I recently heard your curious inquiry, “Where is Buea?” You might find it surprising that you’ve never come across its name and are likely unable to pinpoint its location.
Buea is nestled at the base of Cameroon’s most prominent mountain, which happens to be the tallest in West Africa.
Serving as the regional capital of the Anglophone South West Region, it holds the position of the regional governor and serves as the administrative center. With a burgeoning population exceeding 300,000 residents, this city is on a trajectory of growth.
As someone who hails from this vibrant city, I’m delighted to suggest a selection of places that offer tranquility and relaxation.
1. Climb mount Cameroon
Frequently referred to as Mount Fako, the breathtaking vista of this immense natural formation has captivated numerous tourists who venture to this quaint city.
Moreover, owing to its ability to bestow a cool and refreshing climate upon the city, Mount Fako historically served as the dwelling place for the earliest foreign settlers, the colonialists. Historical records reveal the presence of Portuguese, German, and British occupants who initially inhabited its surroundings before expanding further into the hinterlands.
The summit, offering an unparalleled panoramic view, is an awe-inspiring spectacle that holds immeasurable value for both hikers and climbers.
My personal experience about the Buea race
Embarking on the climb with my family during the early 2000s was undeniably tiring, yet it proved to be a rewarding endeavor.
Witnessing the presence of exquisite and extraordinary flowers flourishing amidst the harsh and chilly climate left me in a state of wonder, their vibrant hues standing out against the backdrop. With an attempt to preserve their beauty, my sister plucked a few flowers, although their lifespan was brief, and they gradually withered.
We received a cautionary note from forest botanists who explained that these plants were adapted to specific mountain conditions and wouldn’t thrive elsewhere.
The optimal time for a visit to the Buea mountain is undoubtedly February, coinciding with the dry season. During this period, the mountain’s temperature is relatively moderate, not descending to extreme cold.
Engaging in the annual Mount Cameroon Race of Hope has become one of the most exhilarating activities to partake in. This yearly sporting event is meticulously arranged to foster athleticism and celebrate cultural heritage.
The street Buea main street on Feb 2023 Mountain Race of hope.
When does the game start?
This full-day event kicks off at 6 am, with registered athletes hailing from Cameroon and various parts of the world converging at the Molyko stadium.
The number of participants tends to fluctuate annually, with certain years witnessing an estimate of over 500 individuals. The runners are a diverse group, encompassing children aged 6 to 18 and adults spanning various age ranges.
The racecourse distance is allocated based on age categories. Young participants have a relatively shorter distance to traverse.
Additionally, the event features specialized teams of three members each, engaging in relay races. These relay teams are tasked with running to a specific location in proximity to the mountain’s edge.
Typically, they complete the race as pairs, and their achievements are acknowledged separately with distinct rewards.
How is the game organized?
This competition places significant emphasis on gender inclusivity, as male and female runners undergo distinct assessments.
The event bestows six prominent awards and honor prizes upon participants who complete the mountain-to-stadium route swiftly. This results in separate recognition for the top three male and female runners.
As the runners conquer the mountain’s ascent and descent during the morning and midday hours, local residents gather along the main road to provide enthusiastic support. Commuters offer words of encouragement, accompanied by resounding applause as the runners pass by. Some individuals extend water to the runners, while others offer their companionship by jogging alongside them as a motivational boost.
Within the stadium, a distinguished audience comprising government officials, foreign embassy representatives, and sports enthusiasts assembles.
Cultural troupes engage in traditional dance performances, while acclaimed musicians take the stage for live music renditions. The entrance to the stadium is enveloped by an animated crowd, energetically cheering and congratulating each athlete.
The atmosphere is vibrant, with lively music, small retail booths, and an array of street food and snacks adding to the festive ambiance.
2. Visit the Buea reunification monument
Cameroon’s intricate historical journey is the underlying cause for the existence of two reunification monuments. One stands in Yaoundé, the former capital of the French colonial era, while the other resides in Buea, signifying the British administrative center.
The substantial and vibrant monument holds profound historical importance in the story of Cameroon’s unification following the conclusion of the mandate period.
