Things To Do
in Balikumbat
Balikumbat is a small highland town in the Northwest Region of Cameroon, set among rolling green hills and rivers. It is known for friendly communities, lively markets, and a gateway feel to the Bamenda Highlands. The town blends English with local Grassfields dialects and traditional crafts, creating a welcoming atmosphere for visitors.
Balikumbat serves as a quiet base for exploring the Northwest’s mountain landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the vibrant Balikumbat market, where local vendors showcase fresh produce, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles. Engage with the friendly locals as you sample fresh fruits and learn about the various spices used in Cameroonian cuisine. The colorful stalls and lively atmosphere will immerse you in the local culture and give you a taste of daily life in Balikumbat.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, spend your afternoon exploring the surrounding villages, where you can witness traditional crafts such as pottery and weaving. Engage in conversations with artisans and learn about their techniques and stories behind their crafts. As the sun begins to set, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful rural landscape dotted with lush greenery and rolling hills.
In the evening, return to Balikumbat for a relaxing dinner at a local restaurant, where you can try dishes such as ndolé or fufu. Enjoy the warm ambiance as you share your experiences from the day with fellow travelers. Later, take a leisurely stroll through the village, soaking in the sights and sounds of the evening, perhaps catching a glimpse of traditional dances or music performances.
Kickstart your morning with a guided nature walk in the nearby rainforests, where you can immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the region. Keep an eye out for various bird species, monkeys, and other wildlife as you navigate through the lush trails. The fresh air and serene environment offer a perfect escape into nature, providing a peaceful start to your day.
After a packed lunch, join a bird-watching tour led by a local expert who will help you identify the unique avian species of the area. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the vibrant colors and sounds of the different birds flitting through the trees. As the afternoon progresses, take the time to relax by a nearby stream, enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature.
As dusk approaches, return to Balikumbat and unwind at your accommodation. Enjoy a traditional Cameroonian dinner, perhaps feasting on grilled fish or spicy chicken served with plantains. Share stories around a bonfire with fellow travelers, allowing the sounds of the forest to provide a natural soundtrack to your evening.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a casual restaurant | $10-25 |
| 🛒Weekly groceries | $20-60 |
| 🚕Local taxi ride (short distance) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $1-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and strong cultural experiences
- Scenic highland landscapes and authentic markets
- Limited infrastructure and English fluency in some areas
- Long travel times between towns due to road conditions
- "Wetin be your name?" - What is your name?
- "How far?" - How far is it?
- "Abeg, please" - Please
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "I am lost" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Balikumbat
Visit one of these nice places.
Sweeping panorama of green valleys and distant hills, especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Vivid stalls, colors, textures, and bustling human activity—great for street photography and candids.
Scenic riverside paths and traditional huts framed by palms and fields; ideal for documentary shots.
Food in Balikumbat
Balikumbat Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty leafy-green stew made with ground peanuts, typically served with plantains or rice.
Must-Try!
A cocoyam leaf dumpling wrapped in banana leaves and steamed, usually served with peanut sauce.
Achu is a cassava-based dish often paired with a flavorful yellow palm-oil–based soup and meat or fish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling market with fresh produce, tubers, spices, fish, and locally woven textiles; great for sampling street foods in the morning.
Roasted plantains, maize, fried fish, and kebabs offered by local vendors along the roadways; ideal for a quick, affordable bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Offer a warm greeting and use respectful language when speaking to elders. A handshake is common; a light nod or bow may be used with elders in some communities.
Ask before photographing people, homes, and ceremonies to respect privacy and local customs.
Dress modestly in villages and religious sites; lightweight, respectful clothing is preferred in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Balikumbat
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service, though not always expected in small eateries. Round up bills or leave a modest gratuity for wait staff and guides.
Cash (Central African CFA franc, XAF) is widely used; mobile money (MTN, Orange) is common in towns. Cards are rarely accepted outside larger venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov–Feb: Cooler mornings and sunny afternoons; dust can be noticeable; great for walking and outdoor markets. Nights are cooler; bring a light jacket.
Mar–May and Sep–Oct: Frequent rain showers with lush, saturated greens; roads may be muddy and travel slower. Overcast days can yield soft light for photography.
Balikumbat at Night
Hiking in Balikumbat
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate day hike with views across the Bamenda Highlands and surrounding valleys; suitable for travelers with a basic fitness level.
Airports
How to reach Balikumbat by plane.
Nearest airport with domestic and limited international flights; typically a 1–2 hour drive depending on road conditions.
Major international gateway with connections to many African and European hubs; longer drive from Balikumbat.
Large international hub; useful for connections from international destinations; typically longer transfer to Balikumbat.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A Grassfields community with a mix of subgroups, languages, and Christian traditions; strong agricultural roots.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the region with informal games and local matches throughout the year.
Play and pickup games are common in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Balikumbat.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy NDOLÉ without meat, koki with peanut sauce, boiled cassava, plantains, and bean dishes. Request vegetable oil or palm oil alternatives and confirm stock used in soups before ordering.