectural style found in Cameroon. It consists of several buildings that are intricately decorated with frescoes and carvings.
6. Mount Oku: Rising up to over 3,000 meters, Mount Oku is one of the highest peaks in West Africa. It is home to unique and rare species of plants and offers an amazing bird watching experience.
7. Menchum Falls: A stunning waterfall that flows between two mountains, the Menchum Falls offers visitors an awe-inspiring experience of nature's beauty.
I hope this information helps!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cameroon, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bamenda.

When to go on holiday to Bamenda

The best time to visit Bamenda, Cameroon is during the dry season, which runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, allowing for easier exploration of the sights and activities in the region. Avoid traveling to Bamenda during the rainy season, from June to September, as the roads can become very muddy and difficult to navigate. Additionally, the thunderstorms and heavy rains can make it challenging to enjoy outdoor activities.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bamenda

To get to Bamenda, Cameroon, you can either take a flight or drive from Douala or Yaoundé. Here are the possible options you can consider: By Flight: 1. Fly to Douala International Airport or Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport 2. From Douala or Yaoundé, take a connecting flight to Bamenda Airport, which is located on the outskirts of the city.
By Road: 1. Take a taxi, bus or rental car from Douala or Yaoundé to Bamenda. The journey takes about 4-6 hours depending on the traffic.
2. Alternatively, you can take a minibus (shared taxi) from Mvan, Yaoundé or Mboppi, Douala. This is a cheaper option but may take longer due to multiple stops on the way.
Make sure to research well and choose a reliable transportation option for your journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bamenda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bamenda

Sure, here are some typical foods of Bamenda, Cameroon: 1. Koki Beans: Koki beans is a dish made from black-eyed beans that are grounded with spices and steamed in leaves. It is usually eaten with a side dish of plantains, yams, cassava, or rice.
2. Ndole: Ndole is a traditional Cameroonian dish made with bitter leaves that are cooked and blended with peanuts, crayfish, and beef or fish. It is usually served with a side of plantains or rice.
3. Achu Soup: Achu soup is made with cocoyam that is pounded into a paste and serves as a thickener for the soup which is usually served with smoked fish or goat meat.
4. Egusi Soup: Egusi soup is a thick and creamy soup made with melon seeds, palm oil, vegetables, and meat or fish. It is usually eaten with a side of fufu or cornmeal.
5. Njangsa Soup: Njangsa soup is a thick, spicy West African stew made with meat or poultry, smoked fish, and vegetables. It is usually eaten with a side of plantains or fufu.
6. Roasted/Marinated Grasscutter: Grasscutter is a delicacy in Cameroon and it is usually roasted or marinated in a delicious spicy sauce. It is often served with a side of plantains or rice.
7. Mbanga Soup: Mbanga soup is a tasty soup made with palm nut extract, beef or fish, and spices. It is usually eaten with a side of fufu, cornmeal, or rice.
These dishes are just a few of the many tasty foods you can enjoy in Bamenda, Cameroon.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cameroon here.

Is Bamenda an expensive destination for tourists?

Bamenda can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other destinations in Cameroon. This is partly due to the city’s popularity among domestic and international travelers. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can be higher than in other parts of Cameroon. However, the cost of living in Bamenda is still comparably low to many Western countries, and with good planning and budgeting, it is possible to enjoy a trip to Bamenda without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Bamenda

Bamenda is a city located in the Northwest Region of Cameroon. There are several areas within the city that offer good accommodation options for tourists. Mankon and Nkwen are two of the most popular areas to find accommodation in Bamenda. They are centrally located and offer easy access to restaurants, shops, and other amenities.
Bamenda-Bambui and Foncha Street are other good areas to consider. These areas are a bit quieter than Mankon and Nkwen, but still offer plenty of accommodation options, as well as good access to transportation.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Bamenda depends on your personal preferences and the purpose of your trip. If you want to explore the city and be close to its attractions, Mankon and Nkwen are ideal. If you would rather have a more relaxed experience and enjoy some peace and quiet, Bamenda-Bambui or Foncha Street may be better options for you.
You can check hotel prices at Bamenda here:
Booking.com

Is Bamenda a safe destination for tourists?

Generally, Bamenda is considered a relatively safe city for tourists, however, like any other city, certain precautions should be taken. It is important for tourists to be aware of their surroundings at all times and avoid walking alone at night in isolated or unfamiliar areas. Pickpocketing and petty theft are also common, so it is recommended to keep valuables out of sight and in a secure place. To further ensure your safety while traveling, it is advisable to have a local guide or travel with a reputable tour group. It is also recommended to follow any guidelines or warnings issued by local authorities.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cameroon here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bamenda.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bamenda the most?

Bamenda, Cameroon is a great place for all types of travelers - couples, young people, and families alike. Here are some reasons why: 1. Cultural Experience: Bamenda is known for its unique culture and traditions, which visitors can learn about by visiting one of the many museums, cultural centers, or attending local events.
2. Natural Wonders: Bamenda is surrounded by beautiful mountains, hills, and valleys, and there are several scenic spots to visit, such as the Lake Awing or Sabga Hill.
3. Adventure Activities: Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy several outdoor activities like hiking, mountain climbing, and zip-lining.
4. Local Food: Bamenda is home to a diverse range of local foods, including Ndole (a dish made of stewed bitter leaves and roasted peanuts), and Achu (pounded cocoyam).
Overall, anyone interested in learning about new cultures, exploring the outdoors, and trying new foods will enjoy visiting Bamenda.

How to get around Bamenda

In Bamenda, you can move around by car hire services, taxis, motorcycles (popularly known as "okadas"), and buses. However, it is important to note that some parts of the city may have poor road networks, so it is advisable to inquire about the condition of the roads before embarking on a journey.

What to see around Bamenda

Certainly! Here are some places that you might consider visiting on a day trip from Bamenda in Cameroon: 1. Lake Awing: This picturesque lake is located about 40 km from Bamenda and offers a tranquil setting for picnicking, hiking, and bird-watching.
2. Mankon Palace: Located in the Mankon neighborhood of Bamenda, this traditional palace is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to learn about the culture and history of the region.
3. Bafut Palace: This historic palace is located in the town of Bafut, about 10 km from Bamenda, and is a popular destination for visitors interested in the history and traditional customs of the Bamenda people.
4. Menchum Falls: This stunning waterfall is located in the Menchum Valley, about 70 km from Bamenda, and is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers.
5. Ndawara Tea Estate: This beautiful tea plantation is located in the village of Ndawara, about 40 km from Bamenda, and offers a scenic setting for a relaxing day trip.
6. Mount Oku: This breathtaking mountain is the second highest peak in Cameroon and is located about 60 km from Bamenda. It's a popular destination for hikers and adventure seekers, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
I hope this helps, let me know if you need any further assistance!
For every travel information about Cameroon you can click here.

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