Today, it has evolved into a significant tourist attraction, drawing individuals seeking relaxation and enjoyment.
The site offers visitors the freedom to capture photographs, engage in picnics, or simply linger with family, friends, and loved ones, all while relishing the invigorating mountain breeze.
On February 19, 2014, His Excellency Paul Biya, the President of the Republic, unveiled this monumental structure.
Comprising concrete and metal cylinders, the impressive creation commemorated the 50th anniversary of Cameroon’s reunification.
This monument stands as a symbol of a legacy that began on May 20, 1972, marking the unification of East and West Cameroon into the present-day Republic of Cameroon.
Many years ago, Cameroon was colonized in segments by Britain and France, leading to the fragmentation of its people.
While the country now stands united, remnants of the colonial era persist in shared laws and languages. These unifying aspects coexist with unique cultural distinctions.
I have personally spent countless hours in this vicinity, finding solace and enjoyment in the company of friends.
On clear days, the scenery captured in photographs is breathtakingly magnificent.
3. Watch a match at the Buea stadium
Should you happen to visit during a regional football match, the Buea stadium, also known as the Molyko Omnisport Stadium, offers an immersive glimpse into Cameroonian sports culture.
This compact sports arena consistently reaches its maximum capacity whenever a football match is underway.
Cameroonians have a deep passion for soccer, or as Americans would refer to it, ‘soccer.’
They relish engaging in friendly conversations and socializing over drinks. This affinity for the sport is reflected in the presence of numerous bars, snack stalls, and restaurants scattered throughout the city.
These establishments offer affordable meals, with prices starting at a minimum of 2 USD, ensuring that every guest can enjoy a satisfying culinary experience.
4. Take a walk at the University of Buea.
Established as the oldest English-speaking university in Cameroon, this institution has gained a reputation for providing education to a diverse range of students, including both Cameroonians and foreigners. It particularly serves the needs of English-speaking Cameroonians, offering them an accessible platform for higher education.
Cameroon’s historical colonization by both the French and British powers has resulted in approximately 80 percent of the population being French speakers, while the remaining 20 percent are native English speakers.
For Anglophone students, studying at universities in the predominantly French-speaking regions can present challenges.
However, the University of Buea has effectively addressed this issue by providing an educational environment in their preferred language.
The modest architectural structures and the leisurely stroll through the campus can offer valuable insights into the workings of Cameroon’s education system.
Should you find yourself with some spare time, enjoying the affordable meals available at the cafeteria is a pleasant option.
Many of the lecture halls retain a traditional layout with elongated desks that accommodate multiple students, effectively serving their intended purpose.
The university boasts a wide array of departments and holds accreditation from numerous foreign institutions.
5. Bakweri Cultural festival
Buea holds the distinction of being the village of the Bakweri tribal group, a highly regarded community within the southwest region. As a proud Bakwerian myself, I relish the opportunity to share the richness of our culture. This tribal group is an integral part of the Sawa ethnic group’s heritage.
Renowned as the mountain owners, the Bakweri people take pride in showcasing their cultural traditions during significant occasions such as traditional weddings, funerals, and festivals.
Despite the diverse population from other regions residing in Buea, Bakwerians still hold their hometown, which has transformed into a city, in high esteem. It’s not unusual to hear the melodious sounds of the Mokpwe dialect echoing through the markets and streets when Bakwerians converse amongst themselves.
Peculiarities of the Bakweri culture and people
During festivals, weddings, or funeral ceremonies, you’ll often find many Bakwerians adorned in their distinctive traditional attire, accompanied by cheerful smiles.
These outfits are gender-specific, with men donning a white shirt paired with a Sanja, a thick loin cloth. They accessorize with prominent beads, a rounded hat, and a waist-tied headscarf. Meanwhile, women elegantly wear a long and substantial dress known as Kaba, paired with low-heeled shoes and a sizable headgear.
When gathered as a group, they can sing and animate events for hours, moving to the rhythmic beats of melodious drums.
