Ring Road (Cameroon)
Cameroon, africa
360 km
2,200 m
hard
November to March (dry season)
The Ring Road is a roughly 360-kilometer circular route through the Bamenda Highlands of Cameroon's Northwest Region, encircling the volcanic peaks of the Cameroon Volcanic Line at elevations between 1,500 and 2,200 meters. Starting and ending in Bamenda, the road passes through the traditional chiefdoms of the Grassfields kingdoms, one of the most culturally distinct areas in all of West Africa.
The route traverses rolling green highlands reminiscent of the Scottish Highlands but with a distinctly African character: grazing cattle on high plateaus, traditional thatched-roof fon (chief) palaces, crater lakes formed in extinct volcanic calderas, and dense montane forests harboring rare birds and primates. Key stops include the Oku crater lake and the surrounding Kilum-Ijim cloud forest (home to the endangered Bannerman's turaco), the Bafut and Bali chiefdoms with their elaborate traditional architecture, and the scenic Sabga Pass. The road surface ranges from reasonable tarmac to challenging laterite tracks.
Where is it?
Ring Road (Cameroon) is located in Northwest Region, Cameroon (africa). Coordinates: 6.1000, 10.2500
Driving Tips
Check local security conditions before traveling as the Northwest Region has experienced instability. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially in rainy season. Ask permission and pay respects before visiting traditional chiefdoms. The crater lakes are sacred to local communities so follow local guidelines. Accommodation is basic but friendly. Carry extra fuel as stations are unreliable. Hire a local guide for the Oku forest hike.
Road Surface
Mixed tarmac and laterite
Road Details
- Country
- Cameroon
- Continent
- africa
- Region
- Northwest Region
- Length
- 360 km
- Max Elevation
- 2,200 m
- Difficulty
- hard
- Surface
- Mixed tarmac and laterite
- Best Season
- November to March (dry season)
- Coordinates
- 6.1000, 10.2500
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