As dawn’s light gently kissed the vast, untamed expanse of Northern Cameroon, a stirring of excitement and a thirst for adventure awakened within me.
Today marked the commencement of a quest to one of the region’s most majestic and breathtaking marvels – the illustrious Lagdo Lake.
In the early hours of the morning, my spirit surged with anticipation for the voyage to this Cameroonian gem, a place I had long yearned to behold. Lagdo Lake, with its serene beauty, awaited.
Post a nourishing breakfast, I embarked on a 70-kilometer journey, a drive of around one and a half hours, charting a course southeast from Garoua. This path diverged from the one I traversed two days prior to explore the Kola Gorges.
Traveling by car is a cherished experience for me, for it offers a window to the soul of the country. The journey is not merely a passage through space, but a voyage through the vibrant tapestry of life here.
The road is a stage where countless scenes unfold – people engaged in the rhythm of their daily lives, selling wares, sharing stories, even in spirited debate. Cattle, as much a part of this land as the people, amble leisurely across the road or find repose upon it.
The journey is adorned with vistas of splendid landscapes, diverse architectural wonders, and vignettes of locals immersed in their daily toil.
One is bound to encounter an eclectic array of vehicles, laden with goods that defy convention, a testament to the indomitable will to persevere. In this land, the pursuit of sustenance and livelihood often transcends the ordinary.
The roads in Cameroon, while challenging and demanding, are imbued with an exhilarating charm. Here, in the embrace of the warm sun and the dust-laden paths, beats the heart of Cameroon – raw, unfiltered, and pulsating with life.
To traverse Cameroon is to embark on an odyssey, an adventure that promises to enrich the soul and ignite the spirit. It is a journey that, undeniably, is worth every moment of effort.
Few words about Lagdo Reservoir
Lagdo is a large artificial lake situated on the Benue River, one of Africa’s major rivers. The lake was created in 1982 with the construction of a dam, which serves as a source of hydroelectric power for the country.
The lake has a surface area of approximately 586 km2. Hills and rocky cliffs surround it, and its waters are home to diverse aquatic life, including fish, crocodiles, and hippopotamuses.
The lake is an important resource for the people of Northern Cameroon, providing irrigation for agriculture, fishing opportunities, and water for domestic and industrial use.
It is also a well-known destination for visitors who come to enjoy the lake’s natural beauty and the recreational activities available in the area, such as boating, fishing, and bird watching.
However, for many years now, the lake has been facing several challenges that may endanger the stability of its ecosystem, including declining water levels due to drought and excessive use of water for irrigation.
Lagdo’s “Lagon Bleu”
If you find yourself in Lagdo, a visit to the “Blue Lagoon” hotel is an absolute must. The charming houses provide an unobstructed view of the serene lake below and are nestled among hills resembling blocks of stone, home to playful monkeys
Moreover, the hotel’s private beach is a haven of relaxation, with comfortable deckchairs and umbrellas at your disposal. A real pleasure for all the fans of “farniente”, a Spanish word for idleness.
Don’t forget to treat yourself to the braised fish at the restaurant. You will savor the freshness of the catch and the delicious sauce, accompanied by crispy fried plantains or potatoes. It is an experience that will awaken your taste buds.
While waiting for your meal, you may want to explore the area and cherish the chance to spot the lively monkeys I mentioned earlier.
Remember to keep a distance if you want to observe them; they are pretty shy. You may also want to bring binoculars or look for a quiet spot to observe them more closely.
I spent an hour exploring the mineral hills, climbing rocks, and searching for monkeys under a scorching sun while being cautious of snakes, spiders, and other uninviting creatures.
After an hour, I finally encountered a small group of monkeys seeking refuge under big rocks to avoid the heat and the harsh sunrays and hide from me.
Fortunately, I had my 300mm lens with me, which allowed me to capture clear photographs of them.
As I made my way back from the primate encounter, my attention shifted to the other animals surrounding me, and I could not help but feel happy to immortalize the moment.
When I came back from my walk, the sun was already high in the sun, and my fish had just been cooked. All I had to do was slide my feet under the table and wait a few minutes for someone to serve me. Then leave for Garoua!