Buea boasts unique festivals held in different parts of the city that serve to rejuvenate and celebrate the rich culture.
These events, referred to as Malay, attract both Bakweri natives and outsiders, fostering a vibrant atmosphere of cheerfulness and vibrant colors. Spectators engage in lively discussions and share stories about the city’s history.
Amidst the festive ambiance, captivating wrestling performances take center stage. The wrestlers, believed to possess spiritual prowess, demonstrate remarkable strength in their battles, which continue until one wrestler’s back touches the ground. Sporting bare chests and feet, they command the crowd’s attention and admiration.
Cheers resonate through the air as spectators root for their favorites, adding to the excitement of the spectacle. Ultimately, victorious wrestlers earn not only financial rewards but also the admiration and respect of their community.
Buea traditional festivals in the past.
Mokpwe End of the Year Cultural and Traditional Festivals
Long before the arrival of Europeans, the e-Mokpwe festival marked the transition from one year to the next, signifying a time of gratitude and celebration. Families would come together for this occasion, sharing a feast that included Nguma Ngowa (young pigs), domestic chickens, mefasu (large dried fish), ekpwa-koko, and ngonya mosaka.
Annually, the dates for each feast were determined at the main markets of Muea, Misellele, Ewonji, Tiko, Gbwinga, and Vatoke. The end-of-year celebration, known as e-Ngando ya lisuku la Mwa, took place in December (Muyuli Sali), following the lunar month of November’s (Muyuli me Ndene) disappearance. The New Year’s festivities followed shortly after the appearance of the lunar month of January (Mbanje).
During these feasts, young individuals aged around 5 to 15 years gathered in numerous families to cook their meals under open-air shelters within their compounds. Boys took on the responsibility of erecting the shelters and supplying wood and water, while the girls prepared the food. Notably, the shelters were distinct due to their roofs made of palm leaves – a construction style that persists to this day.
Adults, meanwhile, prepared their meals at home. As the afternoon approached, the triumphant Elongi, a procession leader, would parade around the village while singing:
“Eat and drink, but do not forget our Lord, the Creator” (“elee, e-nyo ee, esi keka lifonga Tata Iwonde”)
“A New Year with new fashions” (“Mwa nofenya na veya fenya ee, Mwa mofenya”). Yoo, veeva, yoo veeya, yoo veeva; meendidi o-see, meendidi o-see”)
Nowadays, these events are not celebrated at the exact times, but sporadically, there are cultural Malay dance and wrestling events.
6. Eco-tourism or mountain trekking
Similar to numerous African nations, Cameroon boasts a dense tropical forest that appeals to eco-tourism enthusiasts.
While a substantial portion of this forest lies in the eastern region, there is also an expansive forest reserve bordering the immense volcanic Fako mountain.
Within this nature reserve thrives a diverse range of biodiversity. For those who appreciate nature and seek trekking adventures, a primary step is to pay a visit to the Mount Cameroon Inter-communal Ecotourism Board.
This established organization offers assistance to both local and international tourists embarking on their journey to explore the mountain.
Similar to numerous African nations, Cameroon boasts a dense tropical forest that appeals to eco-tourism enthusiasts.
While a substantial portion of this forest lies in the eastern region, there is also an expansive forest reserve bordering the immense volcanic Fako mountain.
Within this nature reserve thrives a diverse range of biodiversity.
For those who appreciate nature and seek trekking adventures, a primary step is to pay a visit to the Mount Cameroon Inter-communal Ecotourism Board.
This established organization offers assistance to both local and international tourists embarking on their journey to explore the mountain.
Mountain Cameroon National Park
Each visitor’s journey holds unique experiences. As you ascend towards the Mountain Cameroon National Park en route to the summit, you’ll notice shifts in temperature and terrain.
Petr Nemg’s detailed review on Google Maps aptly captures this transition: “The initial hike through fields might not captivate, but once you enter the jungle, the experience turns incredible. Be ready for a potential three-day journey to reach the peak, extending further if you opt for the alternate route. Remember to pack warmer attire, as the temperature drops at higher altitudes.”
