This morning, I embarked on a journey from Douala to Garoua, the capital of Northern Cameroon. The reason for my travels? An important seminar that I could not miss. As luck would have it, my trip coincided with the end of Ramadan, an excellent opportunity to immerse myself in local traditions and celebrate alongside the predominantly Muslim population.
Eager to explore my surroundings, I spent my first day visiting the Kola Gorges: a breathtakingly narrow canyon with mineral cliffs that towered up to an impressive 22 meters. It was a truly engaging experience, and I could not wait to see what other wonders the region had in store for me and share this first experience with you!
Few words about Northern Cameroon
Despite the beauty of the region, there is a concerning issue that needs attention. Due to attacks from the terrorist group Boko Haram, many of the remote and stunning places have become unsafe for several years.
Although the terrorist group is less active in the region than in the far-north area, they still pose a threat. Unfortunately, this situation has affected tourism in the region, and most companies employing expatriates prohibit them from going there.
It is a common sight to come across vehicles from organizations like Doctors Without Borders, providing assistance and support to the affected areas. These vehicles always have a sticker indicating that they are unarmed to prevent being targeted.
Northern Cameroon is a captivating region brimming with history, culture, and natural splendor. This area boasts a plethora of ethnic groups, each with their own distinct customs and traditions.
Garoua, the region’s capital city, is renowned for its lively markets, delectable cuisine, and hospitable locals. As of 2022, Garoua is the third largest city in Cameroon, with a population of 361,000.
Additionally, Garoua serves as a gateway to some of Cameroon’s most breathtaking national parks, including Benoue National Park and Bouba Ndjida National Park.
If you are seeking an authentic African experience, Northern Cameroon is a must-see destination, offering a blend of vibrant culture and awe-inspiring landscapes such as the Kola Gorges.
Accessing the Kola Gorges
Embark on a majestic journey of discovery to the Gorges, a road that begins with a 100-kilometer northeasterly voyage from Garoua, a path that leads you towards new horizons.
The first leg of your odyssey unfolds on an expanse of well-paved asphalt, stretching 80 kilometers from Garoua to the illustrious Maroua, the crown jewel of the far-north region. This road is not just a path, but a ribbon of dreams, connecting the heart of Garoua to the soul of Maroua.
As your journey evolves, a turn of destiny awaits at the 80-kilometer mark. Here, you will steer onto the road less traveled, the smaller, more intimate pathway to Guider, which patiently awaits your arrival at the left of the crossroad between Maroua and Guider. This route is a testament to the road less taken, a whisper of adventure and the unknown.
In the final chapter of your pilgrimage, a 5-kilometer sandy track unfurls before you, leading to the gates of your destination. This path is a friendly companion to smaller vehicles, proving that grandeur often lies in simplicity, and there is no need for colossal conveyances to reach your dream.
Upon arrival, the Gorges may not immediately reveal their splendor. Hidden like a secret treasure, the slender, towering canyon of 22 meters in height emerges from the earth, carved by the relentless will of the river. This is a monument to the enduring dance between water and land.
Remember, the canyon, in its full glory, reveals itself only during the dry season, from October to April. In other times, it is a hidden kingdom, submerged and waiting for the right moment to be discovered.
As you traverse this hallowed ground, I implore you to don sturdy shoes. The stones, warmed by the sun and sharpened by time, are both a challenge and a reminder of the rugged beauty of nature’s artistry. This journey is not just a trip, but a passage through time, a walk through the pages of an epic tale waiting to be told.
A journey inside the mineral world of Kola
As you make your way down a modest concrete staircase and enter the gorges, a breathtaking sight unfolds before you. The scenery transforms into a mineral wonderland where no vegetation flourishes, only sand and dark stones. The rocks have been smoothed by the river’s flow, yet occasionally, they can be as razor-sharp as a blade due to a more vigorous mechanical erosion.
As you embark upon your journey, the path you must take is none other than the canyon itself. This majestic canyon spans an impressive length of approximately 4 kilometers, while its narrow width only spans a few meters.
As you immerse yourself in Kola’s wonder, the stones that form this natural wonder will captivate you with their intriguing shapes. The Virgin Mary, Africa, Heart, and Seat are among the most famous and recognizable figures that you will encounter during your walk.
The sheer beauty of this canyon is a sight to behold and an experience you will cherish for a lifetime.
If you plan on exploring the canyon, it would be advantageous to enlist the expertise of the local youth as your guide.
Not only can they provide you with fascinating anecdotes about the area, but they can also identify the notable rock formations mentioned earlier.
Moreover, they possess a keen eye for capturing exceptional photos and videos of you during your excursion immortalising forever the moment.
You can support the local community by buying a decorated stone painted by the locals. This is a charming and unique way to keep a physical memento of this enchanting place.
On the way back
During my brief, yet memorable, visit to the Kola Gorges, I was graced with less than two hours to embrace its wonders. On my journey back, I took a moment to marvel at the Sahelian landscape’s stunning beauty.
The distinct architecture of the houses and the vivid hues of the traditional attire adorned by the locals were a feast for the eyes.
My return to Garoua was swifter than the outbound trip. As I entered the city, the sun was in its majestic descent, bathing the city and its red sandy streets in a gentle, warm glow.
This splendid vista, coupled with the serene ambiance, marked an exquisite culmination to my inaugural day in Northern Cameroon. For my Muslim friends, it was a serene conclusion to the holy month of Ramadan.
To all my cherished Muslim friends, EID MUBARAK! May this time of celebration bring joy and peace to your hearts.
