In December 2024, I had the chance to visit Ebolowa, the calm and leafy capital of Cameroon’s South Region. Located about 150 kilometers from Yaoundé, Ebolowa is known for its well-organized layout, scenic roads, and strong agricultural presence. It’s a city that blends government administration, traditional communities, and rural charm — all surrounded by lush forests and cocoa plantations. The city is a major hub for cocoa and palm oil production, and its laid-back pace makes it a relaxing stop for travelers heading to the southern border towns like Kye-Ossi.
Though not as busy as Douala or Yaoundé, Ebolowa has a solid infrastructure, with smooth tarred roads, government offices, banks, markets, hotels, and some interesting tourist sites. It’s also culturally diverse, with a mix of Christian churches, mosques, and local spiritual practices coexisting peacefully. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I went there, but the city surprised me in many ways. Whether you’re just passing through or planning a longer stay, here are the highlights of my visit.
Smooth Journey from Yaoundé with Galaxie Agency to Ebolowa
To get to Ebolowa, I used Galaxie Travel Agency from the Mvan park in Yaoundé. The fare was 2,500 FCFA, which I found quite reasonable for the 2–3 hour journey. The bus was fairly comfortable, and what impressed me most was the road — the highway to Ebolowa is well-tarred and well-maintained, making the drive smooth and relaxing. Along the way, I noticed a number of churches and mosques, reflecting the town’s religious diversity. I also saw many Muslims, especially around marketplaces and near the mosques, adding to the cultural richness of the region.
Table of Contents
- Smooth Journey from Yaoundé with Galaxie Agency
- Nkolandom: A Cultural and Scenic Escape
- Paul Biya Monument: A Symbol of the South
- Street Walk Around Carrefour L’an 2000
- Relaxing at Paul Biya Park
- Where I Slept: Two Nights, Two Different Experiences
- Final Thoughts
Nkolandom: A Cultural and Scenic Escape
Just outside the city is Nkolandom, one of Ebolowa’s most famous tourist sites. I visited this beautiful cultural center surrounded by hills, lush trees, and clean walking paths. The environment is extremely green and peaceful — a perfect place to relax or take in some fresh air.
I explored a small but informative museum that showcased the culture of the Bulu people. Then, I decided to eat at the on-site restaurant. I ordered fried chicken and fries, which took almost an hour to arrive — I was told the food is made fresh. It was a bit pricey, but the taste was okay and the relaxing atmosphere made the wait feel less stressful.
You can also lodge at Nkolandom, as they have accommodations for tourists. I took a peek at the rooms and they looked quite clean and well-kept, perfect for a quiet weekend retreat.
Paul Biya Monument: A Symbol of the South
In the heart of Ebolowa, I stopped at the Paul Biya Monument, built in honor of Cameroon’s long-serving president. It’s a major landmark and a great photo spot for visitors. The area around the monument is clean, landscaped with flowers, and adds a historic vibe to the city.
Street Walk Around Carrefour L’an 2000 in Ebolowa
No visit to Ebolowa is complete without a walk around Carrefour L’an 2000, also known as the 2000 Years Roundabout. This is one of the busiest parts of the city, where people shop, chat, and go about their daily business. I enjoyed walking around the streets, observing daily life, and grabbing a drink from a roadside vendor. It’s one of the best ways to feel connected to the local rhythm of the city.
Relaxing at Paul Biya Park
Later in the day, I relaxed at Paul Biya Park, a quiet green space perfect for reflection or reading. There were benches, shaded spots, and even a few families enjoying picnics. It’s one of Ebolowa’s most peaceful areas and ideal for travelers who need a moment to pause and take it all in.
While exploring the city center, I noticed Bengo Hotel, one of the largest and most expensive hotels in Ebolowa. I didn’t stay there, but it looked modern from the outside, with high walls, security at the gate, and ample parking space. It seems like the go-to place for travelers looking for luxury accommodation in town.
Where I Slept in Ebolowa: Two Nights, Two Different Experiences
Since I arrived in Ebolowa late in the evening, I didn’t want to move around at night looking for accommodation. I stayed at a small motel beside bus agency park. The room was basic — though the sheets were fairly clean and it had a fan, the facility was poorly maintained. The toilet pot had no lid, and the tap water was extremely dirty and brownish, clearly untreated. To be safe, I bought mineral water and used it to bathe. I only spent one night there. I had seen listings on Airbnb and Booking.com, but they were unnecessarily expensive, and since my trip was unplanned, I didn’t want to overspend.
After visiting Kye-Ossi, I returned to Ebolowa and spent the night at Hotel Diamant, located conveniently beside the main road. The room cost 5,000 FCFA, and it was a clear upgrade from the motel. It had a table and chair, the room was fairly clean, and the water flowed well and was relatively clean. However, the window blinds were old, dirty, and worn out, showing signs of neglect. Despite that, I found it a better deal overall and would recommend Hotel Diamant over the first motel, especially for travelers on a budget looking for basic comfort.
I wouldn’t recoomend these accomdations but I share them because they were part of my trip and I want to be transparent about my experience. I had the opportunity to check the rooms before booking and I recommend you ask to see before you pay. I chose to sleep because it was just for few hours.
Final thoughts
If you’re planning a trip to the South Region of Cameroon, I highly recommend adding Ebolowa to your itinerary. From its clean streets and peaceful vibe to scenic spots like Nkolandom and iconic landmarks like the Paul Biya Monument, there’s more here than meets the eye. My December 2024 visit was short but memorable, and despite a few surprises, I left with a real appreciation for this quiet, underrated Cameroonian city.
If you enjoyed this post, feel free to check out my other travel stories and reviews from across Africa and beyond — all available on my blog.