Queen of the mountain organization at mount Cameroon National park.
Lastly, an alternative to explore the mountain is through the Queen of the Mountain organization at Mount Cameroon National Park. Situated in Molyko, behind the stadium, this option offers tourists the chance to meet the renowned “Queen of the Mount,” Mama Sarah Etonge. With her title and national recognition secured through seven victories in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope as the first lady, Mama Sarah is an iconic figure.
Notably, she is one of only two women who have achieved such a feat in the race.
Mama Sarah personally leads the delegation to the mountain. Her review page highlights her expertise: “Queen Tours Mount Cameroon is the finest tourism agency organizing mount tours; the Queen of Mount Cameroon herself, a seven-time winner of the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, leads the delegation, and she possesses unparalleled knowledge of the mountain.”
Her remarkable achievements underscore her authority, making hiking with her a highly recommended choice.
7. Walk around the Buea historical buildings
Buea stands as one of Cameroon’s most ancient settlements, preserving its historical legacy since the period of German rule.
During Germany’s colonization of Kamerun in the early 1800s, Buea served as the capital of Cameroon under the leadership of Chancellor Otto Von Bismarck. This significant era spanned from 1901 to 1914.
Even decades after the end of colonial rule, remnants of German architecture can still be found in Buea.
A cemetery houses the graves of Germans who lost their lives during colonial conflicts, while Chancellor Bismarck’s fountain stands as a testament to his influential leadership.
Notable surviving German colonial structures comprise the Prime Minister Lodge (Schloss), the old Secretariat, the 1902 Post Office, the Bismarck Fountain, as well as various residential buildings, roads, and infrastructures established during the German colonial period.
8. Enjoy the mountain breeze at the national monument roundabout garden
This small garden is in the middle of the main road and is a unique place to relax and bask in the sunset and sunrise with the fresh mountain breeze. It is located at the foothill of the Governor’s’office beside the regional immigration office.
This compact area features a handful of vibrant flowers and concrete benches, perfect for relaxing in the evening or morning. However, it’s not an ideal spot for the scorching midday sun due to the absence of trees.
Positioned at the heart of the garden is a national monument, intricately designed in the likeness of Cameroon’s map.
Perched atop this concrete structure, a dove clutches a peace plant in its beak, serving as a symbol of national harmony and prosperity. On clear days without fog, the garden offers a stunning view of Mount Fako in all its majestic splendor.
8. Where can you stay and relax in Buea
Mountain Hotel
This famous large hotel is a property of the state. It is one of the lodges for high-profile dignitaries who visit the city. Its design is unique because separate houses are scattered around a vast area. These rooms are divided into different levels – VIP to standard.
Within this hotel, numerous amenities such as a gym and pool cater to both guests and the general public, ensuring leisure and relaxation.
On sunlit days, the mountain’s majestic presence is distinctly visible from the hotel’s lush gardens and expansive lawns.
Buea Parliamentarian Flats Hotel
Situated along the road encircling the government residential zone, this resort is under government ownership, renowned for its security and opulence. Its accommodations range from 35,000 to 70,000 CFA francs per night, catering to various preferences and budgets.
The upscale in-house restaurant serves delectable dishes, extending its culinary delights to both hotel patrons and external visitors.
A delightful activity to indulge in is taking a refreshing dip in the expansive pool situated at the rear of the grand complex.
This pool area serves as a hub for children and young adults who spend their days swimming, engaging in discussions, and enjoying poolside games. Weekends and national holidays might witness a surge in visitors, potentially leading to bustling scenes.
For budget-conscious travelers, the Chariot and St. Claire hotels offer affordable lodging options conveniently located near some of the city’s liveliest spots.
Despite facing political turmoil since 2016, Buea’s allure and reputation for legendary hospitality have endured, making it a distinctive gem in Cameroon.
Exploring Buea promises an enriching experience and a hassle-free journey, as most attractions and amenities are conveniently positioned along the city’s main road.
For further exploration of activities in Cameroon and other countries, visit this link to discover more.
