South Cameroon Plateau: A Verdant Escape
Discover Cameroon's highlands: rolling hills, rich culture, and pristine rainforests await in this captivating plateau region.
The South Cameroon Plateau, also known as the Plateau Sud-Camerounais, is a captivating region characterized by its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Rising from the Kribi-Douala basin, the plateau's altitude ranges from 500 to 1,000 meters above sea level, offering a temperate climate ideal for exploration. The plateau is a haven for nature enthusiasts, boasting lush vegetation, rolling hills, and deep valleys. It's home to several national parks and reserves, including the Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its biodiversity and dense rainforests. Here, you can encounter rare and endangered species like forest elephants, gorillas, and chimpanzees. Other notable parks include Lobéké National Park, Campo Ma'an National Park and Mefou National Park, each offering unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and immersion in nature. Beyond its natural wonders, the South Cameroon Plateau is rich in culture. Traditional markets showcase local handicrafts and regional cuisine, providing a taste of Cameroonian life. The region's communities are known for their hospitality, offering visitors a chance to learn about local customs and traditions. The Basilique Marie-Reine-des-Apôtres in Yaoundé is a significant religious site with striking architecture that blends African and classical elements. The plateau experiences four seasons: two rainy and two dry. The long dry season (December to March) is considered the best time to visit, with drier and cooler weather. However, the landscape remains vibrant throughout the year, offering unique experiences in each season.
Local tips
- Visit during the dry season (December to March) for optimal weather conditions for hiking and wildlife viewing.
- Engage with local communities to learn about their traditions and support local artisans.
- Explore the Dja Faunal Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a chance to see diverse wildlife.
- Try local cuisine at traditional markets for an authentic taste of Cameroon.
A brief summary to South Cameroon Plateau
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Getting There
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Public Transport
From Yaoundé, the capital city, you can take inter-urban buses to various towns and cities on the South Cameroon Plateau. Companies like Guarantee Express and Amour Mezam Express operate these routes. The cost is approximately 16 CFA per kilometer. Be prepared for travel times to vary depending on road conditions.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available in major cities like Yaoundé and Douala. From Douala, a taxi to a location on the plateau will involve a long trip, so negotiate the price beforehand. Expect to pay around 3,000 CFA for a daytime drop-off within the city, with slightly higher rates at night. For longer distances, negotiate a price.
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Driving
If driving, note that road conditions can vary. The primary routes are the N roads, but many are unpaved. Exercise caution during the rainy season. Consider that about one-tenth of Cameroon's roadways are paved. Fuel costs should also be factored into your travel budget.
