Hiking in Cameroon
Including Benoue National Park, Korup National Park, and Lobe Waterfalls Trail. On the map.
The vibe
Trekking here feels like a raw, unscripted encounter with volcanic slopes and dense forest canopy, far removed from the manicured trails found elsewhere. The dry season from November to February is the only time the paths remain passable and the humidity stays manageable. You will find this is a deeply DIY experience where you hire a local guide to navigate the terrain rather than following marked signs.
park entry fee
Benoue National Park
North
NASA / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Experience guided walking safaris through the savannah and gallery forests along the Benoue River. This area offers a different hiking profile, focusing on wildlife viewing and riverine landscapes.
Access. Located in Northern Cameroon; access is best arranged through tour operators in Garoua.
Notes. Walking is strictly regulated for safety; guides are required to protect against wildlife encounters.
Korup National Park
Southwest
Korup National Park — Wikidata / Wikimedia Commons
Explore one of Africa's oldest and most biologically diverse rainforests. The park features extensive jungle tracks that lead to spectacular waterfalls and ancient forest giants, providing an immersive trekking experience.
Access. Access is primarily via Mundemba. Visitors should arrange transport and guides through the park headquarters.
Notes. Expect high humidity and potential leeches; heavy rains can make trails impassable during the wet season.
Lobe Waterfalls Trail
South
Fabdoull / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A scenic, gentle walk near Kribi where the Lobe River cascades directly into the Atlantic Ocean. The trail offers a unique blend of coastal views and jungle-fringed river paths.
Access. Easily accessible by taxi or motorbike from the coastal town of Kribi.
Mount Cameroon (Fako)
Southwest
Atabong Armstrong / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
Ascend the highest peak in West Africa, an active volcano rising directly from the coast. The trek traverses diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforest to volcanic ash fields, offering a challenging but rewarding climb to the summit.
Access. The primary trailhead is in Buea. Hiring a local guide is mandatory for all hikers to navigate the ascent and ensure safety.
Notes. High altitude and steep terrain require good physical fitness; best visited during the dry season (December to February).
Mount Manengouba
Southwest
urskalberer / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Hike the rolling grassy slopes of this dormant volcanic range to reach the famous twin crater lakes, often referred to as the 'Male' and 'Female' lakes. The landscape is strikingly different from the surrounding jungle, offering open, alpine-like ridgeline walking.
Access. Located near Nkongsamba. Local guides are recommended to navigate the crater rim trails.
Notes. Weather can change rapidly; bring layers for the exposed ridgeline.