Things To Do
in Kekem

Kekem is a small town in western Cameroon known for its agricultural surroundings and warm community spirit. Nestled along rural roads and river landscapes, it offers a glimpse into everyday Cameroonian life away from the bustle of major cities. The town acts as a gateway to markets, farms, and nearby natural areas.

Visitors should expect hospitable locals, a relaxed pace, and authentic West African cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Kekem
morning
:

Arrive in Kekem and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to acclimate to the local culture and scenery by exploring the nearby area. Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local eatery, sampling regional delicacies.

afternoon
:

Visit the local market bustling with vibrancy, where you can engage with vendors and sample fresh produce. Immerse yourself in the authentic experience of negotiating prices for colorful spices and handcrafted goods. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a cafe overlooking the main square.

evening
:

Stroll through the town to witness the beautiful sunset over the hills. Enjoy dinner at a renowned local restaurant, relishing traditional Cameroonian dishes. Engage with locals and perhaps participate in a night of storytelling or music.

day 2
Exploring Nature
morning
:

Set off early for a guided hike in the nearby mountains, taking in breathtaking views of the lush landscape. Breathe in the fresh air and listen to the sounds of nature while navigating walking trails. Capture photographs of the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this region.

afternoon
:

After your hike, have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot where you can enjoy the natural beauty around you. Spend time relaxing and soaking in the tranquil atmosphere before heading back to town. Visit a nearby waterfall for a refreshing dip in the cool water.

evening
:

Return to Kekem and enjoy dinner at your hotel or a nearby restaurant. Share your hiking adventures with fellow travelers over a relaxing meal. Let the sounds of local music fill the evening air as you unwind.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$4-8
🧃Bottle of water (1.5L)$0.5-1
🚕Short taxi ride$2-5
🧆Street food snack$1-3
🏨Budget hotel per night$20-40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Friendly locals and rich cultural experiences
  • Accessible budget travel with many markets and street food
  • Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
  • Variable road conditions and longer travel times
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "Pouvez-vous m'aider?" - Can you help me?
  • "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
  • "Combien ça coûte?" - How much does it cost?

Places to Visit in Kekem

Visit one of these nice places.

Sanaga River banks

Golden-hour views of the river with boats and local fishermen.

Kekem Market colorful stalls

Vibrant market scenes with textiles, fruits, and daily life.

Local church and village square

Evening light on traditional architecture and open-air gatherings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Kekem

Kekem sits in a region where Cameroonian staples and West African flavors mingle; you will find cassava, plantains, peanuts, and fresh fish. Markets are vibrant, and meals are commonly shared among family and friends.

Kekem Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ndolé

A hearty dish of cassava leaves simmered with ground peanuts, often served with fish, meat, or beans.

Must-Try!

Achu soup with fufu

A bright palm-nut or yellow soup served with fufu or pounded yam, popular in the Bamileke region.

Koki

Steamed cassava cake wrapped in banana leaves, a common snack or light meal.

Beignets (Bofrot)

Golden deep-fried dough pastries best enjoyed with coffee or tea.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kekem Market

A bustling local market where you can sample fresh fruit, roasted nuts, and everyday street snacks.

Roadside stalls

Small stalls along major roads offering grilled fish, plantains, spicy sauces, and maize.

Climate Guide

Weather

Kekem has a tropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. Temperatures typically range from around 20°C to 35°C, with higher humidity during the rainy months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greet elders and officials with a handshake and a brief welcome in French or a local language.

Dress modestly

Conservative clothing in markets and religious sites; remove hats in places of worship.

Safety Guide

Safety

Petty theft can occur in crowded markets; keep valuables secure; use reputable transport and avoid traveling alone at night in remote areas. Road conditions can be poor during rains.

Tipping in Kekem

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Small tips (5-10%) for attentive service; round up the bill for street vendors.

Payment methods

Cash is common; mobile money (MTN, Orange) is widely used for transfers and payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (Nov-Feb)

Pleasant days for outdoor exploration; skies are clearer and trails are drier.

Short rains (Mar-Apr)

Brief showers; trails remain accessible with light rain gear.

Heavy rains (May-Oct)

Lush landscapes, mud on rural paths; plan for slower travel and waterproof gear.

Nightlife Guide

Kekem at Night

The nightlife in Kekem is low-key, with small bars offering local music and social gatherings; expect casual evenings with friends rather than large clubs.

Hiking in Kekem

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Local forest trails around Kekem

Gentle trails through farmland and woodlands with easy terrain.

Airports

How to reach Kekem by plane.

Douala International Airport (DLA)

Major gateway to Cameroon; taxi or bus connections available.

Yaoundé Nsimalen International Airport (NSI)

International airport serving the capital; longer drive to Kekem.

Getting Around

Walkability

Kekem center is walkable in the core town area; sidewalks may be inconsistent and streets can be uneven; rural outskirts require transport.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Bamiléké communities

One of the dominant groups in the region with rich cultural traditions.

Ewondo and other Francophone communities

French-speaking populations and other local groups commonly found in the West.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Most popular sport; local leagues and informal matches are common.

Basketball

Played in schools and communities; informal street games.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is lighter in Kekem compared to major cities; in mornings and evenings, roads can be busy around market areas; use public transport or shared taxis for cheaper options.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Kekem.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Navigate by focusing on plant-based dishes like ndolé without meat, beans, maize dishes, and vegetables; ask for no fish or meat.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Basic healthcare facilities exist in Kekem; for major care, go to larger towns such as Bafoussam or Douala; carry essential medicines and ensure vaccinations.

Discover Cameroon

Read more in our Cameroon 2025 Travel Guide.

Cameroon Travel Guide