Cameroon: Country of Contrast

Cameroon likes to describe itself as "Africa in miniature." It has rainforest, grasslands, arid lands, mountains, waterfalls, lakes, rivers, countless micro climates and over 200 languages. The number of languages is a good proxy for the ethnic diversity. Included in this diversity is variations in architecture, cuisine, art, dress, agriculture, economic activity, religion and almost every other aspect of human endeavor. It is both a fascinating and extraordinary beautiful country. It would take a lifetime to really understand all of the nuance of Cameroon, but by its vary nature, a bicycle tours is a good way to get started.One Bicycle Africa program explores the southwest region and the second visits the north of the country. A special feature of both programs is the opportunity to meet people and a lot of contact with the culture.The southwestern area is particularly rich in culture. We passing through the areas of the Duala, Bankon, Mbo, Bakaka, Bassa, Bamunka, Mendankwe-Nkwen, Kom, LamnsoÔøΩ, Oku, and Bafut ethnic groups, to name a few. It is unlikely that these names means much to you now, but in the course of the tour participants will get a context for this and much more information about Cameroon. The itinerary winds through hills to the dramatic ring-road of the verdant western Bamileke highlands and to the historic town of Foumban, then passes the base of 14,000 foot Mt. Cameroon, and ends at the beach. In route we stop to visit tea and coffee estates, traditional farms and observe to the traditional court of the Fon of the Bafoum. It is an extraordinarily beautiful route as well.The northern program is nothing short of fascinating. It twists up semi-arid valleys of traditional villages and ends amidst the geological wonders and wildlife areas of north. The way of life in this area seems magical and architecture in the region is stunning. We make stops to watch craftsmen create brass castings, baskets and textiles and to shop at colorful weekly village markets.