Cameroon is one of the most beautiful countries in sub-Saharan Africa. Located on the Gulf of Guinea along the western end of the continent, Cameroon is often referred to as “Africa in Miniature” due to the diversity of its geographic regions. It truly has a uniqueness of its own.

That’s why I have put together this blog post to show Cameroon’s truly beautiful. The country is not only becoming safer, but it’s also emerging as a hotspot for travelers who wish to explore somewhere new.

Read on to learn why Cameroon is one of the most significant African countries.

Miniature Africa

The greatest thing about Cameroon is perhaps its geographic diversity. The country is shaped like a triangle, allowing it to stretch from the coast inward to the central mainlands of Africa. Among Cameroon’s many diverse regions, some of the most notable are the coastal regions in the west, the desert plains in the north, the mountains in the center, and tropical rainforests in the south. With so many different environments, Cameroon practically has all of the geographic regions of Africa available in one location.

Food Variety

The food available in Cameroon is also unlike anything else in the world. You’ll find plenty of delicacies made by expert chefs, some of which may even seem striking at first. It’s not uncommon to see offerings of alligator or snake, but there are plenty of other dishes available to try as well. The national dish of Cameroon is called Ndolé, a flavorful meal consisting of stewed nuts, ndoleh (bitter leaves indigenous to West Africa), and fish or beef. The countrie’s staple beignet (donuts), haricot (beans), and bouille de Mais (corn porridge) are a must-have for breakfast as they will fill you up and strengthen you at least until mid-day.

Architecture in Douala

Douala is the most populated city in Cameroon, with nearly 1.4 million citizens. After long periods of colonization by the British, French, and Germans, Cameroon gained its independence in 1960. Douala, on the coast of the Bay of Guinea, has architectural influences from each of these cultures. However, there is also a resurgence of African tribal influences in the modern architecture of Douala. Some of the most beautiful buildings in the entire country can be located in this city.

Chutes de la Lobé

The Chutes de la Lobé are waterfalls near Kribi on the country’s coast. The Chutes de la Lobé are fascinating because they are one of three waterfalls throughout all of Africa that empty directly into the ocean. This geographic site is a remarkable landmark, offering picturesque views and an ability to immerse yourself in nature. You’ll also be able to enjoy the beach from this location to enjoy a truly fun-filled day.

Waza National Park

Waza National Park has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It abounds with a diverse variety of animals, from antelope, elephants, and giraffes, as well as the common predators of lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. Waza is located at the northern tip of Cameroon near Lake Chad. The entire park encompasses 660 miles and can be experienced through a guided vehicle tour or on guided hiking trails.

Diversity of Ethnic Groups

Cameroon’s rich ethnic background shapes the diversity of its cultural landscape. There are said to be 250 different ethnic groups within the country. 40% of people in the country speak French, and 20% speak English, but most Cameroonians speak variations of regional and tribal languages. The diversity of Cameroon’s ethnic groups allows the country to feel vibrant and distinct, whichever region you’re in. Still, many more of these ethnic groups have contributed to the societal backdrop of the country, mixing together enriching forms of music, art, food, and dance.

Music

Regarding music, Cameroon is guaranteed to have something that will impress you. The country has seen a lot of success from musicians who have entered the pop music scene, such as Stanley Enow, Daphne, and Mr. Leo. However, countless forms of traditional and other modern music genres exist. One of the most famous contemporary genres is makossa, a style prevalent throughout Africa, and bikutsi, a dance craze closely related to makossa.

Fútbol (aka Soccer)

Cameroon would surely be close to the top of the list if you’ve ever wondered which countries are the most passionate about their fútbol team. Their Indomitable Lions team has won the African Cup several times. They even made it to the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup as the first African soccer team in 1990. While spending time in Cameroon, hundreds of people will likely be wearing gear representing their team. The Indomitable Lions came from an underdog story, and they’re a team that you should continue to watch.

Archeological Sites

Cameroon has many archeological sites that have been preserved in time, many of which can now be visited by travelers. The Fon Palace, for example, is a historical city with multiple terracotta structures, along with a religiously significant “Achum” in the center of the city. There is also the Arch’l. Remains of Shum Laka, where you can observe and learn more about the skeletal remnants of humans living thousands of years ago.

Plants and Animals

Due to the country’s geographic diversity range, Cameroon has an abundance of exotic plants and animals. Imagine old-growth trees 200 feet tall, red and green monkeys swinging from the treetops, and the Goliath Frog, weighing up to 6 pounds. Each of these is just a tiny sample of the diverse plant and animal life that exists in the country. Cameroon ranks fifth for fauna diversity and forth for flora diversity in Africa. The natural world provides so much to look at in Cameroon that you’re sure to be swept off your feet.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are so many reasons to visit Cameroon. Whether you’re a solo female traveler, a family of four, or part of a larger group visiting the country, it’s well worth visiting this beautiful country at least once. Cameroon’s unique landscape, from its coastal regions to its desert plains, allows you to experience much of what Africa offers without having the stress of crossing borders into different countries.

So, what are you waiting for? Book your flight to the beautiful country of Cameroon and see for yourself all this country has to offer.