Mount Cameroon: the volcano, the Race of Hope and the travel advice
Updated on 23 October 2026 · 5 min read
Mount Cameroon is the highest mountain in West and Central Africa, about 4,040 metres high (a figure of 4,095 m is also often quoted), and an active volcano rising straight from the Atlantic coast above Buea. Each year the Race of Hope takes runners from Buea to the summit and back. The mountain is in the South-West region, where several governments advise against travel, and France currently advises against visiting it. This page is for information: check your own government's advice before considering any climb.
Climbing Mount Cameroon: the travel advice first
- United States: do not travel to the South-West region (Level 4).
- United Kingdom: against all travel to the South-West, including Buea, the usual starting point for the climb.
- Canada: avoid all travel to the South-West; it also reminds travellers that Mount Cameroon is an active volcano and eruptions can occur at any time.
- France: visiting Mount Cameroon is currently advised against because of the unrest in the South-West region.
If the advice says no, do not go
Advice changes: read your own government's current page before any plan. Travel insurance may not cover areas your government advises against. We do not arrange transport, stays or climbs in the South-West.
Mount Cameroon in numbers
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Height | About 4,040 m by modern measurements; 4,095 m is the figure often quoted |
| Type | Active volcano; the last notable eruptions were in 1999 and 2000, with a brief event in 2012 |
| Names | Mongo ma Ndemi, the mountain of greatness, in the local language; Fako is the name of its highest peak |
| Location | Fako division, South-West region, above Buea and Limbé |
| Protection | Mount Cameroon National Park, created in 2009 |
From sea level to the summit, the mountain crosses rainforest, montane forest, grassland and bare volcanic rock. The summit is cold and windy, much colder than the coast, and fog and rain can come in quickly.
The Race of Hope
The Mount Cameroon Race of Hope is a mountain race organised each year by the Government of Cameroon with the athletics federation, usually in January or February. Runners start from Buea, climb to the summit and come back down, a course of around 40 km. The 31st edition took place on 21 February 2026; the fastest men finished in under 4 hours 30 minutes. The race has also been affected by the security situation in the region in recent years.
Climbing only with licensed guides
When the situation allows and your government's advice does not advise against it, a climb of Mount Cameroon is organised only with licensed guides and porters, through the national park's ecotourism services or a licensed agency. They know the trails, the huts, the weather and the permits. The climb usually takes several days. We do not organise climbs or excursions. If you have a health condition, talk to your doctor before planning any high-altitude walk.
Other ideas from Douala
- Kribi and the Lobé Falls, on the coast of the South region, about 3 hours from Douala. See Kribi from Douala.
- The West highlands, cooler and green, with markets and chiefdoms. See the road to the West.
- More about the region and its travel advice: Limbé and Buea.
Frequently asked questions
How high is Mount Cameroon?
About 4,040 metres according to modern measurements; the figure of 4,095 m is also often quoted. It is the highest peak in West and Central Africa.
Is Mount Cameroon an active volcano?
Yes. Its last notable eruptions were in 1999 and 2000, with a brief event in 2012. Canada's travel advice reminds visitors that eruptions can occur at any time.
When is the Mount Cameroon Race of Hope?
Usually in January or February, from Buea to the summit and back. The 31st edition was held on 21 February 2026.
Can I climb Mount Cameroon now?
The mountain is in the South-West region, where the United States, the United Kingdom and Canada advise against all travel, and France currently advises against visiting it. Check your government's current advice; any climb should only be done with licensed guides.