Have you ever heard someone ask, “Where on earth is Buea?”
If that question has ever crossed your mind, you’re not alone. Many people have never stumbled upon this hidden gem—and even fewer could point it out on a map.
But allow me to change that.
Buea sits gracefully at the foot of Mount Cameroon, the country’s most iconic peak and the tallest mountain in West Africa. This charming city isn’t just visually stunning—it also serves as the bustling regional capital of Cameroon’s Anglophone South West Region, home to the regional governor and a growing population of over 300,000 vibrant residents.
And as someone proudly from this lively yet peaceful city, I’m excited to share some of my favorite spots where you can unwind, breathe deeply, and soak in the serenity that makes Buea truly unforgettable.
Let’s explore!
1. Climb mount Cameroon
Locally known as Mount Fako, this towering giant is the star attraction that steals the hearts of countless visitors who find their way to this charming city. One look at its breathtaking silhouette rising dramatically into the clouds, and you’ll instantly understand why travelers can’t resist its pull.
But Mount Fako is more than just a pretty backdrop.
Its cool, refreshing climate once made it the perfect escape for early foreign settlers during colonial times. Historical accounts tell us that the Portuguese first set foot here, followed later by German and British colonial occupants who established their homes around the mountain before pushing deeper into the hinterlands. The traces of their presence still whisper through the city’s architecture and culture today.
For adventurers, the real magic lies at the summit. Reaching the top rewards hikers and climbers with a panoramic view so stunning, it feels like standing on the edge of the world. It’s an experience many describe as priceless—a breathtaking moment where nature’s grandeur unfolds in every direction.
If there’s one place in Buea that truly captures the spirit of wonder and adventure, Mount Fako is it.
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
If you’re lucky enough to visit Buea during a regional football match, prepare for an unforgettable experience. The Buea Stadium—better known as the Molyko Omnisport Stadium—is where the city’s heartbeat truly comes alive.
This modest-sized arena may look unassuming from the outside, but once a match kicks off, it transforms into a roaring sea of energy. Fans pack every seat, drums echo through the air, vuvuzelas blast, and the crowd erupts with passion that only Cameroonian football can ignite.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports lover or simply curious about local culture, stepping into this stadium offers an authentic and electrifying glimpse into the spirit of Cameroonian sports. It’s loud, vibrant, and absolutely unforgettable.
Cameroonians have an undeniable passion for football—or “soccer,” for my American readers—and it brings people together in the best way.
Across Buea, lively bars, snack spots, and small restaurants buzz with fans socializing over drinks and delicious local dishes. And with meals starting at just $2 USD, enjoying the city’s food and atmosphere is both fun and affordable.
4. Take a walk at the University of Buea.
One of Buea’s proudest treasures is the University of Buea, the oldest English-speaking university in Cameroon. For many students, both local and international, this institution represents much more than just a place to study—it’s a doorway to opportunity.
Because of Cameroon’s unique history under both French and British rule, about 80% of the population speaks French, while only around 20% are native English speakers. For years, this meant that many Anglophone students struggled to thrive in universities dominated by French language and culture. Imagine trying to learn complex subjects in a language you’re not fully comfortable with—it’s no easy task.
That’s where the University of Buea changed the story.
By offering higher education in English, it created a welcoming space where Anglophone students could learn confidently and succeed academically. Over time, it has become a vibrant hub of diversity, drawing students from across Cameroon and beyond, all united by the desire to learn and grow.
For many, studying here feels like finally finding a place where their voices—and their language—truly belong.
The University of Buea offers a modest yet insightful campus experience, with traditional lecture halls, affordable cafeteria meals, and a relaxed atmosphere that reflects Cameroon’s education system. It features numerous academic departments and holds accreditation from several international institutions, strengthening its academic reputation.
5. Bakweri Cultural festival
Buea isn’t just a city—it’s the proud homeland of the Bakweri people, one of the most respected tribal groups in Cameroon’s Southwest Region. And as a proud Bakwerian myself, sharing the richness of our culture feels like inviting you into my family.
The Bakweri are part of the larger Sawa ethnic heritage, and we’re affectionately known as the “mountain owners” because Mount Cameroon rises from our land. Our traditions come alive during weddings, funerals, and vibrant festivals, where music, dance, and colorful attire showcase our deep cultural roots.
