Cameroon is also commonly known as Africa in Miniature and it is endowed with magnificent natural beauty and topography. The country has tropical rainforests, savannas, highlands, and beaches among other things that colonialists can offer to every traveler. To the nature admirers and city tourists, the urban centers of Cameroon are the place where some of the most lovely parks and gardens in Central Africa can be found. You can find the serene oasis, the family-friendly activity, as well as the breathtaking picnic spot in these green areas, and it will be a nice escape of the city life. Whatever adventure you plan, remember to apply your Cameroon visa before you embark on your trip, this way, you are assured of a hustle free trip to this mystical land.
This paper will discuss some of the best parks and gardens in the large cities of Cameroon, the capital Yaounde all the way to the coastal haven of Limbe, and why they should be included on your traveling list.
1. Bois Sainte Anastasie Park Yaounde.
Bois Sainte Anastasie Park is among the most used green escapes in Yaounde and is located in the center of the capital. The park also has well-maintained greenery, walking tracks, and calm lakes, and it is the ideal location to rest and spend time. People (both locals and tourists) visit this area to jog, picnic, or even just relax in the quiet environment without the city noise.
Occasional art and cultural events also take place in the park, providing the visitors with an opportunity to explore the creativity of Cameroon among the nature. To the families, there are playgrounds as well as shaded areas where kids can freely play. This park is a must-see to have an insight into Yaounde, as a local would do.
2. Limbe Botanical Garden- Limbe.
The Limbe Botanical Garden is one of the oldest and most diverse botanical gardens in Africa and it is a highlight of the coastal city of Limbe in Cameroon. This green refuge was created in 1892 and it covers almost 50 hectares where hundreds of native and exotic plants are found.
The garden is also an environmental education and conservation center besides its beautiful landscapes. Tours can be guided to learn about Cameroon peculiar flora and fauna, such as medicinal plants, tropical trees and so on. Limbe Botanical Garden is one of the most peaceful in the country, and it is contributed by the tranquil environment and the sound of the surrounding ocean.
3. Mefou National Park -Megachrome Yaounde.
You must have Mefou National Park in the first position in case you are fond of wildlife and nature. This sanctuary which is located right outside Yaounde is the home of rescued chimpanzee and gorillas and other primates. The park is managed by the non-governmental organization (NGO) Ape Action Africa to provide the endangered species with a safe environment as well as an opportunity to tourists to view the animals at close proximity to their natural environment.
Tourists are offered guided tours around the forest tracks through the beautiful forest as they are informed of the conservation activities being done in Cameroon. It is also educational and even motivating, an ideal activity among the environmentally focused travelers and families.
4. Parc de la Reunification -Douala.
Parc de la Réunification, located in the economical capital of Cameroon, Douala, is a monument of togetherness and identity. The park has expansive walking paths, gardens, monuments and variety of trees that offer shade and calmness. It is a social place that people have their morning jogs, catch up with friends, and hold events at the local areas.
Also, in the surroundings, there are local food sellers, who sell some tasty snacks and beverages. The park offers a nice combination of leisure and socializing, which can be seen in the Douala that is very energetic.
5. Coastal Gardens and Beach Parks Kribi.
Kribi has a lot of stunning beaches and relaxed atmosphere where one can spend time and relax with ocean view and the country has also some coastal parks and garden space in Kribi. Most of the beach front hotels and resorts have well landscaped gardens which incorporate sea breezes with tropical flowers.
When you come to Kribi, you cannot afford not to see Chutes de la Lobé, where there is no other waterfall in the world that falls in the sea. The neighborhood is surrounded with natural vegetation and this makes the surrounding a magical place to any nature lovers and even photographers.
6. Bamenda Eco Park – Bamenda
Bamenda Eco Park is a developing tourist site that is located in the northwest of the country and features the beauty of the highlands in Cameroon. The park has recreational amenities and an environmental friendly environment to it thus makes it just an excellent place to have family picnics, outings and local community gatherings.
Starting with hiking trails, to the picturesque scenes, the visitors get the panorama of the surrounding hills and valleys. Environmental education and sustainable tourism are also promoted by Bamenda Eco Park which is in line with the larger agenda of Cameroon to conserve its own natural heritage.
7. Nkolandom Cultural and Ecotourism Centre- Ebolowa.
The Nkolandom Ecotourism Center is a blend of cultural experience and nature in the southern region. It is not simply a Park but a place whereby it provides tourists with a feel of the traditional life in Cameroon rural setting where green gardens and mini lakes abound all around. There are eco-lodges, hiking trails and a museum of local crafts and history at the site.
Nkolandom is an ideal destination that travelers can make to enjoy their time without the hustles of busy cities and enjoy the cultures.
8. The Municipal Lake and Gardens by Dschang.
The scenic municipal lake of Dschang is a city located in the western highlands of Cameroon, and it is surrounded by the well-placed gardens and walking paths. Tourists are allowed to hire the paddle boats, picnic along the water, and have a trip to the nearby Museum of Civilizations to enhance the knowledge on the cultural diversity of Cameroon.
The cool climate and the green landscape around the area, make it one of the most comfortable and beautiful urban escapes in the country.
Conclusion
The cities of Cameroon are not merely thriving hubs of culture and business but also the entrance to the calmness of nature. Since the serene Bois Sainte Anastasie Park in Yaounde to the ancient Botanical Garden in Limbe, every green area is a story of beauty, harmony and biodiversity. These gardens and parks give the travelers the chance to experience the natural soul of the country besides giving them the best places to relax, reconnect, and recharge.
When you are intending to visit these beautiful places, you should book your travel with Go Kite Travel- your reliable travel partner to Cameroon. You can get a feeling of urban life of the country, its nature, and friendly atmosphere in one memorable trip.