Introduction
If you find yourself in Ngaoundere City, you’re in for a mix of history, culture, and unexpected surprises. From ancient palaces and traditional courts to delicious street food and hidden gardens, this city has a charm that stays with you. I spent several days exploring, tasting, and wandering around, and every corner seemed to tell a story. Here’s my personal guide to experiencing the best of Ngaoundere City.

Table of Contents

1. Lamido Palace in Ngaoundere City: Step Back in Time
2. Touring the Lamido’s School in Ngaoundere City
3. Customary Court in Ngaoundere City: Tradition and Justice
4. Eating in Ngaoundere City: Local Flavors and Street Snacks
5. Bois de Mardock in Ngaoundere City: A Hidden Garden Paradise
6. Exploring the Artisanal Village in Ngaoundere City

1. Lamido Palace in Ngaoundere City: Step Back in Time

Visiting the Lamido Palace felt like stepping into another world. The ancient houses with old thatched roofs made of dried grass instantly transported me back in time. Inside the mud structures, countless pillars rise from the ground, adorned with mud drawings telling the stories of the past. I was especially fascinated by the Lamido’s dynasty tree wall, showing the royal lineage and their achievements.

One of the most surprising things I saw were the animal shields, featuring giraffes, elephants, and hippopotamuses. Each piece seemed to whisper stories of the past. The palace is more than a monument—it’s a living piece of Ngaoundere City’s history.

2. Touring the Lamido’s School in Ngaoundere City

Within the palace grounds is a kindergarten and nursery school opened by the Lamido for his children and local kids. I was impressed by the computer lab and technology exposure, showing how education in Ngaoundere City blends tradition with modern learning. Watching the children work on computers inside such a historic place was unexpected and inspiring.

3. Customary Court: Tradition and Justice

The Customary Court is another fascinating part of the Lamido’s residence. Here, the Lamido serves as judge for civil and Muslim-related issues, with binding decisions unless appealed. What impressed me most was the community’s trust in him.

He can also handle Christian cases, except for marriages, due to the differences between Muslim and Christian marital laws. In inter-religious marriages, however, if one spouse agrees, the Lamido can judge the case. Witnessing this delicate balance between tradition and law gave me a new respect for leadership in Ngaoundere City.

4. Eating in Ngaoundere: Local Flavors and Street Snacks

Eating is unavoidable when traveling, and while I’m not a foodie, Ngaoundere City’s street food and local dishes were too tempting to ignore:

• Senegalese fried rice – Simple, filling, and flavorful, found near the train station.
• Fried groundnuts or roasted peanuts – Sold in small plastics or old wine bottles for 100frs. Roasted in a pot with sand or garri (fermented cassava), they’re perfect for snacking.
• Suya – Barbecue meat with pepper and onions, often paired with roasted plantains.
• Akara beans – Fried beans slightly peppery, a breakfast or evening snack I loved.
• Guru guru – A dry, sticky peanut snack; delicious and only 10frs.
• Sesame seed balls – Uncommon but tasty.
• Kossam – Thick fermented milk drink, a national delight.
• Dodo and beans stew – Fried plantains with beans; heavier than a snack but one of my favorites.
• Gnut sweet – Groundnuts cooked with sugar until sweet clusters form. Sweet, crunchy, and addictive.

Walking through Ngaoundere City, tasting these snacks, I could feel the city’s culture in every bite. It’s not just food—it’s a story of tradition, flavor, and community.

5. Bois de Mardock in Ngaoundere City: A Hidden Garden Paradise

If you have time in Ngaoundere City, don’t miss Bois de Mardock, a hidden botanical garden. The giant trees provide shade and fresh air, making it a peaceful retreat from the noisy streets. Cemented and steel benches are placed carefully for quiet rest—perfect for meditation or a private chat.

At the back of the garden, I discovered a luxury hotel. Unlike tall city hotels, these rooms are designed like ancient mud houses with pyramid roofs, each private and serene. A standard room costs just 10,000frs, and I regretted not knowing about it sooner.

The garden also has restaurants. I tried Gourmandise du Bois de Mardock, enjoying fresh lake fish seasoned with Cameroonian spices, served with fried plantains. Eating outside under the shade of the trees while enjoying the breeze was magical. The garden also has a children’s playground and even a conference room for events. Bois de Mardock is a perfect mix of relaxation, nature, and comfort in Ngaoundere.

6. Exploring the Artisanal Village

Art lovers will enjoy the Artisanal Village in Ngaoundere. Located on the main street, it may seem quiet, but inside the gated building, shops are filled with paintings, woodwork, and traditional crafts.

This is a government project to promote artists from all regions of Cameroon. Artists rent shops to showcase their creations, making it the perfect place to discover authentic Cameroonian art and pick up unique souvenirs. I took some pictures, but seeing it in person is much better—you never know what treasures you might find.

I stayed at a cheap hotel in Ngaoundere for one night, and to my surprise, it was built out of mud with a traditional touch. The room was simple but had all the basics I needed—a bed, a table, a chair, and everything necessary to take a proper shower. The small closet even came with a few hangers, and the room was cleaned every day. What really stood out, though, was the friendliness of the staff. They made me feel welcome and even recommended some touristic spots around the city, which made my short stay even more memorable.

Conclusion

From the historic Lamido Palace to the modern yet traditional school, the flavorful street food, the serene Bois de Mardock, and the vibrant Artisanal Village, Ngaoundere City is full of surprises. This city blends history, culture, and modern life in a way that’s both charming and unforgettable. Whether you’re here for adventure, food, art, or peace, Ngaoundere City will leave you with memories to cherish.

To read more about this city, don’t forget to check out my older posts where I share more personal experiences and tips from Ngaoundere.