Even though Buea has grown into a diverse and bustling city, Bakwerians never lose their sense of belonging. Our connection to this land runs deep. It’s common to hear the warm, rhythmic sound of the Mokpwe dialect floating through the markets and streets as Bakwerians greet one another.
Culture, identity, and community remain at the heart of Buea—and that’s what makes it truly special.
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
Nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts will feel right at home in Buea. While much of Cameroon’s vast rainforest stretches across the eastern region, the city is also blessed with an impressive forest reserve that hugs the slopes of the mighty volcanic Mount Fako.
This lush reserve is bursting with biodiversity—towering trees, rare plant species, and wildlife that make every trek feel like a true discovery. If you’re dreaming of hiking or exploring the mountain’s natural beauty, your first stop should be the Mount Cameroon Inter-communal Ecotourism Board.
This well-established organization supports both local and international visitors, helping them plan safe and unforgettable journeys through the mountain’s trails and protected areas. Whether you’re a casual hiker or a seasoned adventurer, they’ll guide you every step of the way.
Mountain Cameroon National Park
Every trek up Mount Cameroon is a journey like no other, with each visitor experiencing something unique. As you make your way toward the Mount Cameroon National Park and the summit, you’ll feel the terrain change beneath your feet and the temperature shift with every step.
As Petr Nemg notes in his detailed Google Maps review:
“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.”
Indeed, the climb is a mix of challenge and wonder—rewarding hikers with breathtaking scenery and a true sense of adventure at every stage.
Queen of the mountain organization at mount Cameroon National park.
For a truly unforgettable way to explore Mount Cameroon, consider joining the Queen of the Mountain tours at Mount Cameroon National Park. Located in Molyko, just behind the stadium, this experience gives tourists the chance to meet the legendary Mama Sarah Etonge—affectionately known as the Queen of the Mount.
Mama Sarah’s fame comes from her seven victories in the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope, making her the first woman—and one of only two ever—to achieve such a feat. Her expertise is unmatched, and she personally leads each trekking group, ensuring every hiker enjoys a safe and enlightening journey.
As noted on her review page:
“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.”
Hiking with Mama Sarah is more than just a trek—it’s an adventure guided by history, mastery, and an inspiring local icon
7. Walk around the Buea historical buildings
Buea is one of Cameroon’s oldest settlements, a city where history quietly lingers in every street and building. During the German colonization of Kamerun, Buea held the prestigious title of capital under Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, serving as the administrative heart of the territory from 1901 to 1914.
Walking through Buea today, you can still feel the echoes of this remarkable era, a living testament to its enduring historical legacy.
Decades after the end of colonial rule, Buea still bears the marks of its German past. Strolling through the city, you’ll discover a fascinating mix of history and architecture. A local cemetery holds the graves of Germans who lost their lives during colonial conflicts, while the Bismarck Fountain stands proudly as a tribute to Chancellor Otto von Bismarck’s leadership.
Some of the most notable surviving structures include the Prime Minister Lodge (Schloss), the old Secretariat, the 1902 Post Office, and various residential buildings, roads, and infrastructure built during the German colonial era. These historic sites offer a rare glimpse into a bygone period, blending heritage and charm that continue to define Buea today.
7. Relax at a garden
Tucked in the middle of Buea’s main road lies a charming little garden, the perfect spot to unwind and soak in the beauty of sunrise or sunset. With the fresh mountain breeze flowing gently from the nearby slopes, it’s an ideal place to relax.
You’ll find it at the foothills of the Governor’s office, right beside the regional immigration office—a quiet oasis in the heart of the city.
This cozy garden may be small, but it’s full of charm. Vibrant flowers and concrete benches make it the perfect spot for a peaceful morning coffee or an evening stroll—just avoid the midday sun, as shade is limited.
At the heart of the garden stands a striking national monument, shaped like Cameroon’s map. Atop the structure, a dove holds a peace plant in its beak, symbolizing the nation’s harmony and prosperity. On clear days, when the fog lifts, the garden treats visitors to a breathtaking view of Mount Fako in all its majestic glory—a serene escape right in the city’s heart.
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.
